Please note: this page requires many updates and will soon be caught up with genetic testing, and health results for our newest brood bitches. The information this page currently contains is not entirely relevant as Billie Jean has been washed from our program.
Health Testing & Parent Information
Parent size, health clearances, guarantees, and genetic diversity
Foundation Dog Size & Weight Details
🐕 Buddy (Sire)
🐕 Billie Jean (Dam)
Expected Puppy Adult Size Range
Males: 65-75 lbs at ideal body condition | 22.5-24 inches at withers
Females: 55-65 lbs at ideal body condition | 21-22.5 inches at withers
Note: These are projections for dogs maintained at healthy athletic condition (BCS 4-5/9). Final adult weight is influenced by diet, exercise, and individual metabolism. Our breeding program specifically selects for moderate, athletic builds that align with original Labrador Retriever working dog standards.
BCS is a 9-point scale used by veterinarians to assess whether a dog is underweight, ideal, or overweight:
- BCS 1-3: Underweight (ribs, spine, hip bones prominently visible)
- BCS 4-5: Ideal/Athletic (ribs easily felt with slight fat cover, visible waist, abdominal tuck)
- BCS 6-7: Overweight (ribs difficult to feel, waist barely visible, abdominal distension)
- BCS 8-9: Obese (ribs not palpable, no waist, severe abdominal distension)
Our breeding dogs are maintained at BCS 4.5-5 (ideal athletic condition). Visual BCS charts and hands-on assessment training are provided at pickup so puppy families know exactly how to evaluate and maintain healthy weight throughout the dog’s life.
Complete Health Testing Protocol
Every breeding dog in our program undergoes extensive health screening that exceeds industry standards. All testing is performed by OFA-certified veterinarians and/or certified laboratories, with results permanently registered in public databases.
Orthopedic Health Clearances
Hip Dysplasia (OFA)
What this means: X-rays taken at 24+ months (after skeletal maturity) were independently evaluated by 3 board-certified veterinary radiologists. “Excellent” is the highest rating (top 5% of all Labradors). “Good” represents normal hip conformation with proper joint alignment. Results are permanently registered and publicly searchable at ofa.org by registered name.
Elbow Dysplasia (OFA)
What this means: Radiographic evaluation for fragmented coronoid process (FCP), ununited anconeal process (UAP), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), and elbow incongruity. “Normal” confirms absence of all forms of elbow dysplasia and proper joint formation.
Ophthalmologic Clearances
ACVO Eye Certification
Board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist examination within 12 months. Screens for hereditary cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), retinal dysplasia, and other inherited eye diseases.
Genetic Eye Disease Testing
DNA testing confirms genetic status for all known progressive retinal atrophy variants in Labradors.
Cardiac Health
Cardiac Auscultation (OFA)
Advanced cardiac auscultation by board-certified veterinary cardiologist to detect sub-aortic stenosis, mitral valve disease, and other congenital heart conditions.
Comprehensive Genetic Disease Panel
Both parents have been tested through comprehensive breed-specific genetic disease panels (Embark Veterinary or Paw Print Genetics). Complete genetic test results are provided in puppy packets and can be verified through laboratory portals.
| Genetic Condition | Buddy Status | Billie Jean Status | Puppy Risk |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
| Progressive Retinal Atrophy (prcd-PRA) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
| Centronuclear Myopathy (CNM) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
| Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
| Hereditary Nasal Parakeratosis (HNPK) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
| Retinal Dysplasia/Oculoskeletal Dysplasia 1 (RD/OSD1) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
| Skeletal Dysplasia 2 (SD2) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
| Pyruvate Kinase Deficiency (PKDef) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
| Hypoadrenocorticism (Addison’s Disease) – marker only | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | Lower genetic risk |
| Congenital Myasthenic Syndrome (CMS) | Clear/Clear | Clear/Clear | 0% (Cannot be affected) |
Full OFA certificates, genetic test results, and ACVO eye exam reports are included in every puppy packet. All OFA results are publicly searchable by registered name at ofa.org for independent verification.
Comprehensive Written Health Guarantee
Lifetime Genetic Health Guarantee
Industry-leading coverage backed by veterinary expertise
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Hip Dysplasia Coverage (Lifetime)
Coverage Period: Lifetime of the dog
Diagnosis Requirements: Must be diagnosed via OFA-quality radiographs evaluated by a board-certified veterinary radiologist OR your own licensed veterinarian with supporting X-rays
Covered Severity Levels: Mild, Moderate, or Severe hip dysplasia as defined by OFA grading standards
Your Options Upon Diagnosis:
- Full Replacement: Return affected dog and receive priority placement for next available puppy of same sex/color preference at no additional cost
- Keep & Compensate: Keep your dog and receive 100% refund of original purchase price to offset medical treatment costs (FHO surgery, total hip replacement, pain management, physical therapy, etc.)
No Time Limit: Whether diagnosed at 18 months or 8 years old, you’re covered. Many breeders only cover hip dysplasia for 2-3 years; we cover it for life because we stand behind our breeding program.
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Elbow Dysplasia Coverage (Lifetime)
Same comprehensive coverage structure as hip dysplasia. Includes fragmented coronoid process (FCP), ununited anconeal process (UAP), osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), and elbow incongruity. Replacement or full purchase price refund.
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Hereditary Eye Disease Coverage (5 Years)
Covers progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), hereditary cataracts, retinal dysplasia, and other inherited eye conditions diagnosed by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist. Replacement or 75% purchase price refund.
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Congenital Heart Defect Coverage (3 Years)
Covers sub-aortic stenosis (SAS), pulmonic stenosis, and other congenital cardiac abnormalities diagnosed by board-certified veterinary cardiologist. Replacement or 75% purchase price refund.
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Exercise-Induced Collapse (EIC) – Lifetime
Full replacement or 100% refund if diagnosed via genetic testing or clinical symptoms confirmed by veterinary neurologist. (Note: Genetic testing confirms both parents are clear, making this impossible, but coverage is included for your peace of mind.)
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Degenerative Myelopathy – Lifetime
Replacement or 50% refund if diagnosed. (Both parents genetically clear, but coverage provided as progressive neurological conditions can have multiple causes.)
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Centronuclear Myopathy (CNM) – Lifetime
Full replacement or 100% refund. (Genetically impossible in our program as both parents are clear, but included for completeness.)
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Initial Health Guarantee (2 Years)
Covers any congenital or hereditary condition diagnosed within first 2 years that significantly impacts quality of life. Includes liver shunts, kidney disease, immune disorders, structural abnormalities, and other serious health conditions. Full replacement or refund based on severity and your preference.
Guarantee Terms & Process
Health Guarantee Requirements (Your Responsibilities)
- Veterinary Examination: Take your puppy to a licensed veterinarian within 72 hours of pickup for initial health certification
- Annual Wellness Exams: Maintain yearly veterinary examinations throughout the dog’s life (documentation required if filing claim)
- Weight Management: Keep dog at healthy body condition (BCS 4-6/9). Guarantee is void if orthopedic issues develop in overweight/obese dogs (BCS 7+/9), as excess weight is a primary risk factor for joint disease
- Age-Appropriate Exercise: Follow provided exercise guidelines for growing puppies. No forced running, jumping from heights, or excessive stair climbing before 18 months. Guarantee does not cover injuries from inappropriate exercise during growth phases.
- Nutrition Standards: Feed high-quality dog food (WSAVA-compliant brands recommended). No raw diets, grain-free formulas linked to DCM, or inconsistent feeding that leads to developmental orthopedic disease
Complete written health guarantee contract is provided at puppy pickup and signed by both parties. All terms are clearly defined with no hidden clauses or loopholes. The signed contract serves as legal protection for puppy families.
What’s Included: Your Puppy Go-Home Package
Every Cornwell Labrador puppy goes home with comprehensive health documentation, training resources, and ongoing support. This isn’t just a puppy sale—it’s a lifetime partnership.
Health & Veterinary Care Completed
✓ Vaccinations
First DHPP: 6 weeks (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
Second DHPP: 9 weeks (booster before go-home)
Next due: 12 weeks (your responsibility)
Records included: Complete vaccination history with product names, lot numbers, and veterinary clinic information
✓ Deworming Protocol
2, 4, 6, 8 weeks: Pyrantel pamoate for roundworms/hookworms
Next due: 12 weeks or as directed by your vet
Fecal testing performed at 7-8 weeks to confirm parasite-free status
✓ Microchip Registration
ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip implanted at 7-8 weeks
Pre-registered in national database with your contact information (you finalize registration after pickup)
Lifetime recovery service included—if your dog is ever lost, shelters and vets can scan and reunite you immediately
✓ Veterinary Health Certificate
Physical examination by licensed veterinarian within 72 hours of pickup
Certifies: normal heart/lung sounds, clear eyes/ears, healthy skin/coat, proper umbilical closure, normal joint palpation, appropriate body condition, no signs of illness or congenital defects
Documentation & Registration
📋 Parent Health Clearances
- OFA hip & elbow certificates (both parents)
- Current ACVO eye exam results
- Complete genetic disease panel results
- Cardiac auscultation documentation
📋 Pedigree Documentation
- 5-generation pedigree chart
- AKC registration application
- Embark DNA genetic report (parents)
- COI analysis showing 0% inbreeding
📋 Puppy Medical Records
- Complete vaccination record
- Deworming schedule with products used
- Veterinary health certificate
- Microchip registration details
- Weight tracking chart (birth to 8 weeks)
📋 Legal Documentation
- Written health guarantee contract
- Spay/neuter agreement (pet puppies)
- Sales contract with terms and conditions
- Breeder contact information for lifetime support
Training & Behavioral Resources
- 8-16 Week Training Plan: Week-by-week socialization checklist, basic obedience foundations, house training protocol
- Feeding Guidelines: Portion charts by age/weight, recommended brands, supplement guidance, body condition scoring
- Exercise Protocols: Age-appropriate activity levels, growth plate protection, safe play guidelines
- Problem Prevention: Bite inhibition training, crate comfort, separation confidence, resource guarding prevention
- Behavioral Red Flags: When to call me vs. when to consult a veterinary behaviorist
Physical Starter Items
🎒 Puppy Care Package
- 3-day supply of current food (gradual transition recommended)
- Familiar scented blanket from littermates
- Favorite toy from litter
- Puppy training treats (same brand used here)
- Collar with identification tag
📱 Digital Resources
- Access to private puppy owner Facebook group
- Video library: crate training, basic commands, handling exercises
- Recommended trainer database (local to you)
- 24/7 text support for urgent questions (first 30 days)
Ongoing Support
Return Policy & Lifetime Rehoming Support
- 72-Hour Return Option: If your veterinarian finds any undisclosed health issue within 72 hours of pickup, full refund with return of puppy (extraordinarily rare—we provide pre-pickup vet exam for this reason)
- Lifetime Return Commitment: If you ever cannot keep your dog for ANY reason (divorce, housing, allergies, financial hardship, etc.), I will take the dog back at any age, no questions asked. I will never allow one of my dogs to end up in a shelter or rescue.
- Rehoming Assistance: If you need to rehome your dog but want to find them a home yourself, I’ll help you screen applicants, conduct home visits, and ensure proper placement. Your dog’s welfare is my concern for life.
Genetic Diversity & Pedigree Integrity
Genetic Relationship Between Parents
Combined Pedigree Analysis:
- No common ancestors in 5-generation pedigree analysis (verified through AKC and CKC databases)
- Puppy COI: 0% – Maximum genetic diversity achievable within breed
- Geographically separated bloodlines – American and Canadian populations with minimal overlap
- Complete 5-generation pedigrees provided and independently verifiable
Pedigree Background
Buddy (Sire): Kentucky/Tennessee American working lines. COI: 1.2% (5-generation). Field trial champions in pedigree with emphasis on trainability and athleticism.
Billie Jean (Dam): Ontario Canadian sport/versatility lines. COI: 0.8% (5-generation). Hunt test titles and obedience competitors with strong biddability traits.
- Increased disease susceptibility
- Immune dysfunction
- Reduced lifespan
- Higher rates of behavioral issues
- Reduced cognitive function and trainability
A 0% COI (coefficient of inbreeding) maximizes heterozygosity within breed. Billie Jean was sourced from Canadian lines to ensure complete genetic separation from American bloodlines.
Why Canadian Lines Specifically?
The Strategic Advantage of Canadian Genetics
Canadian Labrador breeding populations have three significant differences from American populations:
- Genetic Bottleneck Avoidance: Canadian breeders maintained larger founding populations and avoided the extreme specialization (show vs. field) that created genetic bottlenecks in American lines. This means broader genetic diversity even within color varieties.
- Different Popular Sires: The most commonly used stud dogs in Canada have minimal overlap with American popular sires. This geographic separation creates natural genetic distance—Billie Jean’s pedigree doesn’t repeat any of the common ancestors found in American chocolate/black Labrador pedigrees.
- Health Testing Culture: Canadian breeding regulations and kennel club policies emphasize health testing more heavily than AKC requirements. Finding a black Canadian female with OFA Excellent hips, clear elbows, and comprehensive genetic testing was significantly easier than finding equivalent American dogs.
The Result: By crossing American working lines (Buddy) with Canadian sport lines (Billie Jean), this program produces puppies with maximum genetic diversity, balanced temperament traits from both populations, and zero risk of inheriting identical disease alleles from both parents.
Why I Don’t Require AKC Registration
You may notice I don’t emphasize AKC “papers” the way many breeders do. This is intentional and science-based:
Pedigree Verification Documentation
Each puppy packet includes:
- 5-generation pedigree chart for both parents
- Comprehensive genetic testing reports confirming 100% Labrador Retriever genetics
- Coefficient of inbreeding (COI) analysis documentation
- AKC and/or CKC registration certificates for both parents
- Complete health testing documentation cross-referenced to registered names
All pedigree information can be independently verified through American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club databases using provided registration numbers.
Early Development Protocol
Puppy Structure™ Development Protocol
Early neurological stimulation and socialization program:
Early Neurological Stimulation
Days 3-16: Bio Sensor (Super Dog) program proven to improve cardiovascular performance, stronger heartbeat, stronger adrenal glands, more tolerance to stress, and greater resistance to disease
Research shows 5 benefits: improved cardiovascular performance, stronger heartbeat, stronger adrenal glands, more stress tolerance, greater disease resistance
Critical Period Socialization
Weeks 3-8: Age-appropriate exposure to 100+ novel stimuli including different surfaces (grass, gravel, tile, carpet, metal, plastic), sounds (vacuum, doorbell, TV, children playing, traffic), people (men, women, children, elderly, people in hats/uniforms), and environments (indoors, outdoors, crates, vehicles)
Follows the “Rule of 12” socialization protocol for optimal behavioral development
Temperament Evaluation
Week 7: Volhard Puppy Aptitude Testing assesses: social attraction, following, restraint, social dominance, elevation dominance, retrieving, touch sensitivity, sound sensitivity, sight sensitivity, and stability
Scored results help match individual puppy personalities to ideal family situations
Early Learning Foundations
Weeks 4-8: Introduction to crate comfort, name recognition, recall games, body handling (nail trimming, ear cleaning, teeth inspection), separation resilience, and calm settling behaviors
Puppies already understand basic concepts before going home, making training dramatically easier
- Enhanced learning ability and faster command acquisition
- Improved stress resilience (lower cortisol response to novel stimuli)
- Reduced likelihood of fear-based behavioral issues
- Better bite inhibition and social skills with dogs and people
- Enhanced problem-solving abilities and environmental confidence
This is where behavioral science expertise translates into better family companions. Professional-grade early neurological stimulation and systematic socialization during critical developmental windows create puppies that are easier to train, more confident, and better adjusted to family life.
PupFam Placement Matrix: Science-Based Matching
How We Match Puppies to Families
Most breeders let buyers pick puppies based on color or appearance (“I want the one with the white spot”). This often results in mismatches where a high-energy puppy goes to a sedentary family, or a shy puppy goes to a boisterous household with young children.
I use a different approach:
- Family Assessment: You complete the PupFam Placement Matrix quiz that evaluates your household activity level, experience with dogs, training goals, living situation, and lifestyle preferences
- Puppy Testing: At 7 weeks, I conduct Volhard Puppy Aptitude Testing on each puppy to assess individual personality traits (social attraction, confidence, trainability, energy level, sound sensitivity, etc.)
- Temperament Matching: I match individual puppy temperaments to family profiles based on compatibility scores, not first-come-first-served or buyer preference alone
- Final Confirmation: You review your matched puppy’s behavioral profile and can accept or decline the match
Why This Matters: The #1 reason dogs end up in shelters is behavioral issues that result from poor puppy-family matching. A high-drive puppy needs an active, experienced owner who will provide mental and physical stimulation. A moderate-energy, biddable puppy is ideal for first-time owners or families with young children. By matching temperament scientifically rather than cosmetically, the likelihood of successful lifelong placement dramatically increases.
Parent Temperament
- Biddability and responsiveness to direction
- Confidence with people and dogs without aggression
- Moderate drive – enthusiastic but controllable
- Normal sound sensitivity without anxiety
- Ability to handle separation without distress
Frequently Asked Questions
About Size & Weight
A: This is a common concern, and it’s important to understand what that 95 lbs represents. The AKC standard for male Labradors is 65-80 lbs and females 55-70 lbs at proper working condition. A 95 lb Labrador is either: (1) overweight/obese (most common), (2) English/show line genetics with heavy bone structure (often still overweight), or (3) mixed with a larger breed.
Our puppies will mature to 65-75 lbs for males and 55-65 lbs for females at healthy, athletic condition. This is not a “small” Labrador—this is a correctly sized Labrador. Historically, Labradors were bred as working retrievers who needed to be athletic enough to swim in cold water and retrieve waterfowl for hours. A 95 lb dog cannot perform that work and is at significantly higher risk for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, ACL tears, arthritis, and shortened lifespan.
If you prefer the heavier, slower, sedentary temperament of English show lines, I’m not the right breeder for you. But if you want an athletic, healthy, long-lived companion who can hike, swim, and play without joint problems, our moderate-sized American Labs are ideal.
About Health Testing
A: Elbow dysplasia is actually MORE debilitating than hip dysplasia and affects 15-20% of Labradors. Dogs with elbow dysplasia often require surgery (usually $3,000-5,000 per elbow) and may have lifelong lameness and arthritis. Many breeders skip elbow testing because it’s an additional expense and some dogs fail. I test both because I refuse to produce puppies with preventable orthopedic disease.
A: “Vet checked” or “preliminary OFA” means a general practice veterinarian looked at X-rays and said “looks good to me.” OFA certification means the X-rays were independently evaluated by 3 board-certified veterinary radiologists using standardized criteria, scored on a scale (Excellent, Good, Fair, Borderline, Mild, Moderate, Severe), and permanently registered in a public database. Many dogs that appear normal to a general practitioner receive Fair or Borderline ratings from OFA—these dogs should not be bred. I use full OFA certification because it’s the only objective, verifiable standard.
A: Genetic testing isn’t just about this litter—it’s about the next generation. If I bred two carriers of EIC (exercise-induced collapse), 25% of puppies would be affected with a potentially fatal disease. By testing and breeding clear to clear or clear to carrier, I can guarantee zero affected puppies. It also allows me to track which genetic variants exist in my lines and make breeding decisions accordingly. This is responsible breeding.
About the Health Guarantee
A: Because obesity is the #1 environmental risk factor for hip and elbow dysplasia, even in dogs with excellent genetics. Multiple veterinary studies have demonstrated that overweight puppies during the growth phase are significantly more likely to develop hip dysplasia regardless of genetic risk. If a puppy is overfed and becomes overweight (BCS 7+/9), the excess weight places abnormal stress on developing joints, creating the very problem the guarantee is designed to prevent. Detailed feeding charts, body condition scoring guides, and ongoing nutritional support are provided to help families maintain healthy weight throughout the dog’s life. This requirement protects both the puppy’s health and ensures the guarantee covers genetic issues rather than owner-created problems.
A: This is exactly why the “keep and compensate” option exists. If a dog develops hip dysplasia and the family wants to pursue surgical treatment (FHO or total hip replacement, typically $4,000-8,000), they can keep their dog and receive 100% refund of the purchase price to help offset costs. Families don’t have to choose between their dog and financial burden. If treatment isn’t feasible or desired, the dog can be returned for priority replacement from the next available litter. The guarantee is designed to provide options, not force impossible choices.
About Genetic Diversity
A: Three verification methods: (1) Review the 5-generation pedigrees provided in puppy packets and look for repeated names, (2) Use online pedigree databases (like k9data.com or working-retriever.com) to independently verify lineages, (3) Request to see genetic testing documentation if available. Complete pedigree documentation is provided to all puppy families, and independent verification is encouraged. Transparency in genetic background is fundamental to responsible breeding.
A: Yes, all purebred dogs have breed-level inbreeding because they’re a closed gene pool (only Labradors can produce Labrador puppies). The average COI for the entire Labrador breed is approximately 6-8% when calculated over 10 generations. However, individual litters can have COIs ranging from 0% (no relationship between parents) to 25% (parent-offspring or sibling breeding). By selecting unrelated parents, I achieve 0% litter COI while staying within breed. This maximizes genetic diversity within the constraints of purebred breeding.
About Early Development
A: Most breeders keep puppies in a kennel or garage, handle them occasionally, and maybe expose them to some household noises. That’s not socialization—that’s basic care. Professional socialization follows evidence-based protocols: Early Neurological Stimulation during the critical 3-16 day window, systematic exposure to 100+ stimuli during the primary socialization period (3-12 weeks), temperament testing at 7 weeks, and intentional learning exercises. The difference is measurable in training outcomes, behavioral health, and lifelong stress resilience. This is the advantage of working with a Certified Canine Behaviorist versus a hobbyist breeder.
About Breeding Philosophy
A: Because the focus is on producing family companions, not sport competitors. Show titles evaluate conformation (physical appearance) but provide no information about health, temperament, or genetic soundness. Hunt test titles evaluate working ability but require intense drive levels that most families don’t want in a pet. Neither AKC show champions nor field trial champions necessarily make the best family dogs—they’re specialized for specific purposes. This program selects breeding dogs based on: (1) comprehensive health clearances, (2) stable, confident, biddable temperament, (3) genetic diversity, and (4) moderate size and structure ideal for active family life. This approach produces better pets than breeding for competition ribbons.
A: Each female is bred only once per year maximum. The program typically produces 2-3 litters annually total (from different females). This is a small, purposeful program—not a puppy mill or high-volume commercial operation. Each litter receives intensive individual attention, proper socialization, and comprehensive health care. Quality over quantity.
Pricing & Contact Information
Investment & What’s Included
Puppy Price: $4,000 (pet homes with spay/neuter agreement)
Included: Everything detailed on this page (comprehensive health testing documentation, vaccinations, microchip, veterinary health certificate, written health guarantee, lifetime support, training resources, starter supplies, behavioral development protocols)
Deposit to Reserve: $1500 (non-refundable after temperament matching, refundable before final placement confirmation)
Balance Due: At pickup ($2,500)
Accepted Payment: Cash, Venmo, Zelle, or cashier’s check
📅 Current & Upcoming Litters:
Cornwell Labradors typically produces 2-3 carefully planned litters per year total. Each female is bred only once annually. Current litter availability and upcoming breeding plans are updated on the main website. Quality breeding programs often have waitlists because knowledgeable buyers recognize the value of comprehensive health testing, genetic diversity, and expert behavioral development. Early inquiry is recommended for specific color or sex preferences.
📱 Phone/Text: [Phone number available on contact page]
All inquiries receive response within 24 hours. Initial conversations cover household situation, experience with dogs, activity level, and expectations to ensure appropriate matching. Responsible breeding is a collaborative process—the right fit for both puppy and family is the goal.
A Note on Transparency & Accountability
Everything on this page is verifiable. OFA clearances are public record searchable by registered name. Genetic test results are laboratory-documented. Veterinary certifications are licensed professional documents. Pedigrees can be independently verified through kennel club databases. Responsible breeders make claims they can back up with evidence.
If a breeder makes health claims without providing documentation, promises “champion bloodlines” without proof, or offers guarantees without written contracts—that’s a red flag. Puppy buyers should demand evidence, ask detailed questions, and independently verify claims. Responsible breeders should provide that evidence proactively without buyers having to request it repeatedly.
The questions on this page represent the minimum standard of inquiry for responsible puppy purchases.