General Information:
Where are you located?
Just south of Lethbridge in Alberta, Canada.
What size of poodles do you raise?
Toy and Standard Poodles.
*Toy Poodles average at 10" at the withers and 6-7 lbs. Standards are typically 20-24" at the withers and between 35-45 lbs.
*Toy Poodles average at 10" at the withers and 6-7 lbs. Standards are typically 20-24" at the withers and between 35-45 lbs.
Do you dock your puppies' tails?
No. All of our puppies are left with natural tails and dewclaws.
What Socialization & training do your puppies receive?
Our puppies are started on litter training (plain wood pellets), beginning at 3 weeks old.
Around 5 weeks, we introduce clicker training, play the "box game," and start leash work and crate training, all as outlined in Puppy Culture. We also begin teaching them to sit and come. While we do all we can to give our puppies a head start in training, it will still be up to you to continue with their training.
Our puppies are introduced to people of all ages, other dogs, different places, car rides, crates, city noises, hair clippers, bath tubs, and much more. We use early neurological stimulation (ENS), Puppy Culture protocols, the Rule of 12, early scent introduction (ESI), and a combination of other programs dedicated to raising mentally sound, enrichment-seeking puppies.
Around 5 weeks, we introduce clicker training, play the "box game," and start leash work and crate training, all as outlined in Puppy Culture. We also begin teaching them to sit and come. While we do all we can to give our puppies a head start in training, it will still be up to you to continue with their training.
Our puppies are introduced to people of all ages, other dogs, different places, car rides, crates, city noises, hair clippers, bath tubs, and much more. We use early neurological stimulation (ENS), Puppy Culture protocols, the Rule of 12, early scent introduction (ESI), and a combination of other programs dedicated to raising mentally sound, enrichment-seeking puppies.
Do you have any 'labradoodles' or other designer breeds?
No. We raise purebred CKC Poodles, and do not participate in cross breeding.
What if i just want a pet, not a show dog?
We encourage and love to see involvement in dog sports such as conformation, agility, and obedience, but it is never a requirement or expectation. A loving and responsible home is what we are looking for at the end of the day!
While we show our dogs, most of our puppies go to loving pet homes, where they fulfill their role as a loving companion dog. Showing dogs in conformation is a structural evaluation to ensure our dogs are built soundly, with breed type (what makes a Poodle a Poodle, such as its coat texture, refinement and elegance, etc.).
While we show our dogs, most of our puppies go to loving pet homes, where they fulfill their role as a loving companion dog. Showing dogs in conformation is a structural evaluation to ensure our dogs are built soundly, with breed type (what makes a Poodle a Poodle, such as its coat texture, refinement and elegance, etc.).
What health testing do you do?
Our Toy Poodles are tested to a minimum of CHIC standards - (PRA/progressive retinal atrophy, patellar luxation, and an annual CAER eye exam). The Standards are tested for a minimum of hip dysplasia, an annual CAER. In addition to this basic testing, we complete full genetic panels on our dogs (DM, OCD, GM2, IVDD/CDDY, NEWS, vWD), cardiac exams, and VGL genetic diversity. Some of our dogs have additional testing such as dentition or thyroid panels. As other genetic tests become available in the future, we will add them to our testing routine.
Along with all of the things we can "test" for, I believe in breeding dogs who are healthy in general throughout their lives. I strive to breed dogs who are free from allergies, food sensitivities, ear infections, etc. A well bred dog should live a long, happy, and healthy life.
To learn more about what all of this testing means and why it is important, click here. (in progress)
Along with all of the things we can "test" for, I believe in breeding dogs who are healthy in general throughout their lives. I strive to breed dogs who are free from allergies, food sensitivities, ear infections, etc. A well bred dog should live a long, happy, and healthy life.
To learn more about what all of this testing means and why it is important, click here. (in progress)
How many litters do you have per year?
An average of 2 litters each year. Some years we don't have any pups, and other years we might have more than our usual. It depends on whether we have retiring and upcoming girls who overlap, what our show/trial schedule is like, and other aspects of our lives.
Purchase Information:
HOW MUCH DO YOUR PUPPIES COST?
Pricing may be subject to change. Typically as follows:
Toy Poodle puppy: $3500 Canadian currency (this is approx. $2500 USD)
Standard Poodle puppy: to be determined in 2024
Retired adults: cost of spay/neuter & dental (approx. $600)
Toy Poodle puppy: $3500 Canadian currency (this is approx. $2500 USD)
Standard Poodle puppy: to be determined in 2024
Retired adults: cost of spay/neuter & dental (approx. $600)
What is included in the purchase price?
- A well bred puppy :)
- A health examination by a licensed veterinarian.
- A puppy pack (see below for a list of contents)
- First set of puppy vaccinations administered
- A head start on clicker, crate, and other training
- Hours of structured socialization & enrichment
- Health testing completed on the puppy's parents
- Microchip implanted
- CKC registration and owner transfer
- Lifetime breeder support
***Keep in mind, this list does not include the costs of cleaning (hours of laundry, mopping, changing puppy pads, etc.), vet bills, stud fees ($800-$3000), emergency bills, whelping supplies, every day care of our dogs, etc. A LOT goes into raising healthy, well-adjusted puppies. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for!***
- A health examination by a licensed veterinarian.
- A puppy pack (see below for a list of contents)
- First set of puppy vaccinations administered
- A head start on clicker, crate, and other training
- Hours of structured socialization & enrichment
- Health testing completed on the puppy's parents
- Microchip implanted
- CKC registration and owner transfer
- Lifetime breeder support
***Keep in mind, this list does not include the costs of cleaning (hours of laundry, mopping, changing puppy pads, etc.), vet bills, stud fees ($800-$3000), emergency bills, whelping supplies, every day care of our dogs, etc. A LOT goes into raising healthy, well-adjusted puppies. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for!***
When are the puppies ready to go home?
8-10 weeks - it may vary depending on the individual puppy or litter. We will only let them go home when we feel they are physically and emotionally ready to leave their mom.
Do you ship?
While we do not ship our puppies in cargo, we have a couple of options for those who live further than driving distance.
- Buyers can fly in to our nearest airport (Calgary) to pick the puppy up their in person.
- A flight nanny can be arranged at the buyer's expense to accompany the puppy in cabin and deliver to the buyer.
Do you have a contract?
Yes, we do. All of our puppies, with the exception of show prospects, are sold on a non-breeding agreement, and are required to be spayed/neutered between 8-14 months. (Or 18-24 months for our Standard Poodles.) We also have a return clause in place, requiring that the puppy is returned to us if the owner is unable to keep them, for any reason, and at any point during the dog's life.
Please click here for more in depth information about what to expect in our contract of sale.
Please click here for more in depth information about what to expect in our contract of sale.
Why do you ask so many questions about me?
My job as a breeder is to ensure that each puppy I raise is given the best home possible, that is well suited to their individual temperament, exercise needs, etc. In order to make proper placements, I need to know a LOT about prospective homes. This means I will be asking questions about your occupation, what your typical day looks like, any and all past experience with dogs, what you are looking for in a Poodle, when you will be ready for a puppy, etc.
Will you sell a puppy with breeding rights?
Only to other ethical breeders of Toy or Standard Poodles, at our discretion.
What is included in the puppy pack?
- ziploc bag of puppy food (a 15 lb bag is available on request)
- squeaky toy
- two puppy pads
- vet booklet (w/ vaccination record)
- information sheet with vaccine schedule
- copies of the parents' health test results (this may be sent through email or provided as a physical copy)
- blanket with littermates' scent
- small bag of treats/chews
- free 6-week trial of PetsPlusUs pet insurance (covers up to $1000)
- copies of the signed contract & health guarantee
Optional add-ons:
- 15 lb bag of puppy food ($35)
- 8oz Ultra Oil omega supplement ($18)
- squeaky toy
- two puppy pads
- vet booklet (w/ vaccination record)
- information sheet with vaccine schedule
- copies of the parents' health test results (this may be sent through email or provided as a physical copy)
- blanket with littermates' scent
- small bag of treats/chews
- free 6-week trial of PetsPlusUs pet insurance (covers up to $1000)
- copies of the signed contract & health guarantee
Optional add-ons:
- 15 lb bag of puppy food ($35)
- 8oz Ultra Oil omega supplement ($18)
Toy Poodle Information:
How big do your toy poodles get?
Our dogs generally average 7.5 lbs and 10" at the shoulder, some slightly smaller or larger. My line is more likely to ere on the larger side. They are a wonderful size for travelling with, and are large enough to enjoy an active lifestyle.
How much grooming do their require?
Toy Poodles are surprisingly easy to maintain. A thorough maintenance brushing once a week is all they need in most cases. Brushing too frequently can cause breakage to the coat and make it more prone to matting. Here is our recommended grooming schedule:
- Brushing: once a week, with a light spray of conditioner over the coat to prevent static. Make sure you are reaching the base of the hair, using the line-brushing technique to reach root to tip. Go over the coat with a comb afterwards to look for any small tangles.
- Nail trims/dremeling: once every 1-2 weeks
- Tooth brushing: once a day (or provide a chicken neck/other raw chew for natural cleaning-- always under supervision)
- Professional grooming (full bath, blow dry, and clip): approx. every 6 weeks (longer coats may need every 4 weeks, and shorter trims/shaved dogs may be able to go 8 weeks in between grooms).
- Brushing: once a week, with a light spray of conditioner over the coat to prevent static. Make sure you are reaching the base of the hair, using the line-brushing technique to reach root to tip. Go over the coat with a comb afterwards to look for any small tangles.
- Nail trims/dremeling: once every 1-2 weeks
- Tooth brushing: once a day (or provide a chicken neck/other raw chew for natural cleaning-- always under supervision)
- Professional grooming (full bath, blow dry, and clip): approx. every 6 weeks (longer coats may need every 4 weeks, and shorter trims/shaved dogs may be able to go 8 weeks in between grooms).
What are their exercise needs?
Even though Toy Poodles are a small breed, they still need regular exercise to stay fit and healthy. For dogs over 12 months old, I encourage an hour of exercise every day, when possible. This can be split up into two or three sessions throughout the day.
- Playing fetch in the yard
- Going for a brisk walk
- Hiking
- Swimming (if your dog enjoys water!)
Even small amounts of exercise is going to be beneficial; fit in anything you can! Poodles are often toy-driven and enjoy playtime, so a game of indoor fetch and tug can help in fulfilling their exercise needs for the day.
- Playing fetch in the yard
- Going for a brisk walk
- Hiking
- Swimming (if your dog enjoys water!)
Even small amounts of exercise is going to be beneficial; fit in anything you can! Poodles are often toy-driven and enjoy playtime, so a game of indoor fetch and tug can help in fulfilling their exercise needs for the day.
How much do they eat?
This will depend on many factors: size, age, metabolism, whether they are spayed/neutered or intact, and the calorie amount of the food you are feeding.
Most of my Toy Poodles eat approximately 1/2 cup of kibble, per dog, per day. 1/2 cup of kibble weighs about 2oz. Expect to use approximately 4 lbs of food per month.
You should be able to feel your dog's ribs--they should not be protruding nor should they be difficult to feel (i.e., they should not be covered with a thick layer of fat). If you notice your dog has put on some weight and their ribs are hard to feel, slightly decrease the amount of food they eat per day (or reduce other calories via treats/chews, etc.), or choose a lower calorie food. Many dogs will put on weight after being spayed/neutered, as metabolism decreases when those hormones are no longer being produced. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout the dog's life goes a long ways in keeping their heart and joints healthy, and promoting a good quality of life well into their senior years.
Most of my Toy Poodles eat approximately 1/2 cup of kibble, per dog, per day. 1/2 cup of kibble weighs about 2oz. Expect to use approximately 4 lbs of food per month.
You should be able to feel your dog's ribs--they should not be protruding nor should they be difficult to feel (i.e., they should not be covered with a thick layer of fat). If you notice your dog has put on some weight and their ribs are hard to feel, slightly decrease the amount of food they eat per day (or reduce other calories via treats/chews, etc.), or choose a lower calorie food. Many dogs will put on weight after being spayed/neutered, as metabolism decreases when those hormones are no longer being produced. Maintaining a healthy weight throughout the dog's life goes a long ways in keeping their heart and joints healthy, and promoting a good quality of life well into their senior years.
Are Toy Poodles prone to barking/yappiness?
Yes, they naturally tend to be a more vocal breed.
Training can help in curbing excessing barking. Be prepared to put in some work, if needed. If you are looking for a naturally quiet breed who rarely barks, Toy Poodles may not be the best candidate.
Training can help in curbing excessing barking. Be prepared to put in some work, if needed. If you are looking for a naturally quiet breed who rarely barks, Toy Poodles may not be the best candidate.
Are Poodles Hypo-allergenic and nonshedding?
First, let's break down the word hypo-allergenic. "Hypo" means low. It does NOT mean none. "Allergenic" refers to allergens. Canine allergens can be found in the proteins from their saliva, hair, dander, urine, etc.
So a hypo-allergenic dog is simply going to have lower allergens than other dogs (shedding breeds such as labs, pugs, etc.). While Poodles are not 100% non-allergenic (as that would be impossible for a living, breathing animal), they are known for being an allergy-friendly breed due to their nonshedding coats and lower allergen levels.
Regarding nonshedding. Poodles do not shed/molt seasonally like most breeds do. They do have "hair fall" which is similar to how humans lose a small amount of dead hair. It is a small amount and is typically only noticed when the dog is being brushed (which pulls that hair from the rest of the coat).
Additionally, Poodles do not tend to get the typical "dog smell" and are a relatively odourless breed.
If you or someone in your household is allergic to dogs, I would recommend meeting the breed in person to see if there is any reaction prior to contacting a breeder and purchasing a puppy.
Please note, that shedding breeds (labs, goldens, etc.) who are mixed with Poodles WILL NOT magically produce nonshedding puppies. The genetics behind a Poodles' coat are far more complex than that, and most resulting puppies from these mixes will have wiry, shedding coats and will still get doggie odour. Please use your due diligence when purchasing a puppy, especially if allergies are a concern (a purebred Poodle is one of your best options!), and support an ethical, honest, and knowledgeable breeder.
So a hypo-allergenic dog is simply going to have lower allergens than other dogs (shedding breeds such as labs, pugs, etc.). While Poodles are not 100% non-allergenic (as that would be impossible for a living, breathing animal), they are known for being an allergy-friendly breed due to their nonshedding coats and lower allergen levels.
Regarding nonshedding. Poodles do not shed/molt seasonally like most breeds do. They do have "hair fall" which is similar to how humans lose a small amount of dead hair. It is a small amount and is typically only noticed when the dog is being brushed (which pulls that hair from the rest of the coat).
Additionally, Poodles do not tend to get the typical "dog smell" and are a relatively odourless breed.
If you or someone in your household is allergic to dogs, I would recommend meeting the breed in person to see if there is any reaction prior to contacting a breeder and purchasing a puppy.
Please note, that shedding breeds (labs, goldens, etc.) who are mixed with Poodles WILL NOT magically produce nonshedding puppies. The genetics behind a Poodles' coat are far more complex than that, and most resulting puppies from these mixes will have wiry, shedding coats and will still get doggie odour. Please use your due diligence when purchasing a puppy, especially if allergies are a concern (a purebred Poodle is one of your best options!), and support an ethical, honest, and knowledgeable breeder.