Why choose Happy Acres?
I started breeding dogs because I love dogs and puppies. My dogs are my family and live in my home as my pets. They live a full and happy life. They are not locked in kennels and bred for money. The puppies are all raised in my home and get lots of attention all day. I start potty training at 3 weeks old and socialize them with other dogs, cats, chickens, children, adults and a variety of noises and textures. My past puppies have grown into happy, friendly, well adjusted dogs who make great companions.
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Do you ship your puppies?
I do not ship my puppies. I try to place all my puppies with local families and am happy to refer you to breeders in your area. You are also welcome to fly to Madison, Wisconsin to pick up your puppy. Puppies fit in an in-cabin pet carrier that can ride with you on the plane as your carry-on luggage.
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How much do your puppies cost?
All puppies cost $2000.
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What vetting have your puppies had by the time they go home?
Puppies are dewormed every 2 weeks starting at 2 weeks old. I administer puppy vaccines at 6 weeks and 8-9 weeks old. Puppies have a full exam by my veterinarian prior to going home with their new owner, usually around 7-8 weeks. Most puppies will have worms or parasites due to their immature immune systems, and may need additional rounds of deworming. It is common for parasites to bloom with the stress of moving homes. I recommend that puppies have a fecal checked at their first vet appointment after going to their new homes. The third puppy shot is due at 12 weeks old, and I recommend making that appointment with your vet as soon as you place your deposit.
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Are your puppies AKC registered?
Havanese puppies come with full AKC registration paperwork. Full registration means that you have breeding and show rights to your puppy; however I do not guarantee the quality of your puppy for show or breeding purposes. Miniature sheepadoodle puppies do not come with AKC paperwork as that is only available for purebred puppies.
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How do I reserve a puppy?
Please contact me via email ruthanna.seidel@gmail.com or phone/text at 520-251-2885. Puppies will be available for deposit starting at 6 weeks old. You can reserve a specific puppy with a $300 nonrefundable deposit. Miniature sheepadoodle puppies can go home between 8-10 weeks old. Havanese puppies can go home between 10-12 weeks. I have noticed they tend to mature more slowly and benefit from more time with their mama and littermates.
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What supplies do I need for my new puppy?
- Crate or pen to keep your puppy safe when you can't keep eyes on them. A 24 inch crate for Havanese and a 30 inch crate for mini sheepadoodles will fit them into adulthood. You can also use a 24 inch tall puppy pen. A puppy pen is preferred if you need to leave your puppy unattended for more than a few hours. You can put a potty pad on one side of the pen. It's easier to clean up accidents in a pen than in a crate.
- Blanket or towel to put in the crate. I recommend using blankets instead of a dog bed for the first few weeks in case of potty accidents. Blankets are much easier to wash!
- Puppy food. Puppies are raised on Kirkland Signature Puppy Chicken, Rice and Vegetable dry kibble (yellow bag, available at Costco). This is a high quality dog food with no animal by-products or fillers. I will give you a small baggy of food at pickup. Feed your puppy only this food for the first week and then you can gradually mix in whichever food you want to switch them to. Feed puppies at least 3 times per day until 4 months old, then you can go to twice a day. I feed my puppies as much as they want until they are done eating. Don't worry if your puppy is not a big eater at first. Sometimes they only eat a piece or two. Just keep offering 3 times per day and they will eat when they are hungry. If they refuse to eat for more than 24 hours, that is not normal and they should be seen by a vet.
- Toys. I like to rotate toys out daily because they will get bored with old ones, just like kids do! A rotating stash means there's always something new and exciting. Chew toys are especially important when they are teething.
- Collar or harness, leash, ID tag with your phone number
- Poop bags
- Paper towels and spray cleaner for potty accidents :)
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What should I expect after I bring my puppy home?
Puppies often act shy and overwhelmed for the first few days. It's a big change, and their first time away from mom and siblings. Try to limit visitors for the first week or so if your puppy seems overwhelmed. It's common that outdoors is more overwhelming than indoors, so they may be too scared to potty outside and hold their pee until you bring them back inside. Just be patient and continue to take them out every couple hours. Puppies adjust very fast and usually within a few days they are back to their normal bouncy happy self. Baby puppies usually get carsick, so don't be surprised if your puppy vomits on the drive home or shortly after. It's also normal if they have some loose poops the first day or two from the stress of moving homes. If vomiting continues after the drive home or they have diarrhea past the first few days, they should be seen by a vet.
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What if my circumstances change and I can no longer care for my puppy/dog?
Adopting a puppy is a 10-15 year commitment. Rehoming a dog is tough on them, and should only be done as a last resort. That said, I understand that unforeseen circumstances may arise where you may no longer be able to care for your puppy. If you have friends or family who you trust to adopt them, I trust you to make that decision. If you don't know anyone who is a good fit, please contact me. I will take the dog back for any reason, at any point for the rest of their life. I do not give refunds unless the puppy is returned because of a genetic health condition before the age of 2.