Frequently Asked Questions

Do you have a question about us or what we do? Take a look through these questions and if we haven't answered it here contact us.

Information about Labradoodles and Goldendoodles

Hearty K9s related

Preparing for your pup

What is a Doodle?

When we talk about Doodles we're referring to both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles together. Generally we do this when we're refering to common traits, natures or even the dogs or pups themselves. When we talk about Labradoodles or Goldendoodles individually we're usually talking about their differences.

What is the nature of a Doodle?

Doodles are a combination of a uniquely hilarious personality and an amazingly loyal friend. They love to be with you, whether out jogging, camping, reading a book, or watching TV. They long to serve and please you, and they crave your approval.

Doodles are sociable, loving, intuitive, and train easily, but they are VERY intelligent. It is imperative that Doodles are actively trained and stimulated regularly in the first year, or they use their creative minds and become naughty and destructive.

They are very people-orientated, and want to be with you. They do not do well being locked up, or socially deprived for regular long intervals when the family has gone to work. They also must know undoubtedly that they are NOT the pack leader of the family. You need to be the boss.

What are the differences between a Labradoodle and a Goldendoodle?

Coats are generally more curly and longer in the Goldendoodles. Statistically they are less likely to shed but their coats are more maintenance. Labradoodle coats vary more from a slight wave to curly. Their coats don't become as long and they are less maintenance.

Genetic temperament of the pups depends more on the parents as individuals than it does comparing Goldendoodles to Labradoodles.

How are Doodles with children?

Doodles are wonderful with children, although they need lots of time and their space to 'veg'. Every puppy goes through a mouthing period where they may nip. This must be addressed immediately by closing their mouth with your hand and saying a firm "NO".

Never leave the training of your pup as the responsibility of your child. Supervise as your family works daily with him or her to keep consistency. Communicate with your family how you will discipline unwanted behavior. Be consistent in how you teach him or her tricks and therefore aid your pup in learning even faster.

How much exercise does a Doodle need?

Doodles need exercise but not an excessive amount. Just as important as their physical exercise, they need mental stimulation and training. If your Doodle is overly-energetic she or he may require more mental stimulation.

I heard that Doodles are hypoallergenic, is that right?

There is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. It depends on the person's specific allergies. A person may be allergic to hair, dander, or perhaps even the dog's saliva.

Do Doodles shed, and how much?

See my Shedding or Non-shedding section in Understanding Doodles.

How does the BARF diet work with your pups?

We still feed the pups softened puppy kibble, as it is easier at this time for chewing. They are slowly introduced to types of raw meat and veg after 6 weeks, but their main food remains the puppy kibble. This permits the new puppy owner to choose which route they wish to go in feeding their dog.

What if we bring the pup home and after a while we realize that my allergies are being very irritated by the pup?

I would suggest you put the pup on a strict BARF diet which should decrease any allergy aggravating stimulants, such as shedding, substantially. If that doesn't work we would discuss a refund.

What if I want to breed the dog I buy in the future?

All we ask is that you wait until your pup is at least 2-3 years old. Your dog should have a clean bill of health, have it's hips x-rayed and eyes tested. As a courtesy we ask you to contact us to let us know the test results and your intentions.

How do you come up with names for the pups?

We name the pups here to make it more personal and fun for us. But, of course, when people choose a puppy and adopt it they normally choose their own name.

What do I need to do while I wait for my puppy?

  • Read books on puppy training. We recommend "The Art of Raising a Puppy" by the Monks of New Skete.
  • Find a good vet and/or let your vet know that you are soon getting a new puppy. Make a list of questions you may have for them and write down any questions your vet may have for me.
  • Set up a vet appointment for second shots. The pup will be 9-10 weeks old when this is required.
  • Find a quality obedience class and ask the requirements to be able to start (i.e. had their 2nd shots, are over 3-4 months old, etc.)

What do I need to buy before I bring the puppy home?

  • "The Art of Raising a Puppy", as a manual to get ready.
  • A kennel that is large enough for the expected adult weight. You can put a box in the back when the pup is little.
  • A leash 6 ft long is usually required for obedience class. A retractable leash is a nice option for walks (a puppy collar is provided with pup).
  • Bowls for food and water.
  • Puppy Kibble: ask us what your pup is eating here. If you don't want to feed your pup the food we use make sure you get a sample from us so that you can change your pup's diet gradually.
  • A chew toy or rawhides. A Kong is often a favourite.
  • Bitter apple or other spray to protect your electrical cords or other tempting things from your teething puppy.
  • A blanket for in your pup's kennel.
  • Optional: a camera to capture those cute puppy moments that slip away so fast!

What do I need to bring with me when I pick up the pup?

  • I recommend that you bring someone with you to hold the pup, so as not to distract the driver.
  • A towel or blanket for your pup to lie on.
  • A chew toy, in case your pup feels like gnawing on something.
  • Some paper towel and maybe a deodorizer in case the pup gets carsick.
  • A kennel if you are planning on stopping on the way home to shop, etc. Otherwise your pup would rather lie on your lap or beside you.
  • A leash.
  • A list of questions you've been thinking of to ask me. Always remember, I'm only an email or phone call away.
  • If final payment is being made on the pick up day, we would appreciate cash or a certified cheque. You can pay by personal cheque 2 weeks prior to pick up as well.

What do you have for some tidbits of advice?

This advice is gathered through reading I've done and experiences I and/or my clients have shared. I share them with you to help you establish a good relationship with your dog and perhaps to answer some questions in advance.

  • We've found with most pups, that because doodles are very smart, the "gentle" approach to training, nor the very strict training, works as well as the middle of the road. Use a firm voice with commands and a bit harsher voice with reprimands. Always give lots of praise when your pup does well.
  • Do not let the pup chew on your hand. Always say "NO" with a firmly harsh voice, give them something that they are allowed to chew on and then praise with a high voice. This goes with any nipping, which is part of puppy-hood, so it's best to keep on top of that right away. You'll have less trouble later.
  • Place a hanging bell of some sort by your back door and ring it with the pup's paw every time you take them out to "do their business." This will help the quieter dogs to find a way to let you know they gotta go, as they'll learn to ring the bell!
  • Even as a little pup, before you pet them, make them sit down nicely. Then give them lots of attention and praise.
  • Have friends over and expose your pup to lots of different situations, especially in the first 6 months. Prepare your visitors to wait until the pup has settled and sat down on command before they get a pet from the strangers.
  • Leave the leash on the pup in the house so that you can catch them and also get after them quicker.
  • Do not give a pup or dog a command that you cannot make them follow up on, so leave them on a leash. You'll be able to haul them in for a "Come!" with lots of praise!
  • Tie the pup to your belt loop if you're busy with other things, and can't watch them, so they don't sneak off to mess in your home. Otherwise, put them in their kennel.
  • When returning home don't run to the kennel to greet your pup and get all excited. Ignore the pup for the first minute and then quietly let them out. This helps prevent separation anxiety.
  • Obedience training is a crucial part of your dog knowing that you are alpha. Through the stories I hear from my past clients, professional obedience training in a class has opened their eyes to many different techniques that they didn't get from reading books. It also exposes the pup to a different environment where they need to focus on you despite the distractions.
  • Some believe that a pup can't be obedience trained until they are 6 months old. I've found that the more you do with them the first 6 months, the better. You can start all your commands early. Remember their attention span is small, and you should not expect perfection, but the introduction of the idea is huge. You can perfect later.
  • I do want the people who adopt my pups to be responsible and raise well-behaved, good representations of the breed. I'm not a trainer but I am learning. If you're having trouble with your pup, please let me know earlier than later. I may be able to help you directly or help you find someone, or some resource, that can.