FAQ
Finding the right breeder is an important part of bringing home a puppy. Just as you're deciding whether Old Mill Doodles is right for you, we want to make sure our puppies are going to families where they'll be happy and well cared for.
Here are answers to some of the questions we're asked most often.
How long have you been a breeder?
We've been raising dogs since 1989, beginning with AKC Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers before transitioning to Goldendoodles and Sproodles. Working with generations of our dogs gives us firsthand knowledge of the health and temperament in many of our lines.
Do your parent dogs have health certifications?
Yes. We health-screen our parent dogs before breeding, and we also use DNA genetic screening as another tool in our breeding decisions. When acquiring a future breeding dog, we also require their breeders to have multiple generations of health certifications. Having worked with generations of many of our lines also gives us valuable firsthand knowledge of their health history.
Do you offer a health guarantee?
We offer a two-year genetic health guarantee for each puppy. To see the contract, click HERE.
How are the puppies socialized?
Our puppies receive plenty of individual attention, handling, and playtime from an early age. They're introduced to everyday sights, sounds, and experiences and begin learning routines that help prepare them for the transition to their new homes.
Several people help us throughout the week with puppy care and playtime, and a veterinary technician visits weekly to assist with the health of our dogs and puppies.
Do you offer support after adoption?
Yes. We're always happy to answer questions throughout your dog's life. Our newsletter also includes information about training, health, grooming, nutrition, and everyday life with your dog.
Do you have an application?
No. We prefer a more personal approach. Rather than asking you to complete a lengthy application, we'd like you to tell us a little about yourself, your household, your lifestyle and what you're looking for in a dog.
We'd rather start with a conversation.
How are deposits and selections handled?
We accept deposits after a litter is born. Deposits determine the order in which families select their puppies.
Selection and pickup take place on the same day, with appointments scheduled in reservation order. Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Do you allow visitors?
Yes, weather permitting, visitors are welcome by appointment. To help protect young puppies from illness, we'll show you our parent dogs in their play area and bring the puppies into our showroom. We ask that only adults pick puppies up; children are welcome to hold a puppy while seated with an adult's help.
We also ask that you not visit another kennel on the same day, since germs can easily be carried between facilities on clothing and shoes.
When can puppies go home?
We schedule Gotch Days for the Saturday after the puppies are eight weeks old.
Do you keep the puppies past eight weeks?
If you can't pick up your puppy on the scheduled day, please discuss this with us before placing a deposit.
Depending on the time of year and available space, we may be able to keep a puppy until nine weeks for an additional daily boarding fee of $20. Any additional vaccinations required during that time will also be charged. If your schedule won't allow pickup within that timeframe, we recommend waiting for a future litter that better fits your schedule.
Do you offer shipping or delivery?
Most families pick up their puppies in person. Limited delivery within a reasonable driving distance may also be available for an additional fee, and we can sometimes arrange airport meetups for families flying in for the day.
We do not ship puppies in cargo.