Selection day
We typically hold selection day when the puppies are five weeks old. At this point, they have had their first vaccines. We schedule people in one-hour time slots, in order of deposit paid. You can visit on site or by phone and video.
If you come in person, you will be able to meet all the puppies and interact with them. This is the time to keep an open mind and be prepared to fall in love. You may have thought that you wanted a black female, and you end up choosing a chocolate male, simply because he came up to you, looked at you with his deep brown eyes, and licked your hand. The visits allow some of that magic to unfold.
If you live too far away to make a personal visit, we can handle selection by using FaceTime or Skype. We will ask you to choose your three favorite puppies and then introduce you to them one at a time. You will observe them interact with us and their siblings. This will also give you an opportunity to take a closer look at their coat, including color and texture.
No matter which method you choose, be prepared to fall in love.
You will spend the next few weeks getting ready for your puppy to come home. Puppies are ready to leave at eight weeks, but we are happy to keep them until they are nine weeks old.
Selection day is full of anticipation, excitement, and joy. There is nothing better than knowing exactly which puppy is going home with you.
Getting ready
While waiting, you can start preparing for your puppy to come home. Where will the puppy sleep? What will the puppy eat? Will you have some time off to help your puppy settle in? Some of the items you may wish to have on hand include:
- A crate, basket, or dog bed
- Food and water bowls
- Puppy food
The puppies have been eating NutriSource Puppy Food. Mini Poodles and Cockapoos eat the kind labeled Small-Medium Breed. Bernedoodles eat the Large Breed variety. You can find a store location near you by clicking on this link:
- Puppy pads
- A few toys (the tougher, the better)
- A new collar if you wish (the puppy will arrive with a starter collar)
- A leash or harness
Please remember that the most important gift you can give your new puppy is time. If possible, see if you can take some days off to be at home with the puppy.
This is also a great time to get some books about your chosen breed and about how to raise a puppy.