Puppy Allocation Process
Puppy allocations occur when the puppies are approximately 5 weeks old, once their individual personalities begin to emerge. At this stage, each puppy is carefully assessed for temperament, confidence, energy levels, and overall suitability for different family environments.
The breeder reserves the right to retain first pick of the litter. This applies regardless of application order, timing of reservation fees, or stated preferences.
Colour preferences are welcome and will be noted. While colour is never prioritised over temperament or suitability, every reasonable effort will be made to match families with their preferred colour where possible.
Allocation decisions are guided by our commitment to creating the best possible match between each puppy and their future family, taking into account:
Family lifestyle, including children, other pets, and previous dog experience
Desired personality traits (e.g., calm, confident, playful, or independent)
Each puppy’s developing temperament and overall suitability
Once personalities are clearer, families will be invited to nominate their top three puppy preferences. While we aim to honour both puppy and colour preferences, if multiple families are interested in the same puppy, final allocation decisions rest with the breeder, based on long-term suitability and compatibility.
All decisions prioritise the health, welfare, and lifelong success of both the puppy and their family.
Why We Don’t Use a “First Deposit = First Pick” System
As ethical breeders, our primary responsibility is the wellbeing of every puppy. Allocating puppies solely by deposit order can:
Prioritise speed over careful assessment
Encourage selection based on appearance rather than temperament
Increase the risk of mismatched placements (e.g., high-energy puppies in low-energy households)
Create pressure to choose before personalities are fully developed
Allocation Concerns & Reservation Fees
If a family feels the allocated puppy is not the right fit, they may step back from the allocation.
In such cases, the reservation fee is non-refundable, as significant time, planning, and costs are incurred once a puppy is reserved and other suitable families have been declined. However, at the breeder’s discretion and subject to availability, the fee may be transferred to a future litter.
If a transfer is not requested or is unavailable, the reservation fee will be forfeited.
A Final Note
Our processes are designed to support thoughtful, responsible, and lifelong matches, helping to avoid future regret, unhappiness, or rehoming.
If this approach doesn’t feel right for you, we completely understand. While we may not be the right breeder for every family, we sincerely wish you the best in finding a breeder whose process aligns with your expectations.
Thank you,
~ Oakover
