Puppy Allocation Process

Puppy allocations take place when the puppies are approximately from 4 weeks + once their individual personalities have had time 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 always 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, as part of the overall allocation process.

Puppy allocation is guided by our commitment to creating the best possible match between each puppy and their future family, taking into consideration:

  • Family lifestyle, including children, other pets, and previous dog experience

  • Desired personality traits (such as calm, confident, playful, or independent)

  • Each puppy’s developing temperament and overall suitability

Once personalities are more clearly evident, families will be invited to nominate their top three puppy preferences. While we make every effort to honour both puppy and colour preferences, when multiple families are drawn to the same puppy, final allocation decisions rest with the breeder and are based on long-term suitability and compatibility.

All allocation decisions are made with the health, welfare, and lifelong success of both the puppy and their family as our highest priority.

Why We Don’t Use a “First Deposit = First Pick” System

As ethical breeders, our responsibility is first and foremost to the wellbeing of every puppy we raise. For this reason, we do not allocate puppies based on deposit order alone.

A “first deposit = first pick” system can:

  • Prioritise speed over thoughtful assessment

  • Encourage selection based on appearance rather than temperament

  • Increase the risk of mismatched placements (for example, high-energy puppies in low-energy households, or more sensitive puppies in very busy homes)

  • Create pressure to choose before personalities are fully developed

Allowing puppies time to mature enables us to make informed, responsible placement decisions that support:

  • Stable and confident puppies

  • Appropriate, lifelong family matches

  • Positive outcomes for both puppies and their families

This approach reflects our commitment to responsible breeding, transparency, and placing each puppy in the environment best suited to their long-term success.

Allocation Concerns & Reservation Fees

If a family feels that the allocated puppy is not the right fit for them, they are welcome to step back from the allocation.

In this circumstance, 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 reservation fee may be transferred to a future litter.

If a transfer is not requested or is not possible, the reservation fee will be forfeited.

A Final Note

Our processes are designed to support thoughtful, responsible, and lifelong matches, with the goal of avoiding future regret, unhappiness, or the need for 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 genuinely wish you all the best in finding a breeder whose process aligns with your expectations.

Thanks so much ~ Oakover