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Family Care Homes


  • My Breeding dogs are adopted, usually at 8 weeks into their forever homes. They are raised by the families in all practical ways as their own.
  • Families must not have other entire dogs and be able to keep the dog securely in their yard or home when the Family is out.
  • Sometime after they are 12 months the dogs spend a day away from home, getting their Hip and Elbow x-rays taken. This is a good opportunity for me to spend time with the dog assessing their temperament and how they respond to me, the vet and around other animals. If the Carer Family live far away from me I will ask them to assist by taking the dog to the vet in the morning and collecting in the afternoon.
  • Males usually spend no more than a few hours away from home for matings.
  • The Matings usually are done over 3-4 days with both boys and girls returning home each day. Usually only away from home for a few hours.
  • A quick vet visit at 4 weeks confirms pregnancy via ultrasound.
  • A week before her due date, the girl moves into my home . She settles in and prepares for whelping. If mum needs to fly or travel a long distance she comes earlier so that she is not uncomfortable on the trip.
  • These Families kindly agree to participate in ethical breeding by giving Permanent Homes to the breeding boys and girls.

  • There are a few conditions such as feeding quality food and using parasite prevention medications that have tested safe for breeding animals and attending one of the recommended puppy classes.


  • Girls have several visits to the vet for a simple blood test during a heat cycle in which they will be mated.



  • I will share the good news with the Family after the birth.
  • The girl's Family can visit after mum has bonded with the pups - usually 4-5 days after the birth. Stud families can also visit if they like.
  • Visits can continue as pups grow.
  • Once pups are weaned and no longer interacting with mum frequently, the girl will be ready and happy to return home and be the centre of attention in her Family again.
  • Girls are contracted to have just 2 litters. Families can participate longer if they choose.


  • At the end of the Breeding term both boys and girls are desexed at my expense and full ownership handed to the Family.
  • Family Care Dogs are available at significantly less charge than pet dogs - with all the same inclusions - See COSTS
Email Leigh at info@vineyardlabradoodles.com for a comprehensive information sheet and to ask any questions about Carer Homes (Guardians), and then complete a CARER FAMILY Application form.
Where do I need to live to be eligible to be a Carer Family?

I prefer families to live closer as then I am able to do all the vet visits etc however as long as the family is willing and able to assist by attending a suitable vet (not all local vets offer Penn Hip testing & breeding services such as progesterone testing, semen collection etc) and understand that mum will have to stay with me for the whelping/puppy raising and a great distance may limit/prevent them being able to visit- then any area can be considered.