Puppy Age When Sent Home

[betty]

Hello - I am new to this forum, and discovered it while surfing the internet for information on labradoodles.

My family is considering adding a LD to the mix early next year. I have researched quite a bit, and they seem like wonderful dogs. Our current dog is a 12 year old yellow lab, who sadly is very ill, and won't be with us that much longer. I think the personality of the labradoodle will do very well in our family.

I have been looking for a breeder, informally, in our area. We are in Cincinnati, OH. I found a breeder about an hour away and spoke with her. She seems very knowledgable and kind. Her husband is a vet. The only thing that makes me pause is she said she sends the puppies home at 6 weeks of age. I don't know that much about it, but have done a little reading on the subject, and it's hard to find a definitive answer. It seems, though, that most sources indicate that 8 weeks is the proper age to separate the litter.

You all seem to be exceptionally knowledgable about these dogs. Any advice you would have to offer would be hugely appreciated.

Also, does anyone have any recommendations for other breeders in my general vicinity? Ohio, Kentucky or Indiana are close.

One more question.....how much should I pay for a labradoodle? On-line I see the prices go anywhere from $350 to $1500. That's a big price range, and a little confusing. Naturally, I don't want to make a decision based on getting a deal, but I don't want to be a sucker, either.

Thanks for all your help. I really appreciate this resource.

[lisarundell]

Betty, I believe it is illegal to send puppies to their new homes before 8 weeks of age in most states, I would check Ohio law. The breeders I have seen post on this site do not let them go home before 8 weeks. I know that the time between 6 and 8 weeks there are a lot of important lessons learned from the puppies litter mates and mom. I personally would look for another breeder. There are many wonderful breeders on this site who should be able to help you with your questions.

We absoutely love our doodles! We got our first one in February and our 2nd in June. We couldn't be happier! Please let us know what you decide, and if you do get a doodle please post some pictures! Good Luck!

[gracielou]

It is 8 weeks here in KS.

[Doodlesville]

they dont recieve their first shots until 6weeks old ,its just not safe

We let ours go between 7-8weeks old i like to keep them to 8 weeks ,its gives them more quality socalization time with us here

A Vet should KNOW better!!!

[Boomer4900]

We got our doodle from a breeder in Ohio....http://www.briarcreekkennel.com. She's great, and some of the breeders on this forum also know/recommend her. She has F1's and F1B's for sale right now.
Good luck on your search!

Bianca

[dixiedi]

Hello Betty and welcome You are wise to be cautious when red flags abound. I would not take a puppy at 6 wks of age. I am surprised that this breeder lets them go at 6 wks with her husband being a vet, HMMMM. Please keep looking. You will find that perfect breeder with that perfect puppy for you and it will be worth your wait and patience.

You don't say what generation your family is wanting. This will make a big difference in the price of your puppy. A first generation puppy from a reputable breeder that tests their breeding stock could run from 750. to 1250. The more generations you have into your doodle the more expensive it is.

When finding a breeder, always ask questions and get references. You'll never be sorry. This is a commitment that you and your family will have for many years to come and you want your new puppy to be happy and healthy.

Good luck and let us know when you get your new puppy.