What is a Guardian Home?

A Guardian Home is a unique arrangement within a breeding program where a breeding-quality puppy or dog is placed in a loving, permanent home while remaining part of the breeder’s breeding plans. This arrangement provides benefits to all involved:

  • For the Dog: The dog thrives in a stable, family environment instead of living full-time in a kennel, ensuring a happier, healthier life with plenty of love and socialization.
  • For the Guardian Family: The family has the opportunity to raise a top-quality dog, often at a reduced cost, while participating in a meaningful and rewarding program.
  • For the Breeder: The breeder maintains breeding rights to guide the future of their program without compromising the well-being of the dogs.

How It Works

  • Females: The breeder retains breeding rights for a set number of litters, after which the dog is fully transferred to the Guardian Family.
  • Males: The breeder retains breeding rights for a specific number of years.
  • Transition: Once the breeding career is complete, the dog transitions fully to the Guardian Family, where it remains a cherished family pet.

This ethical and collaborative approach supports the expansion of the breeding program while prioritizing the well-being and socialization of the dogs. Becoming a Guardian Home is a special opportunity to make a lasting difference in the lives of these exceptional dogs and the families they touch.

How much does it cost to be a Guardian?

At BFF Aussies, we’ve found that people tend to take greater care of what they’ve invested in. For this reason, we require a minimal fee when placing a puppy in a Guardian Home. This initial investment not only reflects your commitment but is often reimbursed and supplemented as the dog progresses through the breeding program.

Financial Rewards and Incentives

  • Per-Litter Reward: Following each successful litter, Guardian Families may receive a financial reward as a token of appreciation for their care and partnership.
  • Final Incentive: After the female has completed her breeding career (typically after her fourth litter), Guardian Families are eligible for a special incentive. This can include a cash bonus or the opportunity to select a pick-of-the-litter puppy.

We aim to make this partnership mutually rewarding, ensuring that Guardian Families are recognized for the love and care they provide while being part of the incredible journey of raising exceptional dogs. Thank you for your commitment and dedication!

Following each litter, a financial reward may be given to the guardian home upon the dog’s return. After the female’s final litters—typically the fourth—a special incentive is offered to the guardian family (cash bonus or pick of the litter puppy).

Requirements when being a Guardian

 

Becoming a Guardian Home for one of our puppies is a unique and rewarding opportunity, but it comes with specific requirements to ensure the health and happiness of the dog and the success of our breeding program.

Location and Accessibility

  • Guardian Homes must be located within a 100-mile radius of Placerville, CA to allow for convenient transportation for health checks, breeding, and whelping.
  • Families should be flexible with drop-offs or pickups for health testing, veterinary visits, breeding, and other necessary appointments.

Home Environment

  • The home must provide a safe and nurturing environment, with adequate space for the dog to exercise and play.
  • Guardian Families should be committed to creating a loving and stable home for their dog.

Health and Wellness

  • A commitment to the dog’s health and well-being is essential. This includes:
    • Following specific feeding guidelines.
    • Attending regular veterinary checkups.
    • Maintaining up-to-date vaccinations.
  • Adherence to our training and care recommendations is required to ensure the dog’s development and well-being.

Communication and Oversight

  • Guardian Homes must agree to regular communication with BFF Aussies and occasional visits from our team to monitor the dog’s health and happiness.
  • Families must be willing to keep us updated with photos and progress reports.

Experience and Commitment

  • While prior experience with dogs is preferred, it is not mandatory. However, a willingness to learn and follow our guidance is crucial.

By meeting these requirements, Guardian Families become invaluable partners in our mission to raise happy, healthy dogs and support our breeding program. Thank you for considering this meaningful opportunity!

What happens during breeding and pregnancy?

Pregnancy in dogs is a natural and straightforward process, and we are here to guide you every step of the way. Once your guardian dog is confirmed pregnant, she will return to your care along with our Pregnant Momma Notes, a detailed guide to ensure a smooth pregnancy. Below, we’ve outlined what you can expect and how to support her during this special time.

What to Expect During Pregnancy

  • Behavioral Changes: Your dog may seem more tired or experience changes in appetite during the first few weeks of pregnancy. This is normal and typically improves as the pregnancy progresses.
  • Increased Hunger: In the final weeks, you’ll notice her appetite increasing as she prepares for her growing puppies.
  • Energy Levels: While some changes in energy levels are normal, regular walks and light activity remain important throughout her pregnancy.

Activity Guidelines

  • First Half of Pregnancy: Normal play, running, and romping are encouraged during the early stages.
  • Second Half of Pregnancy: We recommend transitioning to controlled activities like leash walks and avoiding high-impact exercises such as ball chasing.
  • Daily Walks: Staying active and in good shape helps improve delivery outcomes, so keep up with regular, gentle walks.

Health and Safety

  • No Chemicals or Medications: To protect her health and the puppies, avoid using flea treatments and most medications during pregnancy. Always consult us before administering any treatments.
  • Illness or Injury: Notify us immediately if your dog shows signs of illness or sustains an injury so we can assist in her care plan.

Timing of Breeding and Return

When your dog is in heat, it’s important to notify us right away. Here’s how the process works:

  1. Arrival: Once she is in heat, we’ll ask you to bring her to us between day 5 and day 7 of her cycle.
  2. Duration: Your dog will stay with us for approximately one week for breeding.
  3. Communication: We’ll stay in close contact with you throughout her time with us and keep you updated on her progress.

We’re committed to supporting you and your guardian dog through every stage of her pregnancy. 

    Whelping & Weaning

    • For FEMALE Dogs only, for each litter, Guardian(s) will deliver or plan to meet with the Dog to the Breeder 1 week prior to the Dog’s due date, and the Dog will remain with the Breeder until her puppies are fully weaned, not to exceed 6 weeks.

    What are the grooming requirements?

    At BFF Aussies, our Guardian Families play an integral role in our breeding program. To ensure the well-being of our dogs and maintain the highest standards, we ask for your commitment to the following:

    Grooming Requirements

    • Breed-Appropriate Grooming: Guardian dogs must be kept in a breed-appropriate cut (e.g., Australian Shepherds, Mini American Shepherds). This includes regular grooming and keeping the coat free of mats.
    • Professional Grooming: If you are unable to maintain the coat yourself, you are required to use a professional groomer.
    • Condition of Coat: If the dog is brought to us with a matted or unkempt coat, we reserve the right to take them to our groomer. The cost of any grooming services will be your responsibility and must be reimbursed before the dog is returned to your care.
    • Ambassadors of BFF Aussies: Guardian dogs represent our program and must be kept in pristine condition at all times.

    The Heart of Being a Guardian Family

    The most important aspect of being a Guardian Home is communication and trust. This relationship thrives on open, honest communication, which ensures happiness and harmony for everyone involved.

    • Regular Updates: We love receiving photo updates and stories of your dog’s adventures, including milestones and training achievements. Think of us as proud grandparents who want to stay connected and celebrate their progress!
    • Part of the Family: We encourage you to fully integrate the guardian dog into your home as a cherished family member. Your love and care are the foundation of their well-being and happiness.

    At BFF Aussies, our goal is for your family to enjoy life with your furry companion while being part of the amazing journey of bringing healing and joy to others through our breeding program.

    Understanding the Breeding Role

    Guardian dogs are intended to be part of our breeding program, and this comes with unique responsibilities and challenges.

    • Time Away: There will be times when your dog must be away from home for extended periods, such as breeding or whelping. We understand this is difficult, especially the first time. To make this easier, we offer an open-door policy with Guardian Families and provide camera access to our whelping rooms so you can stay connected.
    • Breeding Decisions: All breeding decisions, including whether a dog remains in the program, pairings, timing, and any other breeding-related matters, are made solely by BFF Aussies.

    By joining us as a Guardian Family, you become part of a community dedicated to raising happy, healthy dogs who make a difference in the lives of others. Thank you for being a valued partner in this journey!

    What if the dog gets sick or injured?

    While the dog is in the care and home of a Guardian Family, any illness or injury that occurs is the financial responsibility of the family. To ensure the best outcomes, BFF Aussies must be informed of any health concerns immediately. We will work with you to develop treatment plans and approve medications, but the associated expenses remain the responsibility of the Guardian Family.

    We highly recommend obtaining pet health insurance during the breeding years/contract period. This insurance provides valuable protection for you, as these dogs are not only cherished companions but also incredibly important to our breeding program. By working together, we can ensure the health and well-being of these amazing dogs.


    Interested in becoming a Guardian? Apply below.

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