Questions to Ask Before Buying a Puppy:

Questions to Ask Before Buying a Puppy:

Bringing home a puppy is an exciting and life-changing decision. Whether you're searching for an English Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle, choosing the right breeder is one of the most important steps in finding a healthy, well-socialized companion. Asking the right questions can help you feel confident in your decision and ensure your new puppy has been given the best possible start in life.

1. Are the Parent Dogs Health Tested?

Responsible breeders perform health testing on their breeding dogs to help reduce the risk of inherited health conditions.

Ask about:

• Hip and elbow evaluations

• Heart examinations

• Eye certifications

• Genetic DNA testing

• Breed-specific health screenings

Health testing demonstrates a breeder's commitment to producing healthy puppies.

2. How Are the Puppies Socialized?

Early socialization plays a critical role in a puppy's development. Puppies who experience positive interactions with people, everyday sounds, and new environments are often better prepared for family life.

Ask if puppies are introduced to:

• Children and adults

• Household noises

• Different floor surfaces

• Other Pets

• Grooming

• Gentle handling

These experiences help build confidence during an important stage of development.

3. Do You Begin Potty Training?

While young puppies are not fully house-trained before they go home, many responsible breeders introduce puppies to a designated potty area.

This early foundation can help:

• Encourage clean living habits

• Make the transition home easier

• Support successful potty training with their new family

4. What Veterinary Care Have the Puppies Received?

Before bringing your puppy home, ask about:

• Wellness examinations

• Vaccinations

• Deworming schedule

• Microchipping (if applicable)

• Health records

A reputable breeder will provide clear documentation of your puppy's veterinary care.

5. Can I Meet the Parents?

Whenever possible, meeting at least the mother can give you insight into the temperament and personality your puppy may inherit.

Look for dogs that are:

• Friendly

• Calm

• Confident

• Well cared for

• Some ethical breeders use local guardian homes for their parents so they don’t live their lives in cages. So meeting might not always be possible. But ensuring parents temperaments are acceptable.

Temperament is an important part of responsible breeding.

6. What Happens If I Have Questions After Bringing My Puppy Home?

A quality breeder doesn't disappear after pickup day.

Ask if they provide:

• Ongoing support

• Training guidance

• Nutrition recommendations

• Grooming advice

• Lifetime breeder support

Having an experienced resource available can be invaluable during your puppy's first year.

7. What Is Included With My Puppy?

Many breeders send puppies home with helpful items, such as:

• Health records

• Vaccination information

• Sample food

• Blanket with familiar scents

• Toys

• Puppy care instructions

These items help make the transition into your home smoother.

8. What Is Your Health Guarantee?

Ask the breeder to explain their health guarantee and contract.

Be sure you understand:

• What is covered

• Length of the guarantee

• Any health requirements

• Spay/neuter agreements

• Return policy if unforeseen circumstances arise

A written contract helps protect both the buyer and the breeder.

9. How Are the Puppies Raised?

Ask where the puppies spend their first weeks of life.

Puppies raised in a clean, loving home environment often have more opportunities to experience everyday sights and sounds before joining their forever families.

10. Why Did You Choose This Pairing?

Responsible breeders carefully select parent dogs based on:

• Health

• Temperament

• Structure

• Genetics

• Overall compatibility

Thoughtful breeding decisions help improve the likelihood of producing healthy, well-rounded puppies.

Red Flags to Watch For

While searching for your new puppy, be cautious if a breeder:

• Cannot provide health testing documentation.

• Refuses to answer questions.

• Will not allow you to see where puppies are raised.

• Pressures you to make a quick purchase.

• Cannot provide veterinary records.

A reputable breeder welcomes questions and wants you to feel comfortable throughout the process.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a puppy is about much more than appearance. The breeder you choose plays an important role in your puppy's lifelong health, temperament, and early development.

By asking thoughtful questions about health testing, socialization, veterinary care, and breeder support, you'll be better prepared to find a puppy that will become a cherished member of your family for years to come.

Taking the time to research and choose a responsible breeder is one of the best investments you can make in your future companion.

What to Expect During Your Puppy's First Week at Home:

What to Expect During Your Puppy's First Week at Home

Bringing home a new English Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle puppy is an exciting milestone. While your puppy is ready to begin this new adventure, the first week is a big adjustment. Everything is new—from unfamiliar sights and sounds to new routines and family members.

By understanding what to expect during your puppy's first week at home, you can help them feel safe, build confidence, and start developing healthy habits that will last a lifetime.

Day 1: Give Your Puppy Time to Adjust

The first day is often overwhelming for a puppy. They've left their littermates, familiar surroundings, and breeder, and they're learning to trust their new family.

When you arrive home:

• Introduce your puppy to one room at a time.

• Allow them to explore at their own pace.

• Keep the environment calm and quiet.

• Offer fresh water and a small meal if it's mealtime.

• Take them outside frequently for potty breaks.

Don't worry if your puppy seems shy, sleepy, or doesn't eat much during the first day. This is a normal part of the adjustment period.

Establish a Consistent Routine

Puppies thrive on consistency. Creating a predictable daily schedule helps them feel secure and makes training easier.

Your routine should include:

• Regular feeding times

• Frequent potty breaks

• Short play sessions

• Scheduled naps

• Gentle training

• Bedtime at the same time each evening

A consistent routine helps your puppy quickly learn what to expect each day.

Potty Training Begins Immediately

Even though your puppy has already been introduced to a potty routine, they will still need guidance in their new environment.

Take your puppy outside:

• First thing in the morning

• Every half hour while awake to begin with

• After eating

• After naps

• After playtime

• Before bedtime

Celebrate every success with praise and rewards. Remember that accidents are part of the learning process—patience and consistency are the keys to success.

The First Night

Many puppies cry during their first night away from their littermates.

To help your puppy settle:

• Use a comfortable crate or puppy pen.

• Provide litter or mother scented item (we offer the snuggle puppy scented from litter!)

• Keep the sleeping area close to your bedroom if possible.

• Provide a soft blanket and safe chew toy.

• Take your puppy outside if they wake during the night.

Within a few nights, most puppies begin adjusting to their new routine.

Introduce Family Members Gradually

Allow your puppy to meet each family member in a calm, positive way.

Teach children to:

• Sit quietly while the puppy approaches.

• Use gentle hands.

• Avoid loud noises or chasing.

• Respect your puppy's need for rest.

Positive early experiences help build confidence and trust.

Begin Gentle Training

Your puppy is already learning from every interaction.

During the first week, focus on:

• Responding to their name

• Positive reinforcement

• Crate training

• Gentle leash introduction

• Simple commands like "sit"

Keep training sessions short—just a few minutes at a time.

Schedule Your First Veterinary Visit

Your veterinarian should examine your puppy shortly after they arrive home.

During the appointment, your veterinarian will:

• Perform a wellness exam

• Review vaccination records

• Discuss parasite prevention

• Answer nutrition questions

• Create a vaccination schedule

This visit helps ensure your puppy gets off to a healthy start.

Encourage Safe Socialization

Socialization is one of the most important parts of puppy development.

During the first week, introduce your puppy to:

• Different household sounds

• New people

• Various floor surfaces

• Gentle grooming

• Car rides

• Everyday experiences

Until your veterinarian confirms it's safe, avoid high-risk public areas where unvaccinated dogs may have been.

Be Patient

Every puppy adjusts differently. Some are confident immediately, while others need a little more time.

Give your puppy plenty of love, encouragement, and opportunities to learn at their own pace. Building trust during this first week lays the foundation for a lifelong bond.

Final Thoughts

Your puppy's first week at home is the beginning of an incredible journey together. By providing a consistent routine, positive training, gentle socialization, and plenty of patience, you'll help your English Goldendoodle or Bernedoodle grow into a happy, confident companion.

Remember, your puppy doesn't expect perfection—they simply need your guidance, consistency, and love. Before you know it, they'll feel right at home and become a cherished member of your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take a puppy to adjust to a new home?

Most puppies begin settling in within a few days, but it can take several weeks to fully adjust to their new family and routine.

Should I let my puppy cry the first night?

Some whining is normal as your puppy adjusts. Offer reassurance, keep them close to you, and take them outside if they need a potty break, but avoid rewarding excessive crying by immediately letting them out of the crate.

How often should I take my puppy outside?

Young puppies should go outside frequently—after waking up, after eating, after playing, and gradually increase time as no accidents during the day to encourage successful potty training.

When should I schedule my puppy's first vet appointment?

It's recommended to schedule a wellness exam within the first few days of bringing your puppy home so your veterinarian can review their health records and establish an ongoing care plan.

Why Early Introduction To Puppy Potty Training Matters:

Why Early Introduction To Puppy Potty Training Matters

One of the first milestones in raising a well-adjusted puppy is introducing potty training early. While young puppies are not physically capable of being fully house-trained before they go home, early exposure to a consistent potty routine helps build positive habits that make the transition to their new family much smoother.

Building Positive Habits from the Beginning

Between 3 and 8 weeks of age, puppies are constantly learning from their environment. Introducing a designated potty area during this critical developmental period teaches puppies to move away from where they sleep and eat to relieve themselves. This natural instinct lays the foundation for successful house training later on.

Easier Transition to Their New Home

Puppies that have been exposed to a structured potty routine often adapt more quickly when they join their new families. While every puppy will still need patience, consistency, and continued training, early exposure helps them understand that there is an appropriate place to go potty.

Encourages Clean Living Spaces

Dogs naturally prefer to keep their sleeping area clean. By providing a separate potty area, breeders help reinforce this instinct from an early age. Puppies raised with clean living habits are often more prepared to continue those behaviors in their new homes.

Builds Confidence Through Routine

Puppies thrive on consistency. A predictable daily routine that includes designated potty times helps reduce stress and builds confidence as they learn what is expected of them. This structure makes learning easier and supports healthy development.

Sets Families Up for Success

Early potty training does not mean a puppy is completely house-trained before going home. Instead, it provides a valuable head start. Families who continue using a consistent schedule, frequent potty breaks, positive reinforcement, and plenty of praise can often build on the foundation their puppy has already begun.

The Importance of Positive Reinforcement

Successful potty training should always focus on encouragement rather than punishment. Rewarding puppies for using the correct potty area helps create positive associations and motivates them to repeat the desired behavior.

Final Thoughts

Early introduction to potty training is one of the many ways responsible breeders help prepare puppies for life with their forever families. By establishing good habits early, puppies gain confidence, learn cleaner living routines, and have a smoother transition into their new homes. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, families can continue building on this early foundation and enjoy a successful potty-training journey together.

Looking for an English Goldendoodle puppy? Visit our Available Puppies page!

Looking for a Bernedoodle Puppy? Visit our Available Bernedoodle Puppies page!

English Golden Retriever vs. American Golden Retriever: Health Considerations

English Golden Retriever vs. American Golden Retriever

HEALTH: Both English and American Golden Retrievers can be wonderful, healthy dogs when responsibly bred and health tested. The most important factor in a puppy's long-term health is choosing a breeder who performs comprehensive health testing on their breeding dogs. English Golden Retrievers are often recognized for their sturdy build and are associated in some studies with a lower incidence of cancers compared with American Golden Retrievers, though both lines can be affected by inherited health conditions. At DoodleDee Goldendoodles & More, we prioritize health-tested parent dogs to help produce healthy puppies with the best possible start in life.

Appearance: English Goldendoodles generally have a broader head, shorter muzzle, heavier bone structure, and a softer cream-colored coat. American Goldendoodles tend to be taller and slimmer, with richer golden or red coat colors.

Temperament: Both make wonderful family companions, but English Goldendoodles are often described as:

• Calm and gentle

• Affectionate

• Easygoing

• Patient with children

American Goldendoodles are often:

• Highly energetic

• Athletic

• Outgoing

• Enthusiastic about training and activities

Which Is Right for Your Family?

View our English Goldendoodle Puppy Nursery‍ ‍for available puppies!

If you're looking for a puppy with a calmer, laid-back temperament and the classic light cream "teddy bear" look, an English Goldendoodle may be an excellent choice. Although we do breed a variety of colors in the English Goldendoodles! For families seeking a companion with a gentle disposition and a thick, beautiful teddy bear coat, many breeders and owners appreciate the qualities of the English Goldendoodle.
If you prefer a more athletic dog with higher energy level, an American Goldendoodle may be a better fit.

Why Choosing a Health-Tested Bernedoodle Breeder in Indiana Matters:

Why Choosing a Health-Tested Bernedoodle Breeder in Indiana Matters

DoodleDee Goldendoodles & More is an ethical breeder of health-tested Bernedoodle puppies in Chesterton, Indiana.
Finding the right Bernedoodle puppy begins with choosing a breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and responsible breeding practices. At DoodleDee Goldendoodles & More, we are proud to be an ethical Indiana breeder dedicated to raising exceptional, health-tested Bernedoodle puppies.

Our parent dogs undergo comprehensive health testing to help ensure each puppy has the best possible start in life. From birth, our puppies are raised in a loving home environment where they receive daily socialization, early enrichment, and individual attention to help them grow into confident, well-adjusted companions. You can view our testing on Meet The Parents Page!

Bernedoodles are known for their affectionate personalities, intelligence, and loyal nature, making them wonderful family dogs. We are committed to matching every puppy with a loving home and providing ongoing support for our puppy families long after adoption day.

If you're searching for a health-tested Bernedoodle breeder in Indiana, we invite you to learn more about our breeding program and available litters. At DoodleDee Goldendoodles & More, our goal is to raise healthy, happy puppies that become cherished members of their families for years to come. View our Available Bernedoodle Puppies Page to find your next best friend!

How to Introduce Your New Puppy to Your Family: A Guide to a Smooth Transition

How to Introduce Your New Puppy to Your Family: A Guide to a Smooth Transition

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting occasion, especially when you’re bringing home a Goldendoodle or Bernadoodle. These lovable, intelligent, and playful dogs are known for their gentle nature and affection, making them the perfect addition to any family. As an ethical dog breeder who specializes in Bernedoodle and Goldendoodles, I understand how important it is to ensure a smooth transition for both the puppy and the family. After all, the first few days and weeks are crucial in setting the tone for a positive, lasting bond.

Introducing your new puppy to your family and home environment requires patience, careful planning, and a focus on minimizing stress. This process should be done gradually, allowing your puppy to adjust at their own pace. Here’s how you can create a comfortable and safe atmosphere for your new Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle, ensuring that this transition becomes the foundation for a lifetime of love and companionship.

1. Take Things Slowly

It’s natural to be excited when bringing a new puppy into your home, but it’s important to remember that your puppy is experiencing a big change. Moving to a new home can be overwhelming for a young dog, especially one who is still adjusting to a new routine, new faces, and new smells. The key is to take things slowly and give your puppy the time and space they need to get comfortable.

On the first day, try to limit the number of interactions. Allow your puppy to explore their new home at their own pace. Avoid overwhelming them with too many people or activities all at once. Instead, let them settle into one area, like their designated space or crate, where they can feel safe and secure. Over time, they’ll feel more comfortable in their new environment and with their new family.

2. Create a Safe and Comfortable Space

Your new puppy needs a place where they can retreat to when things feel a bit too much. This safe space could be a crate or a cozy corner of a room, furnished with their bed, some toys, and maybe a blanket or two that smells like their old home (or the breeder’s home, in some cases). This area should be calm and free from loud noises, so your puppy has a retreat for rest and relaxation when needed.

As a breeder, I always recommend creating a space that’s free from distractions but close enough to family activity so your puppy can start to become accustomed to the sounds and sights of their new life. A comfortable, familiar space will help your puppy feel more at ease as they navigate this new chapter.

3. Gradually Introduce Family Members

When introducing your puppy to the rest of the family, including other pets, it’s essential to move at a pace that’s comfortable for your new puppy. If you have children or other pets, make sure to guide these interactions to avoid overstimulation. Let your puppy approach each family member at their own pace, and ensure that everyone understands the importance of calm, gentle interactions.

If you have other pets, introduce them slowly and supervise the initial meetings. Allow the puppy and existing pets to sniff each other through a barrier or with leashes on to assess how they feel. It may take time for them to adjust to one another, so be patient during this process.

4. Minimize Stress and Avoid Overstimulation

It’s important to recognize that your new puppy is experiencing a lot of changes and may feel stressed or anxious in their new surroundings. Overstimulation—whether from too many people, loud noises, or too many new experiences at once—can be overwhelming and make it harder for your puppy to adjust.

Something we especially want to stress to families with kids is to make sure the they are taught to respect the puppy boundaries and space just as they'd teach the puppy to respect humans. While this is unintentional, kids tend to over exhaust a puppy - which may cause a pup to nip or bite and become aggressive. Kids don't always pick up on queues that a pup would give, like growling or showing teeth, so it’s important to take the time to properly educate your kiddo on how to interact with your new pup.

Keep the first few days relatively calm. Avoid introducing too many new experiences or leaving your puppy alone for extended periods right away. If they show signs of stress—like whining, hiding, or chewing excessively—give them some space and time to calm down. The goal is to create an environment where your puppy feels safe, secure and loved.

5. Establish a Routine and Set Expectations

Dogs thrive on routine, so one of the best ways to help your new puppy adjust is by establishing a consistent schedule. Set regular times for meals, potty breaks, play, and quiet time. A predictable routine will help your puppy feel more secure and understand what’s expected of them.

When you bring your Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle home, start practicing house training right away, but remember that accidents are part of the process. Be patient, gentle, and consistent as you guide your puppy through learning the ropes of their new life with you. Set clear boundaries from the beginning, but remember to always use positive reinforcement, which helps to build trust and strengthen your bond.

6. Patience Is Key: Building Your Bond Takes Time

While it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of bringing a new puppy into your family, it’s important to remember that building a strong bond takes time. Don’t rush the process of becoming best friends. Your puppy may need a few weeks or even months to fully adjust and feel comfortable in their new home, although we’re confident it will likely be sooner due to the way we prepare them for take-home.

The first few days should focus on helping them feel safe and secure, not on forcing interaction or trying to establish a strict training schedule. Enjoy the quiet moments of getting to know each other and be patient with the process. Over time, your puppy will trust you more, and you’ll start to see the sweet, loving personality of your Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle emerge.

7. Ongoing Support and Guidance

As an ethical dog breeder, I want to make sure you feel supported throughout the transition process. If you ever have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance. I’m here to offer advice and help ensure that your new puppy settles in comfortably.

Bringing home a Bernedoodle or Goldendoodle puppy is an incredibly rewarding experience. By taking things slow, creating a safe and calm environment, and respecting your puppy’s need for space and time to adjust, you’ll be setting the foundation for a wonderful, lifelong relationship with your furry friend. Remember: patience and care are key to creating a bond that lasts a lifetime.

Welcome to the wonderful world of puppy parenthood, and enjoy every step of the journey with your new fur friend!