The puppies receive the most time and attention, allowing for careful evaluation of each one to ensure the best match for both the puppy and the owner. Early on, potential working prospects are identified based on drives, energy, and confidence. As the puppies develop, expert trainers and decoys are involved in conducting thorough evaluations, ensuring each puppy is placed in the right home based on temperament and needs.
Puppy placements are made after careful evaluation, typically between 6 to 7 weeks old, to ensure the best fit for both the puppy and the family. While the wait can be difficult, matching each puppy to an environment where they can thrive is crucial. Working-line puppies, in particular, require daily exercise, training, and mental stimulation, which are taken into account when making placements.
The health of the puppies is taken very seriously. All puppies are up-to-date on vaccinations and come with a clean bill of health from the veterinarian. The 25-month health guarantee is a limited guarantee for hips and elbows, which will be fully outlined in the contract. This guarantee covers any issues related to hip or elbow dysplasia during this period. It is recommended to bring the puppy in for preliminary x-rays around 12 months of age to assess joint development. The ideal time to check the development of the puppy’s joints is after reaching physical maturity, between 24-26 months.
As part of this guarantee, it is essential for the buyer to maintain proper preventative care for the puppy or dog. This includes ensuring appropriate nutrition, managing weight, providing age-appropriate exercise, and preventing stress injuries. These steps are crucial in fulfilling responsibilities under the agreement and supporting the long-term health and well-being of the dog.
At Barrage K9, my dogs are more than just working partners—they are cherished members of my family. I live on 5 acres just outside Louisville, KY, where I provide a safe, spacious, and comfortable environment for all my dogs inside the house.
For the puppies and their mother, I’ve created a private space in my finished basement, offering a calm and nurturing environment during their crucial early development stages.
Once the puppies are old enough, I begin introducing them to new socialization experiences in the training facility, including exposure to different types of flooring, sounds, people, and other dogs. The facility also features a puppy obstacle course to help build confidence and encourage mental and physical development. This ensures they are well-prepared for a variety of environments and experiences as they grow.
Limited vs. Full Registration with AKC
All puppies are sold with Limited AKC Registration, meaning they are not eligible for breeding until they meet specific requirements. This approach is in place to ensure that only dogs who have been proven in terms of health, performance, and temperament are eligible for breeding, helping to preserve the integrity of the breed.
Limited registration can be amended to Full Registration once the criteria detailed in the contract are met.
Reservations
Pre-litter reservations can be made during the planning stage as well as after the puppies are born, depending on availability. For each litter, we accept three male and three female reservations. A reservation/pick is confirmed once the application is approved, signed deposit contract and deposit are received. Your place in line is held with your deposit and is non-negotiable.
Important Notes
Waitlist
For those who prefer to wait or if pre-birth picks are already reserved, we maintain a waitlist. Puppies are offered from the waitlist in the order of interest and availability.