It may be difficult to shift from the system employed by many pet breeders who allow families to “pick out a puppy” to the system most preservation breeders employ in which the breeder carefully matches a puppy to your family. You may have your heart set on a color or pattern present in the litter, and this is understandable. Color and pattern preferences are normal, and I have them as well!
We do not match puppies based on early deposits or a feeling of connection someone may have to a photo. When a puppy curls up in your lap, this is not a sign from the universe that the match is ideal. Preservation breeders make careful evaluations over time because matching energy, drive, and temperament is far more important than appearance.
We assess structure, movement, confidence, recovery, drive, and, most importantly, overall temperament. We compare littermates with each other and compare all puppies against the breed standard before making matches with puppy applicants. Color and pattern cannot indicate how puppies will interact with the world, and it is compatible world views that will sustain your lifelong relationship with your dog.
It can be exasperating to wait as long as 10 weeks to learn which puppy is the best match for your family, but it takes that long for the almost-daily changes to reveal who the puppy will grow up to be. We are grateful for your patience and glad you chose us as a breeder, as we devote extreme care in the matching process.