Guardian Program Information
We have a few guardian openings this year! It’s a wonderful way to be part of the Spring Valley family and raise one of our exceptional puppies.
How it works
As a guardian family, you raise your puppy as a permanent, much-loved member of your family. We keep the breeding rights and cover all breeding expenses. We only need your dog a few times a year for breeding or health testing.
Girls
Girls come to us about a week before their puppies are due and go back home once the puppies are weaned, usually around 6 weeks. During pregnancy and the rest of the time, she lives with the family who knows and loves her.
Boys
Boys visit us for short stays when it’s time for a date with one of our girls.
Retirement
Guardian girls have no more than 4 litters. When they retire, we spay or neuter them and they stay with their families for life.
What a year as a guardian looks like
Everyday life
Your dog lives with you as a much-loved family pet, just like any other dog.
A few visits a year
We may need your dog for health testing or a breeding visit. Boys come for short stays; girls come to us about a week before their puppies are due.
Puppy time (girls)
Mom stays with us while she raises her litter and comes home once the puppies are weaned, usually around 6 weeks.
We cover it
All breeding expenses are on us.
Retirement
After no more than 4 litters, we spay or neuter your dog, return your deposit in full, and your dog stays with your family for life.
Why be a guardian?
You get the very best of Spring Valley: our guardian puppies have the most wonderful temperaments and are always stunning, free of charge. We ask for a deposit, which we return in full when your dog retires from our breeding program. And we’re always here to answer your questions.
To qualify, you’ll need to:
- Own your own home
- Live within 35 miles of Kennett Square, PA
- Have a physical or electric fence, or always keep your dog on a leash outside
- Provide good veterinary care and a quality diet
- Keep your dog leashed in public
- Carry pet health insurance
Apply to be a guardian
Fill out the short application below and we’ll be in touch to learn more about your family and set up an interview. Questions first? Email us.