FAQ

What comes with a puppy from Waggin Tales Ranch?

What color will my puppy be? Will he/she get any darker?
Your puppy will be a dark golden almost red color. All my adult dogs are dark and your puppy will grow darker even if they are much lighter as a puppy.

What is included in the Purchase of a Waggin Tales Puppy?
• AKC Registration (Limited/Full depending on buyer’s selection and amount paid)
• Microchipping with an internationally recognized microchip (Fi Nano). Prepaid by me.
• Genetic Health Guarantee
• Puppy Pack to prepare you for the transition from the ranch to your home
• Support from me for the life of the dog and beyond

Are the Dogs Microchipped?
Yes. All dogs are microchipped with a prepaid Microchip. There is no cost to you, the buyer, to register the dog to your name.

Are dewclaws removed?
We have chosen not to remove dewclaws on our puppies.

What is the Genetic Health Guarantee?
Our Genetic Health Guarantee covers all health issues stemming from congenital defects (genetic defects). If you suspect that your dog may have a health issue, please contact us so that we can work to achieve a solution together.
In the event a genetic health issue arises we will work to make it right, whether that means helping you find an affordable solution, replacing your dog, or covering the expense up to the cost of the puppy.
Our guarantee is contingent upon evaluation from three separate vets.

What is the difference between Full and Limited AKC Registration?
Full AKC Registration gives you breeding rights, while Limited AKC Registration does not allow any progeny to be registered. This does not prevent you from showing a limited dog.

Does my puppy come house broken?
All puppies live in an environment that encourages good housebreaking habits, however the full process of housebreaking will be your job. We are always available for questions and troubleshooting. A doggy door is highly encouraged and is the fastest way to train one of our puppies.

Are your dogs 'Field' or 'Show' Goldens?
Our dogs are actually neither. They are bred specifically for family dogs. They don't have enough drive and energy to be your best hunting dog. My dogs have less energy than a field golden, but they will still need regular excersize and room to play. My dogs are also not 'show' goldens. The show dogs are built a very specific way to look the part of the show dog. My focus is on personality for family oriented dogs, not hunting skill or show look.

How long does it take to housebreak a puppy?
Most puppies will housebreak in a few days (3-7 days) with the full attention of their owners during that time, scheduling, and due diligence. Having a doggy door can speed things up.
We recommend that you pick a weekend and make it happen.

How much contact do I need to maintain with Waggin Tales Ranch after I pick up my puppy?
You can have as little or as much contact with us as you desire.
We love to hear stories, see pictures, and talk about your puppy with you. You are always welcome to call because after your puppy leaves our home to be a family member of your home, we move to a member of your dog team. We are there for support, questions, and concerns without judgement. We know you intend to do the best by your dog and we are there to assist you in that task. However, ultimately it is still your dog, and the decisions are yours.

What if I can no longer take care of my dog?
If you can no longer care for your dog I will take the dog back at any time, any age, in any condition, no questions asked. If you want to rehome the dog to a family member, for example, you can always call and discuss the details with me. I would rather be in the loop and be able to help, but I will never judge you for rehoming your dog to a home you believe is best.

Do your dogs chase chickens?
Yes. Goldens were originally bred as bird dogs and your puppy may want to chase and harm them. If you raise chickens, you need to keep them protected from your puppy. We can't blame a dog if they try to do what they were bred to do. I recommend you simply have a plan in advance for keeping the birds seperated from the dogs. At the ranch, our large flock of hens are protected by an electric fence.

What are a few reasons I should not get a golden retriever?
First, Golden Retrievers are dogs. Eww - really? Yes, and dogs bark, lick, play, jump, and rough house around kids. Dogs chase things like chickens and cats. Dogs start out as puppies who need tons of your time to house and crate train. Puppies have sharp teeth and take about two years before you can consider them 'adult' and 'predictable' members of your home. They are big dogs. Golden Retrievers need lots of excersize. Golden Retrievers shed. They need to be trained to fit your family's lifestyle and to behave. Golden Retrievers need a lot of attention and shouldn't be left alone much of the day. They are way too loving, effectionate, and sweet to be alone. They might lean on you when you want to get things done and heaven forbid they rest their full body into yours when they want a belly rub. If you think you can't handle some clinginess or give them the attention they need - maybe a golden retriever isn't right for you.

Do you offer boarding when we go on vacation?
If your puppy came from Waggin Tales Ranch, I am always happy to help in any way I can. I do not always have the room to board dogs, but when I do you may be able to bring your dog home. Dogs that stay with us will stay in our extra large dog run and may be able to be joined by one of my sweet girls, (maybe your puppies own momma), for extra company. Our dogs do stay outside, but we always have cool areas from the heat and warm dog houses from the cold. Boarding is half price, at $25 per night, for dogs from Waggin Tales Ranch. You will provide any dog food needed and pay 50% in advance. Unfortunately I do not board dogs during the months of April and May.

Can I breed my female to your stud? Do you offer stud services?
Stud services are available, but we are very particular on timing and who will be approved. You will want to do testing on your female including DNA and Brucellosis. I can help you with any questions regarding this. It is often best if your female can stay with us for a few days to breed naturally. The stud fee is $3,500.


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Copyright 2023, Tara Schnetz