Frequently Asked Questions
What am I expected to do as a buyer of one of your puppies?
Is it okay for me to contact you if I should have any questions or problems with my puppy/dog?
Yes, it is absolutely okay. As the breeders, we want you to come to us first if you EVER have any questions, concerns, problems, etc with your puppy/dog.
How are your adult dogs kept?
Our dogs are a part of our family and are kept inside the home with us (yes, all 7 of them). They are not banished outside and they don't spend their lives in kennels or runs. We currently have two and a half yards to utilize when our dogs go out for play time. These yards are fenced with 6 foot wire and are very secure. Our dogs are all in great condition and fed a quality diet along with supplements. A typical meal for a vom Heinolf dog consists of Victor super premium dry food, wet food mixed in (typically Merrick Gourmet Entrees or Solid Gold Green Beef Tripe), pumpkin and a few pumps of salmon oil. We also rotate the wet food with raw foods such as chicken/beef/pork, eggs, yogurt, fruits/vegetables, etc. They are are all in great condition and very healthy. They are seen regularly by our vet for check-ups and are UTD on all shots. They are also kept on a heartworm preventative and they are given Frontline during the Summer months. As you can probably tell we spoil our dogs and treat them just like our children.
AKC Registration:
We register each litter we breed with the American Kennel Club (AKC). Puppy names will start with the letter of their litter (A, B, C and so on) and end with "vom Heinolf". We fill out each form with puppy's registered name, your information, etc and we sign our names to transfer the puppy to you. In order to get an AKC certificate issued for your puppy you must send the form in via mail. We also sell all puppies with limited registration, so the limited registration box will be darkened.
Why do you sell your puppies with AKC Limited Registration?
We sell all of our puppies with AKC Limited registration, no exceptions. Limited registration means is that the dog is still AKC registered but no litters produced by that dog are eligible for registration. We put this into place in order protect our breeding program and also to discourage irresponsible breeding practices which we do not support. If you are purchasing with our breeding agreement the limited registration status can be lifted by us upon proof of passing OFA's at two years of age. You can read more about AKC limited registration by clicking here.
Why do I have to sign a contract?
We sell all of our puppies with contracts, no exceptions. This contract is in place to protect both us, the puppy and the buyer. This contract is also not in place to limit the buyer, but to promote responsible pet ownership from puppy-hood to adult-hood. Contracts are standard in the dog world, reputable breeders sell their puppies with them.
Why does your contract state that I have to OFA my dog before I can breed them?
We require all dogs that are sold to breeding homes be officially OFA certified (Hips - Excellent, Good or Fair and Elbows - Normal) at 2 years of age and a copy of the results sent to us. This is non-negotiable and it is a condition of us reversing the dogs registration back to full.
Do you offer a hip guarantee?
We no longer do. The reason for our change of policy is due to information that was gathered from several reliable and respected resources (one being the SV, which is the German Shepherd Dog Club of Germany). Genetics has been proven to only be responsible for about 25% of bad hips in dogs. This means that 75% of bad hips are caused by environmental conditions. Environmental conditions that can contribute to hip dyplasia include (but are not limited to) over-exercising, under-exercising, feeding a poor quality diet, being overweight, crating for long periods, exposure to extreme cold, etc. After a puppy leaves our care we have no control over how they are raised or kept - this is why we no offer this guarantee. As reputable breeders we are trying our very best to stack the genetic odds in our favor by only breeding those dogs which have been OFA certified to be free of both hip and elbow dysplasia.
What does your wellness agreement mean?
Our wellness agreement means that at the time of sale each puppy will be healthy and free of genetic defects. Each vom Heinolf puppy will have been given a thorough wellness check up by our veterinarian prior to leaving our home. We can also have our veterinarian issue a health certificate at buyers request. Please note that the cost of the individual health certificates will be the responsibility of the buyer, NOT us. Within 48 hours of the puppy leaving our home we require that the buyer take their puppy to a veterinarian for a wellness check and proof sent to us. Any claims must be made within this time period and will be verified by our own veterinarian or one of our choosing. If a puppy is proven to not be in good health the buyer may return the puppy and receive a refund (less the deposit). After 48 hours we can no longer offer this guarantee. The reasoning for this is because after a puppy leaves our care we can no longer control where they are taken or what they are exposed to. There are many parasites/diseases/conditions which are in the environment and are easily transmitted (fleas, worms, coccidia, giardia, distemper, parvo, etc) that buyers should be aware of. Buyers should ALWAYS be safe and smart about where they take their puppy and what they expose them to (especially prior to the puppy having all their shots).
How do the waiting lists work?
Waiting lists have been started for all of our upcoming breedings. If you are interested in a puppy from one of our upcoming breedings you will be required to fill out our questionnaire. After you fill out the questionnaire and are approved you will be placed on the waiting list for the breeding of your choice. After the puppies are born we will begin accepting deposits. The deposit price is $300. All deposits placed are transferable, but NON-REFUNDABLE.
Do I get to pick out my puppy?
We carefully select a puppy for each buyer based on what personality type they are looking for and what type of activities they are planning on doing with their puppy. We welcome buyers input as to which they are liking, but the bottom line is we have the final say about which puppy goes where. We know best the temperaments and drives of the puppies as we are there with them from day one. We ask that buyers be sensible and understand that it is common for a knowledgeable and reputable breeder to do this. Also, our waiting does not have positions (ex: 1st pick, 2nd pick, 3rd pick and so on). We place each puppy with the person/family we believe they would be best suited to. We have used this method with our past litters and found that it works best for all.
Why do you require a deposit?
Deposits are a commitment from a responsible buyer to purchase a puppy. By you putting down a deposit this tells us that you are serious about buying one of our puppies and are done "breeder-shopping". We will NOT hold a puppy without a deposit. All deposits placed are transferable, but NON-REFUNDABLE. **Deposits must be received within 5 business days after a verbal or e-mail request is made, NO EXCEPTIONS!**. After 6 weeks of age we do not accept personal checks for the deposit due to the time in which it takes for a check to clear. The deposit price is $300.
What is your policy regarding visitors?
We do not allow any visitors until the puppies are at least 6 weeks of age and have had their first vaccination. We also do not allow "breeder hoppers" to visit us or see our puppies. If you are unfamiliar with the term, it means that we do not allow people to visit us who are going from breeder to breeder looking at different puppies. These people could potentially bring in sorts of diseases to our home by handling sick or unvaccinated puppies from other breeders. Our puppies are also NOT available for viewing except by those who have sent in a completed puppy questionnaire and have been approved. By requiring you to fill out a puppy questionnaire and get approval we are trying make 100% sure you are someone we'd want to sell a puppy to and also that you are serious about one our puppies and not just browsing. After approval we will set up a date and time convenient for both in which you can pay us a visit.
What is your policy regarding kids? Can I bring them with me?
We don't mind if people bring their kids with them (we do like to meet everyone). But, we do expect you to keep your children quiet and under control. We will not allow nor will we tolerate loud, rowdy or rambunctious behavior. The safety of our puppies is first and foremost. If we fear for the safety of our puppies due to your child's behavior, we will ask them to leave our puppy area. Us allowing children to visit and play with the puppies is a privilege not a right.
After I have put a deposit down, when can I come see the litter?
We will try OUR very best to make visitation appointments for everyone who has deposits down who wants to come see the puppies after they have turned 6 weeks and have had their first shot. But, please be aware that there is only so much time from 6-8 weeks in which appointments can be made. We have also found that the weekends are best for everyone and there are only so many of those. We want people to be 100% aware that visiting prior to 8 weeks of age might not always be possible due to work schedules, inclement weather, holidays, unforeseen circumstances, etc.
Can I bring my dog or cat with me to see how they will react to the puppies?
You might not believe it but we've actually had people ask us if they can bring their animals to our home to see how they interact with the puppies. While, this is a nice idea, it is not something we allow. The main reason being that it's a safety issue. We do not know your dog/cat's temperament, their general condition or training level.
When can I take my new puppy home?
All puppies will remain with vom Heinolf until they are 8 weeks of age.
Our boarding fee policy:
If you are unable to pick your puppy up by 8.4 weeks of age (8 weeks and 4 days of age) you will be charged a boarding fee each day the puppy remains with us ($20 per day). This boarding fee only covers basic care and their food. It does NOT cover any additional shots that might be required. Should any shots be required while the puppy is in our care, the buyer will be charged for this.
Do your puppies come with anything.. (Do you have a puppy package?)
All puppies sold by vom Heinolf come with a puppy package. This package contains AKC paperwork, puppy health record, puppy contract, health, parents information, pictures and pedigrees, copies of parents health clearances and registrations, small toy, small baggy of food puppy has been eating, a small towel that has mom's scent on it and lifetime breeder support. We have gotten many compliments from past buyers and also others on how well put together and thorough our puppy package is.
How do you raise your puppies?
All puppies are whelped inside the home. They remain in our home until they are 4-5 weeks, then they are moved to our "puppy area". This puppy area is located adjacent to our house and is climate controlled. This puppy area consists of two welded wire kennels with stall matting lining the floor of each kennel. All vom Heinolf puppies are given daily attention, affection and care. They are gently raised with much care and consideration. Our puppies are fed a mixture of kibble and raw. Our dog food of choice is Victor. Our puppies are socialized to outdoors, indoors, different sights, sounds, smells, flooring, bathing, nail clippings kids, other dogs, people and just about anything within reason for a young puppy through 8 weeks of age. We use the rule of sevens technique when socializing.
What supplies do I need to get prior to bringing my puppy home?
What will I need to bring when I come to pick my puppy up?
You will need to bring a collar, leash and ID tag. We recommend getting something that is cheap because when they are this age they are growing so fast. You will also need to bring a crate or a pet taxi for the trip home.
When will my puppy's ears stand up?
All German Shepherd puppies are born with floppy ears and it takes time for them to stand. What age their ears stand varies and a lot of it depends on the puppy and their bloodline. But the general time from is anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months. Most puppies ears will be up and down during teething - during this time we recommend providing your puppy with things like bully sticks, nylabones, knuckle bones, raw-hides, etc. The chewing helps the progression of teething and it also helps to create the muscles that help the ears stand.
Do you ship your puppies?
Shipping is not our preferred method. When at all possible, we request buyers come and pick the puppy up in person. But, we do realize that driving to get a puppy is not always an option. With that being said, we ship our puppies from Springfield, MO with Delta airlines. You will need to contact us for a shipping quote (it usually runs around $400). All puppies must be paid in full before shipping and the payment for shipping is due at LEAST 7 days prior, NO EXCEPTIONS.
How is the shipping done?
**You will need to provide me with at least 2 to 3 MAJOR airports near you.**
All puppies will be shipped as Cargo with Delta airlines. This area is pressurized and is the same temperature as the cabin. Also, please keep in mind that their are temperature restrictions when shipping a puppy. These temperature restrictions are there because of the time it takes to put the puppies on the plane and take them off. During that time the puppy will be out and exposed to the elements. Delta will not accept a puppy if the temperature is below 10 degrees Fahrenheit or above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Pay a deposit. The final amount will be due at the time of pick up and MUST be cash.
- Sign a contract.
- Be a responsible dog owner.
- Take your dog to the vet, provide ongoing vet care, immunizations, etc.
- Allowing your puppy/dog to be a part of your family. We do NOT want one of our puppies banished to the backyard!
- Provide a safe enclosure for your puppy/dog when they are outside such as a fenced in backyard or a welded wire kennel.
- Provide proper food & nutrition to your puppy/dog.
- Provide proper exercise for puppy/dog's age.
- Provide proper socialization of your puppy/dog.
- Spay/neuter your dog by one year of age if going to a pet home.
- OFA certify your dog at 2 years of age if you plan to breed.
- Send pictures of your dog and keep us updated on his/her progress.
- Give us first right of refusal should you need to rehome your dog for whatever reason.
- Before You Get Your Puppy by Dr Ian Dunbar (Free E-Book)
- After You Get Your Puppy by Dr Ian Dunbar (Free E-Book)
- The Terminology of Canine Behavior and Training by Jim Engel
- Canine Bloat by Jerold S. Bell, DVM
Is it okay for me to contact you if I should have any questions or problems with my puppy/dog?
Yes, it is absolutely okay. As the breeders, we want you to come to us first if you EVER have any questions, concerns, problems, etc with your puppy/dog.
How are your adult dogs kept?
Our dogs are a part of our family and are kept inside the home with us (yes, all 7 of them). They are not banished outside and they don't spend their lives in kennels or runs. We currently have two and a half yards to utilize when our dogs go out for play time. These yards are fenced with 6 foot wire and are very secure. Our dogs are all in great condition and fed a quality diet along with supplements. A typical meal for a vom Heinolf dog consists of Victor super premium dry food, wet food mixed in (typically Merrick Gourmet Entrees or Solid Gold Green Beef Tripe), pumpkin and a few pumps of salmon oil. We also rotate the wet food with raw foods such as chicken/beef/pork, eggs, yogurt, fruits/vegetables, etc. They are are all in great condition and very healthy. They are seen regularly by our vet for check-ups and are UTD on all shots. They are also kept on a heartworm preventative and they are given Frontline during the Summer months. As you can probably tell we spoil our dogs and treat them just like our children.
AKC Registration:
We register each litter we breed with the American Kennel Club (AKC). Puppy names will start with the letter of their litter (A, B, C and so on) and end with "vom Heinolf". We fill out each form with puppy's registered name, your information, etc and we sign our names to transfer the puppy to you. In order to get an AKC certificate issued for your puppy you must send the form in via mail. We also sell all puppies with limited registration, so the limited registration box will be darkened.
Why do you sell your puppies with AKC Limited Registration?
We sell all of our puppies with AKC Limited registration, no exceptions. Limited registration means is that the dog is still AKC registered but no litters produced by that dog are eligible for registration. We put this into place in order protect our breeding program and also to discourage irresponsible breeding practices which we do not support. If you are purchasing with our breeding agreement the limited registration status can be lifted by us upon proof of passing OFA's at two years of age. You can read more about AKC limited registration by clicking here.
Why do I have to sign a contract?
We sell all of our puppies with contracts, no exceptions. This contract is in place to protect both us, the puppy and the buyer. This contract is also not in place to limit the buyer, but to promote responsible pet ownership from puppy-hood to adult-hood. Contracts are standard in the dog world, reputable breeders sell their puppies with them.
Why does your contract state that I have to OFA my dog before I can breed them?
We require all dogs that are sold to breeding homes be officially OFA certified (Hips - Excellent, Good or Fair and Elbows - Normal) at 2 years of age and a copy of the results sent to us. This is non-negotiable and it is a condition of us reversing the dogs registration back to full.
Do you offer a hip guarantee?
We no longer do. The reason for our change of policy is due to information that was gathered from several reliable and respected resources (one being the SV, which is the German Shepherd Dog Club of Germany). Genetics has been proven to only be responsible for about 25% of bad hips in dogs. This means that 75% of bad hips are caused by environmental conditions. Environmental conditions that can contribute to hip dyplasia include (but are not limited to) over-exercising, under-exercising, feeding a poor quality diet, being overweight, crating for long periods, exposure to extreme cold, etc. After a puppy leaves our care we have no control over how they are raised or kept - this is why we no offer this guarantee. As reputable breeders we are trying our very best to stack the genetic odds in our favor by only breeding those dogs which have been OFA certified to be free of both hip and elbow dysplasia.
What does your wellness agreement mean?
Our wellness agreement means that at the time of sale each puppy will be healthy and free of genetic defects. Each vom Heinolf puppy will have been given a thorough wellness check up by our veterinarian prior to leaving our home. We can also have our veterinarian issue a health certificate at buyers request. Please note that the cost of the individual health certificates will be the responsibility of the buyer, NOT us. Within 48 hours of the puppy leaving our home we require that the buyer take their puppy to a veterinarian for a wellness check and proof sent to us. Any claims must be made within this time period and will be verified by our own veterinarian or one of our choosing. If a puppy is proven to not be in good health the buyer may return the puppy and receive a refund (less the deposit). After 48 hours we can no longer offer this guarantee. The reasoning for this is because after a puppy leaves our care we can no longer control where they are taken or what they are exposed to. There are many parasites/diseases/conditions which are in the environment and are easily transmitted (fleas, worms, coccidia, giardia, distemper, parvo, etc) that buyers should be aware of. Buyers should ALWAYS be safe and smart about where they take their puppy and what they expose them to (especially prior to the puppy having all their shots).
How do the waiting lists work?
Waiting lists have been started for all of our upcoming breedings. If you are interested in a puppy from one of our upcoming breedings you will be required to fill out our questionnaire. After you fill out the questionnaire and are approved you will be placed on the waiting list for the breeding of your choice. After the puppies are born we will begin accepting deposits. The deposit price is $300. All deposits placed are transferable, but NON-REFUNDABLE.
Do I get to pick out my puppy?
We carefully select a puppy for each buyer based on what personality type they are looking for and what type of activities they are planning on doing with their puppy. We welcome buyers input as to which they are liking, but the bottom line is we have the final say about which puppy goes where. We know best the temperaments and drives of the puppies as we are there with them from day one. We ask that buyers be sensible and understand that it is common for a knowledgeable and reputable breeder to do this. Also, our waiting does not have positions (ex: 1st pick, 2nd pick, 3rd pick and so on). We place each puppy with the person/family we believe they would be best suited to. We have used this method with our past litters and found that it works best for all.
Why do you require a deposit?
Deposits are a commitment from a responsible buyer to purchase a puppy. By you putting down a deposit this tells us that you are serious about buying one of our puppies and are done "breeder-shopping". We will NOT hold a puppy without a deposit. All deposits placed are transferable, but NON-REFUNDABLE. **Deposits must be received within 5 business days after a verbal or e-mail request is made, NO EXCEPTIONS!**. After 6 weeks of age we do not accept personal checks for the deposit due to the time in which it takes for a check to clear. The deposit price is $300.
What is your policy regarding visitors?
We do not allow any visitors until the puppies are at least 6 weeks of age and have had their first vaccination. We also do not allow "breeder hoppers" to visit us or see our puppies. If you are unfamiliar with the term, it means that we do not allow people to visit us who are going from breeder to breeder looking at different puppies. These people could potentially bring in sorts of diseases to our home by handling sick or unvaccinated puppies from other breeders. Our puppies are also NOT available for viewing except by those who have sent in a completed puppy questionnaire and have been approved. By requiring you to fill out a puppy questionnaire and get approval we are trying make 100% sure you are someone we'd want to sell a puppy to and also that you are serious about one our puppies and not just browsing. After approval we will set up a date and time convenient for both in which you can pay us a visit.
What is your policy regarding kids? Can I bring them with me?
We don't mind if people bring their kids with them (we do like to meet everyone). But, we do expect you to keep your children quiet and under control. We will not allow nor will we tolerate loud, rowdy or rambunctious behavior. The safety of our puppies is first and foremost. If we fear for the safety of our puppies due to your child's behavior, we will ask them to leave our puppy area. Us allowing children to visit and play with the puppies is a privilege not a right.
After I have put a deposit down, when can I come see the litter?
We will try OUR very best to make visitation appointments for everyone who has deposits down who wants to come see the puppies after they have turned 6 weeks and have had their first shot. But, please be aware that there is only so much time from 6-8 weeks in which appointments can be made. We have also found that the weekends are best for everyone and there are only so many of those. We want people to be 100% aware that visiting prior to 8 weeks of age might not always be possible due to work schedules, inclement weather, holidays, unforeseen circumstances, etc.
Can I bring my dog or cat with me to see how they will react to the puppies?
You might not believe it but we've actually had people ask us if they can bring their animals to our home to see how they interact with the puppies. While, this is a nice idea, it is not something we allow. The main reason being that it's a safety issue. We do not know your dog/cat's temperament, their general condition or training level.
When can I take my new puppy home?
All puppies will remain with vom Heinolf until they are 8 weeks of age.
Our boarding fee policy:
If you are unable to pick your puppy up by 8.4 weeks of age (8 weeks and 4 days of age) you will be charged a boarding fee each day the puppy remains with us ($20 per day). This boarding fee only covers basic care and their food. It does NOT cover any additional shots that might be required. Should any shots be required while the puppy is in our care, the buyer will be charged for this.
Do your puppies come with anything.. (Do you have a puppy package?)
All puppies sold by vom Heinolf come with a puppy package. This package contains AKC paperwork, puppy health record, puppy contract, health, parents information, pictures and pedigrees, copies of parents health clearances and registrations, small toy, small baggy of food puppy has been eating, a small towel that has mom's scent on it and lifetime breeder support. We have gotten many compliments from past buyers and also others on how well put together and thorough our puppy package is.
How do you raise your puppies?
All puppies are whelped inside the home. They remain in our home until they are 4-5 weeks, then they are moved to our "puppy area". This puppy area is located adjacent to our house and is climate controlled. This puppy area consists of two welded wire kennels with stall matting lining the floor of each kennel. All vom Heinolf puppies are given daily attention, affection and care. They are gently raised with much care and consideration. Our puppies are fed a mixture of kibble and raw. Our dog food of choice is Victor. Our puppies are socialized to outdoors, indoors, different sights, sounds, smells, flooring, bathing, nail clippings kids, other dogs, people and just about anything within reason for a young puppy through 8 weeks of age. We use the rule of sevens technique when socializing.
What supplies do I need to get prior to bringing my puppy home?
- Dog Food. We require you feed a quality kibble that is rated at least 3 stars. We feed and recommend Victor Super Premium Dog Food.
- Food and water dishes. NO ELEVATED FEEDERS/WATER DISHES -- THESE HAVE BEEN PROVEN TO INCREASE THE RISK OF BLOAT!
- Crate or Pet Taxi.
- A collar, leash and ID tag.
- Toys (Kongs, Nylabones, Balls, etc)
- Chewies (Bullysticks, Antlers, etc)
- Grooming supplies (Shedding blade and brush are a MUST).
What will I need to bring when I come to pick my puppy up?
You will need to bring a collar, leash and ID tag. We recommend getting something that is cheap because when they are this age they are growing so fast. You will also need to bring a crate or a pet taxi for the trip home.
When will my puppy's ears stand up?
All German Shepherd puppies are born with floppy ears and it takes time for them to stand. What age their ears stand varies and a lot of it depends on the puppy and their bloodline. But the general time from is anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months. Most puppies ears will be up and down during teething - during this time we recommend providing your puppy with things like bully sticks, nylabones, knuckle bones, raw-hides, etc. The chewing helps the progression of teething and it also helps to create the muscles that help the ears stand.
Do you ship your puppies?
Shipping is not our preferred method. When at all possible, we request buyers come and pick the puppy up in person. But, we do realize that driving to get a puppy is not always an option. With that being said, we ship our puppies from Springfield, MO with Delta airlines. You will need to contact us for a shipping quote (it usually runs around $400). All puppies must be paid in full before shipping and the payment for shipping is due at LEAST 7 days prior, NO EXCEPTIONS.
How is the shipping done?
**You will need to provide me with at least 2 to 3 MAJOR airports near you.**
- I will search and book your puppies flight. The date/time will be agreed upon by both parties.
- I will purchase a kennel for your puppy (This kennel is yours to keep).
- I will then make the kennel airline compliant by replacing the plastic with nuts/bolts.
- I will purchase the food/water dishes as well as the live animal stickers.
- I will take your puppy to the veterinary to get his/her health certificate.
- I will take your puppy to the airport, check him/her in and pay for the flight.
- You go to pick up your puppy at the airport (typically the cargo area, but check with your airport).
All puppies will be shipped as Cargo with Delta airlines. This area is pressurized and is the same temperature as the cabin. Also, please keep in mind that their are temperature restrictions when shipping a puppy. These temperature restrictions are there because of the time it takes to put the puppies on the plane and take them off. During that time the puppy will be out and exposed to the elements. Delta will not accept a puppy if the temperature is below 10 degrees Fahrenheit or above 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
