Frequently Asked Questions

At Happy Top Doodles, we know that bringing home a new puppy is a big decision filled with excitement and a few questions along the way! We’ve gathered some of our families' most commonly asked questions to help guide you through the process confidently and clearly.

 

General Questions

What types of Doodles do you breed?

We specialize in raising Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, Australian Bernedoodles, and Cavadoodles. Each breed has its unique charm, and we’re always happy to help you decide which is the best fit for your family.

​

Where are you located?

We’re based in Calhoun, Georgia, and we raise our puppies right in our home with lots of love and care.

​

Can I visit your home or meet the puppies in person?

We do not offer scheduled visits for families. We limit visits to ensure the safety of our puppies (and to limit outside germs). However, we also share plenty of photos, videos, and updates to help you feel connected!

​

Do you offer delivery or shipping?

Yes! We can meet you at a local airport or work with a trusted flight nanny to safely deliver your puppy. Ground transport may also be available, depending on your location.

​

 Health & Testing

What kind of health testing do your parent dogs have?

At Happy Top Doodles, our puppies' health starts with their parents' health. Every breeding dog in our program completes extensive health testing before being paired. This includes:

•OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) evaluations for hips, elbows, patellas, and heart to screen for structural soundness.

•OFA eye certifications by a board-certified veterinary ophthalmologist.

•Full panel DNA testing through reputable labs to identify breed-specific genetic conditions and determine each dog’s exact genetic profile. This helps us make informed pairings to reduce the risk of inherited conditions and produce the healthiest puppies possible.

​

We don’t just rely on a basic panel—we go the extra mile so that you can feel confident in your puppy’s health foundation.

​

Do your puppies come with a health guarantee?

Yes, every puppy comes with a written health guarantee. We stand behind the health and quality of our puppies and are happy to go over the details with you before purchase.

​

Are puppies vaccinated and dewormed?

Absolutely. Our puppies are kept on a regular deworming schedule and have received all age-appropriate vaccinations before going home.

 

Puppy Buying Process

How do I reserve a puppy?

To reserve a puppy from Happy Top Doodles, please follow these steps:

1. Submit an Application: Begin by completing our Puppy Application. This helps us understand your preferences and lifestyle to ensure a perfect match.

2 . Personalized Phone Consultation: After reviewing your application, we’ll contact you to discuss potential litters, answer any questions, and align expectations.

3. Place a Deposit: Once we’ve agreed on a suitable litter, you can place a deposit via Venmo, Zelle, Apple Pay, or GoodDog to secure your spot on the reservation list.

4. Pick Order: Reservations are honored in the order deposits are received. The first deposit gets the first pick, the second deposit gets the second pick, and so on. 

5. Flexibility: If you don’t find the puppy you desire during your selection turn, you can transfer your deposit to another litter, securing the first available pick slot in that litter. 

​

We’ll keep you updated throughout the process, including notifications when the parents breed, pregnancy confirmation, and the birth of the puppies.

​

When do I select my specific puppy?

After a vet well-check at 6 weeks old, we’ll schedule a “Puppy Pick Day” based on the deposit order. Selections are typically made via FaceTime or WhatsApp video calls. For nearby families, in-person selections may be possible in our carport or front yard, weather permitting. To ensure a smooth process, please list your preferred puppies in order of preference. 

​

What happens after selection?

Once you’ve selected your puppy, we’ll email you the necessary contracts and go-home information to help you prepare to bring your new family member home. 

​

Is the deposit refundable?

Deposits are non-refundable but are transferable to a future litter if your timing or preferences change.

​

How are puppies matched with families?

We combine temperament evaluation with family feedback. At around 6–7 weeks old, we work closely with you to match a puppy whose personality fits your lifestyle and needs.

​

When do the puppies go home?

Puppies typically go home at 8 weeks old. We’ll confirm your specific pickup date well in advance so you can plan ahead.

​

What comes with my puppy?

Your puppy goes home with a detailed care guide, health records, a familiar blanket, starter food, and a few extras to help ease the transition.

 

Training & Socialization

Are the puppies socialized before going home?

Yes—early socialization is a cornerstone of raising our puppies at Happy Top Doodles. From the very beginning, we follow structured protocols to give each puppy the best possible start in life:

•ENS (Early Neurological Stimulation): At three days old, we introduce gentle handling exercises that stimulate neurological development. This process helps puppies build stronger stress responses, immune systems, and resilience.

•ESI (Early Scent Introduction): We expose puppies to safe scents during their early days to help develop their scenting ability and increase their brain development and curiosity.

•Puppy Culture Protocols: As the puppies grow, we implement age-appropriate enrichment activities that are designed to support confidence, focus, and adaptability. This includes problem-solving games, sound desensitization, handling exercises, and exposure to new surfaces, toys, and environments.

​

By the time they’re ready to go home, our puppies have been gently and consistently introduced to the world around them—and it shows in their confidence and curiosity.

​

Do you start potty or crate training?

We introduce crate conditioning and a basic potty routine to help get your puppy off to a great start. You’ll need to continue training at home, but they’ll have a strong foundation!

​

Do you offer training tips or support?

Yes! We provide guidance and trusted resources for those first few weeks and beyond. And we’re always here for questions along the way.

 

Doodle Breed Info

How do I choose between the different types of Doodles?

Each Doodle breed we raise has a unique personality, coat type, and energy level. We’re happy to explain the differences and help you find the best match.

​

Will my Doodle be hypoallergenic?

No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but many Doodles are low-shedding and can be a better option for allergy-sensitive families. We can guide you toward coat types that may be more suitable.

​

How big will my puppy get?

We breed minis and mediums, so full-grown sizes range from about 25–50 pounds depending on the breed and pairing. We’ll give you an estimate based on the parents.

​

Do Doodles require regular grooming?

Yes. Doodles need regular brushing and professional grooming every 6–8 weeks to keep their coats healthy and mat-free.

 

Preparing for Your Puppy

What do I need before bringing my puppy home?

We’ll send you a checklist with all the basics—crate, food, toys, grooming tools, etc.—so you feel 100% ready. We’re also happy to share our personal recommendations!

​

Do you include a go-home kit?

Yes! Every puppy comes with a thoughtful go-home kit that includes food, a blanket with mom’s scent, a toy, and helpful resources.

​

What kind of routine should I follow at home?

We encourage structure and consistency right away, especially for potty and crate training. We’ll give you a sample schedule to make those first days easier.

 

Policies & Support

Do you require a spay/neuter agreement?

Yes. Our puppies are sold with a strict spay/neuter contract. 

 

What if I can no longer care for my dog?

Please contact us first. We’ll either assist with rehoming or welcome your dog back into our care. We’re committed to every puppy for life.

​

Do you offer ongoing support after purchase?

Always. We love staying in touch with our families and are just a message away if you need help, have questions, or want to share an update (we love updates!).

 

Still Have Questions?

If you don’t see your question here or just want to talk more about your puppy journey, don’t hesitate to reach out! We’re here to help every step of the way.

cathy@happytopdoodles.com

(706) 264-1652