The Guardian Program
about
Join the Family Be a Guardian Home
This plan is used by many breeders and is often called a “Guardian Home” program. The breeding dog lives with their adoptive family and returns my house for breeding. Females will return when in heat and then again to deliver the puppies. The female stays with us for 10-14 days during her heat cycle, to be bred.
The female dog then returns to whelp (deliver) the puppies a week before they are due, staying with us until the puppies go home to their families, We love our Guardian families and we are so thankful for them. Without them, we would not be able to do what we do! When the mama dog retires, she will continue to live her life with her guardian family.
Application
guardian
Commitment
Your Commitment
Joining Cactus Doods as a guardian is a meaningful commitment that requires love, patience, and dedication. By offering a caring home, you gain the reward of a lifelong bond filled with affection and happiness. When these dogs finish their service, they transition permanently into the loving care of their Guardian Home families.
Our Commitment
We take care of all breeding-related expenses to prioritize the health and well-being of our dogs. When a dog retires, we handle spaying or neutering, including all costs involved. A small fee applies for our Guardian Home pups, reflecting the commitment and dedication of their families.
The Details
Female dogs return to us 1-2 weeks prior to delivery and stay until puppies are weaned, typically around 5/6 weeks old.
Males return to us for short periods, sometimes for veterinary services and occasionally for mating needs.
Cactus Doods
Guardian Requirements
Loving Home
Provide a safe, nurturing, and loving environment for a pup in your care.
Location
Reside within 50-70 miles from our central location, to allow for convenient coordination and visits.
Time and Attention
Commit sufficient time to training, socialization, and spending affectionate moments with the dog.
Financial Responsibility
Cover all expenses unrelated to breeding, such as food, grooming, routine vet care, and vaccinations.
Flexibility
Be willing to accommodate occasional visits from our breeding program coordinators for mating or veterinary purposes.
Health and Safety
Ensure the dog receives regular exercise, a balanced diet, and lives in a secure environment that supports overall well-being.
Training
Participate in basic obedience classes to foster good behavior and socialization skills.
Communication
Maintain open and honest communication with Cactus Doods regarding the dog’s health, behavior, and general care.
Spaying/Neutering
Understand that the dog will be spayed or neutered upon retirement, with all associated costs covered by Cactus Doods.
Puppy Care
When applicable, provide exceptional care for puppies from 8 weeks to 2 years of age, following guidance and support from Cactus Doods.
Retirement Care
Be prepared to offer a loving and comfortable home for the dog after its breeding career ends.
Application Approval
Successfully complete our thorough application process to be accepted as a Guardian Home.
