Thinking About Becoming a Guardian Home?
At Deer Valley Doodles, every decision we make is intentional, ethical, and guided by a genuine love for the dogs we raise. As a GANA Gold–level accredited breeder, we are committed to the highest standards of health, structure, temperament, and transparency.
Our Guardian Home Program allows us to continue producing exceptional puppies while ensuring our breeding dogs live full, happy lives as cherished family pets.
This program is not the right fit for everyone, and that is okay. For the right family, it can be a meaningful and rewarding partnership.
To apply for our Guardian Home Program, click on our application link below or above and add a note in the application that you are interested in becoming a guardian.
What Is a Guardian Home?
A guardian home is a carefully selected family who welcomes one of our future breeding dogs, male or female, into their home as their personal pet. The dog lives with you, bonds with your family, and enjoys a normal, loved life.
During a limited period, Deer Valley Doodles retains ownership and breeding rights. Once the dog has completed their breeding commitment, they are spayed or neutered at our expense and full ownership transfers to you at no additional cost.
At that point, they are simply your dog forever.
Why We Offer a Guardian Program
We believe breeding dogs should never live in kennels or be separated from family life.
Our guardian program allows us to:
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Keep our breeding program small, ethical, and intentional
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Raise dogs in real homes with daily love and enrichment
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Continue improving health, structure, and temperament
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Avoid overbreeding or overcrowding
Above all, our dogs are family members first.
What We Look for in a Guardian Family
Because this is a partnership, we are selective. Ideal guardian homes typically:
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Are located in Arizona or within a reasonable driving distance
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Provide a stable, loving home environment
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Are willing to follow health, care, and breeding guidelines
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Communicate openly and honestly
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View this as a long-term commitment
We provide guidance every step of the way and remain available for ongoing support.
What Deer Valley Doodles Provides
As the breeder, we are responsible for all breeding-related expenses, including:
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Genetic testing
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OFA testing (hips, elbows, patellas, cardiac, and eyes)
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Breeding and reproductive care
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Pregnancy and whelping expenses for female dogs
Every dog is thoroughly evaluated for health, temperament, and structure before entering the program.
Decisions are always made with the individual dog’s best interest in mind.
What the Guardian Family Provides
Guardian families are responsible for:
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Daily care, love, training, and socialization
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Grooming
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Routine veterinary care and vaccinations
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Feeding a high-quality diet approved by us
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Keeping the dog as an indoor family pet and ensuring their safety at all times
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Helping us with transporting the dog to and from our home or vet appointments for breeding related care.
When breeding is required, all arrangements are planned in advance and handled with care and respect for both the dog and the guardian family.
What If a Dog Does Not Enter or Complete the Program?
Occasionally, a dog may not move forward in our breeding program due to health testing results, temperament considerations, or a determination that breeding is not in their best interest.
If this happens, the guardian family will have the opportunity to purchase the dog as a pet. All terms, fees, and details are clearly outlined in the Guardian Home Contract so expectations are clear from the beginning. Transparency and the dog’s well-being always come first.
Is a Guardian Home Right for You?
Our Guardian Home Program is best suited for families who:
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Value ethical, intentional breeding
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Want a top-quality dog raised to GANA standards
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Are comfortable with clear communication and written guidelines
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Love the idea of being part of something meaningful
If you would like to apply to be a part of our Guardian Home Program, please fill out an application and indicate in the notes that you want to be a guardian. Click here to fill out an application.