Our Puppy Philosophy
My goal is to raise healthy, confident Manchester Terriers who are well-prepared for the big world ahead. Genetics certainly play a part, but so does what they experience in their earliest weeks and months of life. Nutrition, early socialization, and daily enrichment all help build a strong foundation.
I follow Puppy Culture and AviDog principles, which include early neurological stimulation, enriching environments, early socialization, and much more. My puppies learn about clicker training, and how easy it is to learn new things! They begin with house training, crate training, leash walking, and basic obedience. They’ll still need training after they go home, of course, but their learning foundations are already in place, setting them up for continued success.
Each puppy goes home with a comprehensive puppy pack, which includes a clicker and guidance on how to use it as a positive reinforcement tool. I also provide tips and tricks to make training fun and stress-free for new owners. The pack includes a sampling of food to ease the transition to their new home, as well as a 3-generation pedigree and registration documents. All puppies are microchipped and up-to-date on their vaccinations.
Health Screenings
I try to be as transparent about health as possible. While the Manchester Terrier is a very healthy breed, it doesn't mean we shouldn't screen them for potential issues. Testing gives us the information we need to make responsible breeding decisions. I follow the guidelines set by the Manchester Terrier breed clubs through the CHIC program, and ensure my results are publicly available. While I can't dictate what other people do with their dogs, rest assured I try to pick stud dogs with healthy backgrounds and good test results, even if those results aren't publicly posted on the OFA site.
If I choose to breed a dog who is a carrier for a genetic disease, they are matched with a mate who is clear; the resulting offspring will either be clear or carriers. I test each puppy to find out their status, and register those results with the OFA. Being a carrier will not affect the dog's health, but may affect who they are bred with (if they are ever bred) down the road. I feel it is my responsibility to test each puppy so the knowledge is there before it is ever needed.
How My Puppies Find Their New Homes
When I know I will have puppies for sale, I ask anyone who has inquired about a puppy if they are still interested. Whenever possible, I like to meet potential puppy buyers in person; at a dog show, a public location, or via video chat if you're not nearby. I want to know about a potential puppy buyers daily routine, their family, and their hopes and plans for the puppy. This approach helps me ensure they get the best puppy to match their lifestyle.
I don't have a kennel facility; my dogs live with me in my home. Because of this, I do not invite strangers into my house for an initial meeting. Once I have screened and interviewed a potential puppy buyer, they may visit my home by invitation.
I evaluate my puppies at eight weeks of age and make decisions on placement based on their temperament and characteristics. Puppies will receive their first vaccinations and veterinary health certificate at this age. Puppies typically leave for their new homes a week or two later, but cannot legally leave before eight weeks of age.
All of my puppies have a contract, which I review in detail with each puppy buyer to ensure the provisions are fully understood. The agreement describes the puppy and the terms and conditions of the sale, including the health guarantee and other obligations. They are also each microchipped and individually CKC registered.
What I Look for in a Puppy Home
My goal isn’t just to raise great puppies, but to place them in homes where they’ll thrive for a lifetime. Manchester Terriers are smart, energetic, and curious dogs who do best with people who enjoy being active and involved with their dog’s life.
You don’t need to compete in dog sports or conformation shows (though that’s always encouraged!), but you should be prepared for a lively, curious partner who wants to explore the world with you, whether that’s hiking trails, learning new tricks, or just being part of your daily routines.
An ideal home is one that’s educated about the breed, open to ongoing learning, and committed to positive reinforcement training and long-term care. If you’re looking for a low-key couch potato, a Manchester may not be the right match, but if you want a clever, engaging partner to share your life with, you might just be in the right place.