AKC Full Registration - Purchase Contract - Health Warranty - Vaccinations - Microchipped - Dams & Sires Health Tested
Non-Refundable Deposit of $500 to Reserve Puppy
Price per Puppy - $3000-$4500
A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required to reserve a puppy, and this amount is deducted from the total purchase price, which is set at $3,000-$4500 per puppy depending on the breeding. Please note that we retain the right to refuse service to anyone. The order in which deposits are received determines the reservation of puppies. Exceptions to our non-refundable deposit policy may be considered in the case of family emergencies or unusual circumstances.
Cash payment is accepted upon puppy delivery for local meetings. Alternatively, electronic payment options such as Zelle, Venmo, or CashApp are available. Zelle is our preferred method of payment. We do not accept checks. It is mandatory to have a deposit in place before the delivery of your puppy, with no exceptions. If the puppy is being transported by our ground transporter or by air, the full payment must be settled before the puppy leaves our kennels.
Deposits can be made electronically after completing a Puppy Application, which must be approved. The Puppy Application is a crucial step. We will promptly contact you to discuss your preferences for a new puppy and determine if one of our K9s would be a suitable match for your family.
CAN YOU SHIP MY PUPPY?
We offer Ground or Flight Nanny transport services beyond our local area, with shipping costs determined by the destination. As the delivery date approaches, we will coordinate the schedule and connect you with the driver/flight nanny for ongoing communication during your puppy's journey. The driver/flight nanny will provide pictures and updates throughout the trip. Rest assured, all ground transporters are USDA certified, insured, and highly trusted with our puppies.
For puppies weighing under 20 lbs, the option for free in-cabin flight is available if you purchase the flight ticket. Alternatively, we can arrange for a flight nanny to accompany your puppy. Both Ground transportation and Flight Nanny services ensure a safe and stress-free travel experience for your puppy with constant care and supervision.
If your puppy is flying, it is essential to settle all shipping costs and the remaining balance for the puppy at least 14 days before the scheduled flight. For Ground delivery, you have the flexibility to pay the driver in person upon arrival, or you can choose to pay the delivery fee directly to Ritterhund K9s. However, the entire balance for your puppy must be settled with Ritterhund K9s before your puppy departs from our premises.
IMMUNIZATION SCHEDULE
Your puppy will be up to date on vaccinations and worming. Below is important information we like to pass on to our customers for educational purposes.
Puppies - 6 weeks to 1 year
6 to 8 weeks - First puppy shot (DHLPP) + Corona
11 to 12 weeks - Second puppy shot (DHLPP) + Corona
15 to 16 weeks - Third puppy shot (DHLPP) + Corona
Over 4 months - Rabies (repeat l year later)
7 to 9 months - First heartworm test
6 to 8 weeks - First puppy shot (DHLPP) + Corona
11 to 12 weeks - Second puppy shot (DHLPP) + Corona
15 to 16 weeks - Third puppy shot (DHLPP) + Corona
Over 4 months - Rabies (repeat l year later)
7 to 9 months - First heartworm test
Adult Dogs - After 1 year of age:
DHLPP - Yearly
Heartworm test - Yearly
Rabies - Every 3 years (after second Rabies shot)
Bordetella - Yearly
DHLPP - Yearly
Heartworm test - Yearly
Rabies - Every 3 years (after second Rabies shot)
Bordetella - Yearly
Note: Some states have their own laws regarding the frequency & requirement of certain vaccinations. When in doubt, always ask your veterinarian or local humane society.
ADDITIONAL VACCINATIONS
Bordetella: This is commonly known as the "kennel cough" vaccine. It protects against a severe upper respiratory infection which causes a cough caused by a bacterium known as Bordetella bronchiseptica and Canine Parainfluenza virus. If your dog will be exposed to other dogs in closed situations such as shows, groomers and boarding kennels this vaccine is recommended. In fact, most groomers and kennels require this vaccine before admission. It is a nasal spray vaccine and can be given to puppies over 3 weeks of age. Immunity lasts for 1 year and annual re-vaccination is needed. Dogs which are shown or boarded regularly may receive this vaccine more often.
Lyme Disease: If your dog will be exposed to ticks at all, we recommend that it receive the Lyme disease vaccine to help protect it against this serious disease. It can be given to puppies over 12 weeks of age. A second booster is required 2-3 weeks later and will last for 1 year. Annual re-vaccination is required.
DE-WORMING
We recommend worming your puppy at the following intervals:
2 weeks (wormed by Ritterhund K9s)
4 weeks (wormed by Ritterhund K9s)
6 weeks (wormed by Ritterhund K9s)
8 weeks (wormed by Ritterhund K9s)
From this point forward, we highly recommend giving your puppy HeartGard monthly. Not only does this prevent heartworms, but it also is a de-wormer. Some vets will start the puppy on HeartGard at 8 weeks. Other vets recommend starting at 6 months. Please ask your vet about when to start HeartGard.
HEARTWORM PREVENTION
Heartworms are a worm-like parasite that are transmitted through the bite of a mosquito. They can grow in the heart and cause serious heart disease. There are several medications that you may give to your puppy on either a daily or monthly basis that will prevent it from developing the disease if it's bitten by a carrier mosquito. You can begin your puppy on this preventative medication once it has reached 8-12 weeks of age. You should continue to give it year-round. An annual or bi-annual blood test should be performed to test for heartworms and to make sure the medication is working.
Your puppy will be microchipped prior to leaving our Kennel with a microchip. This is a small microchip about the size of a grain of rice that is injected under your dog's skin and stays there for its entire life. If your pet is ever lost or stolen, a special scanner can read the code in the chip. This information is then kept at a registry maintained by the AKC that allows the dog's owner to be located and the two reunited. The microchip identifies your puppy permanently so that it can be returned to you if lost. Ritterhund K9s will be a secondary contact on the microchip in case the dog ever gets lost and you cannot be reached. Collar ID tags are also a good idea but can be easily lost or stolen. Tattooing can also be done but may become hard to read as the dog ages.
FLEA AND TICK CONTROL
For flea & tick control, we do not recommend anything other than all-natural products! Do not use pesticides on your new puppy - either topically, orally, or by placing a flea/tick collar. Do your research. These products make pets extremely sick and even cause death. We recommend Wondercide Spot On for Dogs. We use their products exclusively for flea & tick control for all our animals.
Puppy Surival Guide: Teething & Nipping
Congratulations on welcoming your new furry family member! This delightful addition is bound to fill your home with love and joy, alongside the inevitable challenges, such as navigating through the teething and nipping phase.
Your puppy's tiny mouth is adorned with 28 miniature yet razor-sharp teeth, seemingly drawn to explore by nibbling on your fingers and toes. While this behavior may be bothersome, rest assured it's a normal part of a puppy's teething process and can be trained away.
When exactly do puppies lose their baby teeth? Well, much earlier than human infants. They typically start getting their baby teeth as early as two weeks old, and by the time they reach 3-to-4 months of age, these teeth begin to make way for their 42 adult teeth. This transition can be uncomfortable for your pup, as their gums may feel sore. If you notice drooling or spots of blood on their toys, it's likely due to teething, but any unusual signs should prompt a chat with your veterinarian.
By the time your puppy reaches 6 months old, their baby teeth should have all fallen out. AKC Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein advises keeping an eye out for any teeth that don't seem to fall out naturally; these may need professional removal by a veterinarian.
To ease your puppy's discomfort during teething, providing appropriate chew toys is key. Opt for rubber teething toys that can be chilled in the freezer, edible teething rings, or flavored chew toys. Consult with your vet to ensure you're offering the safest options, and always supervise playtime to prevent any mishaps.
Puppies may naturally nip during play, mimicking behaviors seen with littermates. Teaching them that biting hurts with a sharp "OW" and providing an alternative, like a toy, can help redirect their attention. Remember to avoid harsh punishments, as positive reinforcement works best in teaching bite inhibition.
As your puppy grows, maintaining their oral hygiene becomes crucial. Introduce them early to toothbrushing with dog-friendly toothpaste and continue providing chew toys to keep their teeth clean and healthy.
With patience and guidance, your puppy will soon outgrow their nipping and chewing phase, leaving you with cherished memories of their playful antics. Enjoy every moment of this special journey with your new companion!
Preparing for You New Puppy
As a proud new puppy owner, you can anticipate the charming antics of your furry companion, which may include:
- Chewing on various household items, from the leather handle of your guitar case to the plastic lever of your home office chair and even the wooden leg of your walnut veneer coffee table.
- Waking you up with whimpers at 6:15 in the morning on your once sleep-in Saturday.
- Adding a significant $1,397 to your credit card debt during their first year as a beloved member of the family.
- Leaving behind a range of accidents, both solid and liquid, on your Moroccan wool rug.
- Waking you up with whimpers at 6:15 in the morning on your once sleep-in Saturday.
- Adding a significant $1,397 to your credit card debt during their first year as a beloved member of the family.
- Leaving behind a range of accidents, both solid and liquid, on your Moroccan wool rug.
While these challenges may seem daunting, the rewards of puppy ownership are immeasurable! Embrace the journey ahead by preparing to become your pup's new best friend and a responsible caretaker.
Prepare Your Home for Your New Puppy
While you're undoubtedly excited to welcome your new pet, it's essential to consider the transition from the puppy's perspective. Having just been separated from their mother, siblings, and familiar surroundings, it's crucial to prepare your home to ensure a smooth adjustment for both you and your furry friend.
While you're undoubtedly excited to welcome your new pet, it's essential to consider the transition from the puppy's perspective. Having just been separated from their mother, siblings, and familiar surroundings, it's crucial to prepare your home to ensure a smooth adjustment for both you and your furry friend.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home
Similar to toddlers, puppies have a knack for getting into mischief at lightning speed. Safeguard your dog and your home by identifying potential trouble spots. Utilize a handy puppy-proofing checklist to address any hazards before bringing your puppy home.
Similar to toddlers, puppies have a knack for getting into mischief at lightning speed. Safeguard your dog and your home by identifying potential trouble spots. Utilize a handy puppy-proofing checklist to address any hazards before bringing your puppy home.
Gather Necessary Supplies
Invest in or borrow a crate, providing a secure space for your puppy to rest and seek refuge when needed. Additionally, consider purchasing or borrowing baby gates to restrict access to certain areas of your home temporarily. Equip yourself with a collar, leash, food and water bowls, as well as nutritious food and treats tailored to your puppy's needs.
Invest in or borrow a crate, providing a secure space for your puppy to rest and seek refuge when needed. Additionally, consider purchasing or borrowing baby gates to restrict access to certain areas of your home temporarily. Equip yourself with a collar, leash, food and water bowls, as well as nutritious food and treats tailored to your puppy's needs.
Ensure Comfort and Hygiene
Create a cozy sleeping area for your puppy with a comfortable dog bed, signaling their designated spot for rest and relaxation. Stock up on grooming supplies appropriate for your puppy's coat type, including brushes, combs, shampoo, and nail clippers. Be prepared to clean up accidents with paper towels, cleaning cloths, and pet-friendly cleaners.
Create a cozy sleeping area for your puppy with a comfortable dog bed, signaling their designated spot for rest and relaxation. Stock up on grooming supplies appropriate for your puppy's coat type, including brushes, combs, shampoo, and nail clippers. Be prepared to clean up accidents with paper towels, cleaning cloths, and pet-friendly cleaners.
Establish House Rules
Consistency is key in setting boundaries for your puppy. Establish clear house rules regarding behaviors such as furniture access and nipping, ensuring everyone in the household is on the same page. Consensus and consistency will help your puppy learn and thrive in their new environment.
Consistency is key in setting boundaries for your puppy. Establish clear house rules regarding behaviors such as furniture access and nipping, ensuring everyone in the household is on the same page. Consensus and consistency will help your puppy learn and thrive in their new environment.
Introduce Your Puppy to Their New Home and Family
Ease your puppy's transition by gradually introducing them to family members and familiarizing them with their surroundings. Show them their designated areas for sleeping, eating, and toileting, as well as their toys. Supervise your puppy closely during these initial days and weeks, providing guidance and reassurance as needed.
Ease your puppy's transition by gradually introducing them to family members and familiarizing them with their surroundings. Show them their designated areas for sleeping, eating, and toileting, as well as their toys. Supervise your puppy closely during these initial days and weeks, providing guidance and reassurance as needed.
Prioritize Your Puppy's Health
Regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations are essential for your puppy's well-being. Follow your veterinarian's recommendations for preventive measures against common diseases and parasites. Monitor your puppy's health daily, checking for any signs of illness or discomfort.
Regular veterinary checkups and vaccinations are essential for your puppy's well-being. Follow your veterinarian's recommendations for preventive measures against common diseases and parasites. Monitor your puppy's health daily, checking for any signs of illness or discomfort.
Owning a puppy requires dedication and effort, but the joy and companionship they bring are well worth the investment. Embrace the journey ahead, and cherish the special bond you'll share with your new four-legged friend!
Puppy Growth Plates, Exercise, and Joint Health
As a puppy parent, understanding how to care for your growing pup is crucial. Puppies are full of energy, but their developing bones and joints require special attention to avoid long-term health issues. Here's what you need to know about growth plates, exercise, and joint care.
What Are Growth Plates?
Growth plates are areas of soft cartilage located at the ends of a puppy’s long bones. These plates are responsible for bone growth and shaping during development. Over time, they harden into dense bone.
Timeline:
Most growth occurs between 3–6 months of age.
Growth plates typically close between 10–18 months, with large breeds taking up to 20 months.
Why They Matter:
Until they harden, growth plates are vulnerable to injury. Damage can lead to deformities, affecting your puppy’s ability to move and grow properly.
The Role of Hormones in Growth
Sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen play a key role in closing growth plates. Spaying or neutering too early can delay this process, leading to longer bones and increased risks of:
Hip dysplasia
Joint injuries (e.g., CCL tears)
Conditions like Osteochondritis Dessicans (OCD)
For large breeds, delaying spaying or neutering until after puberty can help reduce these risks.
How to Exercise Your Puppy Safely
Puppies need exercise to build strong bones and joints, but moderation is key. Overdoing it can cause long-term damage.
What to Avoid: Forced Exercise: Activities beyond what your puppy would naturally engage in, such as:
Running with adult dogs
Intense games of fetch (e.g., Frisbee or stick chasing)
Jogging long distances
High-impact activities like jumping or climbing
Hard Surfaces: Avoid prolonged running on concrete or asphalt. Softer surfaces like grass or turf are more forgiving.
What’s Safe:
Short leash walks or gentle play with similarly aged puppies.
Gradually increase exercise duration as your puppy grows. Use the 5-minute rule: 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. For example:
3 months old: 15 minutes per session.
6 months old: 30 minutes per session.
Common Risks and How to Prevent Them
Sprains and Strains: Puppies are clumsy and may overdo it, leading to minor injuries. Keep play sessions short and supervised.
Paw Pad Injuries: Young paws are soft and can be injured on rough surfaces. Gradually introduce your pup to different terrains.
Exhaustion: A tired puppy should be ready for a nap, not completely worn out. Avoid pushing them too hard during play or walks.
Protecting Growing Joints
To support healthy development, follow these guidelines:
Prevent Falls: Avoid situations where your puppy might slip, trip, or jump from heights.
Manage Weight: A balanced diet helps prevent excessive growth and reduces strain on joints.
Limit High-Impact Activities: Repeated jumping, rough play, and twisting movements should be avoided until growth plates close.
Training and Gradual Activity
Introduce your puppy to exercise and training early, but keep it light:
Start with leash and collar training indoors at a few weeks old.
Practice short walks and basic obedience.
Slowly increase activity levels as your pup matures (12–14 months for large breeds).
Key Takeaways for Puppy Parents
Moderate exercise is crucial for healthy bone and joint development.
Avoid high-impact activities until growth plates close.
Use the 5-minute rule to gauge safe activity levels.
Keep your pup at a healthy weight and provide a balanced diet.
Monitor for any signs of pain, limping, or abnormal gait, and consult a vet if needed.
With proper care and attention, you can help your puppy grow into a strong, healthy adult dog. Balance play, rest, and gradual activity increases to keep your furry friend happy and safe!
The Herm Sprenger Prong Collar mentioned in the video above can be purchased from Amazon HERE. I highly recommend starting your puppy off on one of these collars as soon as possible BUT educate yourself on the proper usage of these collars. It is crucial that you know how to use these collars properly so as to not injure your puppy physically or emotionally.
Dear Past and Future Puppy Owners
I loved them first. I thought of you years before you even realized. I planned for and cared about your baby long before you started thinking of adding to your family. I worried about your future with that puppy before you knew there would be one.
There were hours upon hours spent researching lines for the parents of your puppies. Going over breeder after breeder, choosing not only my pet but looking for a dog that will become your pet. Worrying if you'd be happy, if I had chosen correctly, and if your puppy would grow up healthy and happy. Going over puppy after puppy with fellow breeders, running over my program with as many knowledgeable breeders as I could, determined not to miss anything. Tracing lines back as far as I could, learning the ins and outs not only for my knowledge but so that I was informed, prepared to go over every detail with you, to answer the questions that sometimes you don't even ask.
Then came years of watching your puppy’s parents grow, loving them and enjoying them as part of my family. Taking them everywhere I could, training them, socializing them, watching how they developed. Asking myself if I had made the right choice in both of them. Scrutinizing their conformation, how they moved, and their temperament. There was the stress of health testing. Praying not only that my babies were healthy but that they had the genes to make your baby healthy.
Finally came the time to bring your puppy’s parents together. For the next 63 days, I worried, I obsessed, I grew excited. I watched your puppy’s mom like a hawk, making sure my baby was okay, monitoring her diet better than I do my own. Concerned that she was getting enough of the right nutrients and that your growing baby was getting the best start possible. I spent hours on the couch, floor, and dog bed with her, watching her tummy grow and anxiously waiting. As your baby and mine grew, I laid my hands on her tummy and felt the first movements of your puppy. As the time grew close, I spent most nights in the nursery with her, making sure she did not go into labor without me knowing in case something went wrong and one of our babies needed help. When labor started, my whole life stopped. I spent every second with her. Your baby was born into my hands, and I held my breath as I cleaned up your puppy, watching for movement and breathing, checking your puppy over, and wondering if you would love them as much as I already did. I helped your baby’s brother when mom got tired, and he was stuck. I cried when your baby’s sister did not make it.
For the first 8 weeks, most of my life was filled with your baby. Watching your puppy grow and making sure I was doing everything possible to make sure your puppy started life the right way. Making sure each one was getting enough to eat, enough socialization time, that your baby was dewormed and receiving all the proper care. I was the first person your puppy saw when they opened their eyes. I spent my weeks playing with your puppy and keeping your puppy safe.
I reviewed your application closely. As you spoke, I tried to read your character. Would you love your puppy as much as I do? Would you bring your puppy in as part of your family? Would you care for this tiny life that I brought into this world, for which I am responsible? Some of you were turned away, but some of you were welcomed into our family. The day you took your baby home was harder than I'd ever let on. I was excited for you, but I was also terrified and heartbroken. Had I chosen correctly? Were you who you seemed to be?
My love and worry did not end there. I thought about your baby regularly, saddened when I did not get updates, ecstatic when I did. I hoped you were caring for your baby the way I care for mine. I answered your questions happily and answered them again just as happily for your puppy’s siblings’ new parents. When your puppy’s sister ate a couch, I stayed up the night she was at the vet, waiting to hear that she was okay. When your puppy’s brother’s parents decided he no longer fit in with their life, I welcomed him home, sorry that I had chosen wrong for him, and promised him it would not happen again.
I loved your baby first, and I will never stop.
PH: 805-219-9916 | EMAIL: Info@RitterhundK9s.com