Question 1

Is Puppies Downunder a puppy farm / puppy mill?

Accepted Answer

Puppies Downunder is not a puppy farm or puppy mill. Puppies Downunder is a commercial dog breeding facility approved by the Victorian Government due to our high ethical standards. Puppy Farms/Mills are establishments that breed puppies for sale on an intensive basis and in cramped conditions that are cruel and in-humane with little concern for their needs.  In Australia, Victoria is the only state that has banned the operation of Puppy Farms/Mills.  We are regularly audited by the Department of Primary Industries, our Local Council Latrobe City Shire and Veterinarians to ensure that we are strictly following the Commercial Breeding and Animal Welfare Legislation.  We set a very high standard for animal health and well-being and go beyond the requirements imposed on us by the Victorian State Government.  We love our dogs and always aim to provide an environment for them that nurtures their behavioral, social, physiological needs.

Question 2

Why are the puppies so expensive?

Accepted Answer

Our puppies are expensive due to the costs incurred to operate our facilities and comply with legislation. We employ 15+ staff which also includes our own veterinarian and nurse as well as animal attendants, socialization team, dog psychologist and trainer, maintenance team etc. as well as having to pay for ongoing costs such as food, wages, veterinary costs, DNA testing and bills etc.

Question 3

Are your staff qualified?

Accepted Answer

Yes, our staff have completed Certificates III and IV in Animal Studies and Animal Companionship. We also have staff members who are studying Animal Behaviour (Psychology) with the National Dog Training Federation. We also ensure our staff keep up to date with any online breeding courses implemented by Animal Welfare Victoria. We also implement internal staff training such as In-house workshops, dog training, animal welfare, socialization and enrichment, diet, grooming, health examinations, animal behavior, administration etc.

Question 4

Do you do DNA/Genetic testing?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we Genetically DNA test all our breeding dogs with Orivet for 50 different diseases.

Question 5

Are your puppies toilet trained?

Accepted Answer

Our puppies are not toilet trained in a home environment. The best way to toilet train your puppy is using puppy pads/grass potty mat and by taking your puppy outside every hour. Use positive reinforcement/encouragement when your puppy toilets where you want it to toilet.

Question 6

What makes Puppies Downunder different from other breeders?

Accepted Answer

At Puppies Downunder, we encourage our customers to come to our facility and meet the parents and puppies before purchase. 
Our customer service is exceptional and we pride ourselves on our service and high standards. 
We ensure we are available at each step of the process, from matching the breed most appropriate to the family dynamic to training, and general health and care. 
Even after you bring your puppy home, we continue to provide you with ongoing advice and support for the lifetime of your puppy.

Question 7

Which dog breed is right for my family?

Accepted Answer

There are multiple factors that come into play when determining which breed of dog is right for your family e.g. Activity level, Trainability, Allergies within your family,  what other pets you have, children/no children, age of your children, temperament. Ensure you advise the breeder of these factors so they can recommend a breed that is most compatible for you and your family.

Question 8

What dog breed is best for allergies?

Accepted Answer

The dog breeds best suited for allergies would be an F1b mixed breed that has a one parent that is either a Groodle, Labradoodle, Cavoodle, Labragroodle, Spoodle and the other a Poodle parent. This is a good way of ensuring the puppy has a higher chance of having the poodle genes for the curly or wavy, single or double coat although there is still a small chance for the puppy to have a hair coat that sheds.

Question 9

What dog breed has the best nature/temperament?

Accepted Answer

The dog breeds with the best temperament are Cavoodles, Groodles, labradoodles, Labragroodles, aussiedoodles, Bordoodles and Spoodles. By combining the poodle with breeds such as the Labrador, Golden Retriever, Cavalier King Charles, Cocker Spaniel etc. you are ensuring a highly intelligent dog that is also friendly and affectionate. It is also important to take into account the temperaments are of the parents since that can affect the temperament of the puppy.

Question 10

I am working from home. What dog breed is most suitable for me?

Accepted Answer

The most suitable dog breed for you would either be a Cavoodle, Groodle or Labradoodle or Labragroodle. A Cavoodle is smaller than a Groodle and Labradoodle and makes for a very affectionate and intelligent companion that can sit on your lap and give you cuddles and kisses. Groodles and Labradoodles are larger and a more active than a Cavoodle however, just as cuddly and affectionate.

Question 11

I have a cat or another dog or pet. Will they get along with my new puppy?

Accepted Answer

Your puppy should get along with other dogs/cats as long as your puppy isn’t a sighthound/hunting breed of dog, is well socialised and has been introduced to your other cat/dog. Most dogs and cats can get along and be best friends contrary to popular opinion.

Question 12

I have a small yard. What dog is most suitable?

Accepted Answer

Cavoodles, Labradoodles, Labragroodles and Groodles are moderately active mixed breeds. As long as they are able to run around the yard and are taken for walks daily they will be happy in a small yard. It is possible to have a highly active dog breed in a small yard if you are prepared to take them for walks multiple times a day to ensure they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Question 13

I am senior, what dog is most suitable."

Accepted Answer

The most suitable dog for seniors would be a dog that isn’t overly boisterous. Cavoodles would be the best match due to their temperament and since they’re less likely to knock you over if they jumped on you due to their smaller size. Groodles and labradoodles are also suitable due to their temperament but you’ll need to make sure you train them to not jump on you.

Question 14

I have a young family. Which breed is most suitable?

Accepted Answer

All our breeds at Puppies Downunder are suitable for young families. Always make sure you supervise your children when they spend time with the puppy since some children can get a little rough and cause injury to the puppy.

Question 15

Which dog is most active?

Accepted Answer

Aussiedoodles, Bordoodles and Spoodles are our most active breeds as they are mixed with the Australian Shepherd and Border Collie who need a lot of exercise, enrichment and mental stimulation. Whilst the spoodle is usually smaller than an Aussiedoodle and Bordoodle, they are just as energetic. Spoodles don’t have the herding instinct that Bordoodles and Aussiedoodles have but they still need just as much exercise and mental stimulation.

Question 16

What breeds are most suitable for being an emotional support dog?

Accepted Answer

The breeds that are best suited as emotional support dogs are Groodles, Labradoodles, Labragroodles and Cavoodles. These breeds have friendly and affectionate temperaments and aren’t too overly energetic like the Aussiedoodle, Bordoodle or Spoodle.

Question 17

What is the difference between F1, F1b, and F2 generations?"

Accepted Answer

F1 – First generation cross- both parents are purebred. E.g. Mini Poodle x Cavalier King Charles F1b – One parent is purebred, one parent is mixed breed E.g. Mini Poodle x Cavoodle F2 – Both parents are mixed breed e.g. Groodle x Labradoodle, Groodle x Groodle

Question 18

Is a male puppy more suitable than a female puppy?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your personal preference; all puppies are individuals and will have different personalities and quirks. The differences between a male and female is that the male will have the behaviour of cocking his leg and marking his territory. A female will go on heat which means they will bleed and possibly get pregnant. A male de-sexed at a young age won’t learn the leg cocking behaviour and a de-sexed female won’t go on heat.

Question 19

Is a male puppy more suitable than a female puppy?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your personal preference; all puppies are individuals and will have different personalities and quirks. The differences between a male and female is that the male will have the behaviour of cocking his leg and marking his territory. A female will go on heat which means they will bleed and possibly get pregnant. A male de-sexed at a young age won’t learn the leg cocking behaviour and a de-sexed female won’t go on heat.

Question 20

What are the steps to purchasing a puppy?

Accepted Answer

Contact us to enquire about a puppy Choose a puppy from a litter either through facetime or in person by arranging an appointment. Pay a 10% deposit on puppy and fill out our Puppy Order Form with your details Read our Puppy Care Guide and Terms & Conditions. Use our New Puppy Checklist to ensure you have purchased all required items you need for the puppy prior to pick up. Arrange a pickup time 10-14 days after puppy has been de-sexed or contact us to arrange a courier/freight if unable to pick up in person. Collect your puppy and pay the balance remaining.

Question 21

Do you freight overseas?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can arrange freight overseas once your puppy is 12 weeks of age and has veterinary approval for overseas travel.

Question 22

Do I need pet insurance?

Accepted Answer

You should have pet insurance; you never know if your dog/puppy will suddenly fall ill or end up in an accident. Having the right insurance will help cover the costs that come with an emergency surgery etc. Puppies Downunder will organise 6 weeks free Pet Insurance with Petcover when you purchase your puppy. After this period it is at your discretion if you wish to continue with pet insurance.

Question 23

Can we bring home our puppy at 8 weeks?

Accepted Answer

No, we only allow our puppies to go home from 9.5 -10 weeks of age. As ethical breeders it is our responsibility to ensure that the health and wellbeing of our puppies are top priority. Our puppies do not cope as well with leaving their familiar environment, mother, siblings and staff here prior to this time. In our experience we have found that at 10 weeks of age our puppies are far more robust and resilient enabling them to better adapt and deal with the stresses associated with leaving their home.

Question 24

Will my puppy suffer separation anxiety when I take it home?

Accepted Answer

Your puppy might cry at first when it’s separated from you which is perfectly normal. You don’t want your puppy to be with you at all times since this can cause the puppy to develop severe separation anxiety. Your puppy needs to spend several hours a day and overnight in a secure area by itself so it can develop the confidence to be by itself.

Question 25

Why do I need to feed the puppy the food as per the Puppy Diet Guide?

Accepted Answer

By feeding your puppy according to our Puppy Diet Guide you are ensuring your puppy gets the best nutrition during his/her multiple periods of growth. It is important to feed your puppy a mixture of wet and dry foods. Feeding your puppy only dry food causes the puppy to be deficient in necessary nutrients it needs as well as causing plaque build-up on the teeth. Give your puppy lactose free milk to drink to ensure they receive sufficient calcium nutrients for their bone development. Do not give your puppy cow’s milk!!  This will give your puppy an upset stomach. Lactose free milk can be ceased around 10-12 months of age.   As part of our Terms and Conditions, if you choose not to feed your puppy as per our Puppy Diet Guide, your Heatlth Guarantee will become void.

Question 26

Why does my puppy seem sick now that I have taken it home?

Accepted Answer

Stress and changing environments can cause your puppy stress and feel unwell. Some symptoms you may notice as a result of this stress is loss of appetite, loose stools and diarrhoea. This will usually pass within a few weeks and is not a cause for concern providing your puppy is still active and appears content. Another reason why your puppy may develop diarrhoea can be due to eating too much dry food or has eaten a new food that it has not eaten before. However, if you feel concerned at all we prefer you call us immediately so we can advise you accordingly. Please refer to our Puppy Care Guide for more information.

Question 27

How do I toilet train my puppy?

Accepted Answer

The best way to toilet train your puppy is using puppy pads/grass potty mat and by taking your puppy outside every hour. Use positive reinforcement/encouragement when your puppy toilets where you want it to toilet.

Question 28

How often should I groom and bath my puppy?

Accepted Answer

You should only bathe your puppy whenever it gets very dirty with dog shampoo and conditioner. If you wash your puppy excessively it will strip the natural oils off the coat and can cause skin irritation and dryness. Your puppy should be groomed every 6-8 weeks and should only have puppy cuts until it’s an adult. Nails should be clipped once a week to keep them blunt and short. Please refer to our Puppy Care Guide for more information.

Question 29

Do I need to worm and de-flea my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Yes you need to administer worm, flea and tick prevention. Make sure you weigh your puppy/dog and follow the instructions on the brands that you use for your puppy. Please refer to our Puppy Care Guide for more information.

Question 30

How often do I need to worm and de-flea my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Intestinal worming should be done once a week or fortnight depending on the syrup or tablet; please refer to directions on packet. Flea and tick prevention should be done monthly. Heartworm prevention can either be done with medication or with a vaccination. These can change due to what brand of wormer, flea prevention and tick prevention you use. Please refer to our Puppy Care Guide for more information.

Question 31

Do I need to vaccinate my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you’ll need to take your puppy to your veterinary clinic to receive his/her 12 week vaccination as well ensuring it receives an annual C5 vaccination booster. Your puppy will be at high risk of contracting contagious diseases without their vaccinations. Boarding kennels/doggy day cares will not allow your puppy into their facilities if it hasn’t had at least a C5 vaccination within the past year.

Question 32

How do I tell if I am allergic to a puppy?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to tell if you’re allergic to dogs is by playing/petting a dog then waiting for any signs of allergic reaction after, these signs can be. Sneezing Runny or Stuffy Nose Facial pain from nasal congestion Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing Watery, red or itchy eyes Skin rash or hives If you do have allergies, you should consult your GP on the best course of management for your allergies.

Question 33

Do I need to take my puppy to puppy school?

Accepted Answer

You should take your puppy to a puppy school once they have had their 12 week vaccination. Ensure the puppy school has accredited dog trainers, so that you are exposing and socialising your puppy in a new and controlled environment, with other people as well as other puppies of different breeds and sizes. An accredited dog trainer will teach you how to train your puppy and can arrange ongoing one on one training services as the puppy grows older.

Question 34

Can I take my puppy out to the park before it reaches 12 Weeks Old?

Accepted Answer

No, your puppy has not had all required vaccinations prior to 12 weeks of age. This makes them vulnerable to bacteria and diseases that may be present at parks or public areas where other dogs may have been.

Question 35

Yes you can, we provide ongoing support throughout your puppy’s life."

Accepted Answer

Yes you can, we provide ongoing support throughout your puppy’s life.

Question 36

How often should I groom and bath my puppy?

Accepted Answer

HERE is when.

Question 37

What should I feed my puppy?

Accepted Answer

We recommend the following diet for your puppy.   1/2 - 2 cups of our Puppy Casserole/Soup Mix twice per day (morning and night) View our printable version of the recipe on our Puppy Diet Page.   2-3 handfuls of dry food in a bowl each day around midday. 250-500ml of Lactose Free Milk twice per day (morning and night) until your puppy is 12 months old.   From 16 - 20 weeks of age, one raw chicken wing/drumstick every couple of days. Ensure that your puppy always has access to clean drinking water.
Provide a separate bowl for water.

Question 38

Is Early Age De-Sexing (EAD) bad for my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Early age de-sexing isn’t inherently bad. RSPCA perform early age de-sexing on their puppies if they healthy and are at least 8 weeks of age. At Puppies Downunder we also de-sex our puppies at 8 weeks of age. EAD is an effective way of preventing unwanted pregnancies as well as offering the following health benefits. In females it can help prevent the following issues and diseases: prevention of mammary cancer (especially if prior to the first heat) prevention of reproductive organ disease such as Pyometra (life-threatening uterine infection) and ovarian cancer prevention of unplanned pregnancies prevention of pseudo-pregnancy behaviours In males it can help prevent the following issues and diseases: prevention of prostatitis (inflammation/infection of the prostate gland) prevention of benign prostatic hyperplasia (enlargement) prevention of certain types of hernias and tumours of the testicles and anus decrease in interest in wandering/roaming to find female mates reduction of aggressive behaviour towards other male dogs reduction of urine marking reduction of inappropriate mounting Our Post on Early Age De-Sexing on our blog discusses this topic in further. www.puppiesdownunder.com/post/early-age-de-sexing

Question 39

Why do you de-sex at 8 weeks of age?

Accepted Answer

We de-sex our puppies at 8 weeks for the following reasons: The puppy recovers faster from surgery than an adult dog. We can monitor the puppy to make sure it doesn’t lick the surgery site and pull out the stitches. We also monitor for any infections. It’s a part of responsible breeding, by de-sexing our puppies before they go to their new homes we are preventing unwanted litters from happening. When a male is neutered at a young age, they don’t learn to cock their legs and mark their territory.

Question 40

Why do I need to feed the puppy the food as per the Puppy Diet Guide?

Accepted Answer

By feeding your puppy according to the Puppy Diet Guide you are ensuring your puppy gets the best nutrition during his/her multiple periods of growth.   It is important to feed your puppy a mixture of wet and dry foods. Feeding your puppy only dry food causes the puppy to be deficient in necessary nutrients it needs as well as causing plaque build-up on the teeth.   Give your puppy lactose free milk to drink to ensure they receive sufficient calcium nutrients for their bone development. Do not give your puppy cow’s milk!!  This will give your puppy an upset stomach. Lactose free milk can be ceased around 10-12 months of age.   As part of our Terms and Conditions, if you choose not to feed your puppy as per our Puppy Diet Guide, your Health Guarantee will become void.

Question 41

Why does my puppy seem sick now that I have taken it home?

Accepted Answer

Stress and changing environments can cause your puppy stress and feel unwell. Some symptoms you may notice as a result of this stress is loss of appetite, loose stools and diarrhoea. This will usually pass within a few weeks and is not a cause for concern providing your puppy is still active and appears content. Another reason why your puppy may develop diarrhoea can be due to eating too much dry food or has eaten a new food that it has not eaten before. However, if you feel concerned at all we prefer you call us immediately so we can advise you accordingly. Please refer to our Puppy Care Guide for more information.

Question 42

How do I know if the collar is the right fit?

Accepted Answer

The best way to tell if the collar is fitted is if you can put your index and middle finger underneath the collar while it’s on the puppy/dog. Make sure to move your fingers around the entire collar to ensure there is no overly tight or loose areas.

Question 43

How often should I groom and bath my puppy?

Accepted Answer

You should only bathe your puppy whenever it gets very dirty with dog shampoo and conditioner. If you wash your puppy excessively it will strip the natural oils off the coat and can cause skin irritation and dryness. Your puppy should be groomed every 6-8 weeks and should only have puppy cuts until it’s an adult. Nails should be clipped once a week to keep them blunt and short. Please refer to our Puppy Care Guide for more information.

Question 44

Do I need to worm and de-flea my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Yes you need to administer worm, flea and tick prevention. Make sure you weigh your puppy/dog and follow the instructions on the brands that you use for your puppy. Please refer to our Puppy Care Guide for more information.

Question 45

How often do I need to worm and de-flea my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Intestinal worming should be done once a week or fortnight depending on the syrup or tablet; please refer to directions on packet. Flea and tick prevention should be done monthly. Heartworm prevention can either be done with medication or with a vaccination. These can change due to what brand of wormer, flea prevention and tick prevention you use. Please refer to our Puppy Care Guide for more information.

Question 46

Do I need to vaccinate my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you’ll need to take your puppy to your veterinary clinic to receive their 12 week vaccination as well as making sure it receives an annual C5 vaccination booster. Your puppy will be at high risk of contracting contagious diseases without their vaccinations. Boarding kennels/doggy day cares will not allow your puppy into their facilities if it hasn’t had at least a C5 vaccination within the past year.

Question 47

How do I tell if I am allergic to a puppy?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way to tell if you’re allergic to dogs is by playing/petting a dog then waiting for any signs of allergic reaction after, these signs can be. Sneezing Runny or Stuffy Nose Facial pain from nasal congestion Coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and wheezing Watery, red or itchy eyes Skin rash or hives If you do have allergies, you should consult your GP on the best course of management for your allergies.

Question 48

Do I need to take my puppy to puppy school?

Accepted Answer

You should take your puppy to a puppy school once he/she has had their 12 week vaccination. Ensure the puppy school has accredited dog trainers, so that you are exposing and socialising your puppy in a new and controlled environment, with other people as well as other puppies of different breeds and sizes. An accredited dog trainer will teach you how to train your puppy and can arrange ongoing one on one training services as the puppy grows older.

Question 49

How do I toilet train my puppy?

Accepted Answer

The best way to toilet train your puppy is using puppy pads/grass potty mat and by taking your puppy outside every hour. Use positive reinforcement/encouragement when your puppy toilets where you want it to toilet.

Question 50

I have a question. Can I call you for help?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can, we provide ongoing support throughout your puppy’s life.

Question 51

Why do i need to feed my puppy as per the puppy diet guide?

Accepted Answer

By feeding your puppy according to the Puppy Diet Guide you are ensuring your puppy gets the best nutrition during his/her multiple periods of growth.   It is important to feed your puppy a mixture of wet and dry foods. Feeding your puppy only dry food causes the puppy to be deficient in necessary nutrients it needs as well as causing plaque build-up on the teeth.   Give your puppy lactose free milk to drink to ensure they receive sufficient calcium nutrients for their bone development. Do not give your puppy cow’s milk!!  This will give your puppy an upset stomach. Lactose free milk can be ceased around 10-12 months of age.   As part of our Terms and Conditions, if you choose not to feed your puppy as per our Puppy Diet Guide, your Health Guarantee will become void.

Question 52

Why does my puppy seem sick?

Accepted Answer

HERE is why.

Question 53

How often should I groom and bath my puppy?

Accepted Answer

HERE is when.

Question 54

Do I need to worm and de-flea my puppy?

Accepted Answer

HERE is if you need.

Question 55

How often do i need to worm and de-flea my puppy?

Accepted Answer

HERE is when.

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