Frequently Asked Questions

Adoption & Selection Process

  • We think there is something very empowering about choosing your own dog and so we leave the selection up to each family. We do however evaluate each puppy and send these results to all of the families on the list. This allows you to choose the puppy that will suit you best. We also offer guidance and advice when needed or desired.

  • We understand that some families have their hearts set on a specific gender. However, we encourage everyone to make their final decision based on temperament to ensure the best fit. Temperament is not gender-specific and can vary quite a bit.

  • We’re so honored that you’ve chosen our program! Because our puppies are raised with such intentional care, we’ve made the decision to only accept applications when we have puppies currently available. That helps us focus 100% on the dogs in our care—and match them with families who are truly ready.

    Here’s what you can do in the meantime:

    • Join our email list (if you haven’t already!) to be notified as soon as future applications open.

    • Follow us on Instagram/Facebook for behind-the-scenes peeks and litter updates.

    • Watch your timing. If you’re hoping to bring a puppy home in Spring 2026, for example, we recommend applying as soon as we open applications for litters born early that year. We'll always list expected go-home dates in our announcements.

    We know that feels a little different than joining a traditional waitlist—but we’ve found this model gives the best results for both families and puppies. You won’t be stuck waiting for a spot that may or may not open up—and we won’t be guessing who’s still ready.

    In short: we’re here when you’re ready—and we can’t wait to help you find the right puppy when the timing lines up!

  • You’re always welcome to apply again! Each litter has its own application round, and applying again shows you're still serious and committed.

  • Yes, since circumstances can change, we consider each litter separately. A fresh application helps us get the most accurate and up-to-date picture of your readiness and preferences.

  • You’ll have 48 hours from the time we email you to accept your spot and place your deposit. This helps us keep things moving smoothly and fairly for everyone.

  • You will choose your puppy on Adoption Day. Prior to this, you will receive a temperament evaluation of each puppy in the litter so you have a better idea of each puppy’s personality. Each family on the list will have a 30-minute spot on Adoption Day to choose an available puppy.

  • If you cannot pick up your puppy from our home, we will arrange a private nanny to bring your little one to you. We do not work with any outside nannies, but will only entrust our puppies into the hands of people we personally know and have vetted.

  • This really depends on your own preference and lifestyle. If you can handle raising two puppies at the same time, go for it! You could also consider spacing them out a bit to make training a little easier. Puppies raised together do tend to be more attached to each other (sometimes called “litter mate syndrome”), but they will still love their families wholeheartedly.

Our Program

  • Yes, we perform the AKC-recommended health tests on our dogs. You can see the results of all of our tests on this page.

  • Current scientific data shows that it is healthier for dogs to breed every heat cycle so that is what we’ve chosen to do, with consideration to each dam’s health of course. A dog’s reproductive cycle and healing is comparable to a human having a baby every two years or so. By breeding at each heat we reduce the risks of pyometra, mammary cancer and endometriosis. If you would like to know more about this, here is a great article.

  • We offer a limited amount of breeder spots per litter. If you are interested in adding one of our puppies to your breeding program, please review our Breeder Package. All other puppies will be sold as pets only with limited registration and a strict spay/neuter contract.

  • In order to protect our puppies from fatal diseases that can be tracked in on something as innocent as shoes, we have opted to deny visits to our facility. Adoptions are completed in our home.

  • With four kids running around, adding a litter or two of puppies would be complete chaos, haha! So we remodeled our garage so the puppies could have their own temperature-controlled space.

Bernese Mountain Dogs

  • The final size of your dog will vary based on his or her parents, but final weight will likely be somewhere in the 80-120 lb range.

  • Berners particularly thrive in colder climates, but they can handle some heat too, as long as they get frequent breaks. We don’t recommend them for those who live only in hot climates.

  • A LOT!! Berners have a double coat, which means they shed year-long. As a bonus, they shed both white and black hair. Loving a Berner means putting up with dog hair on just about everything, but robot vacuums and frequent brushings are lifesavers.