⸻

🐶 About the Puppies

Q1: When will your next litter be available?
A: We carefully plan each breeding with health, temperament, and structure in mind. We don’t produce frequent litters, so availability is limited. Upcoming litter announcements are shared first with our waiting list families and then on our website/social media.

Q2: How can I reserve a puppy?
A: We have a structured process in place to ensure our puppies go to the right homes. No money is ever exchanged until a puppy has been confirmed and chosen for you. At that stage, a deposit is required to secure your puppy. This deposit is deducted from the total price of the puppy.

Q3: Do you keep a waiting list, and how does it work?
A: Yes. Families who have gone through our process are placed on our waiting list in order of suitability, not just by “first come, first served.” Once puppies are born, we stay in close contact with families and provide updates until it’s time for puppy matching. Deposits are only taken once a puppy has been confirmed for you.

Q4: How do you match puppies with families? Can I choose my puppy?
A: We carefully evaluate each puppy’s temperament, drive, and structure through observation and formal testing. We do listen to and respect preferences when it comes to gender and colour, as we understand how important this can be when welcoming a new family member you’ll live with for many years. However, our priority will always be to match the right temperament to the right household to ensure long-term success for both puppy and family.

Q5: What do the puppies come home with?
A: Every Xentader puppy leaves with a full puppy pack, including:
• KC registration (all puppies are endorsed, even those sold with breeding rights — endorsements are only lifted once health testing and other requirements have been approved by us)
• Contract of sale
• Vet health certificate
• Microchip
• Vaccination/deworming record
• Food and toy starter pack
• Lifetime breeder support

Q6: At what age can the puppies leave for their new homes?
A: Puppies leave at 8–10 weeks old, depending on their individual development and readiness.

⸻

❤️ Health & Care

Q7: What health tests do you perform on your breeding dogs?
A: We carry out the following health testing:
• DNA testing (different panels for each breed)
• Hip and elbow scoring (both breeds)
• PHPV eye testing (both breeds)
• Holter or blood testing (Dobermanns)

Q8: Are the puppies checked by a vet before going home?
A: Yes. Every puppy is examined by a licensed veterinarian before leaving us, and each comes with a written health certificate.

Q9: Do you offer a health guarantee?
A: Unfortunately, due to the prevalence of DCM in Dobermanns, it would not be reasonable of us to offer a formal health guarantee. The same applies to hips and elbows — while both parents are scored with good results, we cannot guarantee that puppies will never develop issues, as injuries and other factors can play a role. However, when it comes to genetic conditions, there is no reason these should be passed on, as all parents are fully DNA tested and cleared before breeding. If a dog does not meet our health requirements, we simply do not breed from them.

The point of breeding is to help the breed. We do everything possible to breed the best dogs and give our puppies the strongest foundation for their future. But just like human babies, even if all parents have a clean bill of health, no one can guarantee a long and perfectly healthy life. This is why it is so important to support ethical breeders — we are committed to doing everything we can to set these dogs and puppies up for success.

Q10: What should I feed my puppy?
A: All of our puppies are raised on a raw and kibble diet. They will leave us with enough food for the first 3 days to help them transition onto their new diet. We do not recommend feeding a grain-free diet. While we encourage feeding raw where possible, we can also recommend high-quality kibble options if that is your preference.

Q11: Are puppies dewormed and vaccinated before leaving?
A: Yes. Puppies are wormed from 2 weeks of age and then every 2 weeks until they leave us. Once they go to their new homes, we recommend worming only if needed or using a worm count test, as we believe it’s important for dogs to build their own immune systems rather than relying on constant medication. We can also recommend some natural raw treats that act as a gentle, natural dewormer. Puppies also receive their first vaccination and are microchipped before leaving.

Q12: Do Dobermanns/German Shepherds have any breed-specific health issues I should be aware of?
A: Both breeds are prone to certain conditions—Dobermanns to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) and cancers, and German Shepherds to hip/elbow dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy. Responsible health testing and selective breeding significantly reduce risks, but all potential owners should be aware. We provide educational resources on these conditions.

⸻

📜 Contracts & Support

Q13: Do you require a contract for purchase?
A: Yes. All puppies are sold with a detailed written contract designed to protect you, the puppy, and us as breeders.

Q14: Do you offer lifetime breeder support?
A: Absolutely. Once you join the Xentader family, we are here for the life of your dog. We are always available for advice and support.

Q15: What happens if I can no longer keep the dog?
A: Our contract requires that the dog be returned to us or rehomed with our approval. No Xentader dog should ever end up in a shelter.

Q16: Do you have spay/neuter requirements?
A: We do not require a spay/neuter. However, all puppies are sold with endorsements. Puppies sold on a pet contract are strictly not to be bred unless this has been discussed with us and approved in writing. If a puppy were to be bred without approval, this would be a breach of contract and could result in further action. If approved by us, then we will create a new contract stating the new terms and conditions.

⸻

🏆 Temperament, Training & Work

Q17: What are your puppies’ temperaments like?
A: Our goal is to produce stable, balanced dogs with correct breed temperament. Puppies are confident, outgoing, and well-socialized, with the potential for sport, work, or companionship depending on their drives.

Q18: Are your puppies suitable for families with children or other pets?
A: Yes, with proper training and supervision. We assess each puppy’s temperament to ensure they are placed in the right environment. Many of our puppies thrive in active family homes.

Q19: Are they raised in the home or kennel?
A: Puppies are whelped and raised in the home environment. They are exposed to household sounds, people, other dogs, and appropriate stimuli to build confidence.

Q20: What kind of early socialization/training do the puppies receive?
A: Puppies are introduced to crate training, noise desensitization, surfaces, car rides, and basic handling. We also begin early imprinting for sport/working prospects.

Q21: Do you sell puppies for work, sport, or just as companions?
A: We breed for versatility. Depending on each puppy’s aptitude, placements are made into companion, show, sport (PSA, IPO/IGP, agility, obedience), or working (security, SAR) homes.

Q22: Can I visit to meet the puppies and parents?
A: Yes. The dam will always be available to view. However, even though all of our dogs are super friendly, be prepared for them to be protective of their babies. Sires may not always be on-site, but full information and health documents are provided.

⸻

💷 Price & Practicalities

Q23: How much does a puppy cost, and what does the price include?
A: Pricing reflects the investment in health testing, quality care, and responsible breeding. Each puppy comes with registration, contract, vaccinations, microchip, puppy pack, and lifelong support. Exact prices are shared with approved families.

Q24: Do you take deposits, and are they refundable?
A: Yes, we take a deposit to secure a confirmed puppy. Deposits are deducted from the total price of the puppy. Deposits are generally non-refundable but may be transferable to a future litter if unforeseen circumstances arise.

Q25: Do you ship puppies, or is collection required?
A: We prefer new families to collect their puppy in person so we can meet and go over everything together. In special circumstances, transport can be arranged with licensed couriers.

Q26: Do you provide ongoing advice after purchase?
A: Yes. We pride ourselves on being a lifelong support system. Whether you have training, health, or general care questions, we’re here to help.

Q27: What should I prepare before bringing my puppy home?
A: We provide a full preparation guide to help families get ready, covering essentials such as bedding, crate, food, toys, vet registration, and training resources.

Bringing Your Puppy Home – FAQ & Tips

Xentader Dobermanns & German Shepherds

⸻

🏡 How do I prepare my home for a new puppy?
• Puppy-proof your home by removing or securing anything fragile, toxic, or chewable (electrical cords, small objects, plants).
• Set up a safe space where your puppy can rest and feel secure, such as a crate or puppy pen.
• Have essentials ready: food & water bowls, puppy food, bedding, toys, collar & lead.

⸻

🍽️ What should I feed my new puppy?
• Many of our puppies thrive on a raw diet or a combination of raw and high-quality kibble. Feeding half raw and half kibble can provide balanced nutrition while introducing variety.
• If you prefer to feed a full kibble diet, please use a high-quality puppy food recommended by the breeder to ensure proper growth and health.
• Whatever diet you choose, consistency during the transition period is important to avoid digestive upset.
• Fresh, clean water should always be available.

⸻

🚽 How do I start toilet training?
• Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after eating, drinking, playing, or waking up.
• Choose a consistent toilet spot and praise your puppy enthusiastically when they go there.
• Be patient, accidents happen. Never punish your puppy; instead, clean accidents thoroughly to avoid repeat spots and learn from YOUR mistakes.

⸻

🛏️ Should I crate train my puppy?
• Crate training can provide a safe den-like space and helps with toilet training and preventing destructive behaviors.
• Introduce the crate gradually with positive reinforcement (treats, toys).
• Never use the crate as punishment.

⸻

🐾 How do I socialize my puppy safely?
• Begin gentle socialization early with healthy, people in low-risk environments.
• Dobermanns and German Shepherds are naturally dog-selective breeds. They may not always get along with unfamiliar dogs outside of their own pack or household.
• It’s important to teach them to calmly ignore other dogs in public, rather than expecting them to interact socially with every dog they meet.
• Poor socialization can lead to reactivity, especially in working breeds. These are powerful, intelligent dogs, and improper handling can lead to serious behavioral issues.
• Focus on building confidence, neutrality, and resilience around distractions and new environments.

⸻

🎾 How much exercise does my puppy need?
• The most important part of early development is exposure, not intense physical activity.
• Short walks and small training sessions are great for building confidence and offering mental stimulation, but puppies should not be over-exercised while their joints and bones are still developing.
• Let them explore the world at their own pace, take in new environments, and engage with different sights, sounds, and surfaces. This is the crucial learning stage.
• You can increase structured training and physical activity once your puppy is a bit older and their body is ready for it.

⸻

🦷 How do I care for my puppy’s teeth?
• Start brushing your puppy’s teeth early with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Provide age safe natural raw treats/ chews to help keep teeth clean and soothe teething discomfort.
• Regular vet checks should include dental health assessments.

⸻

📅 When should I schedule the first vet visit?
• Within a few days after bringing your puppy home, or as advised by your breeder.
• The vet will check general health, schedule vaccinations, and answer any further inquiries.

⸻

🐶 How do I handle crying or whining at night?
• It’s important to understand that Dobermanns and German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent, and they quickly learn patterns.
• If your puppy cries at night, do not go to reassure or comfort them. The more attention you give in response to crying, the more they will repeat the behaviour.
• Instead, ignore the crying, they will soon learn that no one is coming, and within a few nights, most puppies settle and sleep through.
• That said, your puppy will still need to toilet once or twice during the night, especially in the first week or two. When this happens, take them out quietly and calmly with zero interaction, no cuddling, no praise, just straight out and back to bed.
• Teaching independence early on helps prevent separation anxiety, and your puppy will learn to sleep peacefully through the night without relying on constant attention.

⸻

📚 What basic training should I start?
• At this age, exposure and confidence building are far more important than tricks or flashy obedience.
• Focus on teaching practical, lifelong behaviours that will keep your puppy safe and well-mannered as they grow.
• Key things to work on include:
• Barriers — teaching your puppy not to rush out of doors or crates until given permission.
• Boundaries — understanding what areas are off-limits or when it’s time to settle quietly.
• Neutrality — calmly ignoring other dogs, people, or distractions in public.
• Keep training short and positive. These foundational skills will shape your dog’s future far more than sit, paw, or roll over.

⸻

🤝 What support do I get from Xentader after bringing my puppy home?
• I’m here for lifetime support! Whether you have questions about training, health, or behavior, please reach out anytime.
• I want every Xentader puppy to thrive in their new home.