more information about our program

"Can we come see the puppies in person?"

We understand this is a common question, and we truly appreciate the interest in meeting our puppies. However, because our puppies are born and raised inside our home—not in kennels—we do not allow in-person visits from the general public. This decision is made with the health and safety of our puppies, adult dogs, and family as our top priority.

Here are several important reasons behind our policy:

1. Health and Immune System Protection
   Puppies are born with immature immune systems and are especially vulnerable before they’ve completed their vaccination series. Visitors can unintentionally carry viruses or bacteria on their hands, clothing, or shoes, posing a serious health risk to our litters.
    
2. Stress and Safety for the Mothers
   Our mother dogs (dams) are incredibly protective of their litters. Unfamiliar visitors can cause them unnecessary stress, which may lead to a release of cortisol—a hormone that can negatively affect puppies through the mother’s milk. Additionally, a stressed dam is more likely to accidentally injure her puppies by stepping or lying on them.
    
3. Theft and Security Concerns
   Sadly, theft of puppies and breeding dogs is a growing issue. For the safety of our dogs, our home, and our family, we limit access to our property to prevent any potential risk.
    
4. Unpredictable Reactions
   While many people, including children, are wonderful with animals, not everyone knows how to safely interact with young puppies. An innocent mistake can easily lead to an injury—especially during the critical early weeks of development.
    
5. Our Priority is Safety—Not Sales
   Above all, the well-being of our animals, our family, and our home comes first. We are committed to finding the right homes for our puppies, but never at the expense of their safety or health.
    

We’re more than happy to provide frequent photos and videos of the puppies, and we encourage open communication throughout the process. If you have questions or would like to request updates, please don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always here to help.

Thank you for understanding and respecting our policies. They are in place to ensure the very best start for every puppy we raise.

Do you require a deposit?

Yes and heres why. A non-refundable deposits assure breeders that they have buyers for their beloved pups and also helps cover upfront costs for breeders. Non-refundable deposits also serve for advertising the new litter. Payment of a non-refundable deposit indicates to a breeder that a potential buyer is serious and not just “window-shopping".  Buyers who are willing to pay non-refundable deposits are typically buyers who believe they have found the right breeder for them and are committed to following through with purchasing a puppy. This means that non-refundable deposits protect breeders from a situation where a buyer backs out and a breeder must then dedicate unexpected time and energy finding new homes after declining multiple people because the puppy was already marked as sold, while also caring for the remaining pups. We can not hold a puppy without a deposit, even for previous clients because we could be accused of showing favoritism or bias, so to be fair, deposits are required to hold. The deposit ensures the buyer gets the pup theyre wanting. We do not currently require a deposit to be placed on a wait list. We appreciate everyone who has previously provided a home for our babies and enjoy updates.  Thank you for your understanding.

At Heartland Kennels, our puppies are primarily placed in loving pet homes, where they can thrive as cherished family companions. We are committed to the health, temperament, and overall well-being of every puppy we raise.

To uphold these high standards, we work with a limited list of pre-approved breeders who meet our strict criteria for ethics, care, and responsible breeding practices. Only breeders who have successfully completed our approval process are eligible to purchase puppies from our program, ensuring each puppy’s future aligns with the values and quality standards that define Heartland Kennels.

If you are interested in becoming an approved breeder for the purchase of full rights, please contact us to receive our questionnaire. The screening process may take 7–10 days.

Thank you for your understanding and support of our mission to raise healthy, happy puppies.

Ownership & Care
Ownership transfers once the puppy is paid in full and delivered/picked up. Puppies require proper housing, nutrition, grooming, exercise, socialization, secure fencing, and routine veterinary care.

Spay/Neuter Agreement
Puppies sold with Limited Registration may not be bred. Breeding voids all guarantees. Papers will be received upon proof of spay/neuter.

Return Policy
If you cannot keep your puppy, contact the us directly. Puppies may not be surrendered to shelters. Refunds are not guaranteed. But we can help network to find a forever placement.

Health Guarantee
Our puppies are healthy at the time of sale. We recommend a vet exam within 72 hours.

Covered Conditions
This 1-year guarantee covers serious congenital or hereditary defects that significantly impact quality of life, such as severe heart defects, hip dysplasia, or hereditary neurological disorders.

Exclusions
Does not cover minor issues, injuries, illnesses after sale, allergies, cosmetic features, or problems from neglect, improper care, or unapproved breeding.

Claims & Remedies
Notify the us within 7 days of diagnosis with vet documentation. If confirmed, you may receive a replacement puppy of equal value or a refund up to 50% of the purchase price. Travel costs are not included.

Guarantee Voids If
The puppy is neglected, bred without approval, or rehomed without Breeder consent.