New Puppy Owner Info & FAQ

When does my puppy get to come home?

We will schedule a "puppy pick up day" at 8 weeks of age. Some people believe that pups can leave their mom and littermates as soon as they’re weaned at 6 weeks but it is important to trust a reputable breeder like Wild Roots Ranch because we make sure your puppy is not only weaned and eating a proper solid food diet but are getting the proper socialization required to become a good well rounded dog. In addition to their diet, weeks 6-8 are critical in providing life lessons that puppies need to learn from their mom and littermates, such as puppy "manners" like how to play gently with others.

At what age should my puppy start his vaccinations?

We provide the first set of puppy vaccinations and recommend that you find a reliable veterinarian ASAP to schedule the remaining puppy vaccinations. Puppies get a series of shots approximately every three weeks until they’re 16 weeks of age, and after that it’s just the yearly vaccines.

Click here to see our recommended vaccination schedule

Do my puppy's dew claws need to be removed?

Because front dewclaws serve an important purpose, they should not be removed unless there is a very good reason to do so. Dewclaws are basically the thumbs and big toes of the dog world. When dogs run, their front feet often bend and come in contact with the ground, when moving at high speeds (especially when turning) or on slippery surfaces, dewclaws offer extra traction and can help stabilize the carpal (wrist) joint. Labrador Retrievers are very active and it is very common Labs to use their dewclaws to help them climb trees, hold objects to better chew on them, or climb out of the water. Click here to read more about dewclaws.

What will my puppy come with?

Your puppy will come with a bandanna/blanket and small toy that have been with mom and litter-mates so your puppy has something that smells familiar to them. You will also receive a small bag of dog food that your puppy is accustomed to eating, keeping your dog on this food is ideal to prevent upset tummies (when you decide to change types of food, try to do so over a four- or five-day period by mixing the old food with the new food). You will also receive your AKC limited registration packet.

What do I need for my puppy

• Puppy Food, we feed all of our dogs diamond dog food, you’ll get a supply but if you plan to go with another brand, we suggest having it so you can gradually change the food over a two week period. This is the food they are eating now

• Bowls for food and water

• Blankets or towels for crate

• Lots of chew toys ~ Benebones are our favorite! We send the pup home with some toys, but getting through the chewing stage will be easier if they have a lot of toys to choose from.

• Dog bed- if the pup will be inside having a a bed will be helpful with training. Once he learns the bed is his safe indoor area, it will make things smoother.

• Dog Crate: We recommend starting your puppy on crate training, this will help the puppy feel safe and know where his place is in your home. If you plan to use a crate, you will want to purchase this item beforehand. Click here to see the crate that we recommend. You can use the crate divider when the puppy is small, and then slowly expand the inside area as the puppy grows.

Click here to read tips from our friends at AKC How to prepare for your new puppy