Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you want to know about our puppies, our process, and bringing your new family member home.
About Our Puppies FAQ
What breeds do you raise at Silverton Doodles?
We specialize in two wonderful doodle breeds: Mini Aussiedoodles (Mini Australian Shepherd × Miniature Poodle) and Bernedoodles (Bernese Mountain Dog × Poodle). Our doodles are generation F1, meaning first-generation crosses between two purebred parents..
Our Dams and Studs are all AKC registered purebreds with champion bloodlines, health tested, and genetically screened through Embark or Paw Print Genetics.
What size doodles are your puppies?
Mini Aussiedoodles can typically mature between 20–35 lbs and stand about 12–18 inches tall. They're great because of their compact size but big enough to rough-house with kids, and small enough for apartment living.Bernedoodles from our program are generally in the 80-100 lb range depending on the litter pairing. We'll give you a more specific estimate based on the parents' sizes when you're reserving as these variable matter more.
Size can vary within a litter. We're always happy to chat about expected weights for the specific litter you're interested in.
Are doodles hypoallergenic? Do they shed?
No dog is 100% hypoallergenic! However, doodles are considered low-shedding and are often tolerated well by people with mild dog allergies because they carry the Poodle's low-shedding coat genetics.
Because we specialize in F1 crosses, our puppies will have some variation in coat type. Some pups will have a wavier (slightly more shedding), some curlier (less shedding). We can help match you to a puppy whose coat genetics best fit your household if need be. We use Embark DNA to test for the furnishings and shedding genes in our breeding dogs.
If allergies are a concern, we recommend spending time with a doodle before committing. We're happy to arrange a meet at pickup or answer specific questions.
What is Puppy Culture and why does it matter?
Puppy Culture is a science-based early development curriculum used by the world's best breeders. We follow it from the moment puppies are born through go-home day. It includes:
- Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) — days 3–16, builds stress resilience
- Early Scent Introduction (ESI) — improves sensory curiosity
- Emotional Superdog exercises — develops problem-solving confidence
- Socialization protocol — puppies meet new textures, sounds, people, and environments
The result is a puppy that arrives at your home emotionally resilient, curious, and ready to bond with you and your family.
Are puppies raised inside your home?
Absolutely! Every puppy at Silverton Doodles is born and raised inside our family home in Silverton, Oregon. Our dogs are not kenneled, not barn-raised, and not separated from family activity. They are born in my own room, then transitioned to their own puppy room right next to mine.
From the moment they open their eyes, they hear the dishwasher, see other dogs, feel different textures , and are handled daily by our family. All of doodle puppies are house dogs from day one and is a huge reason our puppies adjust so smoothly to their new homes.
Are Mini Aussiedoodles good with kids and other pets?
Yes, the Mini Aussiedoodles are one of the most family-friendly breeds we know. They're energetic and playful enough to keep up with active kids, but also snuggly and gentle. Genetics plays a much bigger role than just the breed. Our Dams and Sires are carefully selected not for their looks, but for their amazing lineages and proven temperament.
When properly socialized (which our Puppy Culture protocol handles), they do wonderfully with other dogs and even cats. Introducing your doodle correctly is key.
How much exercise do Mini Aussiedoodles need?
Mini Aussiedoodles are moderately active to active dogs. As adults, they'll be happiest with 30–60 minutes of exercise daily, like most dogs, including walks, play sessions, fetch, or hiking. They're also mentally sharp and benefit from training games and puzzle toys.
As puppies, follow the "5 minutes per month of age" rule for walks. Example- a 3-month-old gets 15 minutes. Over-exercising young joints can actually cause long-term issues.
Oregon's trails and parks make Mini Aussiedoodles a perfect Pacific Northwest companion!
What's the difference between a Mini Aussiedoodle and a Bernedoodle?
Mini Aussiedoodle: moderately energetic, agile, loves to play and their people. Inherits the Mini Aussie's intelligence and the Poodle's low-shed coat. Great for retired families, outdoorsy people, really almost any family!
Bernedoodle: calmer, more laid-back, deeply loyal. The Bernese Mountain Dog side brings a gentle giant temperament. Bernedoodles are known for being goofy, affectionate, and great with children. Slightly larger and more mellow.
Not sure which is right for you? Reach out and we'll help you decide based on your lifestyle!
Health & Testing
What health testing do you do on your breeding dogs?
We believe in going the extra mile to ensure we produce the best doodle puppies. All of our breeding dogs are tested through Embark DNA or Paw Print Genetics because they are two of the most comprehensive canine genetic testing services available.
We're happy to share health certificates for the parents of any litter you're interested in, or you may view them on each of our parent dog pages.
What vaccinations and vet care will my puppy have before coming home?
Every puppy leaves Silverton Doodles with:
- Age-appropriate vaccinations (DHPP at minimum)
- Deworming treatments (multiple rounds)
- A full veterinary health check by our local Oregon vet, Abiqua Animal Clinic
- A health record documenting everything given
- Receipt from the vet clinic
We'll let you know exactly what your puppy received and what their next vet appointment should include so you can be prepared.
What food will my puppy eat?
All doodle puppies are eating Pro Plan Puppy: Chicken & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food. We choose Purina Pro (the premium dog food line) because our vet sells it and my dogs love it. Win-win!
We recommend continuing with the same food for at least the first 1–2 weeks to avoid digestive upset from a change in diet on top of the transition stress of a new home.
If you'd like to switch foods, make a slow transition over 7–10 days by gradually mixing in the new food with the old.
We send a small supply of puppy food home with each puppy to help with the transition.
Are your dogs AKC Registered?
I am so proud to say all of our breeding Dams and Studs are AKC-registered purebreds, with some even from champion bloodlines. This means you can verify the lineage and breed standards of both of your puppy's parents. I've even met all of our dogs' parents to ensure temperament and conformation.
Note that doodle puppies themselves (as mixed breeds) are not AKC registrable, but both of their purebred parents are, which is what matters when verifying breeding quality.
Adoption Process
How does the adoption process work from start to finish?
Here's the typical journey from first contact to bringing your puppy home:
1. Reach out. Call, email, or even text. Tell us about your family and what you're looking for.
2. Review available or upcoming litters. We'll let you know what's available or when the next litter is expected.
3. Place a deposit. A deposit holds your spot in the litter.
4. Selection day. We'll help you choose the right puppy for your family.
5. Updates. We share photos and videos as the puppies grow.
6. Go-home day! At 8 weeks, your puppy goes home with their health records, food, and our ongoing support.
Do I need to fill out an application
Yes, we ask adopting families to complete a brief adoption application. It's not a pass/fail process. We use it to understand your household, lifestyle, and what you're looking for so we can make the best match.
We're a small, family-run program and we care about where every single puppy goes. We want to make sure each pup ends up in a home that's set up for success.
Can I visit?
We welcome visits, especially for families who are still deciding or have allergy concerns. We ask that you reach out in advance to schedule. We're a family home, not a storefront, so we just want to make sure timing works for everyone.
For biosecurity reasons (puppies' immune systems are still developing), we'll ask visitors to follow basic hygiene protocols such as washing hands and avoiding contact with very young puppies. All visits will be no more than 15 minutes.
At what age do puppies go home?
Our puppies go home at 8 weeks of age. This is the ideal window. This ensures they've had enough time with their mother and littermates to develop social skills, but are still in the prime bonding window with humans.
We follow the Puppy Culture "Rule of 7s" and socialization windows carefully, so our 8-week puppies arrive at your home with a strong foundation already in place.
Do you offer a contract? What does it cover?
Yes, every adoption includes a written puppy contract. It covers:
- The health guarantee and its terms
- Your responsibilities as the new owner (vet checks, spay/neuter terms)
- Our return policy. We always take our puppies back if you can no longer care for them, no matter how much time has passed
- Deposit and payment terms
We're always happy to send the contract in advance so you can review it with no pressure.
Pricing & Deposits
How much do your puppies cost?
Pricing varies by litter, breed, and occasionally coat color. Please call or text us at (503) 560-7169 or send an email for current pricing on available or upcoming litters.
Our pricing reflects the cost of responsible breeding: AKC registration, Embark and Paw Print genetic testing, vet visits, vaccines, dewormings, Puppy Culture materials, quality food, (my house!) and the time we invest in raising each puppy right.
How does the deposit work?
A deposit is required to hold your spot in a litter. The deposit is applied toward the total purchase price of your puppy.
Deposits are generally non-refundable but transferable to a future litter if something changes on your end. If we have to cancel a litter on our side (which is rare), your deposit is fully refunded.
Full details are in our contract so feel free to ask for a copy before you commit.
What payment do you accept
We accept payment via cash, check, or Venmo. We do not accept credit cards directly.
The remaining balance is due at or before pickup.
What payment do you accept
We accept payment via cash, check, or Venmo. We do not accept credit cards directly.
The remaining balance is due at or before pickup.
Pickup & Travel
Where are you located and how do I pick up my puppy?
We're located in Silverton, Oregon which is about 45 minutes south of Portland and 15 minutes east of Salem. Most families come to our home for pickup, which gives you a chance to meet the parents and see where your puppy was raised.
We're flexible on timing and are happy to coordinate a pickup time that works for your family.
Where are you located and how do I pick up my puppy?
We've delivered puppies across Oregon, Washington, California, and even Nevada. We're happy to meet you partway or arrange a meet-up location if traveling to Silverton is difficult.
We've worked with families who are out of state and are experienced with making this smooth and comfortable for both you and your puppy. Contact us to discuss options.
What should I bring on pick-up day?
For a smooth pickup day, bring:
- A crate or carrier for the car ride home (familiar and safe for the puppy)
- A blanket or towel (we'll add a bit of your puppy's scent from their littermates to help with the transition)
- Payment balance if paying at pickup
We'll have all health records, vaccine documentation, and a starter kit ready for you.
What should I bring on pick-up day?
For a smooth pickup day, bring:
- A crate or carrier for the car ride home (familiar and safe for the puppy)
- A blanket or towel (we'll add a bit of your puppy's scent from their littermates to help with the transition)
- Payment balance if paying at pickup
We'll have all health records, vaccine documentation, and a starter kit ready for you.
Puppy Care at Home
How do I prepare my home for a new puppy?
Before your puppy comes home, set up a "puppy zone" as a safe, contained space like a crate or dog pen , water bowl, and a few toys. Puppies feel safer with a smaller space at first rather than a whole house to roam.
Essential items to have ready:
- Puppy food (they will be on Purina Pro Puppy Plan)
- Water and food bowls
- Collar with ID tag and 4-foot leash
- Puppy-safe toys (rope, squeaky, chew toys)
- Puppy pads or plan for frequent outdoor potty breaks
How do I potty train my doodle puppy?
Consistency is everything! Take your puppy out to potty:
- Immediately after waking up
- After every meal (within 15-30 minutes)
- After play sessions
- Every 1–2 hours during the day
- Right before bed
Always use the same outdoor spot if possible because the scent helps cue them. When they go outside, celebrate enthusiastically! Positive reinforcement is far more effective than corrections. All of my dogs know the word "potty" is their cue to go when we're outside.
What if something happens and I can't take care of my puppy?
Life happens and we understand that. Our contract includes a return policy. We will always take a puppy we bred back, no matter how much time has passed. We will never let one of our dogs end up in a shelter.
If you find yourself in a situation where you can no longer care for your dog, please contact us first. We'd rather you call us than surrender the dog to a rescue.
Do you offer support after I bring my puppy home?
Yes, always. We genuinely care about every puppy we've raised and we're here for the long haul. If you have questions about training, behavior, health concerns, grooming, or anything else, I'll be here!
Many of our families stay in touch for years and we love getting updates and photos as your puppy grows up. You're not just buying a puppy, you're joining the Silverton Doodles family.