Beauciel Poodles is a very small
hobby breeding program. I do not support myself selling puppies (ask my husband if you have any doubts!)
and I do not breed very often. I breed a litter when I am looking for my next show dog and to become part
of my breeding program. According to Maryland law, no puppy can be sold that is under 6 weeks of age. Many breeders send
their puppies out at 8 weeks. I do not. I believe that there are a couple of good reasons
for this. Other breeders have different opinion and philosophies. These are mine.
To me, the first and best reason for not sending a puppy out under twelve weeks is because I do not give
the first puppy vaccination (DHPP) until the puppies are between 10 and 12 weeks old. It is known that
maternal immunity extends to at least 12 and possibly 20 weeks of age in puppies. By starting the vaccinations
sooner than 12 weeks, you could unintentionally “shortchange” a puppy by overlapping manufactured vaccine immunity
with maternal immunity. In addition, some of the biggest health problems in Standard Poodles today are
immune-mediated, such as Addison ’s disease and sebaceous adenitis. To over-stimulate the immune
system with early vaccines is to possibly risk health problems in the future.
The second reason for keeping the puppies longer is to keep them together as a group and with their dam for a longer
time. Keeping them longer, gives me time to safely expose them to new people and new situations to help
build their confidence. When someone turns on a leaf blower or a lawn mower, Beauciel puppies run toward
the sound rather than run away from these sounds. And when there is a thunderclap, Beauciel puppies sit
up and look but do not cower at the sound. Another important socialization lesson they learn from each
other and their dam is bite inhibition. They learn to be nicer dogs by interacting with each other.
I work with them on crate training, sitting for a treat and early leash training. Puppies need to
be slightly more mature to learn these lessons. All these activities help to boost their confidence.
Finally, since the puppy I choose from a litter is meant to go forward as part of my breeding program, I
like to take the time to work with each of them and to watch closely as they grow and develop. They change
dramatically almost each day before my eyes. This close observation is beneficial for pet owners as well
because I have a very clear sense of each puppy’s personality and can match it to a home with a fairly high degree of
confidence that the match will work.
Some breeders insist that you follow their
feeding preferences. I do not. I do ask that people follow my vaccination and spay/neuter
protocol. I ask that people love these beautiful little beings and nurture them in such a way as to keep
their bright spirit and sense of fun throughout their lives.
Thank you for
considering a Beauciel puppy.