How Doberman guardian homes work

Guardian programs let breeders keep a small number of dogs in kennels while their breeding dogs live in real homes. For the right family, it's an affordable way to own a well-bred Doberman.

How it works

1. You apply and are matched. The breeder chooses a puppy or young adult with breeding potential and places it with you.
2. The dog lives with you as your pet. You handle daily care, training, food and routine vet visits.
3. The breeder uses the dog for breeding. For a female, that means returning her to the breeder around breeding, and usually for whelping and raising the litter. For a male, it usually means short visits for breeding.
4. The program ends. After an agreed number of litters or a set age, the breeder pays for the spay or neuter and transfers full ownership to you.

What you get

• A well-bred Doberman for little or no purchase price
• Support from the breeder throughout the dog's life
• A family dog that never has to leave you permanently

What you agree to

• Living within a set driving distance of the breeder
• Keeping the dog intact until the program ends
• Following the breeder's rules for food, health care and safety
• Bringing the dog in for health testing, breeding and, for females, whelping
• For females, being away from home for several weeks per litter

Questions to ask before signing

1. How many litters, and by what age does the program end?
2. Who pays for which vet bills, health testing and the spay or neuter?
3. How long will a female be away for each litter?
4. What happens if the dog isn't suitable for breeding?
5. What happens if I need to move or can't keep the dog?
6. Can I see the full contract before I commit?

A fair contract is clear on all of these. Read it carefully, and don't be afraid to ask for changes before you sign.

Owego's program

As an example, Owego Dobermans' guardian program has no purchase price, covers 3 to 4 litters, and Owego pays for the spay or neuter when it ends. Guardian families apply through the same application as puppy buyers (Owego guardian program).

Frequently asked questions

Is a guardian dog really mine?

During the program, the breeder usually keeps legal ownership or co-ownership. The dog lives with you as your pet, and full ownership transfers when the program ends.

Can a guardian dog be a family pet with kids?

Yes. Guardian dogs are chosen for good temperament, and living in a family home is the whole point.

What if my guardian female has health problems?

Most contracts end breeding if the dog isn't healthy, and the breeder covers related costs. Confirm this in writing.