FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is the process to get a puppy?

Step 1: Fill out our Puppy Application

Step 2: Shoal Creek Family member, Esther or Suzy, will read over your puppy application and approve/reject it.

Step 3: Once you have been approved, ShoalCreek will send a propsal which includes both a contract and a invoice for the deposit.

Step 4: Once the contract is signed and Non-Refundable $500 deposit is placed we will get you on the waiting list.

Step 5: You are now on the waiting list for your puppy! Congrats! Now you can relax. It will be quiet on our end until the puppies are born. Once the puppies are born you will be notified!

Step 6: Five to six weeks from the time the puppy is born they will be seen by the vet so that we know if there is anything we need to disclose prior to the picking process.

Step 7: We will post the litter and individual puppy pictures to the website and notify those on the wait list that puppy pictures have been posted. Pictures of the puppies are posted when they are approx. 6 weeks old.

Step 8: You will choose your puppy in the order your deposit is placed, therefore, we will call everyone on the list to pick their puppy in that order. You can pick your puppy from pics on the website or from a scheduled FaceTime.

Step 9: You will schedule a time to pick up your puppy. The puppy cannot leave until it is exactly 8 weeks old. We allow people to pick up their puppy on either Friday, or Saturday. Our pickup times are between 10-12:00 p.m. We will put the pickup date on the litter page. We encourage everyone to pick up on puppy pick up day to allow for littermates families to meet each other and for everyone to ask questions that others may not have thought of.

Step 10: Time to enjoy your puppy! It will be a transition for your puppy so if you have any questions please don’t hesitate to call or text us. We are here for you for the life of this puppy and we want you to be successful with your puppy!

Step 11: After you pick up your puppy please tag us or share pictures with us either via text, Facebook, or Instagram!

How does the Waitlist work?

The waitlist process in general can be confusing, but this document talks about the waitlist and probably answers all of your questions about it (Sorry it is repetitive). You can of course ask any other questions and will have opportunities to do so throughout the process.

1. Application 2. Approval 3. Proposal 4. Waitlist

After you fill out an application your application is reviewed and either approved or denied.

In the approval email we specify a timeframe in which you may get on the waitlist. The timeframe is the earliest waitlist opportunity we have available. (For Example: If we say you are approved for Winter 2022 that means the timeframes before Winter 2022 have full waitlists, so winter is the earliest we can get you on the waitlist.)

The waitlist is an ever changing document for us, but we do get applications in everyday. So just because we send you that timeframe one day, doesn’t mean it will hold you a spot in that timeframe.

Along with the approval email we will send you a proposal. The proposal includes a waitlist contract and a deposit payment (taken via credit card). Once you have signed the waitlist contract and paid the deposit then you will be placed on the waitlist.

Only a signed AND paid proposal will get you on the waitlist.

Your Puppy:

We want you to get the puppy that you love. color gender everything. That is why we allow you to pass. We can’t allow you to pass into the next timeframe though because it messes with the list. If that worries you because you are low on the list fear not we have planned for that too! That is why we also have the rule that you can only pass 3 times. We will keep that in mind if you are low on the list.

We do not take deposits based on gender or color

You choose your puppy, so you choose color and gender. If the color or gender is not available when you are contacted then you may pass on that litter

Merle – chocolate – tuxedo – they are rarer color combos and therefore we cannot guarantee we will have them in the timeframe that you were placed in (or that you chose)

When it is your turn to pick we will contact you and have you look on the website at the pictures of the pups. Generally, even if you are low on the list there will be several to choose from. Even sometimes from different litters. We make sure you have options so that you get the pup you love.

Timing:

You are most likely going to be contacted early. We under estimate so as not to run short on puppies that means we will be contacting the next list for puppies. That is why it is important to be specific about timeframe so if you are wanting one later we do not contact you until you are ready.

We will tell you the earliest possible timeframe, but if that is too soon let us know and we will put you on the next list (or the next list) We like early planners. ​

Timeframe:

You cannot pass beyond your timeframe

Spring: March – May

Summer: June – August

Fall: September – November

Winter: December – February

We always under estimate the amount of puppies we will have so you will get a puppy if you are on that list for a specific timeframe

The more specific you are about the timeframe you are wanting a puppy the less repeated texts you will get

Passing:

When it is your turn to pick we will contact you and have you look on the website at the pictures of the pups. Generally, even if you are low on the list there will be several to choose from. Even sometimes from different litters. We make sure you have options so that you get the pup you love. If you do not like any of the ones currently on the website then you can pass. You cannot pass more than 3 times without forfeiting your spot. You also cannot pass beyond the timeframe you are listed in. Some people pass because they do not have the color preference they want, but it also considered a pass if you are contacted and are not available to pick a puppy at that time, or if you have a vacation planned or something along those lines. It will not be considered a pass outside your timeframe if you are contacted before your timeframe and decide to wait till your timeframe. That is why it is important to specify your timeframe in communication with us.

We want you to get the puppy that you love. color gender everything. That is why we allow you to pass. We can’t allow you to pass into the next timeframe though because it messes with the list. If that worries you because you are low on the list fear not we have planned for that too! That is why we also have the rule that you can only pass 3 times. We will keep that in mind if you are low on the list.

You can only pass 3 times before you are removed

We can’t allow you to pass into the next timeframe though because it messes with the list. If that worries you because you are low on the list fear not we have planned for that too! That is why we also have the rule that you can only pass 3 times. We will keep that in mind if you are low on the list. ​

Honeybook

We use a system called Honeybook to manage applications, contracts, and communication. The Puppy Application is done through Honeybook and once you fill it out that is where we go to find it. We will be sending you all the communication, proposals, approvals through Honeybook which will come to your email. It does go to your promotional or spam folder, so make sure to keep checking there for our responses. We can see your application and will respond as early as we can. Our response will come to you as an email, but then you can sign in to Honeybook and see all the communication there. You can feel free to ask questions via Honeybook. They have an app if that would be easier for you!

The nice thing about Honeybook is that you can continue to upload documents like your first vet visit paperwork and your spay and nueter paperwork. That way it is all stored in the same place as your contract. It makes viewing it for us much easier.

What will my puppy come with?

Their dew claws removed (Three days of age)

Microchipped

Dewormed at Week 2,4,6 and three days before going home

All age-appropriate vaccinations

A COMPLETE examination performed by our vet and their contact information

2 yr. Genetic Guarantee

Started on a healthy diet of Purina Pro Plan Focus Puppy Small/Medium Breed Chicken and Rice Formula

Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Advanced Puppy Socialization

75% potty trained. 100% Potty trained through a doggy door.

Our commitment that we will be here to answer any questions for the lifetime of your puppy!

A Lifetime of Love, Laughter, Licks, and Loyalty!

What is the difference between an F1/F1b and Multigen?

F1, F1b, Multigen, F2…All of it can get confusing. We breed Micro, Mini and Standard F1/F1bs. An F1 means 50% Poodle and 50% Retriever. An F1 has a wavier coat and has a blockier look. F1b’s are curlier, therefore, they are more hypoallergenic, if you have allergies the F1b is the way to go. As far as breeding goes, the F1b is created from breeding an F1 Goldendoodle to a Poodle.

 

Multigen terminology gets much more confusing. Multigen is essientally a Goldendoodle bred to a Goldendoodle. They look just like the F1 or F1b. They can have curly or wavy coats and they come in more colors than the F1. For more information on coats and colors click here.

What will I need for my new puppy?

Over the years, we have tried many, many products and have spent hours extensively researching many of the products on the market today. With that experience and knowledge, we’ve compiled a list of puppy products and brands that we feel are deserving of your investment. This is a list of recommended puppy products and brands that are tried and true in our professional opinion. We hope this will help our new families navigate the process of raising a healthy, happy puppy.

  • Food We’re currently feeding Nutri-Source Small and Medium Puppy food. We love this food and recommend that you feed one full bag of Nutri-Source. This will help with the transitioning process. Then we recommend that you switch to Purina Pro Plan Focus Puppy Small/Medium Breed Chicken and Rice Formula.

  • Food and Water Bowls

  • An old towel For traveling.

  • Paper towels and baby wipes

  • Chew Toys We prefer Kong’s or West Paw Zogoflex Dog Toys– Please NO rawhides

  • A small-sized squeaker toy

  • Moisturizing Puppy Shampoo and Conditioner

  • Pinbrush or FURminator

  • A Lifestages Crate. Be sure to get the divider so the crate can grow with your puppy.

  • A Leash and Collar. We recommend at least an 8″-12″ expandable collar; you will need a lightweight 6′ nylon leash until the puppy gets bigger. Although your puppy may not love the leash, to begin with, it’s a good idea to start early. We do NOT recommend retractable leashes for both puppy’s safety and yours!

  • Harness Distributes the puppy’s weight, so you are not pulling it from the throat with a leash.

  • Potty Bells

Please click HERE to see our shopping List page for more items.

Can I see pictures of what an F1/ F1b looks like at maturity?

Yes! Our Instagram @shoalcreekdoods is the place to go to see OUR doodles from past litters. Instagram is also a great place to connect with puppies from the same litter! HERE is an article that will also show you the difference between the mini F1 and F1b coat.

Do you ship your puppies?

At Golden Doodle Puppies Home, we take transporting your future pup very seriously. These pups are our babies, and we love them with all our hearts; therefore, we only allow the puppies to be transported using the following trusted options.

*Pet currier service through Ozark Jet-a-Pet

* You plan a flight in to meet the puppy

* You hire a flight nanny that would act as a 3rd party

Ozark Jet-a-pet

We offer transportation to your nearest pet-friendly airport if you cannot pick up your puppy at the farm. We hire Ozark Jet-a-Pet, a pet courier service. Ozark Jet A Pet is a USDA-certified, family-owned pet courier service that takes pride in providing our customers with the most up-to-date services and state-of-the-art transportation available while delivering the friendly, helpful service our customers deserve. They offer safe and reliable pet transportation year-round, with over ten years of experience in pet shipping. Our customers are always impressed with how well Ozark Jet-a-Pet takes care of their pets when they arrive at their nearest airport. Click here to see available shipping destinations.

One of the most frequently asked questions regarding travel is, will it be a direct flight? Most of the time, there is a layover in either Chicago or Dallas. Under USDA regulations, when a puppy has a layover, the airlines must hire individuals to feed, water, and play with the puppies. In addition, Ozark Jet A Pet tracks the puppies throughout their journey to you. The puppies are very well taken care of. If they weren’t, we wouldn’t send them. We put too much love and time into our puppies to send them transportation methods where they may experience trauma.

These puppies must also have:

Our vet provided a health certificate to travel

Airline approved paperwork

Airline approved travel crate with a clip-on food and water dish

We will provide all of this for you. The cost of shipping a puppy is $600.

Flight Nanny

The Flight Nanny is 3rd party service. We do not have recommendations.

 

You fly in

You are welcome to fly in to our nearest airports which are SGF (Springfield MO) and XNA( Fayetteville AR). We charge $150 to meet you at the airport with the puppy or you are welcome to rent a car and come to the farm.

Will they shed?

Goldendoodles range in shedding from minimal to no shedding. F1’s will have minimal shedding, but not enough to notice. F1b’s and F2’s have no shedding.

My Child/I have allergies. What kind of coat will work for us?

If you or a loved one has allergies the Goldendoodle breed is the perfect breed for you! As you have probably read on several sites the curliness of the hair coat is key. People with allergies should look for a puppy with a curlier coat. These coats are generally found with an F1b or an F2 (Multi-gen). Please CLICK HERE to read an article that explains more in depth what doodle works for you.

Am I required to spay and neuter our puppy?

Yes, we do require your puppy to be spayed and neutered. The details are spelled out in our contract which you will be issued upon placing your deposit.

Do you have a guarantee on your puppies?

Yes, we do have a guarantee on our puppies for genetics. The details are spelled out in our contract. CLICK HERE to view the contract

Are your parents genetically tested?

Yes, our parents are genetically tested through Embark and PawPrint Genetics.

Do you allow visitors?

Of course, we welcome visitors, which quickly become friends to all of us at ShoalCreek! You are always welcome in our home. However, it’s not always possible to visit with our puppies. We are very strict as to when we allow others to see and hold our babies based on when they have had their vaccinations. It is our ultimate goal to raise healthy, happy puppies and to do this; we must make sure that no foreign bacteria is carried into their facilities before they have their complete immunities! Believe me; it is as hard for us as it is for you! We are always anxious to “SHOW OFF” our beautiful babies, but we have to remember what’s best for everyone! We want you to get your perfect puppy! We do ask that you call first and make an appointment so we can make sure we have plenty of time to spend answering your questions and making you feel at home. We allow visitors Friday – Saturday with an one hour appointment.

 

Most of our customers drive from Bentonville, Rogers, St. Louis, Kansas City, and Springfield so if you do plan on making the trip down to see us please make sure you plan your trip to arrive between 10-12. If you plan on flying in to meet the puppies then please message us so we can work with your flight schedule.

How long have you been breeding?

Golden Doodle Puppies Home was est. in 2014. Click here to read more about us.

What do you do with the puppies that don’t sell?

At Golden Doodle Puppies Home all of our puppies find loving FURever homes! We believe that each of our puppies has a purpose which is why donate select puppies to a PTSD veteran program in upper state New York.

What’s your return policy if I can no longer keep my puppy?

We recommend that everyone take into consideration the work of a puppy and the lifelong commitment it takes to raise one. However, we also know that situations arise in which case we will help the puppy find a better home. Additional details are spelled out in our contract which you will be issued upon placing your deposit.

Still, have questions?"

Feel free to contact us with any additional questions you may have!

From Puppy Love to Lifelong Loyalty
Whether you’re seeking a loyal protector, a playful companion, or a gentle giant, we have the ideal pup waiting just for you.