About Our Breeding Program
Breeding Program:
Here at Brentwood Border Collies, we only breed dogs that have passed their OFA hip tests, have been tested for (or are clear by parentage) CEA/CH, CL, and TNS. If a dog in our breeding program is not clear on any of these DNA tests, they will only be bred to a clear dog so that none of the puppies will be infected. All dogs in our breeding program will be proven in the breed ring, and will not be bred until they are a minimum of 2 years old.
Prospective Buyers:
Each prospective buyer is required to fill out a questionnaire. This enables both the buyer and breeder to fit a puppy to your plans and lifestyle. When you send the completed application, I will contact you.
If the puppy is being sold to a show home, the puppy will be sold on full registration, and will be co-owned by me. This ensures good breeding practices, and also protects my lines and the Border Collie breed.
If being sold to a performance home, the puppy will be sold on limited registration--unless you also plan on showing in conformation. In that case, the puppy will be sold on full registration and co-owned with me. If sold on limited registration, you cannot show in conformation, but will still be permitted to show in performance sports. The puppy must be spayed/neutered if sold on limited registration.
For companion homes, the puppy will be sold ONLY on limited registration, and MUST be spayed/neutered. You will be required to show proof of spay/neuter that you receive from your veterinarian.
Puppy Rearing:
Puppies are born in our home, and are under my constant supervision. Since they are in my home, they are socialized to many sounds, animals, and people.
3-16 Days: We use Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) on each puppy
Dewclaws are removed at 3-4 days old
2 Weeks: Puppies' eyes and ears begin to open. Since they are raised in a room adjacent to our kitchen, they will become used to pots and pans banging, doors closing, people talking, etc. They continue to receive ENS.
4 Weeks: Puppies begin to make short trips outside--weather permitting. They get to play in the grass in a fenced-in area. They will not be left unsupervised as I will be outside with them. Starting at 4 weeks, we begin the weaning process.
6 Weeks: Puppies stay outside for longer periods, and crate training begins. They also get introduced to different animals-ducks and cats-and are socialized with people of all ages.
7 weeks: At 6 1/2-7 weeks, the puppies are dewormed. They will also receive their first shots.
8 Weeks: Temperament and structural testing occurs. The puppies are available to go to their new homes by this time.