Partner Family Program

partnering with families who share A love AND PASSION for the Miniature American Shepherd

As a small, in-home breeder, my priority is to raise Miniature American Shepherds in a hands-on, family environment where each dog receives the time, attention, and care they deserve. Because of this, I intentionally keep a limited number of dogs in my home.

To continue growing my program responsibly without compromising quality of life, I partner with a select number of families who are willing to play an important role in my breeding program.

These are not typical pet placements—they are thoughtful partnerships with families who understand the responsibility involved and take pride in contributing to the preservation and improvement of the breed.

A key part of this partnership is allowing me to watch each dog grow and mature. Not every dog will ultimately be bred. Placement in this program simply gives me the opportunity to evaluate them over time. If they develop as hoped and successfully pass all required health testing, they may then be considered for breeding.

If a dog does not end up being bred, they will be spayed or neutered (at the partner family’s expense) and full ownership is transferred to the Partner Family.
I am incredibly selective about these homes, as Partner/Guardian Families make a meaningful contribution to my program and to the future of each dog.

The role of a

Family Partner

Partner Families agree to provide a stable, long-term home for a breeding-quality dog and agree to work collaboratively with me during the dog’s time in the program.

This role requires commitment, communication, and flexibility. Families who take part are making a meaningful contribution and are expected to uphold excellent standards of care and reliability.

Male vs. Female Commitments

Expectations differ depending on whether the dog is male or female:

MALES

  • Typically remain active in the program for 2–5 years, depending on terms of the contract
  • May be requested periodically for health testing, breeding and/or showing in conformation
  • Time away from home is generally brief and infrequent

FEMALEs

  • Remain in the program for 1 or 2 litters 
  • Return for Showing in conformation, breeding and whelping/puppy raising. Puppy raising is typically a 6-8 week commitment.
  • All timelines and expectations are clearly discussed and agreed upon prior to placement.

Requirements

Due to the nature of this partnership, I ask that partner families:

  • Live within approximately 2 hours of Carleton Place, Ontario
  • Commit to keeping the dog intact for the duration of the agreement

Provide: 
  • Quality nutrition
  • A safe, clean, and structured home environment
  • Routine veterinary care
  • Appropriate training, exercise, and socialization
  • Open and consistent communication regarding the dog’s health and availability

Willingness to make the dog available when required for:
  • Health testing
  • Breeding
  • (for females) whelping and puppy care

Participation requires reliability and flexibility, as breeding timelines cannot always be adjusted.

Incentives & What We Provide

We recognize the level of commitment involved in this role and ensure our Partner Families are compensated and supported:

  • Significantly reduced upfront cost for a high-quality, breeding-potential Miniature American Shepherd
  • Financial compensation for each breeding that results in puppies (details outlined clearly in the agreement)
  • Coverage of all breeding-related expenses, including, health testing, breeding costs and whelping and puppy care
  • Ongoing breeder support and guidance throughout the dog’s life
  • Once commitments are complete, the dog is retired, spayed/neutered and remains with your family permanently.

Become a Family Partner

Please reach out if you’d like to know more about the Family Partnership program.

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