Frequently Asked Questions
Can we choose our own puppy? Short answer? No.
Rather than families selecting a puppy based on appearance, or collar colour, or who they “bond” with during their visit, we follow a temperament-based matching process. As the puppies grow, we assess each individual’s emerging confidence, human focus, recovery from novelty, sensitivity to handling, and general arousal levels. This allows us to recommend the puppy whose temperament and developmental profile is best suited to your household, routine, and long-term goals. Preferences such as sex and colour are always taken into account wherever possible.
Are there any expectations around desexing and timing? Yes. We do not expect for our new puppy families to have their dog desexed before 18 months of age. We have many reasons for this and will discuss these more with approved families.
Are the puppies ANKC Registered? Are they sold on Main or Limited Register?Puppies are all registered with DOgs AUstralia (ANKC) and will placed on the ANKC Limited Register unless otherwise discussed in advance.
Could you confirm which DNA/genetic tests have been completed? Are pups clear by parentage or individually tested?Both parents will have undergone full breed-relevant DNA testing (please see what individual tests are applicable for Labradors; there are too many to list here), and the puppies will be clear by parentage for all applicable hereditary conditions. Why do we not test individual puppies? There is really no need. Because the parents have been cleared, the puppies have no chance of carrying these genetic diseases.
Will the puppy be okay if I work full-time?Many of our puppy families do work full-time; however, the first few months are a critical developmental period. We strongly encourage prospective owners to consider what consistent day-to-day care arrangements will look like during this time, as young puppies benefit from a stable primary caregiver and gradual independence training.
Are your puppies raised indoors or outdoors?
All Haleana puppies are raised indoors within the home from birth. They are exposed to normal household routines, handling, and environmental enrichment as part of their early neurological and behavioural development.
What are the parents’ hip and elbow scores?Please see each individual dogs profile for hip and elbow scores, DNA testing, health clearance and colour genetics.
What early socialisation do the puppies receive?
Puppies are gradually exposed to a variety of age-appropriate experiences including:
Household sounds and activity
Handling by different adults
Supervised outdoor exploration
Novel surfaces
Basic grooming exposure
Enrichment activities
Our aim is to support confidence, resilience, and adaptability in new environments.