Frequently Asked Questions
Should I Pick a Male or Female Puppy?
Choosing between a male or female puppy involves several considerations:
Existing Pets: Do you have other dogs at home? If so, we generally recommend choosing the opposite gender to minimize potential dominance issues.
Size Preference: If you need or want a larger dog, males are typically the better option, as they usually measure about 23–24 inches (58–61 cm) at the shoulder and weigh between 70 to 85 lbs. Females, on the other hand, are generally smaller, standing about 21½–22½ inches (55–57 cm) and weighing around 60 to 70 lbs.
Spaying/Neutering Considerations: We recommend waiting to spay or neuter until your puppy is at least one year old, preferably two. If you choose a female, please be aware that she will go through a heat cycle during this time. Are you comfortable managing that?
Ultimately, consider your lifestyle, home environment, and specific needs when making your decision. We’re here to help guide you through the process!
Do Goldens Shed?
Yes, they do! Golden Retrievers are known to shed, and while some may shed more than others, you can expect regular shedding. Daily brushing and a high-quality diet can help minimize the amount of fur around your home. Regular grooming not only keeps their coat healthy but also helps manage shedding!
How Long is the Waiting List for Your Puppies?
The length of the waiting list can vary significantly and is difficult to predict. Several factors come into play, including:
The number of puppies each female produces.
The temperament, personality, and health of each puppy.
Our commitment to matching puppies with families based on specific needs.
We carefully evaluate each puppy from birth to ensure they are matched with the right families, whether for service work or as companion pets. Additionally, we retain some puppies from each litter for our breeding and training programs.
Rest assured, families on our waitlist understand the process and are happy to wait for their perfect puppy!
How do I get one of your puppies?
Complete the Application: Fill in the application form.
Schedule a Phone Call: We'll discuss any questions you may have.
Non-Refundable Holding Fee: If approved, a $500 fee/donation secures your spot and goes toward your puppy balance. We accept:
Good Dog: Preferred payment method with $0 fees (see bottom of page).
Zelle: Add a 1% fee; total is $505 (send to victoria@hopeservicedogs.org).
Check: Payable to Hope Service Dogs, Inc., sent to 1990 S US 301, Sumterville, FL 33585.
Join Our Puppy Wait List: You will be added to our list after the holding fee is received.
Connect with Our Community: Request to join our Puppy Family Facebook group once your application is approved and the holding fee is processed.
Puppy Wait List Notification: When your name comes up, we’ll contact you to see if you’re ready for your HSD Puppy. At this time, a $1,000 payment toward your balance is due.
Puppy Matching: You will be matched with a puppy based on your needs when they are 7-8 weeks old.
Puppy Contract: After matching, you'll receive a Puppy Contract via email, which needs to be completed and returned promptly. Full payment is due at this time via Good Dog, Zelle (with the fee added), or Cashiers Check.
Training: Use our online course, provided with every puppy, to start training your new companion!
I Don’t Need a Service Dog—Could I Still Get One of Your Puppies?
Absolutely! Not all puppies from our program will meet the criteria for service dog work, and that's perfectly okay. Many of our puppies thrive as therapy dogs or wonderful companion pets. Just let us know what you're looking for, and we'll help match you with the right puppy to suit your needs and lifestyle. We’re here to find the perfect fit for you!
What sets your puppies apart from other breeders?
First and foremost, we conduct extensive health and genetic testing to ensure our puppies are as healthy as possible.
Next, our puppy development program prepares them to be exceptional companions. Each puppy is raised with love and undergoes extensive socialization, habituation, and training, including:
Early Neurological Stimulation: This introduces mild stresses to stimulate the neurological system, improving immune function, cardiovascular health, and stress tolerance.
Early Scent Introduction: This enhances adult scenting ability, which is crucial for service dogs.
Extensive Socialization & Habituation: We take advantage of the critical socialization window when puppies are eager to learn.
Environmental Exposure: Exposure to diverse environments fosters confidence and self-assurance in puppies.
Avidog & Puppy Culture: This program incorporates emotional resiliency exercises, safe socialization, problem-solving activities, anti-aggression protocols, and more.
Playtime: We harness the power of play to teach results and consequences in a fun and engaging way.
Crate Training: We ensure puppies view the crate positively, facilitating house training and providing a safe space during emergencies or outings.
Clicker Training: We introduce clicker training early so you can start training your puppy right away.
Potty Training: We utilize potty pads and take puppies outside frequently to simplify house training.
Online Course: Each puppy comes with access to one of Victoria’s online training courses.
We evaluate puppies from the moment they arrive to ensure they are matched with the right families. Our temperament tests assess traits like social attraction, trainability, sensitivity to sounds and touch, and more.
Puppies can go to their new homes as early as 8 weeks old, microchipped and with a health certificate. Alternatively, they can stay with us for additional training, setting them up for success.
We not only breed for our own program but also have extra puppies available for sale—some as service dog prospects, companion pets, or therapy dogs.
By purchasing a puppy from us, you help provide trained service dogs to assist people with disabilities, granting them greater freedom, independence, and hope.
Did you say “training”?
We have been professional dog trainers, specializing in service dogs, for over 20 years!
Set your puppy up for a lifetime of success with our Puppy Training Program! Please note that we have limited spots available, so early enrollment is recommended.
Additionally, your dog may have the opportunity to return for continued training through our Adult Training Program, ensuring ongoing support and development as they grow.
But wait - I still have questions!
We’re here to help! If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to contact us or email us directly. We look forward to hearing from you!