We believe every dog deserves a loving home and individual attention. To ensure the best care for our Bernese Mountain Dogs and Bernedoodles, we offer a Guardian Program that provides a unique opportunity for families to be part of our breeding program while giving one of our dogs a forever home.

What is the Guardian Program?

Gunnar at her guardian home

gunns-and-bob-guardian

Gunnar at her guardian home.

As Alpine Bernedoodles grows, we rely on Guardian homes to help us provide the loving, family-focused environment our dogs deserve. Guardian families take in a carefully selected puppy that meets the qualities and temperament we look for in our breeding program.

  • For Female Dogs: Guardians commit to approximately 3–4 years, during which time the dog will return to us briefly for breeding and to whelp and care for her puppies. After puppies are weaned (usually 5–6 weeks), she returns to her Guardian family.

  • For Male Dogs: Guardians commit to a longer period, typically 8 years, as males can remain sires for a longer duration.

Once the dog’s breeding career is complete, we will spay or neuter the dog at our expense, and they will remain with the Guardian family as a cherished pet for life.

Benefits of Becoming a Guardian Family

Being a Guardian family allows you to:

  • Enjoy the companionship of a high-quality Bernese Mountain Dog or Bernedoodle at little to no cost.
  • Be part of a reputable breeding program, helping bring joy to families nationwide.
  • Visit and interact with your dog’s puppies while they are in our care.

Responsibilities of Guardian Families

To ensure the well-being of the Guardian dog, families must:

  • Provide a safe and loving home environment.
  • Feed premium-quality dog food.
  • Keep up with routine vaccinations, veterinary exams, and socialization.
  • Be attentive to the dog’s health and well-being.
  • Ensure females in heat are protected and cared for.
  • Understand and manage the behaviors of intact males or females.

Alpine Bernedoodles covers all genetic health testing and breeding-related expenses.

Requirements to Become a Guardian Family

To be considered for the Guardian Program, you must:

  • Live within 2 hours of Montrose, Colorado, for female dogs, or in the Montrose area for male dogs (exceptions may be made for females).
  • Own your home and plan to stay for a minimum of 4 years.
  • Have a fenced yard with a secure area for females in heat.
  • Be willing to drive for breeding purposes as needed.
  • Have prior experience owning, raising, and training a dog.
  • Be knowledgeable about caring for intact dogs and willing to learn.
  • Provide socialization, training, and love to ensure a happy, fulfilling life for the dog.

Additional Considerations for Male Guardians:

  • Males must live alone or with another submissive male dog.
  • Guardians must manage “macho” behaviors common in unneutered males and ensure no unplanned breeding occurs.
Lynn holding Izzy at her guardian home.

Interested in Joining the Program?

If you’d like to be considered for a Guardian dog, please contact us to schedule an interview. A home visit will also be required as part of the process.

By becoming a Guardian family, you’ll not only gain a loving companion but also play a vital role in the success of Alpine Bernedoodles’ breeding program.