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MERRITT MISSION
We are a family program and all of our breeding pups reside in homes with their doting families. Our mission is to breed dogs who are healthy, happy, and ready to be in your home and fill your heart. We want them to bring your family joy, and if it’s their destiny, we hope that some Merritt Pups will also serve as emotional support animals. We know firsthand how much the love of a dog can change the life of people. We believe You Only Live Once, and that life should be filled with a dog to love and who loves you back!
RAISED THE "BAB" WAY
Empowering Pups & Giving them a Voice
Merritt Doodles is proud to be an Empowered Badass Breeder (BAB). We are committed to the highest level of care for our breeding dogs and our puppies.
All of our Breeding Dogs are tested for temperament, genetic health, and AKC Recommended testing to include OFA Eyes, Hips, Cardiac, Patellas, and Elbows (depending on their breed mix).
Starting from Day 3-16 we implement Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS) and Early Scent Introduction (ESI). ENS Exercises are performed to improve heart rate and stimulate stronger heart beats adrenal glands. This also helps pups to develop a tolerance for stress and greater resistance to disease. ESI exposes puppies to a distinct new scent each day. We never use anything that would entice taste buds. This is to create nose awareness and confidence.
From Week 1 until they go home, we practice gentle and safe handling exercises. We have a 10 Step Touch Protocol that is tried and true. It involves everything from nose to tail and everything in between! Most importantly we teach them that humans can be trusted, we hold them close to our faces and to our hearts. At Merritt, we affectionately call it “heart to heart” and “fur to skin” contact. We believe that this foundation sets our pups up for success. We want to give each pup an opportunity at becoming the best they can be. Whether their journey is to becoming a family member, a support dog, or companion, we want them to be the best they can possibly be.
All puppies are then evaluated at 7-8 weeks, prior to being matched with their families. We share videos and reports with our prospective families so that they can make an educated decision before making their selection.
