Puppy Orientation
Okay… let’s get started!
There may be a test on puppy pick-up day, so please take a few minutes to read through this. It should take about 10 minutes to review now, versus sitting in a group for an hour later.
Everything you need to know to bring your puppy home:
First, here is the link to our Family Page: https://www.moonlitacres.com/family-page
This page is designed specifically for our Moonlit Acres families and contains a wealth of helpful information. At pick-up, you will also receive a folder that includes your puppy’s vet report, microchip information, pet insurance details, grooming information, pedigree, registration certificate, litter records, and more.
Puppy Immunity & Vaccinations
Puppies receive their initial immunity from their mother. They are given their first vaccination just prior to their 8-week birthday. Your vaccine schedule will outline what they have already received and what is still needed.
It’s important to be thoughtful with vaccinations. Some veterinarians may recommend multiple vaccines at once, but you are your puppy’s advocate. Please take time to research and review the vaccination information provided on the Family Page.
Your puppy has received a DAPP vaccine and will need two additional doses—typically at 12 weeks and again around 16 weeks. Your vet may also discuss other vaccines such as Lepto, Rabies, influenza, as well as flea and heart worm preventatives.
We strongly recommend spacing vaccines at least two weeks apart and ensuring the final DAPP is given around 16 weeks. Over-vaccination can be harmful and will void your puppy’s warranty.
Protecting Your Puppy
Parvo is something you never want to experience. During the most vulnerable window (8–16 weeks), extra caution is essential.
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Remove shoes when entering your home, and keep them out of reach
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Avoid letting your puppy walk in public places
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Carry your puppy into the vet’s office—do not allow their paws to touch the ground
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Bring a disposable pad or blanket for exam tables and scales
Veterinary offices can expose your puppy to illness, as they treat sick animals daily. Taking simple precautions goes a long way. Parvo is highly contagious and expensive to treat, often costing thousands of dollars, with no guarantee of survival. Even vaccinated adult dogs can carry it into your home.
If you do take your puppy to high-traffic areas (like Pike Place Market), please carry them at all times.
If you are traveling home, do not stop at rest areas for potty breaks. Instead, bring pee pads (Costco pads work well, as they are familiar to the puppies).
First Weeks at Home
The first couple of months come with a lot of adjustment—for both you and your puppy. Keeping the environment safe (picking up shoes, toys, etc.) will help prevent accidents.
We highly recommend activating the free 30-day pet insurance through Trupanion (link on the Family Page). This provides an extra layer of protection during a critical transition period. Please activate this within 24 hours of bringing your puppy home and bring proof of coverage at pick-up.
Signs of Illness
Contact your vet immediately if you notice:
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Diarrhea (especially with a strong odor)
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Blood in stool
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Vomiting
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Loss of appetite or thirst
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White gums (they should be pink)
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Lethargy or unusual behavior
Microchip
All puppies are microchipped through AKC Reunite prior to going home. Once your puppy is assigned, we will include the microchip number in your contract. We ask that you take a few minutes to register your puppy’s microchip using the link on the Family Page—it’s quick and important.
Socialization & Training
Socialization is key. Aim to introduce your puppy to new experiences regularly—car rides, environments, and people (safely). A good guideline: introduce your puppy to 100 people in 90 days—while still protecting them from public ground exposure. Keep interactions calm. Avoid overstimulation, roughhousing, or encouraging jumping, as these behaviors can carry into adulthood. Also, be mindful of how guests interact with your puppy. Excited greetings can unintentionally train unwanted behaviors like barking and jumping. Calm, neutral introductions work best.
Training Opportunities
We offer in-home puppy training classes starting at 10 weeks of age, with excellent results. These classes help establish strong foundations early and prevent bad habits before they start.
By the end of training, puppies are typically able to:
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Walk nicely on a leash
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Come when called
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Hold a down-stay for extended periods
The “Here” command is especially important—it can save your puppy’s life. Use high-value treats (small bits of meat) and keep sessions short and rewarding.
Feeding
Please follow the food guidelines listed on the Family Page. We currently feed a mix of PawTree Lamb and Trout & Barley formulas.
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Mini puppies: ~¼ cup per meal
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Medium puppies: ~1/3 cup per meal
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Soak kibble in hot water for 5-10 minutes before feeding
Avoid using unsoaked kibble as training treats due to choking risk.
Supplements (Nu-Vet and Nu-Joint) should be ordered prior to pick-up and prepared as directed.
Potty & Crate Training
Your puppy is on a feeding schedule of 7am, 12pm, and 5pm. We recommend removing water around 7pm and taking them out before bedtime.
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Always carry your puppy outside first thing in the morning
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Expect a few accidents early on—it’s normal
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Crate training may be challenging the first few nights, but consistency helps
We also recommend at least one daily crate nap while you are away to prevent separation anxiety.
Grooming
Australian Labradoodles require regular grooming. Begin searching for a groomer now and schedule your first visit around 17 weeks.
We will provide grooming guidance and tools, including an ALAA grooming card.
Ear care is especially important—do not allow groomers to remove ear hair improperly. We will provide instructions and products for safe at-home care.
Final Notes
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Please wash your hands before visiting and use sanitizer before handling puppies
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Be cautious when holding puppies—they can be wiggly
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Final payment options are outlined and must be completed by 6 weeks
One special request:
Please send a soft dog toy (no clothing items) that has been handled by your family. This helps your puppy become familiar with your scent before going home.
Take your time with this. There’s a lot of information here—but it’s all meant to make the transition smoother for you and your puppy.
If you send your puppy toy please address the package to your litter. As an example
Breezy's x McDreamy
2906 NE 3rd Circle
Battle Ground, WA 98604
We look forward to meeting everyone!
Dana
360-980-1926
Marce
503-975-8624