We don’t follow the traditional “pick your puppy” approach, and here’s why. Around 7–8 weeks of age, each litter undergoes the Avidog Puppy Evaluation Test (APET), a science-based temperament assessment that helps us understand each puppy’s unique personality. At this age, we can begin to see whether a pup is high or low energy, people- or environment-focused, and whether they’re more motivated by food or play.

We then take your application and match those traits with your lifestyle and preferences to help ensure a successful, lasting bond. After all, no two puppies are the same, even within the same litter. We want your new family member to thrive in your home, not struggle because of mismatched needs. For example, an adventure-loving family would likely be disappointed with the most laid-back pup, and vice versa.

That said, things have evolved over the years. While we still rely on APET to guide our matches, we also recognize that sometimes a connection just happens. Maybe you fall in love with a specific puppy during visits, or a puppy consistently gravitates toward your family. In those cases, I’m more than happy to take a closer look and see if the match would truly work long-term. If the pup’s temperament aligns with your lifestyle, that’s wonderful! If not, we’ll talk it through together and help you decide whether to follow your heart or explore a puppy that may be a better fit for your home and goals.