Small breeder versus large?

[Wendy and Sophie]

Anyone have thoughts on going with a smaller breeder versus large?  There seem to be some well loved larger operations that have full staffs, etc.  Seems like there may be more opportunity to get just what you want in terms of size, type.  However I don't know if there are any negatives (other than price); there are some groups on doodle kisses dedicated to these puppy owners and they seem to love their breeders.

We had been on the list with a smaller, home-based breeder, and just got booted, do to some health reasons for the breeder.  So now we are starting from scratch,  and I'm looking at breeders that also offer at least a month of training.  I'm not looking for recommendations in this discussion; I know that's prohibited on this site.  But if anyone wants to chime in (either in this discussion or privately) about using one of the more "big operation" breeders with staffs, etc that would be great!

It's tough having to regroup and start over after being on a wait list for six months! Any thoughts you can share would be terrific.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Wendy, have you read this yet?  http://www.doodlekisses.com/notes/What_To_Look_for_In_a_Breeder

Whether you choose a breeder with a larger operation or one with a smaller one or even a hobby breeder (one who does all the health testing, considers the appropriate pairing of dogs with their strengths and weaknesses in mind just on a very small scale), is purely your choice.  For me, I want a pup that  has been given lots of personal attention, and socialization, is kept inside the home at all times (with outside experiences) - and for me, that means small scale breeder or experienced hobby breeder.  I do not want a 'crate' dog i.e. a dog raised in a place where they are in a crate most of the time and taken out for exercise.  I don't want their parents to be crate dogs either.  I think the 'extra' training you could pay for (8 - 12 weeks)  is a wasted expense.  If you have a breeder like I outlined, the pups have gotten as much as they can before you pick them up and you can enjoy them until the 'real' training gets going at about 5 or 6 months.  That being said, I prefer puppies a bit older than 8 weeks simply because they are a bit more mature and ready to leave their moms.

I also would extend my search to both goldendoodles and labradoodles.

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

Very True Nancy about older than 8 weeks. We got Bella at 10 and loved the difference that 2 weeks made from having gotten Murphy at 8. And the home care is very important. Socializing with family and children is the best "training" at that age.

[Lynda Kamrath]

The wait is worth it to get exactly what you are looking for.  I have had a relationship with my breeder (out of state) for many years and am now working with her to get exactly the puppy I want (but it is at least a year down the line).  Don't hurry and know what you are looking for.  The perfect pup is out there.

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

Hi Wendy.  I sent you a private message last night, but forgot to tell you that I was doing so.  You'll find it in your inbox, if you haven't already.

[Wendy and Sophie]

Thanks!  I don't see it actually when I click on inbox; let me know if there's another spot I should be checking.

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

You will need to accept me as a "friend," first.

[Linda, Webber and Seda]

Just friended you. I live in Chapel Hill too!