Frequently Asked Questions 

start here to answer the most common questions!

Frequently  Asked Questions

How do I acquire a puppy?
We typically work on a referral basis from our previous clients and therapists. For those that are new to the breed, please be sure to read the site to familiarize yourself with our breeding program and practices. Referrals always receive priority in approval of the waiting list. 
The first step is to introduce yourself and fill out our adoption application on the site.  At this time, a NON-REFUNDABLE reservation fee will be required to reserve your place on the waiting list. Then we will stay in touch with updates via our email list, and you can begin to prepare for your puppy by going through the modules in Habibi U-Foundations.
How much are the puppies?
For current pricing, please reach out to us! 
How are your puppies raised?
Our puppies undergo an advanced service puppy curriculum, incorporating Early Neurological Stimulation, Early Scent and Sound Introduction, targeted Exposure Activities, age-appropriate socialization, potty box training, exposure to doggy doors, appropriate outings, and holistic care following Schultz vaccination protocols. This dedicated approach is a labor of love, laying the foundation for their success as exceptional family companions.

Renowned for their suitability for therapy or service work, our dogs are meticulously prepared for such roles. However, it's crucial for families to take charge, offering the right environment and training for their puppy's growth and success. Embrace the opportunity to nurture your puppy into a thriving, well-rounded companion!
Do you take deposits on upcoming litters?

Certainly! We carefully plan our litters in advance and offer a Wait List for interested families. To secure your place on the waiting list, we accept deposits. Please be aware that we won't assign a specific puppy until after completing temperament evaluations and ensuring a thoughtful match with your family. While reservation fees are non-refundable, we allow one transfer as a courtesy if needed, recognizing your commitment to us, and reciprocating with our commitment to you. 
Where are you located, what if I'm not local?
We're located in the Pacific Northwest with two sites – Spokane, WA, and the Northern Oregon Coast. Our presence in either location varies with the season. If you're not local, we offer diverse options, including nationwide and international puppy placements. We can arrange airport meetings or use a puppy nanny service for convenient deliveries!
How do I meet the puppies?

To meet our adorable puppies, please contact us to arrange a virtual meet-up. We'll provide videos and photos of the available pups you're interested in. To ensure the best match for your home, we request that you wait until temperament evaluations are completed, which gives each puppy a voice in their placement. Once you've identified your preferred candidates from the puppies that are best suited for your home, we can schedule your virtual meeting!
Should I choose a boy or girl for my family?
Choose the PERSONALITY and temperament that fits with your family! You will have a wonderful, loyal, and happy fur kid if you spay or neuter!

This question is asked more than any other! There are many confusing answers to this question, and just as many different opinions! Here is our answer. Both males are females are wonderful companions—there is no difference between a neutered male or spayed female dog. If you have them spayed/neutered at 4 or 5 months of age—before the hormones come in, you will have a perfect companion.

The most common complaint about male dogs is the territorial marking, or lifting their leg in the house. This is completely eliminated by neutering at the age of 4-5 months. The male pup will continue to squat to urinate, just like a female, and will not start the naughty habit of lifting his leg in the house. The female doesn't have the hormones to cause heat cycles, which also eliminates the territorial behaviors, fear of pregnancy, and messes associated with an un-spayed female. So you ask which sex do I prefer? I say either!
How do I select our puppy?
Our  Adopt Page on the site explains the process in detail!  It's a fun process!

Our focus is on temperament, our unique assessment is very telling of who the puppy is and where it’s gifts lie.  I’ve developed my own algorithm to properly assess their strengths and recommend which home would best suit the puppy.  The percentages are from over 30 years experience in developing sound puppies and placing them in the appropriate home for them.   
One Puppy or Two?
This question is asked second to which sex is best. We feel two dogs is wonderful for the dogs, but bringing home littermates has its own challenges. It isn't out of the question, as we have many seasoned pet owners who insist on adopting two litter mates.  We have a course to help families in raising two puppies (littermates or same ages) to avoid "Litter mate syndrome". But for those inexperienced, it is always advised to adopt one and then bring a second home later.

I thought I would answer that question right here on the site for those considering adopting two puppies. This is a complicated question and really is a case to case basis on which route is best to take.  Two puppies can keep each other company during the day, which means less destructive behavior while you are away.  Not to mention, they don't get lonely.  It is a fact, that if you bring home two puppies at the same time, they will be bonded and you won't have the integration issues you find when adding a puppy to your family at a later date, however it comes with an additional responsibility to train them separately and being aware of sibling rivalry that is very common with litter mates. Litter mates play rough and be prepared to break up the scuffle sometimes.  Time apart is always good for them to bond individually with the humans as well.  Litter mates need to have separate sleeping quarters, so separate crates is a must, to ensure they develop their own autonomy and don't become reliant on their sibling for their security.  We always want to empower our puppies to find their own courage and ability to self soothe.   Be sure you have time, or if you have a family—everyone spends one-on-one time with each dog.


Here are some more pros about owning two dogs:
• Two dogs keep each other entertained and exercised—they are less likely to exhibit destructive behavior due to boredom, such as chewing furniture 
• The first day in their new home is a breeze—they brought their litter mate with them! 
• We hear from our families that it's easier to train the puppies because they burn off all that playful energy with each other and are more focused when they are with their humans.  Making a calmer easier going companion. 
• Dogs housed together have a companion, and are less likely to develop weight issues, they play! 
• The extra dog doesn't require much more work than just having one, and they learn together. 
• They provide social and mental stimulation - not to mention they are a blast to watch! 
• Dogs will live longer and remain youthful and playful with positive interaction with a house-mate. We feel in the case of dogs—two is better than one and depending on your personal situation, the  deciding factor is if you are experienced in raising dogs and have the time to dedicate to training them separately so they learn to bond to their humans as much as they are bonded to each other. If not, then we recommend adopting one and when it is the dog you want it to be, bring home the second.  

FACT: An anti cruelty law was passed in Switzerland requiring citizens purchasing dogs and cats to buy two, instead of one. They realize the importance of stimulation for these animals, maybe we should too. We are more than happy to help you choose the best puppies for your family, and if you are bringing in a second dog, please let us know the personality as we do personality and temperament testing and can recommend the best fit for YOUR home.
How can I receive our puppy?
We organize a special delivery trip for families in Western WA and Northern OR on Gotcha Day. Alternatively, families can visit us for pick-up. It's a way to ensure the puppies' safe journey and allows us to meet our families. For those at a distance, we offer a puppy nanny service or coordination  of meeting you at nearby airport for pick up, too. Scheduling can be discussed closer to the delivery day!
Can I let my puppy go on walks or go outside right away?
Can I take my puppy outside?

Absolutely not. Until your puppy attains full immunity, it remains vulnerable to diseases. Avoid public places like dog parks, rest stops, dog walk areas, pet stores, groomers, etc., during this period. When venturing out, keep your puppy in secure carriers, strollers, or crates to ensure their safety. While still in this phase, they can benefit from socialization experiences from a safe vantage point—remember, practice "four off the floor" until 14 days after the 16-week vaccination and a titer test confirming immunity.
Vaccines are not 100% guarantee your puppy is immune, only titer tests reveal this information.  
How long is the typical wait for a puppy?
The short answer is typically 2-6 months.  The long answer is; upon receiving your application, we'll provide information on current availability and wait times, which vary due to the unpredictable nature of breeding. Patience is key, especially when awaiting a puppy that suits specific service needs. Occasionally, families decide to wait, and we notify the waiting list when opportunities arise, potentially expediting the adoption process. Opting to waive your selection preference may prolong the wait, as factors like litter timing, size, and colors are beyond our control. While we offer estimated timeframes, we're subject to Mother Nature's timeline, which can be affected by factors like late heat cycles or unsuccessful breeding attempts. Joining the waiting list implies acceptance of these variables, and we appreciate your understanding and patience, as nature operates on its own schedule. Rest assured, the wait is worthwhile!
What do I get with my puppy?
You'll get a comprehensive health guarantee for your puppy, protecting against congenital defects. Additionally, your puppy comes with 30 days of FREE Trupanion health insurance (to be activated on go-home day). The package includes temperament evaluation results, health records, a spay/neuter contract, Vet Wellness Record, Going Home instructions, puppy raising information, trackers, Schedule for Success, a sample of food, a scent cloth from the litter, and lifetime support.
Do you offer any puppy transition training?
Skip the initial challenges of bringing home your new puppy by enrolling in our exclusive Puppy Charm School program. Your furry friend will seamlessly progress through introductory transitional training, covering essential aspects such as crate training, scheduling, potty box training, and an introduction to the clicker, all within our relationship-based puppy raising program!
Experience the best of both worlds as you forge a lasting bond with your puppy while mastering the art of guiding them towards a state of calm and establishing healthy leadership—the Montessori way! Our Power of 3 Ritual Program is at the core of this transformative journey.
By joining, you gain access to:
  • Habibi University, providing a comprehensive educational experience.
  • The Habibi Method Training Guide & Handbook PDF
  • Follow-up training support through Zoom Q & A Calls, ensuring continuous guidance.
  • Lifetime Support, assuring you're never alone on this exciting journey with your new companion.
Choose the Puppy Charm School program for a holistic, relationship-focused approach that empowers both you and your puppy, setting the foundation for a lifetime of companionship and harmony. Enroll now and unlock the secrets to successful puppy parenting!
How many shots will my puppy have?
At Habibi Bears, we adhere to the Schultz and Dodd's protocols, ensuring your puppy receives age-appropriate vaccinations before joining your home. The Parvo/Distemper shots are administered at 8, 12, and 16 weeks, but it's crucial to note that full vaccination status is achieved 14 days after the 16-week shot.
During this crucial period, confine your puppy indoors or limit them to your yard for potty breaks. To foster socialization, employ carriers, strollers, and crates, providing a safe and controlled means for them to explore the world around them. Your commitment to these guidelines ensures your newest family member's healthy and resilient start!
Will my Habibi puppy be potty trained at 8 weeks old?
Your new Habibi Bear puppy is already making strides in potty training. We've diligently employed an incremental approach, introducing them to indoor potty usage. Weather permitting, they also get exposure to a doggy door leading to our secure outdoor puppy area, aligning with their developmental phases. The puppies come with a well-crafted schedule for you to follow.
For an in-depth exploration of potty training, consider enrolling in our Puppy Parenting Course - The Human's Guide to the Dog Galaxy! Uncover valuable insights into effective puppy care and training techniques.
Should I buy a crate for my Habibi?

Yes, we strongly recommend crate training for a well-balanced puppy. Your puppy is accustomed to the puppy pens we use in our Habibi Enrichment Center, featuring a crate with the door open. If you enroll your puppy in our Puppy Charm School program, we will initiate acclimation to crate training to ensure a smoother adjustment for you.
How Often should we feed our puppy?
After your puppy has become a part of your home and is comfortably settled, you can provide meals 2-3 times a day, following the guidelines in our Successful Puppy Schedule that accompanies your new furry family member!
How often can we bathe our Habibi puppy 
We bathe our puppies weekly during their stay with us, or as necessary. You can maintain a bathing schedule of every 1-2 weeks until your puppy matures. However, it's important to note that a dog's skin doesn't tolerate frequent bathing like humans, and excessive baths may lead to flaky and itchy skin. We suggest using a waterless spray shampoo for in-between baths and utilizing cleaning wipes for faces, feet, and fannies, in that order!
Can I let my puppy roam free in the house?
Absolutely not! Your puppy is akin to a newborn baby. It's crucial for them to navigate small spaces successfully before granting them access to larger areas. We follow an incremental approach and never leave puppies unattended. When puppies are out and about in the house, a responsible human should actively engage, supervise, or keep the puppy in their secure puppy pen. Allowing them to roam freely poses risks, from potty confusion and accidents to inappropriate chewing. Their curiosity may lead them to explore, taste, and chew on everything, including items that could be harmful. Always ensure their safety by confining them to a secure space using tools like puppy pens and baby gates.  For the best plan of action, we recommend our course, The Human's Guide to the Dog Galaxy, that has flow charts and videos to guide you step by step in raising a perfect pup! 
I'd like a puppy for therapy or service, does it come ready for this when we bring our puppy home?
At Habibi Bears, we've developed a breed with significant potential for therapy or service roles. Our thorough evaluation helps identify puppies with the best aptitude, yet it's crucial to note that it doesn't guarantee your puppy will fulfill these roles. While we provide a strong foundation through our advanced service puppy curriculum, success relies on your consistent training and bonding efforts once the puppy is home with you.

While many assume that dogs will naturally excel in therapy or service tasks, achieving these roles requires dedicated training, milestones, socialization, and proper puppy-raising techniques. We don't provide a guarantee that any puppy leaving our program without completed training and certification will qualify for therapy or service, as the process is precise, and a single event can impact a dog's suitability. Our puppies depart with the potential, but environmental factors outside our care are beyond our control. Fulfilling the requirements with their puppy becomes the full responsibility of the family.

Even with organizations such as CCI,  known for selective breeding and training, only about 35 to 40 percent of their dogs graduate to become full-fledged service dogs. Dogs may "wash out" for various reasons, including "typical dog behavior" such as being distracted by cats or birds, or exhibiting whining or barking in public, or a negative experience that created a trauma.  Does this mean these dogs are failures?  Not at all!  It means these dogs will be amazing family companions and is a reminder that we are ultimately working with a feeling living being, not a machine to be controlled.

We urge families to set realistic expectations and, if interested in therapy or service roles, collaborate with qualified training programs for guidance. Forming a therapy team or service dog partnership is a joint effort between human and dog. Those seeking a dog for this job should actively participate in the training process, recognizing their role as the other half of the therapy/service team holding the leash. Building a strong bond through humane training methods is crucial to avoid damaging trust with aversive techniques. Conversely, expecting a dog to perform these tasks independently is unrealistic—it's a teamwork approach. We can connect you with excellent trainers who offer virtual sessions worldwide or locate a qualified force-free do-no-harm trainer in your area, ensuring effective guidance for you and your dog. Remember, the trust and training relationship with your dog is earned, and it's one of life's invaluable experiences that cannot be bought.