Health & Contract Overview

Our standards, safeguards, and expectations for every Thistle Hill puppy

Breeding Dog Health Testing

All Thistle Hill breeding dogs complete breed-appropriate health testing prior to breeding. Results are publicly available through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) database.

Health testing includes:

OFA or PennHIP hips
OFA eye examinations
Genetic screening for SPS1 and SHPN1
Full Embark genetic panel on each breeding dog
Additional testing, such as elbows, when appropriate

These evaluations help guide breeding decisions, support long-term health tracking, and ensure responsible pairings within the program.

Veterinary Care & Vaccinations

All veterinary care while puppies are in our program is managed in collaboration with our primary veterinarian.

Puppies receive routine wellness care and appropriate veterinary oversight before leaving for their new homes.

Our vaccination protocol generally includes:

First DHPP vaccination at approximately 8 weeks of age
Continued DHPP boosters every 4 weeks until the series is complete
Rabies vaccination at 16 weeks, administered by the puppy’s veterinarian

Families are encouraged to establish care with their veterinarian promptly after bringing their puppy home. We are always available to coordinate with veterinarians or answer questions during this transition.

Health Guarantee

Every Thistle Hill puppy is covered by both an initial health assurance and a genetic health guarantee.

Puppies are warranted to be healthy at the time of transfer
Families are encouraged to complete a veterinary examination within three business days of pickup
A two-year genetic health guarantee is provided for severe hereditary conditions that significantly affect quality of life

Specific conditions, remedies, and exclusions are outlined in the purchase agreement.

Conditions related to injury, illness after transfer, nutrition, or environmental factors are not covered under the genetic guarantee.

Lifetime Return-to-Breeder Requirement

Every dog bred by Thistle Hill is protected by a lifetime return requirement.

If a family can no longer keep their dog at any point in the dog’s life, Thistle Hill must be contacted immediately. Dogs may not be surrendered to shelters, rescues, or third parties without prior approval.

This policy ensures that every dog produced by the program remains safe and properly cared for throughout its lifetime.

Registration, Breeding Rights & Spay/Neuter

Puppies are placed with Limited AKC Registration unless full registration is granted under a separate written agreement.

Dogs placed on limited registration are not authorized for breeding.

Additional expectations include:

appropriate management to prevent accidental breeding
spay or neuter recommended between 18–30 months unless advised otherwise by a veterinarian
pediatric sterilization is discouraged due to potential long-term health impacts

Elevation to full registration is rare and requires additional health testing, evaluation, and a separate written agreement.

Unauthorized breeding constitutes a breach of contract.

Important Note

This page provides a general overview of program policies. All placements are governed by a detailed written purchase agreement provided and reviewed prior to commitment.

Families are expected to review and agree to all contract terms before proceeding with placement.