Woodlot Companions

Popular FAQ

1. Is Woodlot Companions a licensed kennel?

Yes. Woodlot Companions is both a state-certified kennel in Ohio and a federally licensed facility under the USDA, ensuring they meet and exceed strict animal welfare standards.

2. Can I visit the kennel in person to meet the puppies?

Yes, visitors are welcome! However, you must schedule and receive approval for a pickup or visiting appointment prior to arriving at the property in Millersburg.

3. Do the puppies come with a health guarantee?

Yes. They provide a 72-hour physical health guarantee and a more extensive 12-month health guarantee specifically covering life-threatening hereditary or congenital diseases.

4. What breeds does Woodlot Companions specialize in?

They offer a mix of purebred and designer breeds, including Bernese Mountain Dogs, English Cream Golden Retrievers, Miniature Poodles, Mini Bernedoodles, Mini Sheepadoodles, Goberians, and Pomskies.

5. How do they ship puppies to families across the USA?

They offer four delivery methods: in-person pickup, ground transport via a "puppy bus" sprinter van, air cargo through a professional broker, and a private "Flight Nanny" who carries the puppy in the cabin.

6. What is a "Mini" Bernese Mountain Dog?

At Woodlot Companions, a Mini Bernese is typically a cross between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, designed to keep the classic tri-color look in a smaller size without using Poodle genetics.

7. Are the adult dogs genetically tested?

Yes. They perform extensive genetic testing on their adult breeding stock to ensure they are creating the healthiest bloodlines and reducing the risk of breed-specific weaknesses.

8. What is "Super Dog Training" or Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS)?

Starting from day one, puppies undergo early neurological stimulation to help develop stronger immune systems, better stress tolerance, and higher intelligence before they even open their eyes.

9. How are the puppies socialized before going home?

Puppies are handled daily by the family and have regularly scheduled playtime with the owners' grandchildren to ensure they are well-adjusted to children and family environments.

10. Do they provide any potty training?

While they don't offer "formal" training, their facility uses doggy doors that allow mothers to teach puppies the instinct of leaving the "den" to go outside, which helps speed up housebreaking for the new owners.

11. What food should I have ready for my new puppy?

They typically raise their puppies on Nutrisource Puppy food. They recommend having the specific small-breed or large-breed formula ready based on the puppy you choose.

12. How does Woodlot Companions determine a puppy's personality?

They work with a professional puppy trainer, Kimberly, who conducts temperament tests on each litter to evaluate confidence, energy levels, and social ability to help match puppies with the right families.

13. Will my puppy be microchipped?

Yes, they use microchipping as part of their standard record-keeping and safety protocol for all puppies leaving their care.

14. What if my puppy doesn't use the bathroom immediately after arriving home?

This is a common "special" FAQ they address; stress from travel can slow a puppy's digestive system. They advise owners not to panic unless the puppy hasn't gone within 24 to 48 hours.

15. Are they considered a puppy mill?

No. Woodlot Companions explicitly differentiates themselves by maintaining a full-time, high-standard facility with 6 acres of land, climate-controlled indoor spaces, and a focus on genetic science and ethical socialization rather than just profit.