From You
What we expect from our puppy owners:
To love and cherish your puppy. We ensure every puppy we breed/raise receives as much love and attention he/she can get while with us. We expect the new puppy owners to do the same.
Provide and maintain suitable living conditions for your puppy. Kennel and outdoor life are NOT considered suitable for an On The Rocks puppy. They need to be with your family, building a bond. I strongly believe Ridgebacks need constant interaction with their families. Keeping them in a kennel or in the backyard does not allow this essential interaction to take place.
Ensure your puppy receives appropriate medical care. We follow our Veterinarian’s recommendations and suggest you do the same. If you need help finding a vet with Ridgeback experience I will do my best to help you.
Owning a Ridgeback is a huge commitment. Part of that commitment is ensuring your puppy is properly trained. Because of this we require you to enroll your puppy in at least one positive re-enforcement obedience class, by the time your puppy is 6 months old. Upon completion of the class, send us a copy of the certificate you received along with the trainers name and either number or email address and we'll send you back $25.00. If you continue your training send us proof along with a copy of the CGC certificate and you'll receive another $25.00
Part of being a good Ridgeback owner is making sure your dog is getting more exercise than just being turned out in the backyard. We ask everyone who is considering getting a puppy from us to really think about if they can ensure the dog will get structured exercise (i.e. daily walks, participation in lure coursing, agility, obedience, etc). If you don't feel this is possible please consider a different breed. Ridgebacks will find ways to keep themselves busy, which normally means you'll be spending HUNDREDS of dollars on replacing items or paying for services. I've known Ridgebacks to pull the cable line from the house and stretch it over the yard.
If for any reason you cannot keep your dog you MUST contact us. We will either take the dog back or assist you in finding a quality home for your loved one. NO EXCEPTIONS!!!
Maintain communication with us for your dog's entire life. You aren't just getting a puppy, you are getting us as well. To our family, your puppy will always have a part of our heart and we want to know what's going on in their lives.
Before a puppy leaves for their new home, I require the potential buyer either comes visit us and our dogs or meets us at a dog event. If this is not possible talk to me and I will get in contact with another trusted breeder and have them schedule a time when they can meet you.
The future owner must know why he or she has chosen to be owned by a Ridgeback at the time of purchase and must have a basic knowledge of the breed and its characteristics. (I'm willing to help you... Just ask!!!)