Frequently Asked Questions
About Casita Miniature American Shepherds
Q: What breed do you raise?
A: I raise Miniature American Shepherds, often called “Mini Americans” or “Mini Aussies.” They are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability to both active and relaxed lifestyles.
Q: Where are you located?
A: I am located just outside of Battle Ground, WA and welcome families from across the U.S.
Q: How big will your Miniature American Shepherds get?
A: Typically, my Minis mature between 14–18 inches at the shoulder and weigh around 20–35 pounds, depending on the individual.
Health and Puppy Care
Q: What health testing do you do on your parent dogs?
A: All parent dogs are fully health tested, including OFA certifications for hips, elbows, and eyes, plus comprehensive genetic testing for breed-specific conditions.
Q: What kind of health guarantee do you offer?
A: Every Casita puppy comes with a two-year genetic health guarantee covering hips, eyes and breed testable diseases.
Q: How are your puppies raised?
A: Puppies are raised with Puppy Culture methods and early neurological stimulation (ENS) to support their development into confident, adaptable companions. They are also well-socialized by both children and adults. They are raised in our home and are introduced to many different sounds, scents and floor textures. They also receive plenty of outdoor play time when the weather is nice.
Q: Will my puppy be vaccinated and dewormed?
A: Yes! Puppies receive age-appropriate vaccinations and routine deworming before going home.
Q: Are the puppies microchipped before they go home?
A: Yes! All Casita puppies are microchipped before leaving for their new homes. I provide you with the microchip information and instructions on how to register it in your name, ensuring your puppy has an extra layer of safety and security for life.
Q: Do the puppies have a veterinary exam before going home?
A: Yes! Every puppy receives a full veterinary exam around 8 weeks old before going to their new home. The vet carefully checks ears, eyes, teeth, heart, lungs, patellas (knees), and overall health. We also send out a fecal sample to screen for any intestinal parasites to ensure your puppy is healthy and ready for their next adventure with you.
Choosing and Reserving a Puppy
Q: How do I reserve a puppy?
A: You can start by filling out a puppy application. Once approved, a deposit is required to hold your spot on the waiting list.
Q: How does puppy selection work?
A: Puppies are matched based on family needs and puppy temperament evaluations around 7 weeks old. I work closely with each family to ensure the best fit. This is done in the order of deposits received.
Q: Do you allow visitors?
A: For the safety of young puppies, I limit visits to approved families only, and visits occur when puppies are old enough and after vaccines have been started.
Going Home
Q: When can puppies go home?
A: Puppies go home on or after 8 weeks old, once they are fully weaned and developmentally ready.
Q: What do puppies go home with?
A: Each puppy goes home with a puppy starter pack that includes a sample of food, a blanket with their littermates’ scent, a favorite toy, health records, and helpful transition tips.
Q: Do you offer shipping or delivery?
A: I am happy to work with you on delivery options! Depending on location, I can meet partway, recommend flight nanny services, or assist with travel planning.
Support and Policies
Q: Do you offer lifetime support?
A: Absolutely! I love staying in touch with Casita families and offer lifetime breeder support for questions, training advice, and ongoing updates.
Q: What are your contract terms?
A: All puppies are placed under a purchase contract/health guarantee. Pet puppies are placed with a spay/neuter agreement unless otherwise discussed for approved show and breeding homes.
Q: What if I can no longer keep my puppy or dog?
A: If at any time you cannot keep your Casita puppy, I require that they be returned to me or that we work together to find a suitable new home.
Still have questions?
Feel free to contact us, we’re always happy to chat!