If you are local, the simplest option is to drive to our location to pick up your puppy in person. We will arrange an assigned pick-up day, where new pet parents can take home their puppy from a specific litter.

If you’re driving a long distance, make sure you know how to keep your puppy safe and comfortable on her first road trip. “You can’t just go to a rest stop and let the dog out [to go to the bathroom] because they could get sick,” said Dr. Judi Stella. “The fewer people involved, and the less exposure to other dogs, the better it’s going to be for your puppy.” Bring a puppy go-bag stocked with essentials like poop bags, paper towels, and a water bowl for long drives. (And don’t forget the pee pads!)

When your pup needs a break, avoid busy rest stops and opt to pull over into a parking lot or other area where it will be less likely to be surrounded by other dogs.

If you are further away and driving isn’t feasible, you can still pick up your puppy yourself by taking a flight. Make a fun trip out of it!

Be sure to check in advance your airline’s rules and regulations for flying with a dog in the cabin. Does your puppy fit in a travel carrier that can slide beneath the seat in front of you? Does your puppy meet the airline’s age restrictions (usually 8-10 weeks of age)? Before you buy a potentially pricey round-trip ticket and pay the $100–150 onboard pet fee, check to ensure your puppy is the right size and age to qualify as the most adorable carry-on ever.

If picking up your puppy in person isn’t possible, we can offer options to transport your puppy to you by plane safely and comfortably.

Pet chaperone a.k.a flight nanny. A flight nanny acts as your puppy’s chaperone, supervising and taking care of her through the entire journey. Pet chaperones will likely meet your breeder at the airport, carry your puppy through check-in and security, sit with her in the main cabin, and hand her off to you after the flight. Some breeders may serve as the flight nanny themselves, while others send along a trusted friend or family member to play doggy chaperone. Either way, official transporters must be licensed and registered by the USDA, and should also be insured. Your dog’s breeder will be able to walk you through all your options.

Having your puppy shipped by ground transportation is less common than by air, since long drives aren’t easy on young dogs. “What’s important is to prepare them as best you can for the transportation experience,” Stella said, “and to minimize the amount of time they’re in that situation.” In other words: The less time your puppy spends in transit, the better.

That said, if you arenearby, we may opt to deliver your puppy ourselves by a car or van. There may have be compensation for the trip, but a safe and comfortable ride with an expert is well worth it.