Thoughtful From Start To Finish
At Menagerie Mudis & More, we follow a structured, ethical, and transparent process to ensure every puppy we produce gets the best start in life—and is matched with a home where they will thrive. Breeding is never rushed or taken lightly. From planning each litter to long after puppies go home, we are hands-on every step of the way.
1. Purposeful Pairings
Each litter begins with a dream—a vision for how we can improve the breed while honoring its standard and spirit. Pairings are carefully selected based on extensive pedigree analysis, health testing, structural soundness, and temperament. We do not breed for trends or convenience. Every mating is chosen to complement strengths, address weaknesses, and preserve genetic diversity in this rare breed.
2. Health and Preparation
All our breeding dogs are thoroughly health tested, including OFA hips/elbows/patellas, cardiac and eye screenings, and full breed-relevant genetic panels. Our dams are kept in peak condition, receiving high-quality nutrition, mental stimulation, and veterinary care before, during, and after pregnancy. Most of our girls live in our home, or with trusted co-owners who provide loving, enriching environments.
3. Hands-On Puppy Raising
Puppies are born in a semi-private whelping area off our living room where they remain close to us at all times. We sleep beside the whelping box for the first few weeks to ensure round-the-clock care. Our puppies are raised with a blend of Puppy Culture, Avidog principles, and our own proven methods. Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS), daily handling, litter training, socialization with adult dogs, crate work, new surfaces, and outdoor adventures all begin at developmentally appropriate stages.
4. Socialization and Exposure
From three weeks on, the puppies are introduced to new experiences daily—novel objects, sounds, textures, and eventually car rides, visitors, children, safe adult dogs, and natural environments. We host structured “puppy parties” around 8–9 weeks where experienced dog trainers and friends help expose the pups to handling, leash walking, tunnels, vet-style care, and more. Our goal is to build confidence, curiosity, and adaptability.
5. Evaluation and Matching
We use ongoing temperament observations, structural assessments (including stacking practice), and drive testing to understand each puppy’s personality, energy level, and aptitude. Between 8–10 weeks of age, we match each puppy to the home that best suits their individual needs and potential. We invite open conversations about your lifestyle, goals, and preferences, but our final recommendation is based on what’s best for both puppy and family. You’ll receive a written description of your puppy’s personality and why we believe it’s the right fit for you.
6. Going Home
At 10 weeks, our puppies are ready for their next chapter. They leave with a comprehensive puppy kit that includes food, toys, a scent blanket, breed information, and health/vaccination records. We also provide personalized handouts to help guide new families through the transition and continue the foundation we’ve started. All puppies are also microchipped!
7. Lifelong Support
Our relationship doesn’t end at pickup—it just begins. We are here for you throughout your dog’s life to offer advice, celebrate milestones, and support you through challenges. Whether your Mudi becomes a sport partner, show dog, or beloved family companion, you’re part of our Menagerie family for life.
