Why NorthStar Labradoodles is a Small, Family-Run ALAA Breeder — And Proud of It
At NorthStar Labradoodles in Bend, Oregon, we’re not the biggest Australian Labradoodle program — and that’s by design. As a **small, family-run ALAA breeder**, we raise **one to two litters per year** in our home, surrounded by love, structure, and Puppy Culture socialization. Bigger isn’t better when it comes to health, temperament, and lifetime support. Here’s why our size is our superpower — and why it matters for your family.
What “Small Program” Really Means
We’re not a kennel. We’re a **family with dogs**. Our breeding moms live in guardian homes with loving families, coming to us for whelping and early puppy care. This means:
- 1-on-1 Attention: Every pup gets daily handling, early neurological stimulation (ENS), and sound desensitization — no assembly-line puppies.
- Health First: With only 1-2 litters, we can afford **full genetic testing** (OFA hips/elbows, PennHIP, DNA panels) and **annual vet wellness checks** for every dog.
- Temperament Focus: We know every puppy’s personality by week 8 — matching you with the *perfect* calm, confident, or playful doodle.
- Lifetime Support: You’re not a number. You’re family. We’re here for training tips, raw diet advice, and reunions — forever.
Why ALAA Matters in a Small Program
The **Australian Labradoodle Association of America (ALAA)** holds breeders to the highest standards — and small programs like ours *thrive* under them. We’re not cutting corners to scale. We’re **exceeding** them:
- No Puppy Mills: ALAA bans high-volume breeding. Our low volume litters/year? That’s the sweet spot.
- Guardian Home Model: Moms live in real homes, not kennels — happier dogs, better pups.
- Full Transparency: You see health certs, watch the cameras — no secrets.
Big Program? No Thanks.
Large breeders may have more puppies — but they can’t match our **personalized care**. We’ve turned down expansion offers because:
- We won’t compromise on **1-on-1 socialization**.
- We won’t rush **health testing** to meet demand.
- We won’t lose the **family feel** that makes NorthStar pups so special.
Winter 2026 Litters — 7 Spots Left
Our next litters are forming now. **Only 7 families** will join the NorthStar pack this year. Want in?
Small program. Big heart. **ALAA proud.**
Questions? Email us — we answer every one.