Frequently Asked Questions & Care Tips

Question 1

What is the process for purchasing a puppy?

Accepted Answer

Our puppy adoption process begins with filling out our application form. Once approved, we'll contact you to discuss available puppies or upcoming litters. A deposit is required to reserve your puppy, and we provide regular updates including photos and videos as your puppy grows.

Question 2

What health testing do you do on your breeding dogs?

Accepted Answer

All our breeding dogs undergo comprehensive health testing including hip and elbow evaluations, cardiac exams, eye certifications, and genetic testing for breed-specific conditions. We maintain complete health records and are happy to share test results with prospective puppy families.

Question 3

Do you offer or recommend pet insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Every Deer Creek Mastiff puppy comes with a free 30-day trial of TruePanion pet insurance at no cost to you. What's included: - 90% coverage on new injuries and illnesses - No caps on payouts - unlimited coverage - Direct payment to your vet (you only pay your portion) - Covers accidents, illnesses, surgeries, and medications How it works: - You'll get activation info when you pick up your puppy - Must activate within 24 hours for immediate coverage - No credit card required for the trial - No obligation to continue after 30 days We partnered with TruePanion because they're the #1 pet insurance chosen by vets and offer genuine immediate coverage with no waiting periods. Puppies can get into all kinds of trouble in their new homes, so this gives you peace of mind during those crucial first weeks!

Question 4

Do you ship puppies?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we can arrange safe transportation for puppies to approved homes. We work with professional pet transport services and can also accommodate families who prefer to pick up their puppy in person. Shipping costs vary based on location and method of transport.

Question 5

What comes with my puppy?

Accepted Answer

Each puppy goes home with a comprehensive puppy pack including health records, vaccination certificates, AKC registration papers, a starter bag of food, familiar toys and blankets, care instructions, and lifetime breeder support.

Question 6

At what age do puppies go to their new homes?

Accepted Answer

Puppies are typically ready to go to their new homes at 8 weeks of age. This timing ensures they've had adequate socialization with their littermates and mother while still being young enough to bond strongly with their new family.

Question 7

What is your health guarantee?

Accepted Answer

We provide a comprehensive 1-year health guarantee covering genetic conditions. Our guarantee includes full disclosure of all health testing results and ongoing support throughout your dog's life. Specific terms are outlined in our purchase agreement.

Question 8

How much exercise does a Mastiff need?

Accepted Answer

Mastiffs are relatively low-energy dogs but still need regular moderate exercise. Adult Mastiffs typically need 30-45 minutes of daily exercise, while puppies should have controlled play sessions to protect developing joints. Avoid strenuous exercise in young dogs.

Question 9

What supplements do you recommend for Mastiffs?

Accepted Answer

We recommend NuVet Plus vitamins and supplements for all our Mastiff families. These premium, human-grade supplements are specially formulated to support your dog's immune system, joint health, and overall wellness. Why NuVet Plus: - Supports immune system function with natural ingredients - Promotes healthy joints and bones - Easy-to-give wafer form that dogs love - Made in FDA-registered facilities - Trusted by breeders nationwide How to Order: Call 800-474-7044 using order code 342996 or visit nuvetlabs.com to order directly. Auto-ship options available for convenience and savings. We include NuVet Plus in our puppy care recommendations because we've seen the positive impact on our dogs' health and longevity.

Question 10

What type of bed is best for a Mastiff?

Accepted Answer

We highly recommend Kuranda elevated dog beds for Mastiffs and all large breeds. These durable, orthopedic beds provide the perfect combination of comfort and support that giants need. Why Kuranda Beds: - Orthopedic support : Elevated design relieves pressure on joints - Chew-proof construction : Built to withstand even the most determined chewers - Easy to clean : Simply hose off or wipe down - no harboring of odors or allergens - Durable : Many customers report their beds lasting 8+ years - Comfortable : Dogs prefer them over traditional stuffed beds Perfect for Mastiffs because: - Supports weights up to 250+ pounds - Prevents calluses from hard surfaces - Keeps dogs cool and comfortable - Multiple dogs can share one bed Shop Kuranda Dog Beds - Available in multiple sizes perfect for growing puppies to full-grown adults. Many of our puppy families have used the same Kuranda bed for their dog's entire lifetime!

Question 11

What should I feed my Mastiff?

Accepted Answer

We recommend high-quality large breed puppy food for growing Mastiffs and premium adult formulas once fully grown. Proper nutrition is crucial for joint health and maintaining appropriate weight. We provide detailed feeding guidelines with each puppy.

Question 12

How do I reserve a puppy?

Accepted Answer

After your application is approved, puppies are reserved with a non-refundable deposit. We maintain a waiting list for specific preferences (gender, color) and match puppies to families based on temperament and lifestyle compatibility.

Question 13

Do you offer stud services?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have proven studs available in apricot, fawn, and brindle colors. All females must be Brucellosis tested prior to breeding. We offer both live cover and shipped semen options. Please contact us for specific stud information and fees.

Question 14

How much is a mastiff?

Accepted Answer

Our prices can vary, please contact us directly to discuss.

Question 15

What are your terms for payment?

Accepted Answer

$1,000 deposit to hold a puppy or puppy pick order can be made by Zelle, Venmo (business), or Cash App. The remaining balance is due at pickup or before delivery and may be paid by QuickBooks invoice (ACH bank transfer or credit/debit card), Zelle, Venmo, Cash App, or cash. A 3% processing fee applies to credit and debit card payments.

Question 16

Can we meet and pick out the Pet we would like?

Accepted Answer

Yes, everyone is encouraged to come meet our dogs and puppies before picking out their puppy. If you are unable to come to visit in person we also offer puppy picks via video chat.

Question 17

Do you offer any paperwork or bonding on the pet?

Accepted Answer

We will provide the AKC registration paperwork, a contract, and a 1 year genetic health guarantee.

Question 18

Are you a licensed Pennsylvania kennel?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Deer Creek Mastiffs holds PA Kennel License #19022 through the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture's Bureau of Dog Law Enforcement. "Kennel" is simply the state's legal term for any licensed breeding program — in everyday life, our dogs and puppies live with us in our home on the farm, raised underfoot with daily socialization and lots of love. State-licensed kennels are inspected at least twice per year, and licenses are renewed annually with the state. You can independently verify our license and view our state inspection records anytime — our kennel's record is here: https://www.pda.pa.gov/PADogLawPublicKennelInspectionSearch/KennelInspections/Details/18888 . You can also search license number 19022 or "Deer Creek Mastiffs LLC" on Pennsylvania's public kennel search: https://www.pda.pa.gov/padoglawpublickennelinspectionsearch/ We share our license number openly because your confidence in where your puppy comes from matters as much to us as the puppies themselves.

Question 19

What if my Pet becomes sick? Do you have any warranty or special terms?

Accepted Answer

We ask for people to take their puppy to their vet within 5 business days after picking it up. If the vet says there is something wrong with the puppy, we will take it back and give 100% refund. Only if this is done within 5 business days of picking up the puppy. We also have a 1 year genetic health guarantee.

Question 20

How do we get the process started of getting our new pet?

Accepted Answer

First, fill out an application. Then, we ask for a deposit in order to be added to our waiting list.

Question 21

What delivery options do you have?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to come pick up your puppy yourself, but if you cannot we have several options to get your puppy to you quickly and safely. We have a great transportation company that we work with often who can deliver a puppy by van to anywhere in the lower 48 for $500 or less!! We also have private transportation companies that we work with that May cost a little more. If your puppy is right around 20 lbs we could also have a flight nanny bring your puppy to your closest airport to meet you.