The Basics of Guardian Homes

A guardian puppy or dog is placed with a local family at a significantly reduced cost. 2026 Pricing: $400. Guardian families also receive a 50% discount on boarding services with Steel City Puppies. In addition, Guardian Homes are compensated $500 for each litter produced by a female.

The benefit to Steel City Puppies is that we do not rely on kennels or runs, nor do we overcrowd our space. We intentionally maintain a limited number of adult dogs so each receives ample time, care, and attention. The guardian dog benefits by living in a loving home environment, receiving individualized attention, and (for females) experiencing raising their puppies.

Female Guardian Dogs

Once a guardian female reaches at least one year of age, typically on her second or third heat cycle, she will stay with us for approximately one week for progesterone testing and breeding. She is then returned to her guardian family for the duration of her pregnancy.

One week before her due date, she returns to us to deliver, raise, and wean her puppies over a 6–8 week period. Steel City Puppies covers all pregnancy-related veterinary expenses and genetic health testing.

The number of litters produced depends on the individual dog, with a maximum of five litters. A female’s breeding career typically spans from 2 to 5 years of age. After retirement, once proof of spay is provided, we will reimburse the Guardian Home up to $350 and transfer full ownership rights.

Male Guardian Dogs

Male guardian dogs are typically needed for only 2–4 days at a time for breeding purposes, after which they are returned to their guardian family. If semen collection is performed for artificial insemination, the dog may be returned the same day.

Males are generally retired before six years of age. Upon retirement, neuter surgery will be reimbursed up to $350 with proof of receipt.

Female Care & The Breeding Process

When a guardian female enters estrus (heat), the Guardian Family must notify us immediately. Heat cycles typically last a total of 21 days and occur every 6–10 months.

During estrus, the female will stay with us for approximately 5–7 days. After breeding, she returns to her Guardian Family. One week prior to her due date, she returns to us to settle in and prepare for delivery. Puppies are typically weaned around 7 weeks of age, and she is then return to her Guardian Family.

During the first year, we complete the majority of the dog’s genetic health testing. Based on the results, we determine whether the dog will officially enter our breeding program. If a dog does not pass testing or is not selected for the program, the Guardian Family will be offered full ownership for no additional cost, and the dog will be spayed or neutered.

For puppies or young adults placed in Guardian Homes, we may schedule periodic visits during the first year to assess development and build a relationship with the puppy. If we feel the puppy is not being provided a quality home, then they are subject for removal.

Guardian Home Requirements

Guardian Homes must meet the following criteria:

Own their home (preferred, but not required)
Live within 90 minutes of Chelsea, Alabama
Not be away from the home more than 6 hours per day (preference given to those who work from home)
Have prior dog ownership experience
Provide a veterinary reference (preferred)
Maintain a fully fenced yard
Provide proper veterinary care, grooming, vaccinations, and heartworm prevention
Feed pawTree Dog Food or a raw meat based diet
Notify the breeder immediately when a female enters heat
Prevent females in heat from being around intact males
Not allow a guardian male to breed outside of the program without breeder permission
Ensure the dog is well-socialized with people and other dogs

An in-home interview may be required prior to acceptance into the Guardian Home program.

If you think you would be interested in being a Guardian Home please fill out the form below!