FAQ
When can we pick up our puppy?
Our Cane Corso puppies will be ready to join their new forever families starting at 8-10 weeks old. We cherish this extra time with them for up to 10 weeks, as it allows us to complete their socialization cycle. By embracing the puppy culture program in raising our puppies, we ensure they grow into confident, fearless companions and guardians full of love and loyalty.
We keep our puppies until they are 8-10 weeks old because it is critical for their development. Between 8 to 10 weeks of age, puppies go through a significant fear stage. How they are handled during this time can greatly influence their future behavior and temperament. During this period, we teach the puppies to communicate positively, such as sitting to request something instead of jumping. We also help them learn to recover from startling situations, overcome initial fears, and encourage them to try new experiences. This ensures they grow up to be confident and well-adjusted dogs.
We invest great effort into these little ones to ensure they grow up to be wonderful, confident companions for their future families.
When can we come and visit the puppies?
We invite future families to visit our adorable puppies starting at six weeks old. We're excited for you to meet them, as it's a fantastic chance for you to bond with the puppies and enhance their social skills. We welcome you to bring your children, other family members, and friends for this delightful experience. For everyone's safety, we ask visitors to wash their hands, step into diluted chlorine water with their shoes, and leave them outside. Our commitment to the puppies' health is paramount, as they're not fully vaccinated yet. To protect them from germs and diseases, we kindly ask that you avoid places with high dog traffic, like dog parks or AKC shows, before your visit. This ensures a safe and joyous meeting with our little fur babies!
How can we get a puppy?
The journey to welcoming one of our puppies into your home begins with our puppy application. We prefer to establish a personal connection and get to know our prospective puppy families first so you won't find the application on our website. If you want to start this process, please contact us
through our contact form. We'll happily follow up with you via email.
Additionally, feel free to connect with us on Instagram at
www.instagram.com/lasentinellacanecorso. We're excited to hear from you and start this wonderful journey together!
FAQ
Do puppies come with paperwork?
Each of our Cane Corso Puppies is a purebred, proudly registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). When adopting a puppy from us, you'll receive either Limited AKC or Full AKC co-own registration.
With Limited AKC registration, your new furry friend is meant to be a cherished family companion without breeding rights. On the other hand, Full AKC co-own registration allows the possibility of including your Cane Corso in a breeding program, provided they are mated with other AKC registered Cane Corso (though some exceptions may apply). We're committed to ensuring the best for our puppies and their future families!
Can you recommend a trainer for our puppy?
Absolutely! Training is crucial, especially for a breed like Cane Corso, whose mind is incredibly receptive, absorbing everything taught. Once our puppies have completed their
vaccinations, typically around 17-18 weeks old we can help you get started with local obedience club.
O'ahu Only
For those who are interested in competing in AKC Conformation dog shows we work with an amazing conformation trainer Nikki Char who offers classes once every two weeks.
Is there a written contract between the breeder and new owners?
Yes, we have three carefully structured contracts for our Cane Corso puppies, each designed to ensure the best for them and their new families.
Companion Agreement: This contract is for families seeking a devoted companion. Under this agreement, the puppy is not to be bred and must be spayed or neutered when it reaches 26 months of age. Puppies under this agreement will come with Limited AKC registration, emphasizing their role as beloved family members.
Co-Owner Agreement: Under this arrangement, the dog is placed in a co-ownership program with La Sentinella Cane Corso (LSCC). The dog lives full-time with the new family, who is responsible for daily care, training, and veterinary needs.
All AKC registration paperwork remains solely in LSCC’s name until the dog completes required show titles, health testing and mentorship. Once those requirements are met, the co-owner is added to the AKC registration.
This program is designed for individuals interested in participating in conformation showing and responsible breeding under LSCC’s guidance. Breeding decisions, approvals, and timelines are strictly governed by contract to protect the integrity of the breed.
Guardian Home Agreement: is a unique opportunity for families who want to own a top-quality Cane Corso puppy while contributing to our breeding and showing program. Under this program, you will receive a carefully selected top-pick puppy that will live with you and be entirely your companion, but the puppy will remain registered under our name.
Key Details of a Guardian Home Puppy:
Ownership and Registration: The puppy will be yours to raise, love, and enjoy as your family dog, but it will be registered solely under the breeder’s name.
Showing Requirements: Since this is a top-quality puppy, it will need to participate in AKC conformation shows. You have the option to handle the showing yourself if you’re interested, or we can take on this responsibility at no cost to you, covering all expenses for showing.
Breeding Program Participation:
• Dog: If your puppy is male, we will have full access to use him as a stud for our breeding program when he matures.
• Bitch: If your puppy is female, she will be bred only after reaching the appropriate age and passing all health clearances.
Affordable Cost: The Guardian Home program offers the lowest cost option for owning one of our high-quality puppies, making it an accessible way to welcome an exceptional Cane Corso into your family.
By joining our Guardian Home program, you get the best of both worlds, a top pick Cane Corso puppy as your loyal companion and the chance to be part of a responsible breeding and showing program that upholds the highest standards of the breed.
Each contract is crafted with the utmost care to ensure the well-being and proper care of our Cane Corso puppies, aligning with the needs and expectations of their future families.
FAQ
Do puppies come with their ears cropped and tails docked?
We ensure the best care for our puppies from the very beginning. Tail docking is carried out within 24 hours after birth to ensure their well-being and comfort, following standard practices.
Regarding ear cropping, we highly recommend this procedure, particularly for puppies living in warm, humid climates and those likely to spend a lot of time in the water, whether for sport or leisure. This precaution helps to maintain their overall health and comfort in such environments.
How does the ear-cropping process work?
There's a notable demand for ear crop service in Hawaii, so we plan our ear
cropping schedule based on the number of puppies we expect, as
determined by ultrasound results. For these procedures, we highly recommend and use Kokua Pet
Clinic, where Dr. William Myat, DVM, provides expert care.
If your puppy's ear cropping appointment is set before you pick them up, we'll handle everything. From taking them to the clinic to caring for them until their stitches are removed and they're ready to join their new family. For this service, payment is required before the procedure.
The cost will be determined based on your puppy's weight, and we'll provide you with an estimate from the vet.
If the appointment is scheduled after taking your puppy home, you must bring them to Kokua Pet Clinic and pay directly at the clinic.
Regarding ear crop styles, the Cane Corso breed has a specific style
resembling two equal triangles, designed to suit their unique head shape. We don’t do the other four styles (battle, short, show, and long)
for Cane Corso as those are more suited to the Bully breed, and we do not allow to crop our dogs' ears in those styles.
What can you look forward to when you pick up your puppy?
On this special day, you'll receive a puppy given all the necessary vaccinations for their age, ensuring they're healthy and protected.
Additionally, we've taken care of deworming and have started them on preventative treatments for fleas, ticks, and heartworms, using Simparica Trio, a trusted product we use for all our dogs.
Your puppy will also benefit from NuVet supplements, which we introduce at five weeks old. While not mandatory, we strongly recommend continuing with
NuVet, as we've seen fantastic results in our dogs. You can find more details
about this in your puppy agreement.
Along with your new furry friend, you'll receive their medical record book
and AKC litter paperwork. Your AKC certificate will arrive separately, sent
directly to you via email and mail from the AKC.
To help your puppy settle into their new home, we'll include a toy that carries
the comforting scents of their littermates and mother and a bag of the food they enjoy. This thoughtful touch ensures a smooth and
comforting transition to their new loving environment.
FAQ
What is puppy cost?
The cost for one of our puppies begins at $5,000. This price includes a limited AKC registration, ideal for a companion pet. We do not differentiate our pricing based on the puppy's gender or color. The primary factor influencing the cost is the type of agreement - whether it's for a breeding prospect or a companion pet. For more detailed information about these agreement types, I recommend checking the
question listed in the FAQ section.
Do we ship puppies to neighboring islands, mainland, and overseas?
Absolutely, we do ship puppies to various locations! While we are currently developing a plan for
shipping puppies to Australia, we already have several puppies happily settled on neighboring islands like Maui, Big Island, and Kauai. We've also successfully sent puppies to places as far as Texas.
Shipping a puppy to your location is feasible, we will NOT cover the shipping costs. Shipping cost which includes kennel price is buyer's responsibility.
Do we health test our dogs?
Yes, we conduct thorough health testing on our dogs. We primarily use PennHip or OFA testing, which we find particularly informative. This method doesn't just assess the current state of a dog's hips but provides a predictive measure for the future. It does so by evaluating the laxity of the joints and considering historical data and trends to forecast how the dog's hips will develop as it matures.
For all our imported dogs, we require their breeders to conduct health tests in their respective countries before considering purchasing them. Health is a paramount concern for us. We believe it's better to invest $1,000+ in testing each dog rather than risk incurring thousands of dollars in costs later due to undetected health issues.
FAQ
How do we know which puppy we will get?
When matching puppies with their new families, our approach is thoughtful and tailored to each individual's needs. We carefully review each application, paying close attention to details like your activity levels and plans for your new dog.
For instance, if a family leads a very active lifestyle, we'd recommend an equally energetic and outgoing puppy. Or, if a family is interested in bite work, we'd suggest a puppy with a strong protective temperament and potential for this specific training.
We consider which puppy might suit your family best and will explain our reasoning behind this choice. However, we also understand that the connection with a puppy is sometimes more about personal chemistry. If, during your visit, you feel a stronger bond with a different puppy than the one we initially selected, we'll discuss this puppy's temperament and our observations with you in detail. We aim to clarify why this puppy wasn't our first choice for you, ensuring you have all the information needed to make the best decision for your family.
We aim to ensure the perfect match for the puppy and your family, creating lasting, happy relationships.
What guarantees we provide with our puppies?
We are pleased to offer two types of guarantees with each of our puppies:
1. Temperament Guarantee:
This lifetime guarantee assures our dogs have a stable temperament, free from any inherent aggression. This is rooted in the quality genetics of our dogs, stemming from their parents and grandparents. However, it's important to remember that the environment and handling influence temperament.
Proper socialization, training, and care are crucial. We often say, “You cannot
train out temperament,” meaning that while a puppy's innate characteristics are fixed, your role as a responsible owner is to nurture and guide these traits. This involves appropriate correction, ample praise, and open communication with your puppy to maintain its inherent good nature.
2. Health Guarantee:
We provide a 24-month health guarantee for all dogs against genetic or hereditary conditions. The specifics of this guarantee are detailed in our puppy agreement/contract. This ensures that you are bringing home a puppy that is not only temperamentally sound but also in good health.
Both these guarantees reflect our commitment to the well-being of our puppies and the peace of mind of our puppy owners.
What can we feed the puppy, and how much exercise can it get?
When it comes to feeding your puppy, it's crucial to monitor the protein content in their diet. Puppies, especially of large breeds, should not consume more than 27% crude
protein until they are at least 18 months old. The reason is that excessive protein can accelerate growth too rapidly, potentially harming their joints. Let your puppy grow at its natural pace. High protein levels can also cause issues like blood in the urine and digestive problems. Therefore, avoid adding extra protein to a diet that meets this 27% threshold. You can consider increasing their protein intake after they reach 18 months and their growth plates have closed.
Exercise for your puppy should also be moderated. Avoid strenuous activities like running up and down stairs, jumping excessively, and overdoing hikes or runs. A good rule of thumb for exercise is to allow one to two sessions of five minutes of walking per month of age. For example, a four-month-old puppy can have 20-minute walks once or twice a day. It's always better to err on the side of caution to ensure your puppy grows up healthy and strong.
FAQ
What do we need to get before bringing our puppy home?
Preparing to welcome a new puppy into your home is a delightful and important endeavor. A puppy needs to have a surface where it can run and play with proper traction. If a puppy can't grip the ground and its feet slide, this lack of stability can harm its joints, potentially leading to severe health issues such as ACL tears, hip damage, or dysplasia.
To ensure a seamless introduction to their new environment, here's a comprehensive checklist of essential items and preparations:
1. Sturdy Food and Water Bowls: Opt for durable, easy-to-clean options.
2. High-Quality Puppy Food: Choose a nutritious, age-specific formula. We'll provide an initial supply with your puppy.
3. Comfortable Crate and Bedding: Select a cozy crate with suitable bedding for your puppy's restful sleep.
4. House Training Essentials: Stock up on puppy pads and cleaning supplies, including enzymatic cleaners for effective odor removal.
5. Chew Toys: Provide safe, puppy-friendly toys for teething and entertainment.
6. Adjustable Collar and Leash: Essential for training and outdoor excursions.
7. Grooming Kit: Include puppy shampoo, nail clippers, and a toothbrush.
8. Puppy Gates or Playpen: Create a secure area for your puppy's safety when unsupervised.
9. Training Treats: Opt for small, low-calorie treats ideal for training.
10. Veterinarian Contact Information: Ensure you have local vet details and schedule an initial check-up within three days of bringing your puppy home.
11. Comfort Items: Soft toys or blankets for comfort and familiarity. Each puppy will come with a toy scented by their mother and littermates.
12. Play and Exercise Accessories: Include balls, ropes, and play toys for active engagement.
13. Safe Environment: Puppy-proof your home by removing hazards like electrical cords, small objects, and toxic plants.
With these preparations, you'll create a nurturing, safe, and welcoming space for your new furry companion.
Should we get dog insurance?
We've always valued the importance of pet insurance. While it's often unused, it has been a financial lifesaver during critical moments for our dog.
Your puppy will arrive with a complimentary 30-day pet insurance plan from AKC and Trupanion,
providing peace of mind during this initial period. We recommend activating the Trupanion coverage within the first 24 hours of welcoming your puppy home – rest assured, we'll provide all necessary information for this process. Once this introductory period concludes, we advise transitioning to a more permanent insurance solution.
Insuring your puppy is prudent, especially considering their innate curiosity and tendency to explore potentially risky situations. This coverage ensures that your new companion is protected right from the start, allowing you to focus on enjoying your time together.
In the event I need to go on vacation or have an emergency, do you provide boarding services for my puppy?
We offer exclusive boarding services for the dogs we’ve produced. Our daily boarding fee is $50. However, we cannot provide boarding when we have new puppies. This precaution helps us maintain a safe and disease-free environment for the little ones. Your puppy’s health and well-being are our top priority, and we ensure they receive the best care while you’re away.