At Standard Hearts, we believe that a new puppy should bring a lifetime of joy, not worry. Our breeding philosophy is simple but unwavering: to prioritize health, temperament, and well-being above all else. We are not just breeding dogs; we are carefully planning for healthier generations of Standard Poodles. Every choice we make, from selecting our breeding pairs to nurturing each puppy, is guided by a deep commitment to the breed's future and the families who welcome our puppies into their homes.

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Embark Testing Explained: The Power of Modern Science

We leverage the latest advancements in canine genetics to ensure the health of our puppies. All our breeding dogs are comprehensively tested through Embark Veterinary, a leader in canine genetic health.

• What is Embark? Embark is a sophisticated DNA testing platform developed in partnership with the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. It screens for over 250 genetic health conditions, providing an unprecedented look into a dog's genetic makeup.

• Why We Use It: This proactive approach allows us to make informed breeding decisions to avoid passing on known hereditary diseases. It's our responsibility to use every tool available to produce the healthiest puppies possible.

• What We Test For: Our focus includes conditions relevant to Standard Poodles, such as:

  • Neonatal Encephalopathy (NE)

  • von Willebrand’s Disease (vWD)

  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

  • And many more.

This scientific foundation gives us—and you—greater confidence in your puppy's health from the start.

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OFA-Line Heritage: Building on a Solid Foundation

Exceptional health is built over generations. While we genetically test our own dogs, we also honor the importance of proven physical soundness. Our breeding dogs are carefully selected from pedigrees with a documented history of health, including ancestors with OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) clearances.

OFA certifications involve rigorous evaluations for hips, elbows, and hearts by veterinary specialists. By building upon these strong lines, we work to minimize the risk of orthopedic issues and promote the structural soundness that allows a Poodle to live a full, active life. This dual approach—combining modern genetics with proven heritage—forms the cornerstone of our program.

See the Proof: Transparency is Our Standard

We believe trust is built on transparency. You shouldn't have to take our word for it.

See the individual health testing and detailed profiles for each of our cherished breeding dogs.
 

This commitment to health is backed by our robust Health Guarantee, because we believe in standing behind every puppy we raise