Puppy Raising

What Puppy Raisers Do:

• Welcome a puppy into your home as part of your family

• Teach house manners and basic obedience using only FCI-approved techniques

• Provide frequent socialization in public settings (stores, restaurants, schools, etc.)

• Attend FCI training classes, club meetings, and events in Wimberley, TX and the surrounding area

• Submit training reports and maintain communication with FCI instructors

• Supervise the puppy closely and follow FCI guidelines for care and conduct

• Return the puppy when requested for advanced training

For Youth Puppy Raisers: Parental Support Matters

Raising a puppy is an exciting challenge that requires patience and consistency. While our puppies are bred for service work, they still act like puppies—mouthing, chewing, jumping, and testing boundaries. For youth raisers, parental participation is essential. Families should be prepared to provide transportation, emotional support, and help ensure that FCI rules are followed at home.

Parent or Guardian Responsibilities:

• Attend orientation and home interview with your child

• Co-sign the puppy raiser application

• Support FCI rules, instructions, and ethical expectations

• Provide transportation to events as needed

• Communicate openly with FCI instructors and report any concerns

Frequently asked questions

How long do I keep the puppy?
Typically 12 to 14 months, depending on the puppy's readiness for advanced training.

What happens when it’s time to return the puppy?
It’s never easy to say goodbye, but your pup will be one step closer to empowering someone’s life! You will get updates about their progress through advanced training and be invited to attend their graduation and meet their final partner if they complete training. And who knows—you may just raise another one!

Can I puppy raise if I have other pets?
Absolutely! Most of our raisers have other dogs. We ask that there be no other dogs under 1 year old in the home. Your own dogs need to be friendly with other dogs—they don’t need to follow any special rules. Cats, chickens, and other animals are welcome too (bonus socialization for our pups!). Only the FCI Pup must follow our training guidelines.

What types of rules does an FCI Pup have to follow in our home?
Puppies are expected to learn good house manners they’ve learned in training. That includes:

• No jumping on people or counters

• No begging for food

• Resting on dog beds, not furniture

• Sleeping in a crate at night and when left home alone (crate provided)

• Only being off-leash in fully fenced areas

• Not barking at people or other dogs
  

Do I need prior experience?
No. We provide training support and guidance. We just ask that you're patient, consistent, and willing to follow our care guidelines.

Can my puppy go to school or public places with me?
Yes! As a puppy in training, your FCI pup will be allowed in public spaces where pets typically can’t go. Your pup will always wear their "pup in training vest" and head halter in public.

What costs does FCI cover for puppy raisers?
We provide food, veterinary care, training equipment, and ongoing support. You provide love, structure, and transportation (if needed).

What if I need to travel or can’t care for the pup temporarily?
Just let us know—we’ll find short-term coverage for your puppy.

❤️Ready to Puppy Raise?

Whether you’re ready to jump in or just exploring if fostering is right for you, we’d love to connect. If you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re happy to chat and help you find the right fit.

📞 Todd Kier: 512‑646-1027
📧 info@freedomcanines.org

Thank you for considering this meaningful role in the journey of a future service dog. You don’t just raise a puppy—you help empower a person!