Well socialized puppies turn into working adults who are confident and secure in any environment. A loving start in life gives these puppies the confidence they will need to assist an individual with a disability. Puppy homes are expected to take the puppy with them during as much of their daily living as possible - CPL provides information on where the puppies are legally allowed to go and the identification the puppy and the volunteer need. Most of our puppies are placed in their puppy homes at eight weeks of age and return to live at our training facility after their first birthday. The majority of CPL's service dogs are Labradors and Golden Retrievers or crosses of those breeds.
Most puppies come from private breeders though some dogs are obtained through shelters and rescues.
CPL has a small breeding program and has puppies as a result of our own breeding from time to time. All dogs are carefully screened for temperament, personality and health. Local veterinarians generously provide free care to many CPL puppies. The volunteer home is responsible to provide leashes, collars, food and toys. During their first year of life puppies learn their basic obedience commands and house manners.