Purchase Guidelines
What does my Appleridge puppy come with?
Every Appleridge pup goes home with official AKC registration, premium starter food, medical records, health insurance, training materials, and a full support pack. It's everything you need for a confident, healthy start.
Do you include pet insurance?
Yes! All puppies under 22 weeks old receive 6 weeks of free AKC pet insurance, which includes coverage for illness, injury, and a lost/stolen reward. That’s over $1,150 in value—completely free.
What kind of support materials do you provide?
You’ll receive an Appleridge Puppy Pack featuring a full-color training DVD, a 300-page puppy manual, a multi-generational picture pedigree, and health certification records—all designed to help you raise a well-rounded pup.
How is my puppy prepared before coming home?
Each pup is vet-checked, vaccinated, dewormed, and micro-chipped. They're also introduced to crate training, house manners, and raised with early socialization and human bonding techniques.
AKC Registration
Pet Insurance
Puppy Pack
Health & Prep
AKC registration papers are extremely important for yourself and the breed because they prove the following:
- Purebred German Shepherd dog status of your new companion.
- Registered names and numbers of your companion & its parents.
- Provable genealogy, showing concern for the preservation of purebred breeds for the future generations of humans to enjoy and breed.
- DNA and breed-specific qualities for temperament, type, looks, movement, workability, and health.
FREE six-week pet insurance for purchases under 22 weeks of age including:
- $1,500 to cover veterinary fees for illness and accidents (some restrictions) provided through the AKC if you qualify based on your location. Please consult the AKC site.
- $150 for advertising and reward if your pup is lost or stolen.
- Free certifications, as well as the titling paperwork for ancestors. These documents will be proudly presented as a testament to our dedication to this incredible breed and its preservation.
- A two-week supply of NuVet vitamins to get your pup started on a healthy life.
- Imodium and Albon for your pup’s first few days home to help it adjust without health issues.
- Full-color DVDs with five or more generations of your pup’s pedigree. These DVDs will include training videos to help you learn the techniques to train your dog to perfection. We are always glad to provide DVD-upgraded videos of obedience all the way to Obedience Trial Champion (OTCH).
- $250 for death benefit.
- $1,150 worth of coverage at no charge to the new owners.
You'll receive a puppy pack that includes the following:
- Premium dog food kits that have food for your puppy’s first few days.
- A 300-page manual with a comprehensive selection of articles for all stages of your canine’s life. This is to help new owners understand the dog’s training, feeding, vet, and general health needs.
- Three or more generational picture pedigree of your pup’s family tree, complete with documents verifying OVC or OFA HD to promote a balanced immune system and help prevent disease and cancer.
- A Health Record Medical Lifetime booklet.
- An adjustable collar.
Every Appleridge pup is prepped for a smooth transition into your home:
- Vet-checked and vaccinated
- Dewormed and given heartworm medication
- ISO microchipped and AKC/CKC tattooed
- Groomed: bath, nail trim, ear cleaning
- Socialized with children and animals
- Introduced to crate and house training
- Raised with motivational training & touch therapy
These steps aren’t just routine—they’re intentional. It’s part of how we raise dogs that thrive in every environment.
Contract Options
What types of purchase contracts does Appleridge offer?
We offer three options tailored to your goals:
- Nonbreeding – for families wanting a loyal companion without breeding rights
- Co-Owning – a shared ownership contract for select clients
- Breeding Options – for experienced owners interested in responsible breeding
What is included in the Kinderplay puppy training program?
Appleridge's Kinderplay classes are designed for puppies up to 6 months old and are included with our B & C contract types. These early sessions focus on positive socialization, basic obedience, and confidence-building — setting your pup up for lifelong success.
Does Appleridge offer obedience training for older dogs?
Yes! We provide lifelong obedience and social training classes at a discounted rate. Whether you're building on puppy basics or fine-tuning advanced commands, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Can I get private training support for my dog?
Is behavioral support available after purchase?
Does Appleridge offer boarding or board-and-train services?
We do. All Appleridge clients get discounted lifelong access to boarding and board-and-train programs. These are ideal when traveling or when your dog needs focused care while you're away.
What happens if I need to rehome my Appleridge dog?
Will I have ongoing support as my dog grows?
Yes. Every Appleridge contract includes lifetime access to advice and guidance via phone, email, or in-person. Whether it’s a training question or health concern, we’re committed to being part of your dog’s journey for life.
Long-Distance Purchases
Can I purchase a puppy from Appleridge if I don’t live nearby?
Yes! We proudly place puppies with families across North America and beyond. Our team has decades of experience coordinating safe, smooth long-distance placements — you're in good hands.
How will my puppy get to me?
You can choose from multiple options depending on your location and comfort:
- In-person pickup at our home
- Ground transportation through trusted pet courier services
- Air travel arranged with pet-safe airlines and specialized handlers
Each method is selected with your dog’s health and safety as the top priority.
What support do I get as a long-distance buyer?
We make sure you’re fully prepared before your pup ever leaves us. You'll receive:
- A comprehensive puppy pack and training guides
- Health records, insurance details, microchip info, and vaccination history
- Phone and video consultations to answer all your questions
We’re also available for lifetime follow-up, just like with our local clients.
What happens if travel delays my pup’s arrival?
We plan proactively to avoid surprises, but in case of weather or travel disruptions, your pup will stay with us in a safe, loving environment until a new arrangement is confirmed. We always prioritize your dog’s wellbeing and comfort.
Deposit Information
How much is the deposit to reserve a puppy?
A $250 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a pup. The deposit amount may vary depending on the litter, pup, or contract type, and will be discussed during your inquiry. Deposits are credited toward your final balance and non-refundable after 24 hours.
Why is the deposit non-refundable?
Each deposit helps us plan for the lifelong placement of our pups. When a reservation is made, that puppy is held exclusively for you — which means others are turned away. This commitment ensures serious inquiries only and protects the well-being of every dog in our care.
Can I transfer my deposit to a future litter?
What happens after I place my deposit?
Once your deposit is received:
- You'll get a confirmation and timeline for your puppy's readiness
- We’ll keep you updated with photos, growth milestones, and early training notes
- You’ll receive guidance on preparing your home for your new pup
- Final payment and pickup/delivery arrangements will be coordinated as your pup approaches the go-home age
Payment Options
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major debit cards, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, PayPal, & Western Union Transfers. Unfortunately, we do not accept personal checks or third-party financing at this time.
When is payment due?
Final payment is due prior to or at the time of pickup or delivery. We do not release any dog until full payment is received and cleared.
Can I make partial payments or set up a payment plan?
While we don’t offer traditional financing, installment arrangements can sometimes be made depending on the contract type and timeline. Please inquire directly to see if we can work with your schedule.
Is the deposit applied toward my final balance?
Yes. Your non-refundable deposit is credited toward your final total. The remaining balance is calculated based on your selected puppy, contract, and any additional services such as training or delivery.
Flexible & Secure Payment Methods
Return Policy
Can I return my Appleridge puppy or dog if things don’t work out?
Will I receive a refund if I return my dog?
What if I can’t care for my dog anymore due to personal circumstances?
Can I rehome my Appleridge dog on my own?

Begin Your Appleridge Journey
Finding your perfect German Shepherd companion starts with a conversation. Let’s discuss your lifestyle, needs, and how an Appleridge dog can enhance your life for years to come.