Becoming a Guardian Family
Raising dogs in real homes, with real love.
At Lovelocks, we believe the best dogs are raised as cherished family companions — not kept in kennels or isolated environments.
Our Guardian Family Program allows us to give each of our breeding dogs a full, happy life as a beloved pet while staying connected to our mission of breeding emotionally intelligent, healthy Australian Cobberdogs.
It’s a partnership — built on trust, purpose, and shared love for this remarkable breed.
What Is a Guardian Family?
Guardian families welcome one of our potential breeding dogs into their home as a much-loved family member.
The dog lives with you full time, enjoys a normal family life, and returns to us for short periods only when needed for health testing, breeding, or whelping (for girls).
Once their time in our breeding program is complete, ownership is transferred fully to you — and they remain your companion for life.
Why We Do It
This program allows us to:
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Ensure every dog in our program receives individual love, attention, and socialisation
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Avoid kennel environments or overhousing dogs in a breeder’s home
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Keep our breeding program intentional and small, while still supporting future generations
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Share the joy and privilege of raising these beautiful dogs with like-minded families
What Makes a Great Guardian Home?
We’re looking for families who:
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Live within a reasonable distance of Brisbane (or are open to travelling for health testing and breeding)
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Have secure fencing and a stable, loving home environment
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Are willing to communicate openly with us about the dog’s health and behaviour
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Can commit to following basic training, routine vet care, and a healthy lifestyle
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Are aligned with our values and want to be part of the Lovelocks story
This is a long-term, trust-based relationship. We’re not just giving you a dog — we’re inviting you into our extended family.
What’s Involved
As a Guardian Family, you:
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Receive a hand-selected puppy or young dog from our program
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Have minimal upfront costs - we ask for $1500 bond which is returned to you on the completion of the contract.
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Cover the dog’s day-to-day expenses (food, grooming, vet care not related to breeding)
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Work with us during key times (e.g., testing, mating, whelping) depending on the dog’s role
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May receive a small thank-you payment for each successful litter
We cover all breeding-related costs, including health testing and reproductive care.
Once the dog has finished their role in our program, and are desexed will remain with you forever.
Why Families Love It
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You’re helping preserve and develop a special breed, with purpose
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You receive a high-quality Cobberdog without the purchase price
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You become part of a small, supportive breeder-family partnership
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You know your dog came from — and contributed to — something meaningful