We offer full AKC registration with restricted breeding rights to protect the integrity of the breed. A dog placed on Limited Registration may compete in many AKC performance events, but they cannot compete in conformation breed-standard dog shows. Any puppies produced by a dog on Limited Registration cannot be registered with the AKC, unless the original litter owner, in our case Shadowlight Havanese, applies to the AKC to remove the limitation. We do not permit cross-breeding; our dogs are from champion bloodlines and are pure Havanese. Any cross-breeds are not eligible for AKC registration.
Tier 1: Family Companion
This is our standard contract for all companion placements. While these dogs are sold as family companions on Limited Registration with a spay/neuter requirement and breeding rights prohibited, we believe in their potential. Our program prioritizes temperament for emotional support, therapy, and service work. We hope every owner will take their dog further, unlocking the full potential of their bond, even if they do not intend to breed.
We actively encourage owners to pursue AKC training and events with their Shadowlight Havanese, such as S.T.A.R. Puppy and Canine Good Citizen (CGC) as a basic training course for a family companion. These experiences deepen the bond and showcase the intelligence and temperament we breed for.
Tier 2: Exhibition & Potential (Upgrade Path)
Full Registration is not granted upfront; the Dog remains on Limited Registration. Owners may pay an upfront, non-refundable Holding Fee of $500.00 USD to reserve the option to breed later, not required to spay/neuter. While under this tier, the Dog may compete in Agility, Obedience, and other performance events, but not Conformation.
When the Owner is ready to breed, they must provide proof of health clearances and training titles as outlined in the Breeding Rights Eligibility clause. Once verified, the Owner pays the remaining balance of the Breeding Rights Fee ($1,500.00 USD) to upgrade to Full Registration and unlock Breeding Rights. The owner will upgrade to tier 3. Breeding is prohibited until the upgrade is complete and all health clearances are verified.
Tier 3: Full Breeder (Professional)
This tier is for established breeders or serious preservationists who seek Full AKC Registration and unrestricted Breeding Rights immediately. The fee for Full Breeder rights is $2,000.00 USD.
Breeder Integrity Review: Before any payment is accepted, the Buyer must undergo a breeder approval review to ensure alignment with our ethical standards. Shadowlight Havanese reserves the right to withhold approval and placement. We will not place dogs with puppy mills, commercial wholesale operations, or neglectful facilities. We support responsible home breeders and established kennels.
Compliance Requirements: Prior to breeding, the Buyer must provide proof of:
OFA or PennHIP hip evaluation (Fair, Good, or Excellent).
OFA patellar evaluation (Normal).
CAER (OFA) eye examination by a board-certified ophthalmologist, valid within 12 months.
DNA testing panel: CDDY/IVDD, AON, and PRA.
Anti-Broker Clause: No Shadowlight Havanese puppy may be brokered, sold, or transferred to a third party without prior written approval.
Enforcement: We require rigorous screening for breeding placements and enforce strict ethical compliance with legal remedies to protect the integrity of our dogs. We stand for the dignity of the breed. Our standards mandate that breeding females enjoy a protected life, limited litters, and a guaranteed retirement as a cherished companion. We require that every pairing be made with integrity, demanding verified health testing for all partners to ensure the legacy of our champion lines is honored, not diluted.