Quick Summary: Sage Puppies stands out for its clear, health-focused approach to breeding Havanese, Havapoos, and Cavapoos, offering nationwide delivery from Utah with health-tested parents and a structured adoption process. The article warns that California breeders vary widely-some provide detailed health records and home-raised care, while others lack transparency, so buyers must verify parent testing, contracts, and pickup/delivery plans before committing. A polished website or open litter doesn’t guarantee quality; always confirm OFA or DNA records and avoid breeders who rush payments or avoid questions. California law requires breeders to disclose health and care details, but families should still cross-check claims independently.
A puppy listing can show a sweet face in seconds. It cannot show the parents’ health records, the nursery, the contract, or what happens if your family’s plans change.
Families looking at California puppy breeders often compare home programs, show breeders, delivery-based sellers, and national breeders by very different standards. A polished site or an open litter does not prove a program is right for you.
This shortlist reviews nine California puppy breeders, starting with Sage Puppies for families open to delivery from South Jordan, Utah. It also helps families seeking the best Havanese breeders or small companion mixes. Each profile covers public strengths, smart follow-up questions, and details you should confirm directly.
We looked for clear breed focus, stated health testing or vet care, family-raised social skills, placement practices, and recognized credentials where listed. We also favored reputable dog breeders with a useful next step on their website.
Availability, prices, policies, and health documents can change. Confirm them before sending money. California families should also review state breeder disclosure rules and consumer guidance before choosing among California puppy breeders.
Quick Comparison of California Puppy Breeders
| Breeder | Best for | Primary focus | Health or care signal | Location or delivery | Availability note |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sage Puppies | Families open to national delivery or Utah pickup | Havanese, Havapoo, and Cavapoo | Health-tested parents, vet checks, home-raised early care | South Jordan, Utah; nationwide delivery available | Check current listings or join the waitlist |
| Artwyrks Havanese | Havanese families seeking a long-established show and companion program | Havanese | Age-appropriate genetic testing and stated health guarantee | La Habra, California; pickup details should be confirmed | Reservations stated for summer and fall 2026 litters |
| California Havanese | Families who want to investigate OFA and DNA records | Havanese | OFA certifications and DNA screening described | California; confirm pickup or delivery arrangements | Contact the program for current litter status |
| La Tierra Havanese | Families interested in show-informed companion Havanese | Havanese | OFA-listed parent testing and age-appropriate care | California; confirm location and handoff details | Review the puppies page and contact the program |
| Amor Havanese | Families seeking an experienced Havanese program in Northern California | Havanese | Males and females health tested before breeding | Yuba City, California | Availability was reported in April 2026; confirm current status |
| Encore Havanese | Families prioritizing temperament and continuing breeder support | Havanese | Extensive health evaluations of puppy parents are stated | California connection; confirm exact location and handoff | A May 3, 2026 litter was announced; confirm remaining availability |
| Avalon Hills Puppies | Families considering Havanese or Havapoo puppies from a home-centered program | Havanese, Havapoo, and Toy Poodle | Early neurological stimulation, socialization, and limited litters described | Confirm current California location and handoff options | Review available puppies and upcoming litters directly |
| Colhaven | Families seeking Havanese with a show-informed presentation | AKC Havanese | Continuous adult health testing and family socialization are stated | Confirm California location and pickup or delivery | Contact the program for current puppy information |
| Highmoon Havanese | Families planning well ahead and comfortable waiting | Havanese | Veterinary check, first vaccination, and stated five-year guarantee | Coalinga, California; does not fly puppies alone | No puppies or planned 2026/2027 litters stated on site |
What to know about California puppy breeders
California puppy breeders range from small home programs and show-focused Havanese kennels to breeders that arrange safe delivery into the state. A puppy being available today matters less than how clearly the breeder explains its care.
Ask about parent health testing, vet records, early socialization, contracts, and support after go-home day. You should also know the exact pickup or delivery plan before placing a reservation.
| What to confirm | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Parent testing and records | Helps you make an informed choice |
| Home raising and socialization | Supports a smoother family transition |
| Pickup or delivery details | Avoids last-minute surprises |
A reputable breeder welcomes thoughtful questions and gives clear, written answers.
For a wider guide to choosing the right companion, see our puppies for sale in California page.
1. Sage Puppies
Sage Puppies is a boutique South Jordan, Utah program for Havanese, Havapoo, and Cavapoo families nationwide. It is a strong fit for California families comfortable with coordinated delivery or Utah pickup.
Highlights
- Focused only on three small companion breeds.
- Home-raised care, early handling, and lifestyle-based puppy matching.
- National delivery and local Utah pickup options.
Specs
- Best for: Families open to delivery or Utah pickup
- Health and care: Health-tested parents and vet checks
- Availability: Check current listings or join the waitlist
Pros
- Clear application, reservation, and go-home steps.
- Breed and puppy-prep resources help first-time owners. Ask to review parent health records, as AKC buyer guidance recommends.
Cons
- Not physically located in California.
- Confirm delivery timing and terms for the specific puppy.
Sage Puppies ranks first for its focused breed experience and clear path from application to California delivery.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
Also Read: Health-Tested Puppies for Sale Near Me: A Buyer Safety Guide
2. Artwyrks Havanese
Artwyrks is a La Habra Havanese program focused on health, temperament, and careful companion homes. The breeder states dogs live in the home and has bred since 1998.
Highlights
- The program describes age-based testing, including eye, cardiac, patella, hip, elbow, and hearing checks on its genetic testing page.
- Reservations are listed for summer and fall 2026, with a planned July litter on the available puppies page.
Specs
- Location: La Habra, California
- Best for: Families seeking health-tested Havanese puppies
- Focus: Havanese only
- Care signal: Stated genetic health guarantee
Pros
- Long breeding and showing history
- Home-raised setting is clearly described
Cons
- Not a multi-breed option
- Confirm certificates, contract terms, and pickup details directly
Artwyrks ranks highly for its unusually clear public details on its breeding approach, testing, and litter plans.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
Also Read: Havanese, Havapoo & Cavapoo Puppy Care Blog
3. California Havanese
California Havanese publicly explains its OFA certification and DNA screening approach. It also presents pedigree and OFA details for individual dogs, giving families more than a broad health claim.
Highlights
- Havanese-focused California program with detailed health education.
- Public discussion of OFA testing, DNA screening, and inherited conditions such as chondrodysplasia.
- Individual dog pedigree and OFA information is presented.
Specs
- Best for: Families ready to review parent records
- Availability: Contact the program for current litter status
- Pickup or delivery: Confirm arrangements directly
Pros
- OFA and DNA testing claims are specific.
- Families can search OFA records using each parent’s registered name.
Cons
- The buyer process is not fully outlined.
- Verify that records are current and apply to the litter.
This ranks third because it gives buyers a practical starting point for checking health claims, not just trusting promises.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
4. La Tierra Havanese
La Tierra Havanese focuses on show and companion dogs. The program describes AKC champions as family members and shares clear puppy-prep details.
Highlights
- Parent health results are publicly referenced through OFA listings.
- Puppies receive age-appropriate care, with potty training started before go-home.
- The program states Havanese Club of America and AKC breeder credentials.
Specs - Best for: Families seeking show-informed companion Havanese
- Availability: Review the puppies page and contact the breeder
- Handoff: Confirm California pickup details directly
Pros - Clear health-testing and puppy-care signals
Cons - Ask for litter-specific records, contract terms, and current pricing
La Tierra ranks fourth for pairing a defined breed purpose with transparent preparation details.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
Also Read: Questions to Ask a California Puppy Breeder First
5. Amor Havanese
Amor Havanese is a Yuba City program with a long background in breeding, grooming, training, and showing Havanese. It also describes therapy dogs working in hospitals and nursing homes.
Highlights
- States that breeding males and females receive health testing.
- Describes specialty and group wins, plus pet and show placements in approved homes.
- Families should ask for parent test records. The Havanese Club of America health statement lists eye, hearing, patella, and hip screens.
Specs - Best for: Northern California families seeking Havanese puppies
- Primary focus: Havanese
- Location: Yuba City, California
- Availability: Reported in April 2026 – confirm directly
Pros - Companion-focused therapy-dog experience
- Strong show background
Cons - Current contract and delivery terms need direct discussion
- Availability can change fast
Amor ranks fifth for its stated health testing, approved-home focus, and deep Havanese experience.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
Also Read: 10 Adorable Havapoo Colors You Need to See (2026)
6. Encore Havanese
Encore Havanese is a California Havanese program that puts health, steady temperament, and happy personalities first. It also describes ongoing guidance for families after a puppy goes home.
Highlights
- The program says parent dogs receive extensive evaluations, including OFA certifications. Ask for the actual records before reserving, as the Havanese Club of America advises.
- Its inquiry asks about home life, children, pets, and the traits you want, which supports a thoughtful match.
- A May 3, 2026 litter was posted, with four puppies listed on its puppy page. Confirm availability directly.
Specs
- Best for: Families who value temperament and breeder support
- Primary focus: Havanese
- Location: Escondido, California – confirm handoff options
Pros
- Clear priorities and family-matching questions
- States ongoing support
Cons
- Request exact test records and written terms
Encore ranks sixth for its clear family focus, but buyers should verify records, availability, and pickup details.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
7. Avalon Hills Puppies
Avalon Hills Puppies is a boutique, husband-and-wife program focused on Havanese, Toy Poodles, and Havapoos. It says puppies are raised in the family home with adults, children, and other dogs.
Highlights
- The program describes home raising, family involvement, and limited litters.
- Puppies receive Early Neurological Stimulation during their early days, according to its website.
- Review available puppies and upcoming litters directly before applying.
Specs
- Best for: Families seeking home-raised Havapoo puppies
- Primary focus: Havanese, Havapoo, and Toy Poodle
- Location or delivery: Confirm current California location and handoff options
Pros
- Relevant small-breed focus and family socialization.
Cons
- Request parent health tests, contract, and written health guarantee.
It ranks seventh because its care approach is clear, but litter-specific records need direct review.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
Also Read: 10 Signs a California Puppy Listing Is a Scam – Sage Puppies
8. Colhaven
Colhaven presents an AKC Havanese program centered on health, temperament, structure, and breed type. It describes health-tested, family-socialized puppies with champion-sired lineage.
Highlights
- AKC Havanese is the clear focus.
- The program states that adult dogs receive ongoing health testing and puppies are raised with family socialization.
- Ask for parent names and test records. The OFA database guidance helps buyers research breeding dogs.
Specs - Best for: Families wanting a show-informed Havanese.
- Availability: Contact Colhaven for current litter details.
- Location and delivery: Confirm California location, pickup, and delivery options.
Pros - Health and temperament guide the stated mission.
- Family stories and lineage details add useful context.
Cons - Request the exact test panel and results. CHIC protocols vary by breed.
- Champion lineage does not replace record review.
Colhaven ranks eighth because its public message is strong, but direct health-document review remains essential.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
Also Read: 10 Must-Ask Questions Before Buying a Puppy Locally
9. Highmoon Havanese
Highmoon Havanese is a Coalinga program in California’s San Joaquin Valley. Its availability notice clearly says there are no puppies or planned litters for 2026 or 2027.
Highlights
- Havanese-focused program with clear pickup and travel guidance.
- States that puppies receive a veterinary check and first vaccination.
- Lists a five-year health guarantee for select homes.
Specs
- Location: Coalinga, California
- Best for: Families able to wait for a possible future reopening
- Travel: Puppies do not fly alone
Pros
- Clear no-litter notice helps families avoid false hope.
- Written care and contract details are easy to review.
Cons
- Not an option for families needing a puppy soon.
- Ask for specific parent health-test records if inquiries reopen.
It ranks ninth because transparency is strong, but no planned litters make it a future-contact option only.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
How to choose the right California puppy breeder
Use the same checks for every breeder on this list. Sage Puppies stands out for families seeking a home-raised Havanese, Havapoo, or Cavapoo with health-tested parents, a clear adoption process, and pickup or nationwide delivery from South Jordan, Utah.
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Verify both parents. Ask for registered names and current health-test records for the sire and dam. Confirm results through the testing registry when possible.
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See the raising space. California’s Attorney General advises buyers to visit the home, meet the parents, and view the nursery. Avoid parking-lot handoffs and sellers who offer photos only.
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Read before you reserve. Your contract should explain health disclosures, rehoming terms, spay or neuter rules, travel details, dispute steps, and what comes home with the puppy.
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Check all written records. Ask for birth details, ID, vaccines, worming, vet care, and known health concerns. California law requires applicable breeders to provide this information.
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Separate breeder quality from location. A California puppy is not automatically the safer choice. Ask how travel works, which records arrive with your puppy, and how to plan the first vet visit.
Walk away from rushed payment requests, untraceable payment methods, missing receipts, or anyone who will not discuss the parents.
Ready to find a well-raised small-breed puppy? Sage Puppies offers Havanese, Havapoo, and Cavapoo puppies from health-tested parents, raised in a loving South Jordan home. Review available puppies, learn about pickup or nationwide delivery, then submit an application when the right match feels clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Puppies for sale in California
Start with breeders who share parent health records, home-raising details, and a clear pickup plan. Avoid choosing by color or speed alone. Ask about the puppy’s daily routine, socialization, and what support follows your deposit.
Q2: How can I verify a California puppy breeder is ethical and trustworthy?
Request health testing proof for both parents, a written agreement, and clear answers about where puppies live. Speak directly with the breeder. A trusted program welcomes thoughtful questions and never pushes a same-day payment.
Q3: What red flags should I watch for when buying puppies in California?
Watch for stock photos, many unrelated breeds, vague locations, cash-only pressure, and no parent information. Be cautious if a seller refuses calls, visits, or live video. Low prices can also hide poor care or scams.
Q4: Are California-bred puppies safer than those shipped from out of state?
Not always. A puppy’s care, breeder standards, and travel plan matter more than state lines. Sage Puppies in South Jordan, Utah, offers local pickup and nationwide delivery, with clear guidance for families planning a safe transition.
Q5: What should I ask before placing a puppy deposit?
Ask what the deposit reserves, whether it is refundable, when selection happens, and what the full price includes. Confirm vaccination records, food guidance, pickup timing, and how the breeder handles questions after your puppy goes home.
