--- title: "How It Works" type: "page" slug: "how-it-works" published_at: "2026-06-13T20:22:17+00:00" modified_at: "2026-10-13T14:44:16+00:00" url: "https://sagepuppies.com/our-program/how-it-works/" markdown_url: "https://sagepuppies.com/our-program/how-it-works.md" author: "Matt Milar" publisher: "Sage Puppies" --- # How It Works Start Here ## A simple path for serious puppy families. Finding the right puppy should not feel confusing, rushed, or transactional. Our process begins with availability and application, then moves into thoughtful matching, reservation, preparation, and go-home planning. Whether you are nearby in Utah or welcoming your puppy through delivery, the goal is the same: clear communication, a strong fit, and a confident start for your puppy at home. - [See puppies currently available](/available-puppies/) - [Understand pricing and reservation](/pricing-reservation/) - [Learn about delivery and pickup](/delivery-pickup/) ![Red and white Cavapoo puppy sitting indoors during the Sage Puppies matching process](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/6C6A2363.jpg) A thoughtful puppy adoption process starts with fit, timing, and confidence. Fit FirstStart with the right fit, not a rushed click. Photos matter, but the best placement comes from understanding your home, timing, breed preferences, and the puppy’s temperament. The application gives us the context needed to guide you toward a Havanese, Havapoo, or Cavapoo puppy that truly fits. [Learn About Matching](/our-program/matchmaking/) The Process ## From first look to puppy go-home. These are the core steps most Sage Puppies families follow. Exact timing depends on current availability, litter timing, application fit, and delivery or pickup plans. 1. ### Browse availability Start with our available puppies page or breed guides to learn which puppies, litters, or waitlist options may fit your timing. 2. ### Apply or inquire Submit the puppy application so we can learn about your home, preferences, timing, breed interest, and what kind of companion you are hoping for. 3. ### Match thoughtfully We help you think beyond looks alone and consider temperament, size expectations, coat type, family lifestyle, travel timing, and long-term fit. 4. ### Reserve your puppy Once a fit is confirmed, reservation details and next steps are shared clearly so you understand timing, payment, paperwork, and expectations. 5. ### Prepare for home Before go-home, you will receive guidance on puppy prep, supplies, routines, crate setup, food transition, and what to expect during the first days. 6. ### Delivery or pickup Families may arrange safe puppy delivery or local pickup in South Jordan, Utah. We coordinate timing and go-home details before travel day. ![Chocolate and white Cavapoo puppy receiving gentle handling during application-first matching](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/6C6A23141.jpg) Gentle handling and observation help us understand puppy confidence and temperament. ![Two Cavapoo puppies exploring grass during early outdoor socialization](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/6C6A25241.jpg "Cavapoo puppies exploring outdoors") Early experiences support a smoother transition from our home to yours. Choose Your Path ## Available now or planning ahead? Some families are ready for a puppy soon. Others are waiting for the right breed, timing, temperament, or delivery window. Both paths are welcome. Path 01There is a puppy available now Review the puppy’s profile, submit your application, and ask about that specific puppy. If the fit is strong, we will walk you through reservation and go-home planning. [View Available Puppies](/available-puppies/) Path 02You are planning for a future puppy Join the waitlist through the application, share your ideal timing and breed preferences, and we will help you prepare for upcoming Havanese, Havapoo, or Cavapoo opportunities. [Join the Waitlist](/application/) AvailabilitySee a puppy you love? Ask with context. A puppy profile is only the beginning. When you apply, share your timeline, location, home rhythm, and breed preferences so we can confirm whether that puppy or a future litter is the better match. [See Reservation Details](/pricing-reservation/) ![Apricot Cavapoo puppy sitting on a sage blanket in South Jordan Utah](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Picture8-1-scaled.jpg) Available puppies and future litters are reviewed through the same fit-focused process. Breed Fit ## Not sure which breed fits best? We raise small companion puppies with family-focused temperaments. If you are deciding between breeds, start with the breed guides below and share your preferences in the application. Small CompanionHavanese A cheerful, affectionate companion breed often loved by families who want a small dog with a warm, people-focused personality. [Explore Havanese Puppies](/breeds/havanese/) Soft & SocialHavapoo A Havanese and Poodle mix that can be a wonderful fit for families wanting a small, sweet, trainable companion. [Explore Havapoo Puppies](/breeds/havapoo/) Gentle Family FavoriteCavapoo A Cavalier and Poodle mix often chosen by families looking for a loving, gentle puppy with an affectionate nature. [Explore Cavapoo Puppies](/breeds/cavapoo/) ![Sage Puppies team member holding a small Cavapoo litter in a family room](https://sagepuppies.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/6C6A2448.jpg) Our breed guidance is personal because every puppy and family has a different fit. Family-Raised GuidanceBreed fit is more than size, coat, or color. Havanese, Havapoo, and Cavapoo puppies can all be wonderful family companions, but the right match also depends on household energy, grooming expectations, travel timing, children, other pets, and the kind of daily rhythm your puppy will join. [Take the Breed Match Quiz](/breeds/breed-match-quiz/) Delivery & Pickup ## Welcoming your puppy, wherever home is. Most Sage Puppies families welcome their puppy through national delivery, while local families may choose pickup in South Jordan, Utah. Once your puppy is reserved, we will discuss the safest, most practical go-home option for your family, your puppy, and your timing. National FamiliesPuppy delivery Delivery details are coordinated after application, matching, and reservation so you know what to expect before go-home day. [Learn About Delivery](/delivery-pickup/) Utah FamiliesLocal pickup Local pickup may be arranged in South Jordan, Utah, with clear timing, preparation notes, and go-home instructions. [Ask a Question](/contact/) After You Apply ## What happens after you apply? The application helps us understand your family before discussing puppy placement, timing, and next steps. **Application Review**We review your home, timing, breed preferences, and what you are hoping for in a puppy. **Conversation**If there may be a fit, we follow up with questions, availability, and guidance for your next step. **Reservation**Once the fit is confirmed, reservation details are provided so you can move forward with confidence. **Go-Home Planning**We help coordinate pickup or delivery details and provide preparation notes before your puppy comes home. What To Expect ## Clear, personal, and fit-focused. 01No rushed clicks We do not want families choosing a puppy on impulse. The application helps keep the process intentional. 02Real guidance We help you compare breed, temperament, timing, size expectations, and go-home logistics. 03Simple next steps You will know what to do next, what information is needed, and where you are in the process. 04Go-home support We share preparation notes so your puppy’s transition into your home feels more calm and confident. FAQ ## Common questions about the process. What is the first step to getting a Sage Puppies puppy?Start by reviewing [available puppies](/available-puppies/) or breed information, then submit the [puppy application](/application/) . The application helps us understand your home, timing, breed preferences, and what kind of puppy may fit best. Can I choose a specific puppy?Yes, when a puppy is available, you may ask about that specific puppy. We still encourage families to consider temperament, timing, lifestyle, and long-term fit rather than choosing by appearance alone. Can I reserve a puppy before applying?The application is the first step toward discussing a match. Submitting it does not reserve a puppy. After a fit is confirmed, review the puppy’s price, written reservation terms, and agreed go-home plan before making a payment. Do you offer puppy delivery?Yes. Puppy delivery may be available for families outside Utah, and local pickup may be arranged in South Jordan, Utah. Delivery and pickup details are discussed after application, matching, and reservation. What breeds does Sage Puppies raise?Sage Puppies raises Havanese, Havapoo, and Cavapoo puppies. These breed pages can help you compare temperament, size expectations, coat considerations, and family fit. Where can I see pricing and reservation details?Visit the [Pricing & Reservation](/pricing-reservation/) page for current guidance. Once your application and puppy fit are reviewed, we will walk you through the next steps clearly. Ready When You Are ## Find your puppy with clarity and confidence. Start with availability, learn the reservation process, or apply to join the waitlist for a future Havanese, Havapoo, or Cavapoo puppy. Tip: If you already know your preferred breed and timing, include those details in your application so we can guide you more efficiently.