I'm Margaret V., the breeder behind Queen’s Guard Kennel located in Austin, TX. I produce pups that will continue to excel in their chosen field, whether that be working, showing, or as an active companion. All of my breeding dogs have conformation titles and participate in performance events. I strive to produce outstanding puppies that are structurally sound, healthy, intuitive, and have wonderful temperaments. It has always been my passion to raise smart, loving, and loyal puppies.
Q. & A. with Margaret
Why did you start breeding?
I understand the very important role that breeders undertake; that today’s breeders are the guardians of the future Rat Terriers. It is an honor to represent this breed and create opportunities for others to experience the same joy that I've found in raising these wonderful dogs.
What makes your program special?
I do not breed my dogs unless they are fully healthy, conformation titled and genetically tested. I am dedicated to always having responsible policies when it comes to breeding, socializing, and training my pups. I love what I do and truly want the very best for my puppies and their forever families. I take pride in raising well-tempered and socialized puppies who can excel in work, show, or as beloved companions.
Where do your breeding dogs live?
They live in my home.
Getting a puppy from Margaret
Margaret has been certified by Good Dog’s screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you’re ready to reach out, feel free to ask any questions about the breed, their program, or specific puppies.
Together, you’ll choose the puppy that’s right for you, stay in touch with regular updates, and plan how to bring your new puppy home.
Price
Puppy prices include a $300 non-refundable deposit and between $650 - $1,200 final payment, before taxes & fees.
“Price includes a health guarantee, tails docked and dew claws removed, veterinary health check, vaccinations and worming up to date. Prepaid AKC registration and microchip and puppy pack.”
Contract & health guarantee
Margaret may provide a written contract or
health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps
protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you
both have a clear understanding of the terms of your
puppy purchase. If Margaret offers a contract
or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them.
If you have any questions or want to know more,
don’t hesitate to reach out to Margaret directly.
Queen’s Guard Kennel meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:
Responsible breeding practices
Health of breeding dogs and puppies
Puppy environment and enrichment
Buyer education and policies
Parent health testing
Breeder-Reported Testing
Excellent level
Queen’s Guard Kennel reports to performing the health tests below on their breeding dogs. Ask your breeder about the tests performed on the parents of your litter. Learn more about health testing for Rat Terriers.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip testing reduces the chance of passing down hip dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause hip pain and the eventual loss of the function of the hip joint.
Cardiac Evaluation (registered with OFA)
Heart testing reduces the chance of passing down congenital heart disease, which can cause a range of symptoms ranging from trouble exercising to heart failure.
Patellar Luxation
Knee testing reduces the chance of passing down Patellar Luxation, which results in the kneecap becoming displaced or dislocated and can cause mild to severe joint pain.
Legg-Calve-Perthes (OFA)
A breeder may perform additional tests on their dogs that do not fall into these general categories. These tests may be more uncommon or very specific to a particular breed.
Genetic testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide variety of hereditary diseases of differing prevalence and severity such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disease) and Von Willebrand's Disease (a blood disease).