Our Commitment to Fairness

Adopting a Dalmatian puppy is a significant commitment, and we understand that sometimes circumstances change. Whether you are facing an unexpected health issue with your puppy, a change in your living situation, or simply a realization that a Dalmatian is not the right fit for your family, we want you to know that we are here to help. This Return & Refund Policy outlines the circumstances under which returns and refunds may be requested, the timelines involved, and the process for resolving concerns.

We believe that a fair return and refund policy is not just good business — it is an ethical obligation. We brought these puppies into the world, and we take responsibility for their well-being throughout their lives. If a puppy needs to be rehomed, we want to be the first call you make. If a refund is warranted, we want to process it quickly and without hassle. Our goal is to ensure that every outcome — whether a puppy stays with you or returns to us — is handled with dignity and care.

Return Eligibility

Not every situation warrants a return, and not every return is eligible for a refund. Below is a clear breakdown of the circumstances under which a puppy may be returned to Royal Dalmatian Puppies, and what you can expect in each case.

2.1 Eligible Return Reasons

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  Diagnosed Hereditary Health Condition: If your puppy is diagnosed with a condition covered by our Health Guarantee within the coverage period, you may return the puppy for a replacement or refund as outlined in that policy.
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  Severe Temperament Mismatch: If, within 14 days of adoption, a licensed veterinary behaviorist determines that your puppy has a temperament issue that makes them unsuitable for your household, we will work with you to rehome the puppy.
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  Buyer Medical Emergency: If you experience a documented medical emergency that makes it impossible for you to care for the puppy, we will accept the puppy back and work with you on a fair resolution.
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  Unforeseen Life Circumstances: If you experience a major life change (divorce, job loss, relocation to a non-pet-friendly home, etc.), we will accept the puppy back and help rehome them.
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  Breeder Error: If we made a mistake in the placement, health documentation, or delivery of your puppy, we will make it right — including accepting a return if necessary.

2.2 Non-Eligible Return Reasons

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  Change of Heart: We understand that life happens, but a puppy is a lifelong commitment. If you simply change your mind, we will help you rehome the puppy but a refund may not be issued.
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  Cosmetic Preferences: Markings, coat texture, eye color, and other cosmetic traits are not grounds for return or refund.
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  Normal Puppy Behaviors: Chewing, nipping, house-training accidents, and other typical puppy behaviors are not defects and are not eligible for return.
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  Buyer Neglect or Mistreatment: If a puppy is returned in poor condition due to neglect, abuse, or failure to provide proper care, no refund will be issued and legal action may be pursued.
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  Expired Return Window: Returns requested more than 14 days after adoption for non-health reasons are not eligible for a refund.

Refund Schedule

Refund amounts depend on when the return is initiated, the reason for the return, and whether the puppy can be safely rehomed. The table below outlines our standard refund schedule. In all cases, we aim to be fair and to cover the costs we have already incurred in raising and placing the puppy.

How to Initiate a Return

If you need to return your puppy, please follow the steps below. We are here to support you through every stage of the process, and we will do everything we can to make it as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Non-Refundable Items & Fees

To maintain fairness and cover costs already incurred, the following items and fees are non-refundable under all circumstances:

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  Reservation Deposit ($500): This deposit secures your place in line and covers administrative and reservation costs.
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  Flight Nanny Fees: Once a flight has been booked, the airline and nanny costs are non-refundable.
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  Health Certificate Fees ($85): These are paid to third-party veterinarians and cannot be recovered.
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  Ground Delivery Fees: Once delivery has been arranged and dispatched, these fees are non-refundable.
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  Credit Card Processing Fees (3%): These are charged by our payment processor and are not recoverable.
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  Veterinary Costs Incurred by Buyer: Any veterinary expenses you incur after taking possession of the puppy are your responsibility.

Rehoming Assistance Program

Sometimes a refund is not the right solution — sometimes what a family really needs is help finding a new home for their Dalmatian. Our Rehoming Assistance Program is designed to support families who can no longer keep their puppy but want to ensure they go to a loving home. This program is available to all families who adopt from us, regardless of how much time has passed.

6.1 What We Offer

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  Listing on Our Website: We will feature your Dalmatian on our "Available for Rehoming" page, reaching a network of approved adopters.
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  Adoption Screening: We screen all potential adopters to ensure they meet the same standards we require for our own puppies.
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  Home Visit & Follow-Up: We conduct home visits and follow up with the new family to ensure a successful placement.
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  Transportation Coordination: We help coordinate transportation for the Dalmatian to their new home.
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  Lifetime Support: The new family receives the same lifetime support we offer all our families.

6.2 Fees

Our Rehoming Assistance Program is offered free of charge to families who adopted from us. For Dalmatians not originally from Royal Dalmatian Puppies, a small administrative fee may apply. Contact us for details.

Frequently Asked Questions