One Strike and You're Out!
By Jennifer Stoeckl, MAT - Dire Wolf Project CEO, Feb. 12, 2025
Well, it happened.
The first applicant has officially tested our brand-new waiting list policy…
and failed spectacularly.
For the first time since we rolled out our updated rules a few weeks ago, an approved applicant did not place their $600 non-refundable deposit within the 24-hour deadline.
And you know what that means—game over.
Unfortunately for this person, his application has now been permanently denied, and he will no longer be able to own an American Dirus dog.
Our dogs are the most amazing animals and deserve only the best homes.
If you’re approved, it’s because we believe you’re the perfect fit.
But you have to prove that you’re serious, responsible, and prepared.
And that starts with knowing and following the rules.
Why We Won’t Budge:
- We respect your time. We reply to every applicant as quickly as possible. Customer service before, during, and after the puppy sale is our highest priority. And I dare say we are one of the best at it. There are very few breeders who devote the kind of time and attention we do to our cherished American Dirus dog owners. If someone can’t return that same courtesy by following through on their commitments, that indicates a lack of preparedness. And it’s frankly quite disrespectful to the hard work we put into giving our all to our loyal puppy owners.
- If you’re not prepared, you’re not the right fit. A $600 deposit is not an afterthought. If someone hesitates, makes excuses, or "forgets," it shows us that person is not serious—or worse, selfish. And we simply don’t place our dogs with selfish people.
- The rules are not a secret. They are clearly outlined on the application before anyone applies. Not knowing them is proof of a lack of research. And if you won’t research the process of getting an American Dirus dog, you definitely won’t research how to care for one of these magnificent creatures properly.
Let’s be real: If someone can’t follow a very simple rule at the beginning, how are they going to handle the responsibility of an American Dirus dog for 10 to 14+ years?
Our dogs deserve the best.
And you—our incredible, committed owners—prove that every day.
Owning an American Dirus dog is a rare and special gift, and we don’t hand out these amazing gifts to just anyone.
So, to those on our approved waiting list—congratulations!
You’re already in a community of dog owners that others can only dream of joining.
Wear that badge proudly!
And to anyone out there thinking about applying?
- Research and ask questions first.
- Read the rules.
- Apply with serious intent.
- Be prepared to commit.
- Respect our time and dedication.
- Or wait until you are ready.
You do not want to lose your ability to share your life with one of these amazing dogs.
There truly is no other breed quite like the American Dirus dog.
If you’re serious about bringing an American Dirus dog into your life, make sure you’re fully prepared when the time comes.
Because in this pack, only the right people make the cut.
If you feel you are ready to find out why these dogs have such an amazing community surrounding them, you can apply here:
https://direwolfproject.com/puppy-application/
If you are new and haven’t yet seen our upcoming spring litters, here are the links for you.
Happy Days Litter
(Dublin/Marie)
Due: February 14, 2025
https://direwolfdogs.com/litters/68/
Cherry Blossom Litter
(Cookie Monster/Galena)
Due: February 19, 2025
https://direwolfdogs.com/litters/73/
Early America Litter
(Donner/Maggie)
Due: February 26, 2025
https://direwolfdogs.com/litters/71/
P.S. Puppies are on their way any day now. Stay tuned to THIS newsletter. We update our member’s only Inner Circle email newsletter subscribers first. So, this is the only place to be for up-to-date puppy news.
Jennifer Stoeckl is the co-founder of the Dire Wolf Project, founder of the DireWolf Guardians American Dirus Dog Training Program, and owner/operator of DireWolf Dogs of Vallecito. She lives in the beautiful inland northwest among the Ponderosa pine forests with her pack of American Dirus dogs.
Cookie Monster and Galena
Dublin and Marie
Donner and Maggie