Our Story

Who are the Vandeheys?

Chad and Deena Vandehey are high school sweethearts, who married in 1999. The Vandeheys live in Lebanon, Oregon just minutes from the beautiful Santiam River. Chad and Deena have raised 4 sons, have a teenage daughter at home, and are blessed with 5 grandchildren. Chad is a Supervisor for Georgia Pacific and Deena is an Educator with Obria. In their time outside of work, they are committed to serving the Lord Jesus Christ in a variety of ways at home, in their community, and in their local church.

Why choose “Family Dogs” as a Business?

Chad and Deena are new to dog breeding. Their interest peaked when their oldest son married into a family that has been enjoying dog breeding as a family for many years. After researching a number of dog breeds, Chad and Deena were compelled to believe that Goldendoodles and American Labradoodles had the makings of supremely excellent companions and family dogs.

In 2020 Chad and Deena took the leap and decided to begin what would be Santiam Doodles. Research led them to understand that if they were to be reputable & responsible breeders, they would need to choose their dogs with care and that it would be essential that each dog have a clean bill of health. They also concluded that they would keep their business small enough that each dog and each puppy could be part of the family, raised around people of all ages, and engaged in everyday family life instead of being locked up in a kennel all day.

With each of these goals accomplished, Santiam Doodles is now prepared to offer healthy, family-raised, highly trainable Goldendoodle & Labradoodle puppies to families or individuals who are searching for a breed that truly “has it all”.

Who are the family dogs?

The Vandehey household consists of three wonderful loving family dogs that are the foundation of their breeding program. Meet them – Click Here.