Our Story

Meet Valerie & Tracy

The hearts and hands behind Little Fur Friends — raising loving doodles from our small farm in Wharton, Texas since 2008.

Valerie and Tracy of Little Fur Friends together outdoors

Valerie Ackley & Tracy Burns

Valerie & Tracy started Little Fur Friends in 2008, originally raising small poodle mixes and eventually evolving into the doodles we know and love today. Our first goldendoodle litter was in 2015, and we were hooked! As the saying goes, the rest is history.

We've both had dogs our whole lives and couldn't imagine life without them. They are family members and the most loyal "little fur friends" you can find.

We live in Wharton on 6 acres that we affectionately call our little farm. We have a variety of poultry and miniature livestock animals, a dog grooming business here at home, and our beloved dogs and puppies that keep us busy!

We're so excited to share them with you, and hope to help you find your own little fur friend!

2008
Est.
6 ac
Little farm
GANA
Gold Member
GoodDog
Verified Breeder
Why Our Membership Matters

Committed to the highest standards

What Is GANA?

The Goldendoodle Association of North America (GANA) is a non-profit breed club dedicated to promoting responsible breeding, protecting the Goldendoodle breed, and helping families find ethical breeders. Members have a direct voice in shaping policies that affect the health and future of the breed.

Why Gold Level?

Gold Level is the highest tier of GANA membership. It requires breeders to complete the most comprehensive health testing available — OFA hips, elbows, eyes, cardiac, and patellas on every parent dog. Only breeders who meet these rigorous standards earn the Gold Level distinction.

Why It Matters to Families

Choosing a GANA Gold Level breeder means your puppy comes from health-tested parents, raised under a strict Code of Ethics. GANA verifies each member's credentials and issues a custom logo with an expiration date, so families can confirm legitimacy and choose with confidence.

We are proud to be a GANA Gold Level Member. We encourage every family to verify our membership and explore what GANA membership means for you and your future puppy.

Why GoodDog Matters

Verified for trust & transparency

What Is GoodDog?

GoodDog is the nation's leading platform for connecting families with ethical, verified breeders. They personally review every breeder's practices, facilities, and health standards before granting verified status.

Why Verified Status?

Becoming a GoodDog Verified Breeder means passing a thorough review of our breeding program, health testing protocols, and puppy-raising practices. Only breeders who meet their strict criteria earn the verified badge.

Why It Matters to Families

Choosing a GoodDog Verified Breeder means your puppy comes from a program that has been independently reviewed for ethics and quality. You can read reviews, see photos, and pay securely — all with GoodDog's support.

We are proud to be a GoodDog Verified Breeder. We encourage every family to visit our profile, read reviews, and see why GoodDog verification is a mark you can trust.

View our GoodDog profile

Ready to meet your puppy?

Reach out by text or phone — we'd love to hear about your family and help you find the perfect match.