Great breeding isn’t luck. It’s decades of discipline, loss, and vision.
In this episode, Lorrie Carlton of Belle Creek Bichons opens up about a lifetime in purebred dogs, the hard lessons behind elite breeding, and the once-in-a-generation dog that changed everything.
What you’ll discover:
- How Belle Creek began and why foundations matter more than trends
- The breeding mistakes that forced difficult, ethical decisions
- Why structure and movement matter more than perfect grooming
- The full story of Flynn, the Bichon that conquered Westminster
- What today’s breeders must do to preserve bloodlines, health, and honesty
👉 Watch the full episode to hear the Belle Creek story in Lorrie’s own words.
Timestamps:
00:30 Meet Lorrie Carlton
01:53 Growing Up & Family Background
06:25 Finding Bichons &First Big Wins
13:27 Learning Structure and Grooming
18:44 Bloodlines That Built Bell Creek
40:10 The Early Rise of Flynn
48:17 Flynn’s Lasting Impact
51:34 The Westminster Story
1:01:42 Challenges Facing Today’s Breeders
1:03:56 Collaboration Over Competition
1:05:40 The Structure Problem in the Breed
1:07:00 Reaching the Public as Breeders
1:08:40 Breeders She Recommends
1:10:36 Bell Creek’s Greatest Achievements
1:11:42 Advice for Aspiring Breeders
1:12:35 Defining the Bell Creek Legacy
1:14:10 Where to Find Bell Creek
1:15:10 Final Reflections
#PurebredDogs #BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows #LorrieCarlton #BichonFrise #BelleCreek #BellCreekBichons
In this episode, we talk with Susan Lacroix Hamil of Quiet Creek Bloodhounds, one of the most respected modern Bloodhound breeding programs.
She shares her journey from 4-H to producing Best in Show dogs and dedicated working hounds, along with the lessons she’s learned from a lifetime with the breed.
In this conversation, Susan explains:
- Why bitches are the foundation of any strong breeding program
- How mentors and bloodlines shaped Quiet Creek’s type
- The biggest challenges facing modern breeders
- Why health, temperament, and scenting ability matter more than wins
- How conservation breeders can protect the future of purebred dogs
👉 Watch now and hear the Quiet Creek story from Susan LaCroix Hamil.
Timestamps:
00:28 Meet Susan Lacroix Hamil
01:42 Early background in 4-H
04:06 First dog shows and early mentors
05:28 Influential breeders and joining the parent club
07:38 Mentorship in a small breed community
09:31 Lessons learned from master breeders
10:33 Key turning points in the breeding journey
12:24 Establishing the Quiet Creek foundation
15:56 Core breeding strategies and linebreeding
18:55 Pedigree importance and tough decisions
19:56 Outcrossing and what to look for
23:29 What a Quiet Creek Bloodhound looks like
24:32 Changes in breed type over time
25:52 Hardest traits to maintain
29:15 Notable dogs of Quiet Creek
37:49 Biggest challenges in the program
40:31 How her goals evolved over time
41:05 Defining success today
43:35 Marketing conservation breeders to the public
46:51 Concerns for the future of the breed
49:22 Reasons for optimism
50:59 Breeders she admires
52:21 What Susan is most proud of
53:21 Advice for aspiring breeders
53:58 Quiet Creek legacy
54:27 How to contact Susan
#PurebredDogs #BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows #SusanLacroixHamil #QuietCreek #BloodhoundsDogs #QuietCreekBloodhounds
What does it really take to rebuild a dog breeding program and recapture your breed type?
In this episode, Paul and Kelley Catterson share the inside story of their work with Brussels Griffons and Australian Shepherds, from early mentorship to reviving breeding programs.
You’ll learn:
- Why linebreeding creates true consistency and why it’s becoming a lost art.
- How one legendary Griffon, Ch. Cilleine Masquerade, “Lincoln,” transformed the breed and still influences pedigrees today.
- How genetics, health testing, and temperament shape their modern breeding decisions.
- Why mentorship matters more than ever in a sport that’s struggling to retain knowledgeable breeders.
👉 Watch now to hear how these two dog experts rebuilt their bloodlines and their vision for the breeds they love.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:27 Meet Paul & Kelley Catterson
01:47 Paul’s early start in purebred dogs
03:11 Kelley’s journey into Australian Shepherds
04:00 Falling back in love with dogs and handling
05:22 Key mentors and breed foundations
07:49 Restarting the Bobcat breeding program
09:04 Linebreeding and pedigree strategy
11:31 Challenges and rebuilding Australian Shepherd lines
15:08 Kennel size and co-breeding partnerships
16:10 Ideal Brussels Griffon traits
17:55 Ideal Australian Shepherd traits
18:58 Notable Bobcat dogs and legacy bloodlines
24:12 Influential Alnair Australian Shepherds
26:58 Breeding setbacks and heartbreaks
28:18 Supporting puppy buyers and mentorship
30:55 Evolving breeding goals
32:09 Redefining success in breeding
33:13 Current challenges in pedigrees and genetics
34:23 Optimism for the future of the breeds
35:27 Preserving breed type and temperament
36:31 The most notable accomplishments
38:19 Advice for aspiring breeders
39:24 Where to learn more about their programs
#PurebredDogs #BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCdogshows #PaulAndKelleyCatterson #BobcatAndAlnair #BrusselsGriffons #AustralianShepherds
Behind some of the most influential Dobermans in history are two breeders who spent a lifetime advancing the breed.
In this episode, Jim and Ann White of Cambria Dobermans open up about how their program started, what they learned the hard way, and how one dog, Ch. Cambria’s Cactus Cash, ended up influencing the breed for nearly 20 years.
They talk honestly about selecting dogs, building consistency, dealing with setbacks, and what really matters when you’re trying to do things the right way.
It's a candid look at two breeders whose lifelong commitment has shaped not just their dogs, but the very standard the breed stands on today. Watch now!
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:02 Jim and Ann White of Cambria Dobermans
02:25 How they began with Dobermans
04:40 How they met and started Cambria
08:48 Key influences and early mentors
11:10 Key moments in their breeding journey
12:24 Establishing the Cambria vision
15:21 Breeding strategy and genetic principles
16:42 Outcrossing philosophy
18:06 Dog numbers and co-ownerships
19:08 Challenges in maintaining quality
20:48 The “ruthless” selection process
22:51 What a Cambria Doberman looks like
26:46 How Cambria type evolved over decades
29:15 The dogs that made Cambria
34:15 The rise of Cactus Cash
39:40 Ch. Cambria’s Out for Justice
42:14 Prominent Cambria brood bitches
49:36 Jim’s medical crisis and its impact
56:50 What are they most proud of
59:56 Advice to aspiring breeders
1:02:30 Legacy and hopes for the breed
1:04:43 Where to find Cambria Dobermans online
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCdogshows #PurebredDogs #JimAndAnnWhite #CambriaDobermans #CactusCash #TopProducingSire
What does it really take to breed a Siberian Husky that’s both beautiful and built to work?
In this episode, master breeder Tim Terella shares the real foundations of great breeding: balance, correct movement, functional structure, and honest evaluation.
Tim explains how he took his parents’ breeding program and built Snoebear Siberians into a consistent, respected bloodline. He shares the story behind Gin, one of today’s top-winning dogs all-breeds. Finally, he breaks down the challenges facing modern breeders and why collaboration with others matters more than ever.
⏯️ Perfect for anyone curious about how great breeders actually build and protect their lines. Tune in now.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:02 Meet Tim Terella of Snoebear Siberians
02:12 Early years and family background
05:01 Influence of Tim’s parents
06:27 Key mentors and early guidance
09:31 Taking over the Snoebear program
11:38 Developing his breeding vision
14:02 Meeting Megan and their partnership
17:23 Breeding strategies and theories
20:36 Step-by-step progression
23:23 How Tim evaluates dogs
25:16 What defines a Snoebear Siberians
27:20 Differences from current ring trends
30:52 Dogs that shaped the Snoebear
37:05 The Story of Gin
37:16 Gin’s standout year
42:25 Biggest breeding challenges
46:29 Public perception of purebred breeders
50:07 Need for breeder collaboration
55:25 How his goals evolved
55:54 What success means today
56:52 What makes him optimistic
58:06 A breeder he would like on the show
58:47 Tim’s proudest achievement
1:02:34 Advice for aspiring breeders
1:04:41 Snoebear Huskies’ legacy
1:05:28 Where to find Tim
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCdogshows #PurebredDogs #DogBreeding #TimTerella #SiberianHuskies #SnoebearSiberians
From his first Rough Collie to building the world-renowned Random Wire Fox Terriers, Bill McFadden has spent a lifetime shaping excellence, one breeding at a time.
In this episode, he shares how Random Wire Fox Terriers began, the mentors who shaped him, the dogs that defined his legacy. He also explains how careful selection and vision turned his passion into a program known for sound temperaments, type, and timeless quality.
🎧Listen now for an inside look at how true master breeders think, plan, and build a legacy.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:27 Meet Bill McFadden of Random Wire Fox Terriers
01:20 How Bill Entered Purebred Dogs
08:21 Early Mentors & Foundational Influences
10:16 Building a Vision for Random Wires
10:25 The Dogs That Shaped His Breeding Eye
12:56 Type-to-Type vs. Physical Compensation
14:28 Bill’s Early Breeding Strategies
15:51 Role of Pedigree in Today’s Program
17:32 Finding the Right Outcross
20:06 Bill’s Dog Evaluation Process
22:39 The Random Wirefox Terrier “Look”
24:32 Comparing to Today’s Breed Type
26:39 Most Notable Dogs & Their Impact
39:46 Sharing Top Dogs With Other Handlers
40:02 Achieving an English Championship
46:35 Setbacks & Lessons Learned
49:32 Bringing New People Into the Sport
56:21 Breeders as Partners, Not Rivals
58:07 How His Vision Has Evolved
1:02:47 Optimism for Future
1:07:31 What Breeders Should Focus on
1:10:56 Master Breeders Bill Respects
1:13:02 What Bill Is Most Proud Of
1:14:23 Advice to Aspiring Breeders
1:15:41 How Bill Hopes to Be Remembered
1:16:54 How to Find Bill Online
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCdogshows #PurebredDogs #DogBreeding #BillMcFadden #RandomWireFoxTerriers #WireFoxTerriers
A LIFE Magazine cover changed everything for Grace Fritz, inspiring a journey that would redefine the Shar-Pei breed in America.
From her early National Specialty wins to producing the top-winning Shar-Pei in breed history, Grace shares how careful selection, sound structure, and genetic insight built her Good Fortune line into one of the most admired Shar-Pei programs in the world.
She opens up about the heartbreaks behind the ribbons, the health challenges that shaped her breeding philosophy, and why preserving purebred dogs is more important than ever.
▶️ Watch now to discover the story, strategy, and heart behind Good Fortune Shar-Pei and what every breeder can learn from Grace’s journey.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:33 Meet Grace Fritz
02:12 How Grace discovered the Shar-Pei breed
02:56 First shows and early wins
03:43 Mentors who shaped her breeding journey
07:23 Foundational bloodlines and breeding approach
08:32 Balancing outcrossing and linebreeding
10:57 How Grace evaluates puppies
12:15 Defining the Good Fortune Shar-Pei type
14:30 Notable dogs that built her legacy
21:03 Recent successes and upcoming litters
22:50 Health challenges in the breed
25:00 Promoting purebred awareness
28:35 Using science and genetic tools
29:50 The value of judges' decisions today
30:27 Most significant challenge of the breed
29:10 Mentorship and bringing new breeders in
31:11 Optimism for the future
32:57 Advice for aspiring breeders
34:01 Legacy of Good Fortune Shar-Peis
34:46 Closing thoughts and contact info
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCdogshows #PurebredDogs #GraceFritz #GoodFortune #SharPei
Meghen Riese-Bassel of Renascent (and formerly Statesman) Welsh Springer Spaniels grew up as a second-generation breeder. She shares how a childhood surrounded by dogs and great mentors transformed into a lifelong mission to breed with purpose.
She talks about those mentoring opportunities, balancing art and science in breeding, and how international collaboration helped improve health and temperament through the generations.
Meghen also opens up about the real work behind the wins, family, setbacks, and staying devoted to the breed.
🎧 Watch now to hear the story behind one of the most influential breeders in the world of purebred dogs.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
01:12 Meet Meghen Riese-Bassel
02:54 Growing Up & Family Life
04:10 Family Mentorship & Origins of “Statesman”
06:50 Early Mentors and the Education of a Breeder
09:06 Learning Through Debate
11:28 Game-Changing Experiences
13:52 Learning From Other Breeds
16:40 Becoming an Independent Breeder
17:39 Defining Breed Styles & Health Priorities
20:56 The First Imports That Changed Everything
22:59 Strategic Breeding Decisions
25:53 Combining Bloodlines for Progress
30:10 The Renascent Welsh Springer Spaniel
32:33 Influential Dogs of the Kennel
37:59 Power of Collaboration
44:54 Breeding Challenges & Emotional Resilience
48:44 The Future of Breeding
52:37 Educating the Next Generation
56:19 Collaboration Over Competition
58:39 Evolving Goals & Redefining Success
1:00:10 Modern Challenges
1:00:39 Hopes for the Future
1:01:21 Breeder She Admires
1:01:39 Most Notable Accomplishment
1:02:49 Advice to Aspiring Breeders
#BetterBreederChronicles #PurebredDogs #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows #MeghenRiese-Basse #Renascent #WelshSpringerSpaniels
Jere Marder turned a Christmas surprise into one of the most successful Old English Sheepdog breeding programs in breed history.
Legendary breeder Jere Marder reveals how passion, perseverance, and an eye for excellence shaped Lambluv Old English Sheepdogs, a breeding program that has produced iconic champions like Show Stopper, Yoshi, Elvis & Andrew.
From her first dog show wearing disco heels to breaking records in the ring, Jere shares hard-won lessons on mentorship, breeding ethics, and keeping the soul of the breed alive for future generations.
👉 Watch the full conversation to hear the Lambluv story in Jere's own words.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:38 Jere Marder of Lambluv Old English Sheepdogs
02:12 What sparked her lifelong passion
03:28 The key moments of her breeding journey
05:16 Early mentors who shaped her breeding
06:37 Key bloodlines & careful selection
08:23 The role of pedigree & hands-on evaluation
11:19 Jere's selection process & maintaining the Standard
12:21 Evaluating puppies & preserving structure
13:06 The Lambluv Old English Sheepdogs look
14:19 The dogs that made Lambluv
22:22 Westminster triumph & show career highlights
25:02 Diva, Desdemona, and continuing the Lambluv line
27:02 Blue Thunder "Elvis" and his records
30:38 Using frozen semen to preserve bloodlines
31:28 Challenges, setbacks, and breeding ethics
33:55 Mentoring the next generation of breeders
36:51 Staying true to her vision and standard
37:17 Today's judges' decisions vs. past
38:08 Her optimism about the breed
38:19 What should breeders focus on
38:44 A breeder Jere respects
40:27 Advice for aspiring breeders
40:48 How Jere wants Lambluv to be remembered
42:40 How to connect with Jere
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows #JereMarder #Lambluv #OldEnglishSheepdogs
So, how does one breeder build world-class bloodlines in two breeds? 🐾
In this episode, Kristi Libertore shares how she transformed her love of horses into a passion for breeding dual-purpose dogs that shine in the field and dominate in the show ring.
From her mentors’ wisdom to the heartbreaks and triumphs of Whiskeytown Wirehaired Pointing Griffons and Whiskey Hills Bracchi, Kristi reveals what it takes to build a true legacy in purebred dogs.
👉 Watch now to hear the story behind one of America’s most inspiring breeder success stories.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:20 Meet Kristi Libertore
01:29 First Dog and the Show Ring
03:11 Mentorship and Early Lessons
04:52 Mentors Who Influenced Her
08:29 Key Lessons from Her Mentor
09:43 Additional Mentors and Role Models
13:20 Building the Whiskeytown Vision
16:07 What Defines a Whiskeytown Griffon
19:02 The Dogs That Made Whiskeytown
22:23 AKC Sporting Group Breeder of the Year
23:27 Entering a New Breed: The Bracco Italiano
28:10 Developing Broncos with Her Husband
30:55 Breeding Challenges in a Limited Gene Pool
33:44 What Defines a Whiskey Hills Bracco
36:53 The Dogs That Made Whiskey Hills
40:43 The Role of Pedigree
42:14 Breeding Strategies and Linebreeding
44:47 Overcoming Challenges and Heartbreaks
47:09 Advice for Better Kennel Management
49:21 Breeders as Collaborators, Not Competitors
53:32 How Her Vision Has Evolved
54:18 Redefining Success
55:12 Thoughts on Judging and the Show World
56:19 Challenges Facing the Sport
57:44 Optimism for the Future
59:50 What Breeders Should Focus On
1:00:58 Breeders She Admires
1:02:59 Her Greatest Accomplishment
1:03:50 Advice for Aspiring Breeders
1:04:29 Legacy and Vision for the Future
1:05:11 Where to Learn More
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows #KristiLibertore #WhiskeyHillsandWhiskeytown #BracchiItaliani #WirehairedPointingGriffons
What happens when a curious teenager falls in love with a pet store puppy and ends up shaping one of the most respected English Cocker bloodlines in America?
In this episode, Lisa Ross of Winfree English Cockers reveals how a pet store Irish Setter sparked a lifelong passion for breeding dogs that are not only stunning in the ring but healthy, happy, and full of heart. She shares her decade-long road to her first points, the mentors who shaped her journey, and how DNA testing and ethical breeding are redefining the future of purebred dogs.
Tune in to discover what it truly takes to build a legacy in purebred dog breeding — and why health, temperament, and mentorship matter more than trophies.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:42 Meet Lisa Ross of Winfree English Cockers
01:42 Getting Started with Purebred Dogs
03:43 Mentors and Early Lessons
05:49 First Breeding and Vision
08:28 Influential Bloodlines
09:21 Pedigrees and DNA Testing Evolution
10:51 Evaluating Puppies and Breeding Type
12:20 Defining the Winfree English Cocker
13:20 Hallmark Dogs and Bloodlines Through Time
19:04 Breeding Challenges and Heartbreak
22:45 Supporting Puppy Buyers & Building Community
24:39 Collaboration and the Future of Breeding
26:44 Reflections on Success & Legacy
27:18 The Impact of Judges’ Opinion
28:05 The Biggest Challenge of the Breed
28:45 The Optimism for the Future of the Breed
29:23 What Should Breeders Focus On
30:55 Breeders Who Lisa Admires
33:02 Advice for New Breeders
33:49 Winfree English Cockers’ Future
34:41 Where to Find Lisa
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows #LisaRoss #Winfree #EnglishCockerSpaniel
What does it take to build a bloodline that leaves its mark on history? In this episode, master breeder Mary Nowak talks about the journey to develop Honeygait English Setters, from her very first puppy to producing Ch. Honeygait N Lampliter Fever, the winningest English Setter of all-time with 40 All-Breed Best in Show wins.
Mary shares the mentors who shaped her, the philosophy of linebreeding that defined her program, and the dogs that carried her legacy into the record books. Whether you’re a seasoned exhibitor or simply love great dogs with health and history, the Honeygait story is one you won’t want to miss.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction & the “Honeygait” story begins
01:19 First English Setter & how the Honeygait name started
03:47 Early mentors and their influence
08:17 Building the Honeygait breeding program
12:49 Breeding philosophy & health priorities
18:14 Selecting puppies and what stands out
21:40 Thoughts on outcrossing vs. line breeding
24:55 Defining the Honeygait “look”
29:30 Notable dogs and their show careers
35:16 Biggest challenges in breeding
37:04 Most proud accomplishments
37:41 Collaborating with other breeders
45:58 Biggest challenges facing the breed today
48:17 Optimism for the future of English Setters
50:25 Breeders she admires & would recommend for interviews
52:26 Advice to aspiring breeders
53:28 How she hopes Honeygait will be remembered
54:44 Where to learn more & closing thoughts
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows #MaryNowak #Honeygait #EnglishSetters
What does it really take to breed world-class Chihuahuas?
Kristi Green of Knockout Chihuahuas reveals how she built one of the top families in the breed, from national winners to top-producing sires. She shares her journey through mentorship, health testing, breeding challenges, and what defines a true “Knockout” Chihuahua.
👉 Watch now and learn from one of the most successful Chihuahua breeders in the country.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:31 Meet Kristi Green of Knockout Chihuahuas
01:23 How Kristi got into Chihuahuas
04:06 Early breeding challenges and goals
04:55 Struggles finding mentors
05:47 Meeting Darwin Delaney and key influences
07:16 Lessons learned from mentors
08:30 Building a family of her Chihuahuas
10:01 Establishing foundation bitches and early successes
11:24 Breeding strategies and line development
12:15 Breeding philosophy: Linebreeding
13:02 Specific breeding strategies
14:25 Stud dog selection
15:38 Focusing on virtues over faults
16:20 Puppy selection and Knockout traits
17:41 Defining the “Knockout Chihuahua”
19:42 Notable dogs that shaped Knockout Chihuahuas
30:09 Challenges of breeding toy dogs
31:46 Health testing as a breeding tool
33:39 Importance of National Specialties
34:27 Today’s breeder challenges & shrinking gene pools
35:29 Biggest challenges in Chihuahuas today
36:18 Optimism for the breed’s future
36:58 Breeding priorities for longevity and lines
37:36 Kristi’s most meaningful accomplishments
38:25 Breeders Kristi admires
39:33 Advice to aspiring breeders
40:19 Knockout legacy and long-term goals
41:13 Where to learn more about Knockout Chihuahuas
#BetterBreederChronicles #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShow #KristiGreen #Knockout #Chihuahuas #KnockoutChihuahuas
What drives someone to cross an ocean at 14 just to learn about a breed? For Patricia Princehouse, that leap set the stage for creating America’s most influential Pyrenean Shepherd breeding program.
Patricia reveals what it takes to balance health, type, and tradition, the story of her most influential dogs, and the biggest challenges facing purebred breeding today. Discover the passion and legacy behind La Brise Pyrenean Shepherds.
Timestamps:
00:00 Early love of dogs & first purebred dog
03:00 Discovering dog shows as a teenager
06:00 First trip to France & meeting mentors
09:00 Breeding Great Pyrenees as livestock guardians
13:00 Transition to Pyrenean Shepherds
18:00 Early breeding challenges & lessons learned
25:00 Preserving natural breeds as cultural history
31:00 Importing dogs & building a U.S. program
40:00 Health, outcrosses & maintaining type
50:00 Head, movement, and selection priorities
55:00 Prominent La Brise dogs & show ring impact
1:10:00 Challenges: judges, novices, and public perception
1:20:00 Collaboration and community in breeding
1:27:00 Optimism for the next generation
1:38:00 Legacy & advice to aspiring breeders
#BetterBreederChronicles #PatriciaPrincehouse #LaBrise #PyreneanShepherds #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShow
From deep but separate foundations in the purebred dog world, Dennis and Katey Brown share the remarkable Solivia Pointer story. In this episode, you’ll hear how one family’s passion for purebred dogs grew into an international breeding program known for health, soundness, style — and winning at the highest level.
If you care about preserving breeds, producing sound, healthy dogs, and learning from two of the most influential Pointer breeders of our time, this is an interview you won’t want to miss.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro & the early Solivia story
00:22 Katey’s mom’s path: Irish Setters → Cockers → Pointers
04:00 Foundation lines that shaped Solivia
06:40 Core philosophy: Health and Soundness first
10:32 Dennis’s background & how Dennis/Katey connected
18:31 International outcross strategy (Italy, NZ, UK, etc.)
22:01 Why Pointers are a “bitch breed” (dam-line consistency)
23:57 What a Solivia Pointer looks like (type & movement)
25:07 Game-changer sire & what he fixed
36:07 Ch. Solivia’s Desiderata: National winner & record producer
48:12 Conditioning Secrets: paddocks, free-feeding pups, & more
1:06:06 Advice to aspiring breeders: don’t quit; condition the dog
#BetterBreederChronicles #DennisBrown #KateyBrown #Solivia #Pointers #SoliviaPointers #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows
How do you come back from heartbreak and build a bloodline that makes history?
Master breeder Carol Felbaum reveals how losing her foundation bitch’s first litter almost ended her program, and how perseverance turned that tragedy into a dynasty of champion Bichons.She shares the inside story of Donald, (GCHG High Ridge He’s So Full of Himself ROMX) a dog some doubted who went on to sire top champions worldwide, and she explains why mentorship, transparency, and collaboration are the future of purebred dogs.
If you are passionate about breeding programs, preserving breed standards, or the hidden stories behind champion dogs, you won’t want to miss this.
👉 Subscribe now for more breeder stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and conversations that keep the purebred dog breeding community strong.
Timestamps:
00:00 Beginnings in purebred dogs
01:30 Teen years and weekends at dog shows
02:21 Discovering Bichons
04:59 Early mentors and lessons in dog care
09:15 Learning through observation and quiet study
12:14 Honesty, tough conversations, and breeder transparency
16:44 Returning to the dog world after raising a family
19:08 Foundation bitch Minnie and her impact
22:54 First litters, heartbreak, and perseverance
28:22 Breeding success: Audrey, Donald, and champion offspring
34:26 Donald’s Story: from family dog to top sire
51:24 Donald’s accomplishments and legacy
55:35 Building toward the next great dog
57:46 Breeding decisions, linebreeding, and frozen semen
1:02:43 Challenges of promoting purebred dogs today
1:04:39 Collaboration vs. competition among breeders
1:07:28 Educating puppy buyers and lifelong support
1:11:22 Challenges in the Bichon breed today
1:13:49 Optimism and gratitude for the future
1:16:21 Hallmark kennel name story
1:18:39 Breeders who Carol admires
1:21:12 Perseverance as the key lesson for aspiring breeders
1:22:37 How Carol wants Hallmark Bichons remembered
1:23:35 Why there’s still no website
#BetterBreederChronicles #Carol Felbaum #HallmarkBichonFrise #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows
Step inside the world of Rush Hill Goldens, where Tonya Struble reveals how she built one of the most successful Golden Retriever breeding programs in breed history. She shares her journey from her first golden in Alaska to breeding iconic champions like Am/Can CH Rush Hill’s Haagen-Dazs, GCH Rush Hill’s Run’n Amuck At Abelard,GCH Rush Hill’s River Road Payoff, & more. Learn the strategies behind her breeding choices, the health challenges she’s faced, and the lessons learned along the way. This episode is a masterclass in vision, perseverance, and leaving a lasting legacy in the breed. Timestamps:00:00 First Golden Retriever Story04:41 Entering the Purebred World07:08 Early Mentors and Lessons09:23 Make Your Own Decisions10:24 Founding the Rush Hill Line14:30 Breeding Plans and Strategies20:57 Selecting Puppies to Keep24:48 Breeding for Versatile Dogs25:35 Defining the Rush Hill Look34:16 Haagen Dazs: Kirby’s Legacy44:40 Chaos: The Charismatic Showdog47:20 Vegas: Rising to #150:42 Willis and McClain’s Wins51:45 Health Issues and Setbacks53:51 Experiences with Other Breeds56:05 Supporting Puppy Buyers 57:00 Challenges Facing Today’s Sport1:05:03 Achievements She’s Most Proud Of1:06:34 Key Advice for Breeders1:08:20 Legacy of Rush Hill Goldens1:12:28 Preserving History Through Website
#BetterBreederChronicles #TonyaStruble #RushHill #GoldenRetrievers #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows
Through the stewardship of several breeders, the story of Bugaboo Kennels spans several generations of passion, persistence, and record-breaking champions. Colton Johnson shares details about his family’s legacy, the breeding theories behind legendary dogs like Georgie Girl, Swagger & S’More, and how Bugaboo continues to shape the future of the Old English Sheepdog breed.
Don’t miss this rare inside look at one of the most successful kennels in the dog show world. Watch now!
Timestamps:
00:00 Origins of Bugaboo Kennels
02:42 Early breeding goals and lessons in linebreeding
06:39 Colton’s childhood and growing up in a dog show family
08:39 Meeting Heather and discovering a passion for showing dogs
12:12 Breeding Bugaboo’s Georgie Girl and Picture Perfect
13:06 Lessons from his parents as mentors
16:17 Influential mentors and breeders outside the family
18:33 Moving the Bugaboo bloodline forward
20:11 Insights into the selection process
23:46 Football analogies for breeding programs
25:19 When litters don’t work out & the surprises of genetics
26:16 The most notable Bugaboo dogs
30:24 Colton’s daughter wins Best Junior at Westminster
32:49 Building a community hub
36:30 Educating the public on purebred dogs
38:16 The story of Hulk, the Bugaboo dog for the Fountain, CO Police
41:47 Colton’s most notable accomplishment
43:15 Collaboration over competition in breeding
48:14 Biggest challenge today: proper mentorship
51:41 What gives hope for the future of purebred dogs
54:22 What should breeders focus on right now
56:28 How Colton hopes Bugaboo will be remembered
#BetterBreederChronicles #ColtonJohnson #Bugaboo #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogShows
What separates a good breeder from a great one? In this episode, Kathy Rust of Kizmar Vizslas (South Dakota AKC Vizsla Breeder) shares how she built one of the most respected Vizsla bloodlines in the breed. It was not by chance, but through strategy, relentless research, and wise decisions - and using tail-male breeding theory.
You will hear Kathy’s hard-won lessons on selecting foundation dogs, handling health setbacks, and establishing the mindset every new breeder needs to succeed. You will also learn about creating a tail-male bloodline to forming the breeder circles that enabled Kathy’s tremendous success, this conversation will challenge, inspire, and sharpen your vision for what successful purebred breeding will look like in the future.
Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:47 Meet Kathy Rust
02:14 Early exposure to dogs and breeding
05:09 Figure skating & competitive breeding mindset
06:38 First Vizsla and her early journey in the breed
08:21 Deep-dive research and pedigree analysis
11:19 Exploring form and function
13:14 Starting the Kizmar bloodline
15:31 Type-to-type breeding
18:09 The Lloyd Brackett breeding method
20:09 Selecting puppies to move forward with
22:50 The most notable Kizmar dogs
26:39 Building a consistent tail-male line
28:44 Theories behind a tail-male line
35:00 The biggest challenge Kizmar faced and overcame
38:41 Advice for unexpected health issues
44:09 Her relationships with puppy owners
46:36 What are breeder circles?
51:49 Defining your breeder identity and mission
54:07 The future of purebred dogs
56:30 Kathy’s message to new breeders
57:37 How Kizmar will be remembered in breed history
58:48 How to learn more about Kizmar
#BetterBreederChronicles #KathyRust #KizmarVizslas #Vizsla #VizslaDogs #VizslaBreeder #DogBreeding #PurebredDogs #AKCVizsla #VizslaPuppies #VizslaLovers #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCdogshows
What does it really take to become a master breeder across three challenging breeds?In this episode, Dale Martenson (AKC Breeder/Judge) shares how a Saint Bernard puppy sparked a journey that led to over 500 homebred champions. Learn why brutal honesty builds better bloodlines, how to stay profitable and ethical in today’s societal climate, and why your “why” matters more than any ribbon.
Dale opens up about the heartbreaks, the wins, and the evolving strategies that helped him leave a lasting mark on Japanese Chins, Cavaliers, and Cocker Spaniels. Based out of Texas with his wife Jane, the Martensons built Touche and Castlemar into two of the most respected kennel names in the purebred dog world, known as much for their kindness and generosity as their excellence and success.
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Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:51 Meet Dale Martenson
02:12 How It All Began
04:25 Competitions & First Big Win
06:25 Early Mentors & People They Learned From
08:48 Early Pivotal Experiences
10:25 Learning from Losses
13:19 Building a Legacy in Japanese Chins
20:18 The Power of Good Bitches
24:22 Breeding Strategies to Establish Bloodline
26:28 Progress Over the Years & Selection Process
32:00 The Biggest Challenge as the Breeder
34:41 Handling Setbacks and Disappointments
38:27 The Cavaliers & Cockers
40:52 The Most Notable Accomplishments
43:22 Why Good Breeders Deserve To Make A Profit
50:18 Adapting to Today’s Challenges
53:39 What Should Breeders Focus On Today?
56:22 Optimism for the Future of Purebred Dogs
1:00:18 The Impact of Social Media
1:02:32 Final Advice for Aspiring Breeders
1:04:15 How Dale Wishes to Be Remembered
1:05:54 Where to Connect with Dale