Location: Washington
Years in the breed: 18
MASCUSA member? Yes
Program Type: Small Breeder
1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background in breeding Miniature American Shepherds?
Been breeding purebred AKC Dogs since 1977, as age took over, we went from 35+ yrs in Salukis to Minis. They were easier to show and breed. We enjoyed being a part of bringing them into AKC. My mentor is Cheryl Hass.
2. What drew you to the Miniature American Shepherd breed, and what do you love most about them?
The size and easiness of living with them.
3. How do you approach the breeding process to ensure the health and well-being of your dogs?
Temperament and health testing first and foremost then type and structure. For me careful linebreeding to achieve the attributes I’m hoping to continue with and ones I’m hoping to bring out and improve.
4. What are the most important qualities you look for in a Miniature American Shepherd when considering breeding?
#1 Temperament #2 breed type #3 soundness which has to go along with type.
5. What challenges have you faced as a breeder, and how have you overcome them?
I wasn’t familiar with the different lines of the minis so a few trial and error but I had an excellent mentor that knew all the lines so well and what could blend together for health and beauty. I treasure her.
6. Can you describe your kennel’s environment and how you ensure that your dogs are well-socialized?
We have four large exercise yards and ALL of our dogs are house dogs. They are crate trained for travel but they spend their entire days with access to their yards and home. We keep our numbers low so this can happen.
7. How do you select prospective owners for your puppies? What qualities do you look for?
A lot of my show puppies go to show people that I’ve had a long history with. My pet people are people concerned about temperament and what their plans are for their puppy. Just a homebody or a performance dog.
8. What advice would you give to someone interested in becoming a breeder of Miniature American Shepherds?
TEMPERMENT AND HEALTH FIRST. STUDY your pedigrees. If possible, go to the Nationals and see what’s out there and what you prefer. Before ever starting your breeding program. See what compliments who, sometime a dog that’s beautiful still doesn’t go well with your dog when bred, that to me were pedigrees come in sooo much. Don’t just breed on a whim if you’re trying to improve your look.
9. Can you tell us about any notable successes or achievements you’ve had with your dogs (titles, recognition, etc.)?
I spent 35 yrs breeding top show Salukis with outstanding temperaments. Linebreeding, I could guarantee what a litter would look like on paper. So, when we decided to move to minis, I wanted to start at the top and I was able to do that with my mentor Chandrea Farms. And with their help and suggestions and knowledge I was able to produce some pretty fantastic dogs. Thank you Cheryl Hass!
10. How do you stay updated on new developments in the breed and the dog world in general?
Reading and watching others achievements. Helps me put in prospective my goals. We have some really nice breeding programs in the NW to watch.
11. What are your thoughts on the future of the Miniature American Shepherd breed and how do you see it evolving?
It has a great future. The ring is really beginning to be very consistent with soundness and size. Many dedicated breeders out there willing to share their thoughts and ideas.
12. Is there anything else you’d like to share about your journey as a breeder or any special stories about your dogs?
Our Kennel name came from my son’s kindergarten class play. 40+ years ago. Salish’, with the minis it’s Salish’ ROR, our journey in purebred dogs has always been a family first affair. With Salukis I shared them with my daughter Paige, she was winning Specialty wins at 8 yrs old. She became my official handler. Unfortunately, horses took her over lol and with the Minis I am blessed to have my beautiful granddaughter who Paige helped teach to show, and Kat has had a lot of great success too. A lifetime of family and purebred dogs and family. 🥰🥰🥰