Episodes

4d ago

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

Dec 9

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

Dec 2

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

Nov 25

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

Nov 18

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

Nov 11

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

Nov 4

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

Oct 28

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

Oct 21

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

Oct 14

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

Oct 7

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

Sep 30

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 # P atriciaPrincehouse #LaBrise #PyreneanShepherds #PreservationBreeder #ConservationBreeder #AKCDogSho w

Sep 23

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

Sep 16

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

Sep 9

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

Sep 2

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

Aug 26

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

Aug 19

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. Subscribe for more expert interviews, tools, and support for purebred conservation dog breeders. 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

Aug 12

In the premier episode of the Better Breeder Chronicles, master breeder Guy Mauldin (Kismet Shelties) reveals insights behind the creation and development of one of the longest and most successful Shetland Sheepdog breeding programs in breed history. Learn how Guy & Thelma Mauldin created a distinctive bloodline that has impacted the breed for over five decades. In the process, they bred/owned nearly 300 champions, won 99 Best In Shows (breed record), and transformed the breed. Containing insider stories, breeding strategies, and thrilling wins at Westminster & National Specialties, this episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves purebred dogs, breeding theory, or success stories. Prepare to be inspired by a master breeder who redefined excellence in the dog show world. Timestamps:00:00 Intro00:47 Meet Guy Mauldin of Kismet Shetland Sheepdogs02:50 From a Collie Interest to Sheltie Champions05:46 High Born: The Dog That Started It All07:48 Linebreeding Strategies & The Power of Pedigree10:10 Outcrossing Without Losing Your Identity11:50 Inside the Kismet Selection Process12:53 The Biggest Challenge 13:33 Iconic Dogs of Kismet15:15 An Unlikely Win at Westminster19:18 The Lucky Discovery in Japan: The Pajero Story23:31 The Legacy of Kismet 25:55 The Proudest Accomplishments #BetterBreederChronicles #KismetShelties #ShetlandSheepdog #SheltieLove #DogShowLegends #PurebredDogs #MasterBreeder #DogBreeding #PedigreePower #Linebreeding #Outcrossing #ShowDogLife #WestminsterDogShow #NationalSpecialty #ChampionDogs #DogBreederSuccess #SheltieBreeder #DogShowHistory #SheltieChampion #BreedLegacy

Aug 8

Welcome to the Better Breeder Chronicles where we meet the finest purebred dog breeders in the world. We spotlight these master breeders, hearing their stories in their own words—including their beginnings, their challenges and heartbreaks, and ultimately, their climb to the top and their determination to breed a better dog. We share their journeys to inspire all purebred conservation dog breeders to pursue their dreams for their breeding programs! Behind every great dog is a great breeder, and the are often the ones who exist in anonymity and whose stories remain untold. On the Better Breeder Chronicles, host Matt Stelter - AKC dog breeder/judge - shares their legacies with the purebred dog fancy and preserves them for breed history. Learn the theory, strategy & story behind National Specialty and Best In Show winning AKC/CKC breeding programs. Brought to you by EZWhelp. Elevate your breeding program with EZWhelp whelping boxes!