As a small hobby kennel we only breed occasional litters of the Greater Swiss Mountain dog and
we are currently expecting a litter in June 2008. Our main priority is to produce quality not quantity
and when we do have a litter it is always very carefully planned.
We do not have a resident stud dog so our "matches" are made in Europe where the quality of the
breed is very high in all countries and there is a broader range of outstanding dogs to choose from.
By going abroad we aim to breed puppies that are really special; well-balanced and healthy,
as well
as to increase the genetic diversity of the breed in the UK. Our females are screened for all relevant
health issues concerning the breed in line with other European schemes.
Tests for screening health are always carefully considered schemes, drawn up and evaluated by
people with many years experience in the breed. In Europe, health tests are conducted by a central
veterinary organisation and the results of X-rays/ eye or blood tests are then registered with the
country's breed club. Making a dog available for breeding is therefore an informed decision made by
experts in the breed who also look at health in relation to the dog's other attributes such as his/ her
character and build.
Relevant health tests in Europe (as endorsed by all the major European clubs and veterinary
organisations) are for hips/ elbows/ eyes and shoulders.
Our breedings are therefore based on a number of criteria; sound health of dam and sire, excellent
temperament and great construction as well as an awful lot of trawling through pedigrees!
Our prices for puppies are in line with the European going rate and we do not aim to capitalize on
their "rarity value". Far more important is that our puppies are placed in suitable, happy homes
where they will be loved and appreciated.
Unfortunately there is a certain amount of dissent surrounding the breed in the UK particularly on
the issue of health and quality. I apologize in advance on that front as gathering information on any
breed is hard enough let alone one which is not in common circulation and with different opinions
floating about. So for any of you battling to make sense of it all and to find a balanced
straightforward perspective, please drop me a line.
Updates on litters and pictures will appear here as and when they happen.
