09/18/2026
Friends...
Let's talk about the recent misbehavior in my reviews section. 😅
In the past, I have had exactly one negative (and libelous) review, which was promptly resolved after a quick legal consultation. I knew that person, knew exactly what they were upset about, and understood the situation—even if I disagreed with their version of events.
This time, I initially had no idea who had left the negative review. I assumed it was just some random internet troll trying to cause chaos.
And then it hit me.
I recently received a phone call from a younger person who was interested in getting a bitch from me to breed Shep-inois.
Now, while I can support responsibly bred, purpose-bred mixes in the appropriate circumstances, I am also very particular about where my dogs go, who breeds them, and what breeding programs I am willing to contribute to. Based on that conversation, I did not believe we were a good fit.
And even when I can support what someone else is doing, that does not mean I am obligated to sell them one of my dogs to do it.
So I said no.
He then pivoted and asked about simply purchasing a puppy instead. I explained my contract requirements, including the requirements that would apply to that puppy, reiterated that I did not believe I was the right breeder for him, wished him a good day, and ended the call.
And I suspect these are the same people and that is why... here we are. With someone throwing a mantrum because he was told no. 😅
And I don't regret a damn thing.
If you spend 15 minutes researching me or my program before contacting me, none of this should be surprising. I have an example contract available on my website. I am very obviously a purebred dog fancier. I am very open about my breeding philosophy, my expectations, and the standards I have for where my dogs go.
He certainly isn't the first person in the last 20 years to ask me for something I wasn't comfortable with.
Those people didn't get puppies either. 🙃
Buying a puppy from me isn't a retail transaction where selecting the product means I am required to sell it to you. I get to decide whether you are the right home for one of my dogs just as much as you get to decide whether I am the right breeder for you.
Sometimes the answer is no.
If you can't handle being told no, I suggest developing thicker skin before venturing too far into the dog world. Dog people aren't exactly known for being "yes" people. 😂
And perhaps there is a useful lesson here for anyone looking for a puppy: research breeders before you contact them. Read their websites. Read their contracts. Learn what they breed for, what they believe, what they require, and whether those things align with what you're looking for.
It will save everyone a lot of time.
As for my reviews, I temporarily closed them while I addressed the situation. They'll be opened again soon. I simply have no interest in rewarding poor behavior with attention, engagement, or an audience.
At the end of the day, protecting my dogs and my program will always matter more to me than making everyone happy.
Twenty years later, I'm still perfectly comfortable saying no. 🙃 I don't even mind the occasional negative review I might receive as a result. 😉