Puppy Training Principles Podcast

Episode 82: Interview with a Breeder

Overview

Jason chats with Melanie Daybell, the breeder behind Red Fern Companions. They discuss some awesome resources for breeders and those interested in getting started.

From Beef Cattle to English Golden Retrievers

Melanie and her husband, Richard, started off differently than most breeders. They own a beef cattle ranch and have always trained dogs to do specific jobs on the ranch such as bringing cows off the mountain. They also are skilled in breeding good cattle dogs with these goals in mind, and have 25+ years of breeding experience under their belts.

In addition, since 2015 they’ve been breeding English Golden Retrievers, a breed that Melanie totally loves. Richard and Melanie focus on putting training on each of their dogs, for as Melanie says, “If you’re going to have a dog around, they ought to be well behaved.” We couldn’t agree more!

Importing Quality

She brings dogs in from other countries to add to her program in order to produce the very best dogs for Red Fern Companions. High-quality breeders are committed to doing what it takes to do a great job!

English Golden Retrievers as Companions

Melanie has a special love for English Golden Retrievers. At first, it was their look that drew her in. They have such a magnificant look with their contrasting features of white fur and dark features. But the more Melanie is around English Golden Retreivers, a characteristic she’s truly come to love is their ability to connect with people.

Many can naturally sense how you’re feeling and react accordingly. If you’re having a bad day, many of these retrievers seem to naturally sense that and want to comfort you.

It’s endearing to Melanie how her female dogs will become so “needy” when having their puppies. They search for Melanie and want her with them. When they have a contraction, they tend to put their paw on her and just really want her around. The connection is a win/win in Melanie’s book.

Free Online Breeders Group

Melanie has an online breeder’s forum for new as well as experienced breeders to find a strong support system of other breeders and quality education. Health and genetic clearances are important as a breeder. Another thing quality breeders do is being aware of and caring about the temperaments of their dogs.

How to Connect with Red Fern Companions

Melanie has a free weekly newsletter. Check them out at Redferncompanions.com, Facebook, email, instagram. Reach out no matter where you are!

Quality Puppy Training

Getting a puppy from a great breeder and worried that you won’t know how to train them? We’ve got you! We have built out a system with exact steps to follow in raising your puppy to become a great dog! Check it out! https://www.cornerstonepuppy.com/

Podcast Outline

1:00 Melanni talks about what she does with cattle dogs.

7:00 She brings dogs in from other countries

8:55 Why golden retrievers are such good companions and a favorite of Melanie’s.

11:49 The female dog becomes very needy when delivering their puppies.

14:35 How to start breeding. Looking at genetics and temperaments.

17:09 As trainers we love when people take the time to make sure it is a great dog to breed.

18:15 Melanie has a free weekly newsletter. Check them out at Redferncompanions.com, Facebook, email, instagram. Reach out no matter where you are!