Puppies expected early November 2026!
This breeding is one we have been considering for nearly two years, since Holly and Leo were just puppies. In fact, I almost got one of the pups from Leo’s litter (Boy I came SO close!), but that would have meant raising two puppies nearly the same age, at the same time - something I always advise other people against. Crazy - I actually followed my own advice!
About Holly -
I always had every intention of keeping a pup from my December 2023 litter out of Tulsi (Holly’s litter). The thing is, the plan was to keep a male, and most likely a sable (my usual preference). I had a solid plan, but a funny thing happened. A puppy was born and that puppy immediately started towards a nipple. Really, I do mean immediately! Puppy exited the birth canal, plopped on the ground, and took off, still encased in the amniotic sac, dragging the little placenta along behind, and was on the nipple in less than 20 seconds. I sat there for a few seconds with my mouth hanging open, completely flabbergasted, and that was nothing compared to the comical look on Tulsi’s face. Tulsi indignantly pulled that puppy right back off the nipple, so she could get it cleaned up, but the puppy was having none of it, and kept valiantly trying to get back to the nipple, until, finally Tulsi held it down with her paw, so she could do her motherly duty. I did not know in the moment what sex or color that pup was, but I knew, absolutely, I would be keeping it. That vigorous enthusiasm for life was irresistible, and an excellent indicator of the dog Holly has turned out to be. If ‘Joie de vivre’ were brought to life as a dog, Holly could be that dog. I have not regretted ending up with my tri-color, female instead of a sable male, for even a second!
In many ways, Holly reminds me of her grandpa, Bodie. Her body type, and athleticism is very similar, as is her temperament. She is happy, friendly with people and puppies (not so much unfamiliar dogs), and loves to snuggle and cuddle. She is also very protective of me! She is calm around the chickens, and when necessary will gently ‘herd’ loose chickens (mine or the neighbors) back where they belong. She is a great-recall, easy off-leash, stick-close dog when we are out and about, or hiking, and she loves, loves, loves water!
Holly’s aunts, uncles, and siblings from various litters have gone with great success to farm/ranch, active family companion, and SAR homes. She is 21” at the shoulder, and 56lb.
Sire - Leo
Owner, Kevin Ganahl’s, description of Leo:
Leo (T&C's Milling Along in the Sunshine) has more personality than most people. I often describe him as a a take everywhere dog, because he behaves perfectly whether he is scaling a snow packed mountain or sitting for a couple of hours at a coffee shop. He certainly has a lot of energy and requires a good daily walk, but that can happen at any point during the day. While I’ve worked from home he’s quiet and lays by me during the work day, but the moment 5pm comes he’s wagging his tail ready to play. He’s incredibly friendly and playful with kids and other dogs, I’ve never witnessed him snap or growl, but he’ll let you know if someone (or a squirrel) is in the front yard! I truly believe he would have been the perfect dog for families, couples, adventurers, or farmers, but I was lucky enough to have him in my life!
