It all began with a TV show (I think we all know the one) many years ago.  Now, 11 years later, I am more in love with the breed than ever.  I began my love affair with the Swissy in 1999 with CH. Bermuda High’s Spalding.  I wanted a versatile dog that could go on trail rides or to horse shows, hang out at the barn while I did chores or took lessons, and lounge around the apartment on days that didn’t involve the horses.  I was certain that I only wanted a pet and it had to be a male.  After finding the right breeder for me (with whom I still have a very close friendship and with whom I co-own several dogs), I ended up with a female show puppy that was described as the “perfect” dog for me and my lifestyle.  WHAT I GOT WAS SO MUCH MORE. 

A couple of years into the breed and I abandoned the horse shows for dog shows and in 2003 added breeding to my resume.  I recently whelped my 4th litter of Swissies and have a litter on the way.  I am happy to say that I have remained in contact with all of “my” puppies and am very closely involved in the show careers of several of them.  Make sure when choosing a breeder that you not only like the dogs, but you like the person as well because that breeder should be around for the life of the puppy.  If you’re lucky, you won’t only be getting a wonderful pet but a new friend as well. 

My farm is located in the beautiful, picturesque countryside of North Georgia, where my dogs have plenty of room to run and exercise (with the VERY expensive dressage horses).  I feel it is very important for every dog to live and grow as a member of the family (I often have to make room for myself on the couch or bed).  Each litter is raised indoors amongst the humans and other canines (a ridgeback and bloodhounds are amongst the mix).  Each puppy is observed and socialized in a pack as well as individually to ensure that they are matched to the home most suitable to their needs.  I have a strong desire to produce top quality dogs for show and working events, but believe that health and temperament are first and foremost.  As a veterinary technician I am only too well aware that without  being in the  best of health, the show dog - indeed any dog - is incomplete.  I carry out health screening procedures with all of my dogs, whether pet or show, to ensure that the litters produced have the best chance of a long and healthy life.  Hips, elbows, shoulders, and patella are radiographed and screened for dysplasia and osteochondritis (OCD).  Eyes are screened routinely with a board certified ophthalmologist.  Each health screening is registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals or OFA.  Each pedigree is evaluated for epilepsy and other undesirable health concerns. 

I hope you enjoy your visit to my website (courtesy of David Latimer Photography  - www.davidlatimerphotography.com).  Please feel free to contact me for information on the Swissy or if you would like the chance to meet the breed.  I promise you won’t want to leave without one!  I was once told that “Swissies are like potatoe chips, you can’t have just one”.  There has never been a TRUER statement.

Heather M Wilson
BrookHaven Manor Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs