I received my first show dog, a true Hairless Chinese Crested named Oscar, at age 14. As an AKC Junior Handler I became well-versed in animal husbandry, and assisted in each stage of breeding.

Growing up, I had as many as 7 dogs in my care - including Russell Terriers, an Entlebucher Mountain Dog, a Corgi-Mix, and of course many Chinese Cresteds. After graduating college and moving from New York to Minnesota, I began working for a Fortune 50 Retailer on their Pets Product Design team, which I still do today.

Dogs have always been my deepest passion. One of my largest learning opportunities came from my dog Tristan’s battle with very aggressive Lupus. After years of flare-ups with no treatments offered, I turned to Natural and Holistic methods. Diet, homeopathy and chiropractic adjustments became the solutions, and Tristan lived past his 16th birthday, when he crossed the Rainbow Bridge from old age.

This experience led me to obtain a Certificate in Canine Nutrition through the well-known Cat Lane of The Possible Canine. This is the high standard of care my dogs are given and puppies are raised with. I consult with dog clients on Nutrition which has been a very fulfilling project along with breed matchmaking. Both are done through my brand CHOUP.

While I adored my Cresteds, they were not living their best lives in the Tundra that is MN. My husband and I decided we needed a breed that would be hardy, active with an off-switch, and gentle enough to raise a family with. My husband wanted a dog with a beard, and I loved our shared connection to Italy.

Fast-forward to October 2021 when we picked up Beatrice from Teri Turner. Teri has been absolutely instrumental to my on-boarding into the breed. She is my Mentor, and a very close friend for whom I am eternally grateful. We selected Beatrice for her conformation, confidence and outstanding eye contact.