​In this episode of The Breeders Brew, Sara is joined by Holistic Breeder Award winner and Rising Star finalist Jacquie Mullin. Jacquie’s journey to breeding her long-awaited litter hasn’t been straightforward, but her open mindset, willingness to learn, and proactive use of nutrition and reproductive tools paid off. From trusting her instincts when others said otherwise, to using premium supplements and refusing to cut corners on testing, her story offers powerful lessons for breeders at all levels. Isobel also joins us in this slightly shorter episode to share her nutritional insights—despite some technical gremlins along the way.

Late Ovulation and the Importance of Testing

• After two failed attempts and seven progesterone tests, ovulation was confirmed much later than expected
• Previous advice from stud owners and experienced breeders proved unreliable due to fixed mindsets
• Progesterone testing gave Jacquie the clarity needed to make informed decisions

Supplements and Support Matter

• A supplement plan including selenium, wheatgerm oil, folic acid and raspberry leaf supported conception, pregnancy and recovery
• Isobel highlighted the importance of supplement quality and correct dosing
• The healthy, strong litter was attributed to consistent use of appropriate supplementation

Exercise and Mental Wellbeing in Pregnancy

• Daily walks continued through pregnancy, only stopping when the bitch chose to rest
• The episode challenges outdated practices of limiting activity post-mating
• Isobel explained the gut-brain connection and why mental and physical stimulation supports immunity and resilience

Trusting Your Gut and Choosing the Right Team

• Jacquie followed her instincts to opt for a caesarean despite being advised otherwise
• The story emphasises the value of selecting a breeding support team who share an open mindset and evidence-led approach
• The discussion also raised concerns about the lack of holistic questioning during vet consultations, highlighting a growing divide between breeder and veterinary expectations

​If you enjoyed this episode and want to align your breeding journey with others who value learning, responsibility and holistic care, here’s how to take the next step:

Annual Breeder Awards

• Discover the awards programme that celebrates integrity, growth, and breeder excellence: www.caninefamilyplanner.com/aba

Join the Brew Crew

• Our signature membership programme offering deeper support, training and live calls: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew

Isobel, the Canine Nutrition Coach

• Explore her supplement protocols, consultations and educational content: www.caninenutritioncoach.co.uk

It’s one of the most important decisions in your breeding journey, and one of the most misunderstood. Choosing a stud dog isn’t just about finding a boy that’s available, looks the part, or has an impressive ad. It’s about selecting the right match, with the right owner behind him, to protect the health, structure, and future of your line.
​
We have a really exciting set of Breeder Brief Files - long, gritty, double length podcast episodes that deep dive into topics including this. This blog shares some important lessons we share in the "Stud Options Breeder Brief File". If you want to get your hands on the full audio, join the Brew Crew now for instant access.

We’ll walk you through the biggest mistakes breeders make when picking a stud, what to look for beyond the surface, and why the right owner matters just as much as the right dog.

Here’s the bit no one talks about: You’re not just choosing a dog. You’re entering into a partnership with another human. The stud owner should be someone you trust — someone who wants to support you, not just take your money and disappear. A great stud owner will:

• Talk you through the breeding process calmly
• Help you understand faults and virtues on both sides
• Be honest about whether the match is suitable
• Provide a clear written contract (and stick to it)
• Be available if something goes wrong — not ghost you once the mating’s done

If you feel like you’re being rushed, pressured or upsold — walk away. Stud owners should want to work with you, not just breed their dog.

This decision should never just be about "the dog in the photo". It's about the bigger picture — the dog, the owner, the pedigree, the values behind it all. The right stud owner can become one of the most important contacts you have as a breeder.

And if you’re not sure where to begin, or what questions to ask, you’re not alone. Inside our Brew Crew mentoring club, we’ve created a full Breeder Brief episode on exactly this topic. It’s packed with practical questions, examples, and red flags to help you choose your stud with confidence.
​
If you’re serious about doing things the right way, and want support that’s honest, current and non-judgemental - come join us inside the Brew Crew.

In this inspiring episode of The Breeder’s Brew, I sit down with Shainy Majidi, who not only took home the Breeder Vision Award in our Annual Breeder Awards but was also a finalist in the Holistic Breeder category. Her journey into French Bulldog breeding is anything but ordinary—from an accidental start to becoming a standard-raising, evidence-led breeder whose ethics speak volumes.
Whether you're planning your first litter or refining your breeding programme, this episode is packed with practical tips, honest reflections, and encouragement to keep striving for better.

Accidental Beginnings, Intentional Vision

• Shainy’s breeding journey began after realising just how healthy her own Frenchie, Kiki, was—a far cry from the doom-and-gloom reputation of the breed.
  
• Discovering the value of health testing, BOAS grading, and the importance of responsible stud dog choices changed everything.

​​Stud Dog Selection – It’s Not Always Straightforward

• Shainy shares her experience of backing out of a planned mating after witnessing signs of respiratory stress in a stud dog—despite prior preparation.
  
• Her decision to walk away, even after a three-hour journey and expense, underlines the importance of ethics, observation, and breeder responsibility.
  

Breeding Prep, Supplements and Puppy Planning

• Shainy discusses the supplement support she used before, during, and after whelping—including her experience working with Isobel, our Breeder’s Brew nutritionist.
  
• With two large, self-whelped litters just nine days apart, she reflects on how proactive care, exercise, and routine made all the difference.
  
• Raw feeding, cold-pressed support, goat's milk and folic acid all formed part of her successful protocol.
  

Rethinking Worming and Vaccinations

• Shainy has shifted to evidence-based worming using worm count kits and natural preventatives such as pumpkin seeds and rabbit ears.
  
• She vaccinates puppies after rehoming, educating owners on the rationale and receiving great feedback.
  
• Shainy also touches on the misinformation around Lepto vaccinations, and the broader awareness now emerging within both breeder and vet communities.
  

​This episode shows what it truly means to have vision as a breeder. Shainy Majidi embodies a forward-thinking, research-led approach that balances heart, health, and high standards. From rejecting the easy route to embracing natural worming, titre testing, and raw feeding, her commitment to doing things the right way is both refreshing and motivating.

Want to follow Shainy's journey or connect?

• Find her on Instagram: @the_world_of_kiki_and_co for behind-the-scenes insights into her French Bulldogs, breeding preparation, and responsible ownership in action.

Join the Brew Crew

• If this episode resonated with you, you’ll love being part of our Brew Crew – our exclusive breeder community packed with support, education, and real talk. We host fortnightly B!tch & Brew catch-ups, monthly Spotlight Sessions, and share in-depth Breeder Briefs to guide you every step of the way. Visit: www.breedersbrew.com/brewcrew
• Apply for the Annual Breeder Awards

Do you know a breeder who deserves recognition like Shainy? Or is it time you stepped into the spotlight yourself? Find out more and apply: www.caninefamilyplanner.com/aba

When it comes to breeding, ‘success’ isn’t just about knowledge. It's about having the right people around you and knowing how to select them. As we explored in our latest Spotlight Session, Building Your Dream Team, having a strong, reliable breeding network is essential for navigating every litter's unique challenges.

No two breedings are the same: no two pregnancies, no two litters. Even with the same girl and stud, the journey can change dramatically. Unexpected challenges are inevitable, but having the right team can turn a potential disaster into a manageable detour.
​
Drawing on both our personal and professional experiences (with Isobel, Canine Nutrition Coach, and Sara, Canine Family Planner), we shared our fundamental method to identify, nurture, and grow your breeding team. We also introduced the 3B Model, a practical lens that covers aspects including the ‘Brain, Breed, and Background’ that can be applied in almost all situations. It allows breeders to evaluate everyone in their circle, from stud owners to vets, mentors to fertility clinics.

!​Sara shared her traumatic experience of having to make a life-saving decision for her Bulldog, Patsy, at just 57 days gestation. It was a decision not fully supported by her vet but made possible through the guidance of a trusted breeder peer. Without that support, Patsy may not have survived. Similarly, Isobel reflected on the importance of her breeding team when faced with a singleton pregnancy in her Dachshund. She needed critical decision-making support when her regular vets did not fully understand the risks.
​
In both our stories, the takeaway is clear. You need people in your corner, not just in your circle! People who understand your breed, offer experienced, proactive support, and genuinely have your dog's best interests at heart - and guess what? We're here to help.

​As your breeding journey evolves, so will your dream team. People move away, retire from breeding, or are no longer the right fit. Breeding can be isolating, but being intentional about who you trust keeps you resilient, proactive, and prepared.
​
When you find the right network, when your ethics, expectations, and experiences align, the journey becomes infinitely more rewarding and actually much easier too.

Although you've missed out on this great Spotlight Session, it's available to watch inside the Brew Crew! It's just a small taste of the vital breeder support and real-world resources we offer inside the Brew Crew Mentorship.

If you found this blog tickling your brain and you want to know more - imagine having fortnightly catch-up calls, monthly masterclasses, in-depth Breeder Briefs (behind the scenes podcasts just for you!), private community spaces, and exclusive resources. Our tools are designed to help you navigate the ups and downs of breeding with camaraderie and confidence. Our Brew Crew Mentorship will lead you to a smoother, more successful breeding experience, ensuring your dogs benefit from the best possible care, planning, and outcomes at every stage of their journey.
​
The Brew Crew is where modern, meaningful breeding practices meet real-world guidance. Whether you are just starting or fine-tuning your programme, you will find the mentorship, tools, and conversations you need to thrive.

In this episode of The Breeder’s Brew, I speak with Sue Taplin, recipient of the Breeder Excellence Award—a title that recognises her unwavering consistency in applying ethical and responsible breeding practices. From her start in 2006, through running an 80-dog boarding kennel, to developing a reputable Labrador line four generations deep, Sue's story is one of steadfast commitment to her dogs' welfare and growth as a breeder. This conversation is brimming with both heartfelt stories and tangible takeaways.

Experience that Spans Breeding, Boarding, and Behaviour

• Sue entered the world of breeding after buying a large boarding kennel in 2006, where she quickly adapted to a steep learning curve in both breeding and dog care.
• Her background in corporate finance contrasts with her now hands-on life with dogs, showing how professional structure can support animal care.
• She has worked with rescues, including dangerous dog seizures, and served as a handler in a Kennel Club charity initiative helping children overcome cynophobia (fear of dogs).

Responsible Breeding Starts with Lifelong Learning

• Sue has bred four generations of Labradors, with early lessons around poor health shaping her focus on preventative care and education.
• She was an early adopter of hip and elbow scoring and later incorporated DNA and eye testing as these became standard.
• Emphasises the importance of learning from each litter, each loss, and each success.

Record Keeping and Routines Make the Difference

• Sue is meticulous about keeping physical records—everything is handwritten, stored in diaries and calendars, and maintained for all 19 years of breeding.
• Each litter receives detailed tracking of weight, worming, health supplements, and behaviour.
• Her puppy owners receive extensive packs, including 8-page information sheets, feeding plans and notes on care, training and vaccination timelines.

Supplements, Structure and the Support of Experts

• Sue credits the recent success of her litters, larger sizes, and overall health improvements to using nutritional supplements recommended by Isobel, The Canine Nutrition Coach.
• Ovulation testing and structured planning have become second nature—no guesswork, just methodical, informed decisions.
• She emphasises that training the owner is just as important as training the dog, and continues to support puppy buyers long after pick-up day.

If this episode left you inspired, here’s how you can take the next step in your own journey as a responsible breeder:

Join the Brew Crew

• Become part of our Brew Crew and access exclusive content, breeder support calls, spotlight sessions and community resources designed for breeders who care. It’s a brilliant way to continue your learning, connect with like-minded breeders, and raise your own benchmark
  

Enter the Annual Breeder Awards

• Think you or someone you know has what it takes to be recognised in the Annual Breeder Awards? Entries will soon be open globally. These awards highlight breeders who reflect the highest standards in planning, preparing and parenting pups—so keep an eye on www.caninefamilyplanner.com and join the community mailing list for updates.

In this special solo series of The Breeder’s Brew, I, the Canine Family Planner™ – take the reins without my co-host Isobel to spotlight the incredible winners of our inaugural Annual Breeder Awards (ABAs). These awards recognise breeders who are living out the Three Pillars of Responsible Breeding: Planning, Preparing, and Parenting.
​
Today’s guest is Adam Mayle, winner of the Rising Star Award, a title that celebrates those who are proactively developing their breeding programme, sharpening their skills, and showing exceptional dedication to doing things the right way.

Building a Bloodline with Purpose

• Adam began his breeding with a mix of breeds before landing on Labradors as his long-term focus.
• Investing in Kaci, his KC-registered foundation bitch from fully health-tested lines, was a major turning point.
• His ideal Labrador combines the size and intelligence of a working type with the substance and blockiness of a show type.
• Every breeding is strategic, working toward that long-term vision while maintaining the welfare of his dogs.

Communication and Transparency Set You Apart

• Adam uses WhatsApp groups for each litter to keep families informed, connected, and supported.
• Puppy contracts and clear deposit terms have helped streamline the buying process and manage expectations.
• He collects references from past puppy owners, allowing new buyers to speak directly to his track record and ethics.

Mentorship and the Power of the Right Network

• Adam credits much of his success to mentorship—from Di Stevens of Wylanbriar to Sara’s HomeScan services.
• Having the right team around him (from ovulation testing to stud selection) has made breeding smoother and less stressful.
• His advice: if you're unsure, ask—and when someone gives you good advice, act on it.

Growth Without Compromise

• Adam is intentional about expansion, keeping his breeding programme manageable and welfare-driven.
• He’s developing a model that includes placing quality dogs with trusted local homes to keep them within the programme without overcrowding his own.
• As a father, husband and full-time worker, Adam’s approach to balance is both sensible and sustainable.

Adam Mayle represents what so many grassroots breeders aspire to become—driven by passion, grounded in learning, and committed to bettering the breed. His Rising Star Award recognises a breeder who doesn’t just want to produce puppies, but to build something that lasts. From strategic puppy contracts and waitlists to forming strong relationships with mentors and buyers alike, Adam is proving that ethical breeding is absolutely achievable for the everyday breeder.

Feeling inspired? There are several ways you can engage and grow alongside this amazing community of passionate puppy practitioners:

• Follow Adam’s journey:
  • Instagram: @adam.mayle
  • Kennel Page: @gaffaglory
• Join the Brew Crew:
  Our Brew Crew membership gives you access to exclusive content, catch-up calls, breeder briefs, community support and more. Whether you're brand new or years in, it’s the place to be for shared learning and connection.
• Enter the Annual Breeder Awards:
  Do you know a breeder doing things right—or maybe it’s you? The Annual Breeder Awards will be open for nominations and applications globally soon. Keep an eye on www.caninefamilyplanner.com or follow us on social media for updates.

It’s been one year of real talk, no-fluff breeder education—so we’re taking a moment to celebrate! In this special episode, Sara and Isobel reflect on the highs, the learning curves, and the many (many) questions that led to the Breeder’s Brew becoming what it is today.

We wrap up our Q&A series with some powerful topics—irregular seasons, immature bitches, supplements that work, how to time a stud trip, and whether it’s ever okay to use a carrier stud dog. And best of all… we unveil The Brew Crew—our brand new membership designed for breeders who want more support, more clarity, and more community.
​
Whether you've been with us since episode one or you’re just joining the journey, we’re raising a cuppa to you.

You’ve asked for more. So we’ve built more.

The Brew Crew is your next step if you want to go deeper than the podcast. It's a membership for breeders who want genuine support, real-time guidance, and access to education and tools designed by professionals who live and breathe dogs.

What’s inside:

• B!tch & Brew Catch-Ups
  Fortnightly live calls to ask questions, share updates, and talk through the real-life decisions you’re making.
• Spotlight Sessions
  Monthly deep-dives into focused topics like pricing puppies, interpreting COIs, managing studs, and more.
• Breeder Briefs
  Exclusive audio content for members only—get Sara and Isobel’s unfiltered insights on key breeder challenges.
• The Taproom Resource Hub
  Templates, recordings, practical downloads, and a growing bank of tools you can use in your own breeding journey.

We're back with a fresh batch of listener questions that speak to the heart of everyday breeding life—from the emotional (and sometimes awkward) challenge of dealing with puppy returns, to the head-scratching realities of food formulation changes, and the technical demands of TCI and post-mating care.
As always, this episode is rooted in real-world experience with practical advice you can apply straight away—whether you're on your first litter or refining your fifth generation.

How should I handle a puppy return?
Bev got in touch after a puppy buyer asked for a refund just days after taking the pup home due to an allergy. She was willing to take the puppy back, but unsure of the best way to handle it.

• Your puppy contract should always include clear return terms—if it doesn’t, draw up a separate return agreement with refund conditions, timelines, and a vet check
• If it’s early days and health-related, a full refund is reasonable—but beyond that, a partial refund (minus your costs) is fair
• Don’t take a return personally—it often reflects trust in your support as a breeder
• Focus less on the reason and more on ensuring the puppy ends up in the right home

My dog’s food has changed—what should I do?
A listener in Canada noticed coat and stool changes even though she hadn’t switched brands, and asked about food quality and supplement support.

• Vague terms like “animal derivatives” on labels allow brands to change recipes without notice—watch for coat dullness, itchiness or digestive issues
• Even high-end foods may fall short for pregnant and lactating bitches—they often need folic acid (for clefts) and selenium (for conception and puppy viability)
• Supplementing only works when the dose, duration and product quality are right
• Calcium should only be given after labour begins—and calcium citrate is safer than chalk-based forms

What went wrong with my TCI—and how can I improve next time?
​Lara asked what she could do differently after a failed transcervical insemination (TCI).

• TCI is often used when natural matings fail or when using frozen semen, but success hinges on precise timing—3 days after ovulation
• Always confirm ovulation with progesterone testing, and consider post-mating hormone checks to confirm the pregnancy is holding
• Not all clinics offer the same care—ask about their equipment, protocols, and aftercare
• Progesterone support may be needed if levels drop—and every detail matters when you're working with challenging breedings