A kennel by the river, in Sainte-Luce-sur-Mer.
Fifteen years, two water dog breeds, and one rule that never changed: never more puppies than we can walk to the wharf ourselves.
It started with a dog who refused to get out of the water.
Brise, our first Labrador, spent her summers swimming in the river in front of my father's house — a retired fisherman who had chosen her for exactly that reason. He was the one who insisted, after two years of health testing, that she should have a litter.
That first litter taught us the essential lesson: puppies introduced to water early keep that ease their whole lives, while puppies who discover it as adults often stay fearful. We later added the Portuguese water dog to our kennel, after meeting a couple of breeders from the Gaspésie who passed on their passion for the breed.
Fifteen years later, we still raise our litters in the house, steps from the family wharf. Litters are born in our living room, puppies discover water before they discover the road, and we know each one well enough to know exactly which family it belongs with.
Two breeds, and nothing else.
We don't diversify. Knowing two lines well is worth more than skimming across six.
Labrador Retriever
Bred in Newfoundland to haul fishing nets out of icy water, the Labrador remains today the most tireless swimmer among family dogs. Affectionate, food-motivated and therefore easy to train, comfortable with children and other animals.
Good to know: energetic until around age three — it needs real outings, not just a yard, however large.
Portuguese Water Dog
Companion of Algarve fishermen for centuries, herding fish toward the nets and carrying messages between boats and shore. Dense, waterproof coat, webbed feet, remarkable intelligence.
Good to know: its coat grows continuously and doesn't shed — regular grooming (every six to eight weeks) is necessary, not optional.
Both breeds are known for shedding very little, which makes them good choices for households sensitive to allergies — without absolute guarantee, since every person reacts differently. We discuss this openly with every family before any reservation.
What we test for, and what we guarantee.
No mating takes place before both parents have passed the health testing recommended for their breed. Certificates are handed to you directly — not summarized, not "available on request."
Hips and elbows
X-rays evaluated by a recognized body, on both parents, before breeding.
Eyes and heart
Annual ophthalmologic exam and cardiac auscultation by a veterinary specialist.
Genetic panel
DNA testing for hereditary conditions specific to each breed — including exercise-induced collapse in Labradors — to avoid breeding two carriers together.
Two-year guarantee against serious hereditary conditions, provided in writing. Replacement or refund, your choice.
Come see for yourself before deciding.
We welcome families by appointment, even without a firm plan. You'll see where the puppies are born, meet the parents, and ask the hard questions.
One piece of advice, even if you don't adopt from us: be wary of a breeder who offers to meet in a parking lot or refuses to show you the mother. It's the most reliable warning sign there is.