About Sleeping Bear Kennels
We are committed to breeding the healthiest puppies right here in our home. Each of our parent dogs undergoes thorough genetic and OFA testing to ensure that every puppy starts life with the best possible foundation. We provide exceptional care throughout their journey— from conception to the moment they join their forever families.
Ready to find your perfect companion?
If you’re ready to welcome a loving, well-socialized puppy into your home, contact us today to learn more and begin your journey toward bringing your new family member home!
What We Promise
Ethics
We are deeply passionate about ethical breeding and committed to never cutting corners. This means using available genetic testing and adhering to all recommended breed health screenings, including OFA Certifications and PennHip. We are also highly selective when choosing our parent dogs, ensuring they meet the highest standards for health and temperament. Additionally, we only breed when we have at least as many confirmed families as expected puppies, so every litter has a loving, prepared home waiting for them.
Commitment
We are committed to staying connected with as many of our puppies as possible throughout their lives, and we ask that families join us in making that same commitment. This ongoing relationship helps us keep families informed about any potential health conditions that may arise. Additionally, we collaborate closely with stud dog (dad) owners who share our dedication to the health and well-being of the breed. While we cannot predict or guarantee against all health or genetic conditions, we take every precaution by utilizing the most up-to-date testing available, no matter the cost.
Continuing Education
As a committed breeder, I prioritize ongoing education to ensure the highest standards of care. I attend events like the annual Embark Canine Health Summit and various seminars to stay informed on the latest research. Our program focuses on science-based education and proven practices, including programs like AviDog and Puppy Culture. We incorporate techniques such as Early Neurological Stimulation (ENS), Early Scent Introduction (ESI), Noise Desensitization, and strong socialization to give each puppy the best possible start.
Our Families Love Us!
One thing I think you really did that helped was to start crate training early. She was great from day one about the crate and still lays in it today and often sleeps in it with the door open.
“We absolutely love our Milo. He matches our energy perfectly!”
“River is perfect! He is the most cuddly, well trained dog! His
temperament is perfect – We couldn’t ask for a better dog!”
“We had a wonderful experience with our matching process, meet and greet with the puppy and bringing her home. She has been the perfect fit for our family!”
“I think you are a very conscientious breeder and I would recommend you to anyone. I have a very happy, well balanced dog.”
Bridgett is amazing! Very caring and professional. ”
Hi There, I’m Birdie
With a background in dog training and as an AKC CGC Evaluator, I specialize in socializing puppies during the crucial early months, from 8 weeks to 6 months. My journey began over 10 years ago with dog walking and pet sitting, which naturally evolved into dog training, boarding, and puppy board-and-trains.
Throughout my experience, I’ve seen how much a dog’s temperament and genetics shape their adult behavior. I often witnessed puppies struggling to adjust to their new families due to fearful or unstable parents. It was heartbreaking. This experience sparked my passion for advocating ethical breeding practices and education, as I believe they are essential in raising happier, well-adjusted dogs and ensuring they find loving, forever homes.
About Our Family
My husband, Jeff, is an integral part of our puppy care team. He’s the one checking on the puppies throughout the night, helping them latch, and weighing them to ensure they’re thriving. As they grow, Jeff handles the never-ending tasks of laundry, cleaning, and much of the driving and appointment scheduling for our Guardian Home moms.
Our kids are also an essential part of the process, too. They assist with puppy care and play a key role in socializing the puppies, helping them grow confident in interacting with children of all ages.
Outside of Puppies
When I’m not caring for puppies, I’m a wife, a mother of four, and a flight attendant. You’ll likely find me running through the streets of Amsterdam or London, or hiking with our dogs in the great outdoors.
I truly understand how important the decision is to welcome a new puppy into your family, and I’m grateful that you’re considering my program.
Warmest regards,
Bridgett (Birdie) Flanders
