For the perfect combination of a fantastic hunting dog and exceptional family companion, the Braque du Bourbonnais fulfills both requests. These companions will produce in the field and come home to entertain the children or keep you company while you fix what you've bagged.

Only top quality sires and dams are added to our breeding program. They are a minimum of two years of age and proven to be outstanding family and field companions. The care of our litters starts well before the pups are whelped. Our dams receive the best in nutrition and vet care. To ensure our dams are kept in top physical and mental condition, we train in the off season. As whelping time approaches, the dam makes her nest in the whelping box, which sits in our living room. During whelping and the following two to three weeks, our litters are cared for 24/7 by the dam and a human companion.

Our litters receive their first "healthy companion" checkup at three days. At this time, tails are docked and dews removed along with their health physical. At two, four and six weeks, the pups receive "healthy companion" checkups which includes de-worming's, their first set of "puppy shots" and an ID microchip at six weeks. Prior to their departure flights, they receive their final "healthy companion" checkup which includes their pre-flight "Health Certificate."

By the time our pups are ready for their permanent homes, they have been exposed to several environments. In the home, the different sounds (phone, vacuum, canines, washer/dryer, voices) and constant socialization (children, adults, canines) play an invaluable part of training. The litters are introduced to the outdoors/field around four weeks of age (depending on the weather). At this time we also start "potty/paper" training the pups. As their comfort level rises outdoors, new things are introduced (distance, live quail scent, blank pistol). Approximately six weeks of age, they are on dry food and we begin crate familiarization. At eight weeks of age, the pups depart to their homes as well rounded companions.

Examples of the development of the Braque du Bourbonnais

Rufnit Hero (4 days - 12.5 oz), Rufnit Genius (8 weeks - 9 lbs. 10 oz)

and Rufnit Fortune (6 months - 40 lbs 8 oz)

Braque du Bourbonnais are typically full grown (height and length) between six to eight months of age,

at which time they put on weight and fill out.

View some of the locations of Rufnit Companions

(Click on the - and + slide to change viewing area)

Visit our Comments/References page

Breeding/Whelping/Raising Time Line

Rufnit Puppy Information

What is a Reputable Breeder

Pick A the Litter - by J.D. Wills

Alone Again

Color Genetics

Tail Genetics

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There are many reputable breeders of fine upland hunting dogs throughout North America. Unfortunately in this business like so many others, the buyer needs to be aware. Make sure that the puppy comes from a line of dogs that have good health credentials. There should be a good history in the pedigree of dogs that perform in the field (field trials, hunt tests, etc.). As a rule, avoid "backyard breeders." Leave the art and science of breeding to the breeders experienced with the breed and have produced proven progeny. Take the time to make contacts and see if there are any consistent problems reported about the particular breeder you have selected.

Remember that the least expensive part of the cost of a dog is its initial price. Veterinarian bills, feeding, kenneling, training, etc. are what really cost the most. Our advice: Do your research, you and your companion will benefit in the long run.

License #NE0208744

#0029176

Rufnit Kennels, LLC BdB * C/O Shari Stueck * 5900 Saltillo Road * Lincoln NE 68516-9209 * (402) 423-0995 or (402) 560-8652

RufnitKennels@AOL.com