Rufnit Kennels Braque du Bourbonnais - Comments/References
Please take a few minutes to read the following correspondences regarding Rufnit Kennels and our progeny!
Comments/References are added to the page in the order they are received.
(from top to bottom - scroll down for the newest comments added)
2003
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Rufnit bred our dog, Beka aka Samantha (Sam). My experience with Rufnit Kennels has been very positive. They are professional and personal. Sam arrived in perfect condition. She is 12 weeks. My husband and I both came from dog families and agree that Sam is exceptional. She is house broken and learning basic skills rapidly. She is a social dog who loves kids and other dogs. She is very loving and eager to please. Sam's temperament can be described as calm, alert and playful. She's still just a pup, but showing great promise at a very early age. In short, Sam has exceeded all our expectations. We have Sam because of the fine breeding program at Rufnit Kennels. (~12 weeks)
Alla/TX
You should be very proud of what you are doing with the breed, I know I am proud to know you and be associated with your kennel...
Tracy/CO
I just wanted to drop a line and tell you everything is perfect with my best friend Merle. We've been going to the fields and starting to work on find the scented dummy. He's a great dog!! I wanted to thank you so much for getting my companion to me. Every aspect of the "transaction" went very smoothly. From the initial contact, to the personal updated photos, all the way to the pick up from the airport, I was more than pleased with the way Rufnit, and especially you Shari, handled everything. This was my first puppy purchase and it was made 2000 miles apart, and still it all fell into place with the help of your knowledge and planning. I'm enclosing some photos of a very happy pup! Once again, thank you so much!!! (~4 months)
Isaac/OR
2004
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Last weekend I took cannon out for the first time to introduce him to guns and birds. we went dove hunting. not that I like to see a dog start on doves flying by, but I just wanted to see how he would do with a gunshot and with a fresh bird. he loved it! he never even flinched to shot and he was able to see a couple of birds drop and was eager to retrieve. he would bring them straight back to me but was of course a little reluctant to give them up, which was fine. he loves carrying. we took him out yesterday and today on some planted bobwhites. this was his first time to scent a bird in the field and sense direction. again, he was very impressive. he bumped the first couple of birds and by the third bird had figured out that they will fly off if he bumps them. the third bird he nailed at about 15 yards and held point while we took some pics and moved around in front of him. he held while I flushed and shot. this dog has a ton of natural ability! enough of the cute pics of him sleeping on the couch. next pics will be hunting! (but he is still sleeping on the couch) I've already quit using the wing with him and am starting next week on retrieve to hand with birds in the yard. I think he's ready. cannon is birdy, quick to learn, and eager to please. I don't know what more you could ask for! (~3 months)
Mark/CA
Corbu is a gorgeous dog who attracts a lot of attention. Perry, who walks him in the morning, was told by another dog owner that Corbu was the talk of the neighborhood. A few days later Corbu and I were crossing the street when a lady I'd never met said "Is this the French pointer I've been hearing about?" Corbu has discovered the bathtub. It's now nearly impossible to keep him out of the tub when Arlo is taking his bath, because Arlo will open the door when we're not looking. Then Corbu jumps in and goes rubber-duck hunting. It's a riot! He's growing from a lanky adolescent to a more filled-out adult dog. He remains a very enthusiastic, loving, intelligent animal. (~1 year)
UPDATE...
Everyone seems to have weathered the changes in our lives quite well. Corbu has settled down nicely.
Perry takes Corbu to work once or twice a week. The other days he stays at my house. He also gets walked morning and night. I take him to the beach to frolic in the surf once a week and Perry sometimes takes him for long hikes through the Santa Monica Mountains.
It's been fortunate we've always lived near beaches. People remark that they've never seen a dog crash through the surf like Corbu does. Problem is, massive intake of salt water means a risk of explosive diarrhea. So I have to feed him lightly and very digestible food after a day at the beach, and watch (and smell) him carefully. (3 1/2 years)
UPDATE...
Corbu has shaped up to be an excellent running partner. He trots alongside me. He can easily go 4 miles with me-- that's just a warm-up for him. We go out 2-3 times per week, since I swim the other mornings. Perry takes him on 5-8 mile hikes in the Santa Monica Mountains. I still take him to the beach for a romp and a swim when I can. Caring for a Braque du Bourbonnais has been an excellent fitness program .
I am amazed by Corbu's capacity to love. I don't think I've ever had such a deeply attached pet. Everyone reports that he gets anxious and starts looking for me when I step out of the room. He is a super snuggle dog and a big face-licker. I tell my friends that the secret to my youthful complexion is frequent doggie facials.
I hope you and your gang of dogs are all doing well. (~4 years)
Liz/IL
Arri has chewed up a few things. This is all our fault because we refuse to pen her. If I get her by herself she does seem to pick up thing quickly. She stays close when we have all the dogs loose in the yard. Responds very well when called. We love her very much and have enjoyed her a lot. She doesn't seem gun shy, I have had her to the gun club several times. (~1 1/2 years)
Jim/IA
Rufnit Kennels - THE BEST!! Braque du Bourbonnais - A SPECIAL BREED!! Thank you so very much for taking such good care of our babies! You are the best.
Sharon/NE
I wanted to let you know we are thankful for your dedication to the Braque du Bourbonnais. Our new addition is more than we could have ever asked for! Thank you Shari! (~7 months)
Robert/TX
Thanks sooo much for working with our Braque, even though we did not purchase her from you. I'm still amazed at how you brought her out of her gunshyness. Her solid points and steadiness is more than I could have ever hoped for. I can't wait to show her off! You should be proud of what you've done for this breed. When we are ready for our next Braque, Rufnit Kennels will definitely be our breeder! (~1 1/2 year old trained by Rufnit Kennels)
Jeff/MN
I do especially want to be clear why we could be particularly interested in your dogs. We want a breeder who is careful- especially for temperament and soundness, and the fact that your dogs have a good initial start being socialized in the home, handled in the family
environment and around other dogs is also important. In addition, your background and long time experience as a trainer is a plus to us for your litters.
Lou/CT
The following is communication with one of the top French breeder/enthusiast regarding my companions/breeding program:
Every body was very happy in France to meet such an enthusiastic American breeder.
Michael/FRANCE-GERMANY
You are the famous first. All awards recipients have their group picture taken and all names and breeds are read verbally. This all takes place at the Sat night dinner. We hope you are there since this is an achievement with a minority breed. Great job! Next goal is the UT breeder award.
NAVHDA International Officer Roberta (Bobby) Applegate
Thanks so much! Your photos and information on the website is fantastic! She is EVERYTHING you said she would be. It was great to see our puppy develop before we picked her up. (~4 months)
Sue/AR
She is doing very well and she does not like Lee out of her sight. Thanks so much for such a Great dog! (~8 months)
Denise/NE
2005
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Jeanne is the typical mother, she thinks that her daughter and now her dog are the cutest things in the world. (~3 months)
Tom/MN
Well, Demi made it safe and sound. Wow, what a great dog. Curious, energetic, cuddly and when she scents a bird wing she is all business, it's great. She is all I imagined that she would be. Thanks so much for all your hard work and for raising such a great pup. I know she will grow to be a wonderful companion and hunting buddy. Also when I start her training I might occasionally call on your expertise, if that's okay. I also have the NAVHDA and Perfect Start video's as you suggested to help me out. (~8 weeks)
William/CA
Asher was a trooper, we couldn't have asked for a better traveler, it was well worth it. He is doing terrific, really making progress on walks over the last couple of days. We couldn't be happier with the little guy. (update) Just wanted to drop you a note to let you know how Asher is doing. We are so pleased with him we are contemplating getting another one. He is the star of the dog park. Everyone wants to know what breed he is and we are always getting comments on how handsome he is. We feel so very lucky that he is a part of our lives. He is so smart. He learns things so very fast it's pretty amazing. As you could probably imagine he is very spoiled and loving it. When we go to work Cory's parents come and take him over to their place for a few hours so he doesn't spend to much time alone. They love him very much too. When we are at the dog park, we practice retrieving. It's amazing to watch him working out there, It just seems to be so natural. The dog park we like is an offleash area in our river valley with a couple of large open fields and many Km's of trails. Asher meets and plays with many other dogs down there - He loves it! (~5 months)
Cory/CANADA
The flight home went great, she slept the whole way. John said he really enjoyed meeting you and getting a chance to see the other dogs. Raven is such a sweet, loving and affectionate dog. Her and my son play together really well and she likes to cuddle up on each of our laps at night. I really appreciate all you have done! I will keep you informed of Raven's progress and how she is doing. (~8 weeks)
Donna/MI
She is beautiful. Thank you so much. She is so happy. We can really see a lot of great instinct in her as well as smarts. It looks like she may be familiar with some general retrieving and heeling already! I want to continue to encourage that. (update) Frida is coming along nicely and is already in the field. I was hoping some photos of Frida would be up on a charity dove hunt website we attended a little while back, but I have not seen any up yet. I will let you know if the photos make it on the website. She is pointing quail and retrieving downed doves already and she's not a bit gun shy. (~5 1/2 months)
UPDATE...
As you can see, Frida likes the water...She will retrieve a toy dummy from as far as I can throw it and really "makes a splash" when she goes in the water. Frida and Firman are getting along well and playing a bunch together. We are looking forward to duck season this year. (~1 year)
Jon/TX
Doni is doing well. Dan has been to the NAVHDA grounds with her a couple of times and they have fun. She has been a good puppy. We all enjoy her very much. Thanks again, Rufnit has been great. (update) She is doing very well. She is a very wonder family dog and excited about hunting also. My husband took Doni out and she pointed some pigeons last week. Cool. (~5 months)
Angie/MI
Your site is fantastic! When we visited, it was like we already knew the dogs! As your site shows, your dogs are GREAT. We feel confident about you as a breeder and are excited about our new hunting companion.
Steve/TN
Aimi is doing great. One of the family. She loves running around the yard with Tilly. She has started eating well and is settling in fine. I took both the girls out on Sat. to my Vet's place and ran them in a recently cut hay field. Boy does Aimi go. She worked great. She never ranged out more than 30 to 40 yards, and had her nose to the ground the entire time. Tilly might just learn from her. She has also been walked daily and loves to go. I like the cool whether and plan on doing this more often. The kids love her too. She has had many visitors and loves the attention she is getting.
I wanted to get an e-mail out to you and let you know how our little girl Aimi is doing. She is doing great. I had her out opening weekend with Tilly and they worked very well together. Tilly slowing down a bit and Aimi's fast and furious approach make a good combination. I also took them out this week for a two day hunt with friends south around Redcloud. Aimi and Tilly stole the show. They both hunted great. Ami again pointed, and stayed on point until I flushed the rooster. It was beautiful, and perfect. She was very happy on this trip, she got to sleep in bed with me . Hope all is well with you, and I will keep you posted. (~2 year old acquired and trained by Rufnit Kennels)
Todd/NE
Hi Shari. Raven is doing great! We all love her very much. John & Clayton have been enjoying training and doing scent trails for her to follow. She definitely seems to be a natural. I was concerned she was too slim as her legs have shot up so fast, but her vet check up was last week and they said she was great. She is a very affectionate part of the family. I'll keep you updated and try to send pictures soon. (~3 months)
Donna/MI
Thank you for Sam. We love her so much that we have decided that she should have a little brother. Although, I have raised the white flag and Sam has Alla and I wrapped around her paw, I am getting no resistance to another male. We are proud of Sam. She is sooo spoiled! I am an avid hunter. Sam is the easiest dog to train. She is the perfect pet and hunting companion. Retrieves, points and swims like a dolphin. I would like another dog with similar markings and temperament. I have socialized Sam at a large dog facility. She really steals the show. I left the house early this morning. I went upstairs to check on Alla. Sam and Alla were asleep side by side, heads on the same pillow. Please keep me on your calendar for a male next year. Sam is a real performer in the field. For that matter, she stays up with the labs in the water. I will wait for next summer. I would like to be able to work with another dog for the ’06 season. (~ 1 year)
Dan/TX
Mayday is currently in his two week intro to wing and gun training---as of 09-10-2005. The trainer has called and said that Mayday is smart (fooled me), has a good nose, and is birdy as hell. In addition to this, Mayday is said to retrieve like a madman. The trainer says that he has already introduced the e-collar and hopes to get him holding point this week. (~4 months)
Tom/MN
She is doing great! John has taken her out in the field quit a few times. She has been shot over with no problems. You can see that she and my son Clayton took to each other right away. I am also sending a picture of her pointing and a more recent one of her & Clayton getting ready to go out to the fields. Thanks again, she has been such a joy! (~4 months)
Donna/MI
I have been window shopping for a puppy for a while now, and in searching for rare or unusual breeds, I found the Braque de Bourbonnais, and eventually your website. I have to say your website is very well done, I have spent two days reading, and looking at pictures. I am very impressed by your dogs.
Laura/TX
Well Demi is now 5 months and 21 days old. What a great dog. I've been working with her in the field for about 2 1/2 months now. She has mastered here, whoa, whoa in the field, can walk at heel and turns in the field on command. This week we started working steady to wing. As you might remember this is my first dog I've trained and I am using the Perfect Start and Perfect Finish training video series as you suggested. Great training aid, easy to follow and Demi is learning very easily. Demi is not as white as she appears in the pictures, she has light tan ticking on her body and legs. In the pictures we are working a field by my house on some chucker. Last weekend was opening day of California Valley Quail season, she got her first wild bird point and found several down birds in the bush. She is a great dog, good looking, intelligent and full of energy. Thank you again for breeding such and great line of Braque du Bourbonnais. (~5 months)
William/CA
We thought we would give you an update on Eugene. First off - he is precious and, just like last time, we feel we got the pick of the litter! He is a superior listener - responing to "No" and any other commanding tones. He had learned how to walk on a leash (on the left, walking beside walker) by the time we arrived in Miami - which we are still impressed by. He asks to go outside - and has recently established "his area" is the yard where he goes the moment he is taken there. We love him! Our extended family is in love with him too! Will keep you posted!!!! (at ~10 weeks)
Eugene is doing great. He has a GREAT nose! Wow - he can track down anything! He sits, down's, here's, and paw's...working on stay. He is an incredible cuddler - but this is no surprise. (~3 months)
Diana & Tony/FL
Hello, I wanted to thank you for the fantastic and informative site,which influenced us to contact you. Then our educational conversation confirmed what your site suggests, you are a very professional and knowledgable person. We look forward adopting one of your puppies as our family member and hunting companion! Thanks again!
Shiela & Mike/KS
Enable has been an absolute joy. She loves to go afield and is starting to develop a nose for birds. She is very well behaved in the house and loves to play with our daughters and their hairless brother Kojak. We are so very glad that we have added a Rufnit Kennels BdB to ur family. Thanks again -- and we will keep in touch. (~4 months)
Ryan/IN
Shari, thanks for the quick response.
My question was born of my ignorance of the definition, not because I thought Demi was blinking. I have heard the term used in training DVD's and I did not know exactly what it meant. After reading the definitions below I can say with 100% confidence that Demi is not blinking. She will point and hold from 3 feet to as much as 20 yards if wind conditions are right. She will hold for as long as I let her. I have held her point for a timed 5 minutes. Which I think is quite a long time when you are watching the second hand of your watch. I have never had to teach or whoa her on a point. That came very natural. She learn and mastered whoa with out the use of birds. In fact the method I used did not mix whoa and birds at all. Demi is very easy to teach. Everything she has learned, she learned on the lead first then we incorporate the e-collar.
Demi is doing great. I think she was destine for me from the start. She has recovered from her spay operation just fine. She's over 40 pounds now. Big, strong and very muscular. (~10 months)
UPDATE...
Demi is doing great. I was a little bummed out after our NAVHDA test went down in flames last spring. We weren't ready. But, I kept putting her on birds all summer and I think it paid off. Quail opener, 10 birds. She held point until flush on all 10 birds and retrieved to hand all 10 (with a little coaching). Anyways I just thought I would give you an update. (~1 1/2 years)
William/CA
Sadie is doing well on her obedience training and has spent some good time in the field. I am going to start some field training in the next couple weeks (in addition to her play training). By the way, I am participating in a field day with NAVHDA and will get some field pictures to forward to you. Oh, I forgot to mention that Sadie did a duck water retrieve in early December (her first and only so far) but I did not have my camera with me. It was only about 10 feet from shore but I was very excited! (~4 months)
Alan/TX
Great web site - very complete, phenomenal pictures!
Mike/TX
2006
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Due to my involvement with the Braque du Bourbonnais Forum (Michael Comte, Admin), I have the opportunity to keep even closer contact (daily) with several French breeders/enthusiasts. The following are samples of my communication with the French breeders/enthusiasts regarding my companions/breeding program:
Marc: Between see all your dogs, the best, for me are : Hemi, Axel and Encore, very very good! Bali & Alex, very good, to! A pup of Hemi, Axel or Alex is very important for me, or have sperm of Axel. I don't know from this moment, exactly when, in summer I think, we can breed when we are definitly live in Madrid, in Spain.
Shari: Hopefully, working together, we can increase the "healthy" gene pool in the U.S. and France!!
Marc: Ya ! This is the best of my dream !!! 20 years breeding Bourbonnais and see that, for me it’s a very good récompense from my work ! I’m so happy ! Thank’s, Shari !
also...
Marc: ...all the large dogs of work have my children behind, in the pedigree, the line was well led, thank' s Shari , but as Sarret said it, it will be necessary to go to recover our origins everywhere, including and especially in the USA and Canada! How this year they will produce more than us in France, one will have more choice!
Marc/FRANCE-SPAIN
(breeder of the first Braque du Bourbonnais to be imported into North America)
Mojo: Congratulations Shari !!
To import some BB is a great thing for the French breeders. Here, the biggest production are the brittanys and german pointers. Fighting in trial with them is a very hard challenge for us.
The French hunters have their uses with their common breeds and very few want to change and try a breed they don't know.
Please, still hunting and practice trials and NAVHDA for the breed !! Thank you for your job !
Congratulations once more.
Mojo/ FRANCE-POITERS
Well, Espy is doing great. She has earned the love of my children and wife and she is by all means a member of our family. She is absolutely wonderful! I love her personality and temperament. She is very affectionate and sweet, although sometimes she gets herself into trouble (her greatest weakness is table food, so she will do anything to steal food from us).
I have started training her and it seems to be a fast learner. I bought the video you told me but is hard for me to follow their program since it requires equipment I don't have (e-collar, bird launchers etc.). In any case, I joined NAVHDA and I use the "green book" as a training guide. For the last two weeks we are working on the "Whoa" command and Espy is doing great. She is also really good on "Heel". Before I started the "Whoa" training, I took her in the field several times to be exposed in birds. I planted quail and she gave me some beautiful points. Overall she is very birdy and shows a strong desire in the field. Not to mention that the other day managed to catch and kill (I don't know how) a squirrel in our backyard. She then delivered the squirrel to my shocked wife (I was at work). I'll send you a few pictures of Espy once I figure out how the software works.
Thanks again for letting us have Espy! (~4 1/2 months)
Peter/IL
Just to keep you informed, Rufnit Extreme is doing very well. At 4 1/2 months his training began. Since, we have gone to a hunting preserve every weekend to train him. I was afraid that he wasn't going to take to quail since he had not seen one until recently...I was wrong. He is doing great in his training. He took to the water like you would not believe. I had doubts early on about the NAVHDA tests b/c I thought he would not like the water, lowering his chances of receiving a prize. Now that I see great progress every time we go out, I'm really getting into his training. (~4 1/2 months)
UPDATE...
Just wanted to let you know that Pinto's training is going very well. The further along we get, the more I see how he "knows" what to do when he hits a scent. He's looking more and more like a dog I would take hunting, as he is already a hunting dog (we can't confuse the two). Although he is a compact, stout 40#, he can easily hang with the GSP's with many hunts under their belts.
Duck search is going well. We did a few drills with a dead chukar, and he did great. At the end of the session, I threw a dummy for him. He went out, but didn't bring the dummy back. He went on a search for that bird. At first I was kinda frustrated, but then I thought, "why am I mad...he's only doing what I need him to do." Smart as a whip this lil' lad is!
My friends that own the hunt club already have a few future prospects for future Braque owners. It seems that they have taken a liking to lil' Pinto Bean.
Thanks for being such a great mentor through everything Pinto and I have accomplished. It has not always been good, but to see his progress in the field makes up for lil' things tenfold. The best feeling in the world is being out there with him when he quarters, abruptly cuts back and makes that point to let you know he's found something for you. (~9 months)
Nelson/TX
Thanks for the references. I have heard back from all six of them, all of whom gave exceptional recommendations!! They were very enthusiastic, I was very impressed that all of the people you referred me to replied to my inquiry. I feel we have made the correct breed choice. We believe not only the breed is important, but the breeder as well. You are obviously well respected by the owners of your dogs. It is confirmed that with your knowledge and reputation, one of your Braque de Bourbonnais would be a great companion for our family. I mailed a check today for a deposit.
Tony/WA
1st night went very well. He slept in his Kennel until 01:30 AM Pacific time then asked to go Potty. Onece back in our room he did not want to stay in the kennel but instead slept on the bed,curled up under my arm....I know we are spoiling him...He has very specific habits which are pretty easy to figure out, that's good.
He love to chase after the poodle and she reciprocates. The Skipperkee "tolerates" him but he does not play with other dogs... only humans. So Fletcher should not take it personally.
Bonding with me seems on schedule, he does not leave my side for very long.
A great dog from a great Breeder.
Thank you. (at ~8 weeks)
UPDATE...
All is well...Fletcher slept until 3 AM today: great.
He only wakes up once, does his business outside and back to sleep until my alarm goes off at 5AM.
I am trying to get him used to the schedule that I'm on when I go to work. Thanks for sending the pet passport and the other papers, very professional, my vet and her staff were impressed. This was their 1st Braque du Bourbonnais, they though he was the cutest puppy. (~8 1/2 weeks)
Claude/CA
Firman is doing great! He is so sweet and had a great first night in his new home. Yesterday afternoon he met Frida (Rufnit Dana) and really warmed up to her quickly. I'll take a few pictures and send them in later this week when I can get him to stay still for a second.
I know he is unfamiliar with his new home and will be whining quite a bit when I put him in his kennel at night but do you have any suggestions on getting him to be more comfortable? All in all he was much better and slept longer than expected.
Thanks so much! (~8 weeks)
UPDATE...
Hello, Firman is settling in and has been doing really well. We're going out in the field with Frida this weekend and will have more pictures. Here are a couple of us. (~8 1/2 weeks)
UPDATE...
We took the pups to the lake this weekend and they had a great time. Frida taught Scout a thing or two about swimming and retrieving. The second pic is of Scout after a hard day of play. We had so much fun with the both of them. Thanks (~10 weeks)
Brooke/TX
Felicity is doing well. We call her Flicka for her nickname. The airport pickup was nice and easy, and the drive home was fine. I am going to take a pic and email it to you today or Wednesday. She was yelping a lot last night, I assume from being in her new house. I keep her in her crate like you recommended in your email. She is eating fine, and drinking her water. We have stairs going down from out back porch, so we have to carry her down, but she made it up the stairs by herself today.
She has been a very good girl. (~8 weeks)
Randy/IL
Hi, everyone is fine! Forrest thinks he is in charge! Ann wanted me to tell you that he really has an exceptional nose! Thanks, talk to you soon. (~8 1/2 weeks)
UPDATE...
Now we have a digital camera! Forrest is wonderful! He is smart, happy, cooperative, affectionate, and mischievous. He swims like a fish, truly enjoys his hunting training, and learns very quickly. He loves to chew up plastic cups, fetch (and throw) balls, smell everything, pounce on our labrador, bark at the guinea pigs (we frown at him), and go everywhere he can with us. He strongly prefers Purina Dog Chow to IAMS and is growing like a weed. Thank you for the wonderful start you gave him, and for letting us have him! (~3 1/2 months)
UPDATE...
Gonna schedule Forrest for his NA test in October. He's doing great! Everybody at the Central Indiana Chapter of NAVHDA is amazed at how fast and how well he learns! He swims like a duck. He's steady to point and flush and to shot is nearly there. This evening, he did a 35 yard track against the wind. He's the best dog we've ever had. He sits for an extended period while we are busy until released and has learned everything we've taught him with a minimum of fuss. He's even learning to stop harassing the lab when Calhoun doesn't want to play. (~4 months)
We would love to have a Jenny for Forrest. They go together like peas and carrots!
Mark & Ann/IN
Lottie has found herself a chair! I put her in her crate after taking this picture of her in the girls chair with the yellow pillow! Thank you, thank you, thank you, for a delightful dog. Only one puddle but lots of success so I can't complain. She had a very long day. (~8 weeks)
UPDATE...
Lottie is enjoying the pool! She knows what time the bus arrives with her girls and can't wait to walk down and meet them. (~9 weeks)
Clare/PA
I introduced Fletcher to boats and began to work him on the short lead. He slept on the boat (next to me with his head on my lap) and he is getting used to the lead very easily. He is also doing very well socializing with other dogs he got to meet several at this outing. He is growing fast....
Great dog from a Great breeder. Thank you. (~10 weeks)
UPDATE...
We are thrilled with Fletcher. He is growing like crazy around 14-15" at the shoulder probably a good 18 to 20 pounds. He love to play with the little poodle and the Skipperke.
I take him out on the school yard and let him range off leash looking for birds (there are some pigeons there). He has a great instinct. He covers a lot of ground and stays in range for voice commands. I plan to get a couple of live quails to play with next weekend.
He does very well on the lead although I am having a bit of trouble getting him to sit when on Heel. As soon as I stop and look down to make him sit he gets exited and jumps up at me to play. He does sit for treats, that is a start : )
We still have not made the NAVHDA meeting due to schedule conflicts. We'll try again in July. (~3 months)
UPDATE...
Just thought I report in on our little boy Fletcher.
Yesterday we started his Professional training (I've been working with him but that strickly amaturish). He did very well. It a long drive so I arranged for private lessons for the day. We trained all day with breaks and never had to put the electronic collar on Fletcher.
Bryce first did an evaluation and found him to be a littel shy around peaople at first (which he is for about 5 minutes and then he's fine - I call it Reserved) and still full of Puppy energy. We started with Command-and-Control mostly the Come comand voice and Wistle - No problem. Then we covered ranging looking for birds. Bryce had brought a female GSP, just in case Fletcher did not want to hunt to show him what he was supposed to do. That was not necessary he stuck to that adult GSP like they had hunted together for years. Then we moved on to retrieves. I had been working on that a little. He did singles, multiples, doubles with a late throw which he did not see and did not miss a beat. We would give him breaks between asignments. After all the retrieve work he went under the truck to rest/sleep for a while so I brought out the shotgun (12 gage) to practice a little on clays. I had Fletcher already introduced to gun fire. He eventually woke up and came over to see what all the noise was about. He is NOT gun shy.
Then Bruce brought out the Quail, tied a leg to a piece of yarn and to a piece of wood (not high tech but it works great) and we started working on finding birds. No problem there either, the little boy has a great nose and found the bird every single time (we moved the bird about 6 times). We also worked on Whoa and he did well for a first time (on a check cord) but we need a bit more practice there.
Then it was time to shoot over Fletcher. We had him find the bird and we flushed the bird and I shot and missed. The bird went into a low tree and Fletcher followed and pointed it out. One more flush and a hit and a great retrieve.
Lunch break... long break....
Then we came back late afternoonand did the "follow the scented" trail exercise. Bryce set up the trail and called us over, we did not allow Fletcher to see where Bryce went. Bryce was gone for about 15 minutes. I though this would be an easy 1st trailing run but instead we got a long trail, in cover, with the wind in and out and three scented dummies. Fletcher got on the trail and found the dummies. By the time we got to the last dummy we all knew he was tired and done for the day. so we packed it up and left.
Fletcher slept all the way home (5 hours).
I really liked Bryce no-non-sense-very-kind-in-a-real-setting approach. We are going back in two week to continue the training (we have homework of course). It looks like I'll be able to hunt over him this season. As a matter of fact Bryce asked me if he could recommend Fletcher to this person that does gundog video journal for the Bird dog web site. I agreed, so I'll let you know if it happens (Mid September for Quail Season).
I can't tell you how impressed I was with Fletcher and I know Bryce went from "what kind of a dog is this" to "Hey that dog can hunt".
Here are some pictures from the afternoon "scented trail" session.
Also you may see Fletcher and Bryce in some advertisement.
I learned a lot, Fletcher seems to just soak it in as if he was born with it, he's got great instinct. I'm looking at having Fletcher enter a NAVHDA natural ability test in November.
More picture in a couple of weeks. (~4 1/2 months)
Claude/CA
I really enjoyed your website and found it extremely informative. If I were in the mood for an immediate divorce I would certainly consider one of your puppies. I hope you are still producing puppies in about 8 yrs as my youngest is only 3 and my wife says never will she have two dogs at once. Talk to you again in about a decade. Thanks
Ben/na
Good morning Rufnit Kennels!
WE'D LIKE TO RESERVE A 'RUFNIT COMPANION'! My partner Martin and I have been waiting to contact Rufnit to reserve a puppy for what seems like a very long time. Now that we are out of a tiny apartment and into a house with 1.4 acres of property, we feel that we can finally provide a great home for our Braque!
Since the beginning of our relationship, Martin and I have talked about getting a dog. We both grew up in homes where canines were treated like part of the family. Martin grew up with German Shepard's while I grew up with an Australian Shepard and a Bichon Frise. We were looking for a dog with lots of heart, who could join us on long runs and hikes, be good with children, and who did not shed profusely. Although we had never heard of the breed, it did not take us long to decide that the Bourbonnais Pointer was exactly what were looking for.
While there is a Bourbonnais breeder much closer to home, we feel that the more reputable, more experienced Rufnit Kennels would be a better choice.
Thanks in advance,
Erin/CANADA
I do in home boarding of dogs, walking and training and just recently boarded a Braque du Bourbonnais and she was so perfect!!!!! Sweet and friendly, underfoot but not in your face. Wanting to "work" but not obsessive. Compact and athletic. Alarm bark but not protective. Close range. Wonderful!
I feel ready to cancel my deposit on the Weimaraner (I had also considered a Griffon for the last couple of years) because everything is feeling so right about a Braque du Bourbonnais puppy!
UPDATE...
I'm in then! Money order is in the hands of the postal service and should be over the border by now!
A healthy, confident, outgoing puppy with no fears is sure to come from Vurhi and Bali...they sound like great dogs...personalities, size, looks, etc..
With all the socialization/exposure that you do and then what we will do should make for a very well rounded little girl!!! Spring would be ideal too. I can finally have a peaceful sleep now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks!
Maren/CANADA
The following are communication with two of the top French breeders/enthusiasts regarding my companions/breeding program:
You have marvellous dogs & go on Shari ! Thank's for your marvellous job with the BB ! It's my plus beau cadeau, the best recompense of my job ! ... My dream !
The important is your dogs, your job whith them, all the winners in US now ! Your products are important now, and I'm so happy ! We are the must bigs breeders of Bourbonnais to the années 80-90. Speack from me if you want in your website because in your pedigrees, many of my female are in (2-3-4-5 & ... generation) are mine babies.
Have a good day !
Marc/FRANCE-SPAIN
(breeder of the first Braque du Bourbonnais to be imported into North America)
I look at the results of the NAVHDA results from time to time, I saw that you are doing great!
Michael/FRANCE-GERMANY
Shari, I want to thank you for all of your information and time. It is great to find a breeder that has an abundance of information on the breed and will share it freely, without feeling threatened or getting annoyed. You answered all of our questions very honesty in addition to giving us additional websites and references related to the Braque du Bourbonnais to check out. Through our search, we found you the most trustworthy and knowledgable in addition to being highly recommended. It is obvious you put your heart into this breed and are producing healthy, happy, intellegent pups. With the response from your current owners, I feel confident you will always be there to assist us with our dog at any time. You have made it very easy to decide to place a deposit with you for our Braque du Bourbonnais.
Thanks for caring, sharing and making us feel comfortable. We are very excited about our future friend.
John/ID
It's only been two weeks or so since Fletcher's training update but much has happened.
The following weekend I took him on a three day sailing trip to Catalina Island. He did great, no seasickness, no fuss. Once there I was able to take him ashore for potti breaks and training. There is an area that has a large playground frequented by many pigeons and doves. He got his fill of pointing and holding on Whoa (which is the command I was doing homework on). He Whoaa'ed until I was bored. He had an audience with all the people and dogs going by and stopping to watch the Pointing Bird Dog.
Last weekend I took him back up to train with Bryce. Once we reasserted that Fletcher's retreival skills were perfect - and they are - we went straight to finding birds (Bob Whites),Whoaa and retreives. By the end of the day he was absolutely perfect. Fletcher 8; Bob Whites 0. He truly has an incredible nose.
This included shooting over him and retreiving downed birds.
Next is water work. I'm starting this phase of the training this coming weekend.
We will start our Quail season early next month.
I maybe biased but I don't think there are any better dogs out there than a well bred BdB.
Keep up the good work!
UPDATE...
Well it was a great day in Cal., the weather started off cool but then warmed up to about 91 degrees.
We started hunting at 07:30 and quit at 11:00 with a nice half way break. Fletcher hunted hard and showed excellent stamina and a great nose. He found 5 Chuckars and one Pheasant. Here is a picture without the pheasant (I had the safety on and he flew away).
Impressive 1st outing for Fletcher a little less impressive for the gunner.
Fletcher loved every minute of it. He wanted to go for again but it was getting hot so we played it safe.
Thanks for a great Companion. (~6 months)
UPDATE...
OK so I was much calmer, no so stressed about the hunt, this time and got the pheasants. By the end of the morning we had 4 chuckers and 4 pheasants.
Fletcher is now holding on point so after he found (and I shot) the first pheasant (see the picture where my newphew is holding the big ringneck) we removed the checkcord and hunted him without the rest of the day.
The picture where he is pointing is when he found the big ringneck. That bird was almost as big as Fletcher so he had a little trouble bringing it back, but he did. Most retreives are to hand.
Not at all gun shy, at one time he had two 12 gages going off at the same time on each side of him: he concentrates on the birds and the retreive. He waits for the flush and the guns to go off before taking off for the retreive. Now I have to work him to hold until I am ready to release him... probably a little too much to ask at six months. We'll work on it.
When he needs to cool off he makes sure that I see him and he'll lay in the shade of a bush. That's my cue to bring water and cool him off. He has me trained pretty well. I can't beleive he's only six months old.
Keep breeding these wonderful Braques. (~6 months)
UPDATE...
California Valley quail does not stand still very long. We did not see many points from Fletcher. The birds would either run or flush when we'd get to within 50 yards. Still we had a great day and took 8 California Valley Quails.
Fletcher really helped with finding the birds, flushing them toward us and retrieving. It's amazing, he hunts like an adult dog but I have to remind myseflf that he is only 7 months old.
I shot a quail high in the air after Fletcher was able to follow it to the tree and flush it my way. The bird fell in a deep canyon. My brother marked it while Fletcher and I followed the covey and got one more quail. We returned to the quail in the canyon, I asked Fletcher to go get the dead bird and gave him change of direction whistle twice and he found the bird. That's him in the picture coming up the canyon. Amazing!
The training is really paying off and I love having the Tri-tronic collar with the beeper. I turned on the beeper remotely twice to locate Fletcher when we were hunting in heavy cover. It was great knowing that he was close by. (~7 months)
Claude/CA
Reading a news article, we found the following information about a responsible breeder: A responsible
breeder is one who always puts the best interests of the breed and of individual dogs first, above any
consideration of profit or trendiness. A responsible breeder does not produce a litter just to have pups to
sell or just because a bitch happened to come into season. She produces a litter only after careful
consideration of the physical qualities and temperament of the proposed parents, their individual
strengths and weaknesses, how their pedigrees (ancestors) relate, and what the proposed breeding would
contribute to the improvement of the breed. This is often a difficult and time-consuming process,
therefore, it is not surprising to find that a responsible breeder considers the puppies as her “kids” and
wants only the best homes for them.
We felt the above statement was describing you as a responsible breeder of Braque du Bourbonnais. In
addition, we would like to share the following with people that are interested in acquiring a puppy or dog
from you, Shari (aka Rufnit Kennels):
As a responsible breeder of Braque du Bourbonnais, Shari has provided us with the following:
• eager to share detailed breed information
• tells you about her dog’s “faults” as well as “strengths”
• believes there are no “stupid” questions
• grabs every opportunity to educate
• explains total breed care
• supplies shot records, pedigrees, care information
• explains genetic defects in the breed
• limits visits when there are unvaccinated puppies at the residence (to ensure the puppies health)
• shares information about training and development
• cares about each and every pup
• maintains sanitary, clean quarters for the dogs
• tests breeding stock
• raises her puppies in the house instead of kennels
• genuinely cares about her puppies and wants to keep you up-to-date on their progress and health
• obviously not motivated by profit
• is motivated by the love of the Braque du Bourbonnais
• breeds to improve the gene pool of the Braque du Bourbonnais (keeps puppies she’s produced to
add to her breeding program...otherwise, what was the purpose of the breeding)
• keeps tabs on you and your dog for the dog’s life
• is knowledgeable about the mating and whelping of dogs in general, so as to minimize the
chances of injury or death to the breeding dogs
• is honest
• carefully considers each litter before creating them
• thoroughly evaluates potential puppy buyers to be sure each puppy is put into a good home
• is willing to refuse to sell a puppy to a family that is unsuited to the breed
• provides advice, feedback and other help to people who have purchased a puppy from her
We can’t begin to tell you how happy you have made our family. It is true that choosing a breeder is just
as important as choosing the breed or individual companion. Our “little boy” is much more than we could
have ever imagined.
Shari, thank you so much for allowing him to be a part of our family and always being there for all of us!
(~2 years)
Darin/CANADA
A couple of quick updates on Tasha's progress.
She is into a more regular night time schedule, up about every two hours to go out, no play, just right back to sleep. She isn't crying or fussing for more than a few minutes on returning to the crate. We are so pleased that you did such a good job of getting her started. It is obvious you took great care of her!
We have put her on a three meal a day schedule which is working well. She is eating well and keeping weight on. In fact, I looked at her today and swear she has grown noticeably.
Tasha is really starting to settle in and is EXTREMELY affectionate with us all. It may be a challenge to keep her from becoming the family lap dog instead of a lean, mean, hunting machine.
Cheers! (~8 weeks)
Laxson/WI
GENERAL IS AWESOME!!! We are so happy and I have to say that we (so far) have gotten our monies worth. He cried the first night, but has gotten into a routine already, met a lot of new people (and kids) this week and is already going outside in the same spot. YEA!! He definately wants to please his master and seems very loveable and playful.
We really want to train him on quail and pheasant, but do not have access to any birds the next few weeks. I hope we don't miss an opportunity to train him. He seems to be really into fetch and play right now.
THANKS (~8 weeks)
Cindy/IL
Hi Shari, I just wanted to let you know that Glamor’s flight went off without a hitch, and picking her up at the airport was easier than I had thought. Her first night was filled with a little bit of apprehension, but now, her second day home, she is settling in extremely well. I can’t begin to tell you just how much love she has given us in such a short time and that I am very happy that we decided to purchase a puppy from you. Thank you for your patience and understanding, being this the first time we purchased a pup over the internet. We are 100% pleased and will definitely share our experience with you, to all our friends. Thanks (~8 weeks)
Brian/FL
Here are a few photos of Forrest after we got back from our first quail hunt. Thanks for a great dog. (~6 months)
Mark/IN
We are enjoying Gaston very much. In fact, Chris and I took him out for a run in one of our fields on Sat. He found two mice. My brother hunted on Sat and Sun and shot Chukar and pheasant. Gaston was excited to smell them while Chris was cleaning.He is a great dog sorry for the lack of action pictures. I forgot the camera when we went on our little "hunt". Gaston has only had one accident in the house but it was probably our fault. He is still sleeping from 930 to 500am. (~10 weeks)
UPDATE...
We haven't talked for a while, and i wanted to let you know how great Gaston is. He is doing vey well with his commands and will start hunting training in about four to five months. He has grown to about forty lbs. and it appears that he isnt stopping there. (~8 months)
Steven/MA
Here are a couple of new photos. You can see how much Genuis has grown. He looks like a toddler and now at 10 weeks he is 11 pounds and 13 inches tall. He is a great dog. Very playful, loving, and handsome. And he never ceases to amaze me with his somewhat noble behavior. You can do practically anything with him: bathing, cleaning ears, having shots at the vet's office...No protest! Just a little "OOFF" noise. There is only one thing
he does not like...being apart from me. For that, I have found a solution. I move his favorite bed along with me: to the office, to the kitchen, to the living room. He naps next to me on that bed...but most of all he still likes to nap with me on the couch.
With the help of "Mother Hubbard"s cookies we have learned a few tricks. "Come here", "Sit" and "Give me Five". Although some times he just comes to me, sits, and says with his look: "Here I am sitting, give me the cookie." Same thing with the "Potty" stuff. He sometimes squeezes out a little more to get another cookie. He also loves "Greenies".
I sent the application to NAVHDA for the premium membership. I will have a training book and DVD with it. And as soon as our vet permits it we will go for training. 'Till then we are training to bring a plush "Mallard" bird
who lost his head yesterday and scaring the backyard birds from out of the bushes. (~10 weeks)
Marina/CA
I did not expect to take Fletcher to the NAVHDA NA test until March 2007 but a spot opened up with the Grand Canyon Chapter and the test chairman was kind enough to remember that I had asked to participate. I got the call 3 days ago and agreed to bring Fletcher to Laughlin, NV.
The drive was worth it. Very nice people and great judges.
I think that Fletcher's best event was the tracking. He found the Pheasant and pointed it out in great style. Then the pheasant tried to get away - bad idea - Fletcher caught him and brought him to me.
He did very well all around. Fletcher scored 101.
We are all very proud of him, he did great. (~7 months)
Claude/CA
I thought you would enjoy a photograph that I took this morning of Hallie Rose. She is just adorable and growing more each day! Hallie has the most wonderful temperament. She loves to play hard, but also enjoys cuddling up in a warm lap to sleep.
Rufnit Happy is doing great, too. He spent the day with Rufnit Hallie one day last week. It was cute watching the siblings together! (~2 1/2 months)
Hallie/TX
Yesterday my father and I took Pinto on his first hunt. Yeah, Pinto and I have trained and trained and trained, but never the real thing. We had 12 quail and 6 chukar put out for a morning hunt. Pinto ran by himself and held point on all but 2 birds, and only because he was upwind and didn't know what to do after he was right on them. He actually pointed them, but busted them when he tried to readjust his position. Now comes the embarrasing part...my father and I missed most of the birds. In actuality, if we hit every bird that he found, we would have gotten more birds that they put out for us. Pinto worked by himself in the morning over ~60 acres divided up into 2 fields and and area of natural grasses around an NA pond.
In the afternoon, we used 2 other dogs b/c Pinto was toast. The dogs were a GSP and a Viszla. Combined they produced fewer birds! No B.S. In the end, the afternoon hunt was not productive, even with my friend tagging along as an extra gun. He told me to pull Pinto out one more time to check another field not used that day. Pinto came out running and pointed on 3 chukar in heavy woods along the fields all in different sections. He was holding point like a champ. It's not over yet! On the way back to the truck, he was quartering through one of the rows of foxtail in the field. His cuts got smaller and smaller until he was running in a straight line. A Track! Damned if he didn't find a pheasant! Luckily, the bird was big enough for me to shoot.
Even though we only came home with a handful of birds ( we got more that what the pic shows, we just cleaned them between hunts) I could not have been happier with the way Pinto performed. He went through a few phases in the past few months during which he basically ignored me on every command. I had to say everything twice. After spending a week at the hunt club's kennel, he was a new dog. Now, it's time to train for UPT in the spring, again. He's definitely got what it takes, I guess the rest is up to me.
Thanks for letting me have one of your dogs! (~15 months)
Nelson/TX
I have recently had the pleasure of becoming the veterinarian of record for one of your pups. He is an excellent example of the breed.
I have had a German Shorthair and have always been especially fond of the breed. However, after seeing your pup and watching him mature, I now have an even greater fondness for the Braque.
I want to congratulate you on helping to preserve this wonderful pointer and hope that I may in the future be able to purchase a pup from you to enjoy on my farm here in Virginia.
Randy DVM/VA
Again, I can't thank you enough for Glamor, she is an awesome dog! She by far is the most obedient and loving family pet we have ever had. Here are a couple new pics of her at the ripe old age of 5 months, 20 lbs.
(~5 months)
Brian/FL
Espy, or Cocoa as renamed by my children, is doing great. She has proven herself in the field and in home as well. We are going hunting every week and we've hunted wild quails and pheasants, woodcock and ruffed grouse. We spent almost a week in Michigan's UP hunting woodcock and grouse. She did a great job. We have also hunted succesfully for quails and pheasants in Central Illinois. I'm impressed with her ability to adjust to different situations. She is a team player and very obedient even under extreme distractions (running deer
etc.). I'm also impressed with her learning capabilities (very trainable). She is great with my children (9, 6 and 1 years old) and has never given them a mean look even when my baby grabs her bone from her mouth. Unfortunately, due to various circumstances, I didn't run Espy in NAVHDA's Natural Ability Test. I'm determined however to participate in the next level (Preparatory or Utility). (~1 year 3 months)
Peter/IL
2007
|
Doni had a great first full hunting season. A few highlights: Retrieving the first pheasant of the season from the middle of a thick brush-lined canal (we didn't even see it hit). Tracking a late-season rooster about 75 yards at a dead run then locking up on a great point.Hunting with a well-known author who writes for several national magazines (he may do a piece on her). Holding a point on a pheasant in the ditch by the truck while we sat around talking and putting away our gear. Had to reload fast once we noticed. She also got some great experience hunting tricky grouse. I got access to a lot of good hunting property (which is hard to come by in Michigan) because of her hunting abilities, "you can hunt with me anytime if you bring your dog". After a prize I NA last Aug. I think we will start on Utility. She's a great hunter and very easy to train. Thanks again. (~1 1/2 years)
Dan/MI
Rufnit Firman, aka Scout, has been out in the field several times and I finally went along to take some pictures. Attached are 3 from his most recent hunt.
He is doing really well in the field. He will make the trip to South Dakota this fall to pheasant hunt with my husband and father. Thank you for breeding such great dogs. Scout is such a great companion and we love to spoil him rotten.
UPDATE...
Scout and his brother the Vizsla do well together although Scout is MUCH better. I am hoping to put him through NAVHDA this year. Thanks again! (~10 months)
Brooke/TX
Rufnit Icar got into here safe and sound. We got him home just after 4 p.m. (after making a stop at my
husband's office, due to popular demand). We'll be sending photos shortly. Right now, however, he is asleep on a most comfortable lap!
Thanks for your helpful instructions! I printed copies for all 3 of my kids, who are following them with great enthusiasm. (~8 weeks)
Cyndi/MI
Izzy arrived in just in time as we are getting a big snow storm tomorrow! He weathered the flight extremely well, seems a little shakey and dehydrated but has already bonded with Forrest, our 14 year old. Izzy comes when called and is full of playfulness. He has been introduced to our chocolate lab and all is going well there as well.
We already love him - he is soooo cute! You can tell that he has been loved and well raised. Will keep you posted as he adjusts to his new home. (~8 weeks)
Melanie/PA
Absolutely incredible! Rufnit Iag (aka Jacques-Imo) is perfect. He is extremely social and loves children. He is already running around with my three kids all of which are 3 or younger and having a ball. He did great on his trip and has taken very well to his new surroundings. We and he could not be happier.
The entire experience with Rufnit has been flawless. You are extremely professional and courteous. Your love for this breed shows in the way you handle your customers and in the product you deliver. Job well done!!! I will send photos as soon as I can. Thanks very much. (~8 weeks)
Jeff/LA
Just wanted to let you know that Ian arrived safe and sound. What a great looking pup! He is very playful and happy; he's found his food and water bowls and is getting familiar with his collar.
I want to say "Thank you!" to you and your family for the work you've done over the past eight weeks. Your dedication to these pups is appreciated. I'll keep in touch and send pictures (and questions) along the way. Have a great evening!
UPDATE...
So far, Ian (now learning "Scout" as his call name) is doing very well. He is sleeping through the night in his crate in my bedroom, waking up for a quick outing around 2:30 or 3. He is doing well with "come", "sit", and "down" (for kibble). You are right- he prefers praise and petting over treats for good behavior! He met a few of my "people" friends and the vaccuum cleaner without incident. Housetraining is going well, with only a few "accidents." Already I have him sitting before we do ANYTHING, and he's catching on quick. I can tell that this is a very smart breed. My friends/family are amazed over how well he listens.I registered him with Home Again, and sent my NAVHDA membership in. As soon as it warms up and he gets another month or 2 under his belt, I have several volunteers to help start field training with me. I'll keep you posted. (~9 weeks)
UPDATE...
The weather is warming nicely so “Scout” and I are taking short walks into the woods behind my house, and he loves every minute of it! He’s very adventurous and has no problems crossing small streams or walking on strange terrain (steep hills, embankments, bridges, etc.) He “tastes” everything (leaves, roots, brush, branches) but otherwise moves along pretty well. Everyone we’ve met on walks so far comments on how unique his markings are. (~10 weeks)
James/NJ
He's so adorable. Our family along with our lab and maltese are loving him very much. He had a rough night last night. He's missing his mom & brothers although we're giving him lots of love. He's sleeping in my lap right now. We're hoping tonight will not be as hard for him. We will keep you posted.
Thank you for allowing us to add the new addition to our family!
UPDATE...
Just a note to let you know that Ingo is adjusting well. We are so enjoying him. He's soooooooooooo cute!!!!! My boys (kids) and (dogs) are loving him. He has such a personality! I will email pictures soon! His new name is Gunner! (~9 weeks)
Jeannie/CA
Izzy, now called "Remy" (our granddaughter's name is Isabella) is doing great! You can tell he was much loved as a pup! Potty training is going extremely well, he comes when called, brings us toys and drops them in our laps and is overall just a joy to have in our home! He is loved and enjoyed by a fairly larger family as our sons (14 & 17) play with him, he cuddles with my husband (&me of course) as well as with one of our older sons and his wife who were just here for the weekend. You can tell how intelligent he is and that he is full of love and life! Pictures will come soon as one of the boys is having fun taking them. (~9 weeks)
Melanie/PA
I hope things are warming up a bit in Nebraska. I was happy to see litter J, now Fletcher has more Brothers and Sisters.
Out here the weather has cooperated with my training schedule and if all continues to go well I'll take Fletcher to UPT next month. He is still very young and I am getting a lot of eyebrows raised from various trainers. Do you know how many BdBs or any dogs have tested and passed UPT at 12 months or less?
Fletcher is now crossing ponds on command, searching finding and retreiving with a nice long swim back to me. I use your training method modified as needed to the environment. It is great advice and it has paid off, thank you.
Here is a picture of Fletcher and his GSP training partner Hanna. As you can see he is honnoring and backing too. Fletcher loves the training and I keep it fun for him. This too has raised eyebrows with some of the NAVDHA trainers who think that I could be harsher with him. But I know better, Fletcher learns best when he is having fun. (~11 months)
UPDATE...
NAVHDA UPT March 4, 2007
Mendota, California
Great Central Valley NAVHDA Chapter
Rufnit Fletcher: Probably the youngest Braque Du Bourbonnais and one of the youngest dogs of any breed, to get a NAVHDA UPT Prize.
11 months old
145 Points
Prize 3
That’s the short version. If you want to read all about it, continue reading.
We trained most weekends for the last 3 months, sometimes both Saturday and Sunday. We kept it fun and Fletcher is a natural so it comes a lot easier to him that it does to me as his “attendant companion human”. He had a GSP and another BdB for training partners and that always helped. Mostly we concentrated our training on the water works and it paid off, however it also hurt us because we should have spend more time on “steadiness” in the field. Here is what happened, the long version.
The first trial was the field trial and after the first 10 minutes I thought we might as well go home. Fletcher had been running in timed hunting competition over the last few months and he picked up on having to find birds very quickly. So he earned himself the nick name of “Turbo Dog” at this NAVHDA test, coined by the Test Secretary. The good news is that he has a great nose and finds birds like crazy. Once he stops running over them his points are very intense and he is steady-to-flush. That cost us lost of points because while that is all that is required I did not realize that the judges wanted to see steady-to-wing or to shot. So we ended up with a “1” in the Steadiness column, this score put Prize 2 out of range. But Fletcher did get 4s in Pointing, Nose and Desire to Work for the event.
The next trial was the Duck Retrieve. We had been working on that and Fletcher did great, he marked the fall, went in the water on command with confidence, swam out and retrieved the duck to an easy grab, but not to hand. He earned a solid 3 on that trial.
Next was the Water Search, we had been working on that one too and Fletcher will cross water to search where it makes sense. He also relies heavily on his nose so if he does not get a scent he will search elsewhere. The judges planted a dead duck near shore in extremely heavy reeds, about 4 to 5 feet tall, with a few channels cut in the reed and they probably never expected that duck to be found again. This was also the site where they held the Duck Search for UT so they had released live ducks in the area the prior two days. Some of these had escaped the searching UT dogs.
Fletcher was brought to the water’s edge and put on Whoaa (I don’t use the Stay command, fewer commands are easier to remember). I fired the gun and send him out on the Dead Bird command (for him that means search, find and retrieve). He swam out a very short distance, stuck his nose in the air, scented, turned around came back to near-shore, searched upwind for a short distance and must have caught a scent in a swirling wind because he made a 180 degree turn and headed downwind about 100 yard where he threw himself at, and in, the tall reeds. I could see the reeds moving and cracking 40 yards away. Shortly thereafter, the Sr. judge, in a stern voice, asked me to call my dog back. I though something was wrong so I called Fletcher who was already on his way back to me with a live duck, probably one of the escapees from the day before!!! That took a whole 3 minutes, so we had to send him back out. No extra duck but they do allow another shot. So I sent Fletcher back out, same scenario, he goes out, goes upwind, goes downwing in the heavy reeds and the Sr. Judge asks me to call my dog. This time Fletcher had found the planted dead duck, 2 minutes. Apparently twice is the max in the search trial so they could not send him out a third time so the Sr. Judge was not too happy. If he had been sent out, Fletcher would have probably found another duck for me somewhere. Because he did not swim out very far he was given a 3 for this even, I think that is still great and I rather have a dog that bring the game back vs one that swims around in unproductive circles.
The last trial was the Track. This one I was not worried about and I was right. He earned a 4. I had him scent the feathers and send him on the Dead Bird command. He ran the track directly to the bird at full speed, nose inches from the ground, went out of sight, found the bird and retrieved it back to me at a full run: “Turbo Dog”.
I really enjoyed this event and I hope that you realize what great dogs you are breeding. As praise to his coat’s durability, Fletcher did not suffer any cuts or scrapes to either body or paw pads in the reeds nor in the heavy brush that he tackled during the Field work.
Thank you! (~11 months)
Claude/CA
On Saturday, February 17th my husband David, I and Genius(Roffe) had very exiting day. Gabriel Awbrey - Vice President of San Diego Chapter of NAVHDA invited us to train Genius. We drove 128 miles! (almost to the Mexican border) to a training grounds - huge alfalfa fields (no rattle snakes in there) and a lake. Gabriel had with him three german shorthair female dogs (age one and two). He also had live pigeons and a frozen pheasant and a duck. You can see him on the photos preparing pigeons, showing to us how to do it. We started running on the alfalfa fields as Genius constantly came back to me, checking on "his girl", paying no attention to a three good
looking female dogs. Gabriel had some explanations of the dogs behavior for me and later he hid three pigeons on the field wich were all found by Genius very quickly. After that he become extrimely excited. Then we had to find the pheasant and the duck as Gabriel explained to me how to hold my dog and the NAVHDA requirements during testing. Then we went to a lake and Genuis did not want to do into the water to retrieve the dummy. But with intimidation from the the older dogs and encouragement from me he quickly began enjoying it. He did not swim far but when I called him to go home he was so determined to retrieve all the dummies from the water that he did not stop until they were all on the shore. Gabriel had some other people to train, so we had to go.We will have a NAVHDA's snake avoidance training soon. We had a great time and we were invited again in two weeks. We also will go to watch NAVHDA's tests in the begining of March. Hope you'll enjoy the photos of my gorgeous dog. (~6 months)
Recently we witnessed NAVHDA's Natural ability test, where Genius learned to swim. He has a very good style with no splashing! I am sending you a photo to prove it...and also a photo of my husband David and NAVHDA trainer Gabby! (~8 months)
Marina/CA
We just wanted to let you know that Idole (aka. Pepin) is doing great! You did a great job with him. He is absolutley everything we want in a dog. He's already potty trained and walks on a leash well! We couldn't be happier! We'll keep you informed. (~9 weeks)
Doug/IL
"Kari" is doing great--I came home from work yesterday and he was thrilled to see me. I had to play with him for 15 minutes before I could move on to anything else. My 14 year old daughter, Hanna, is particularly taken with
him. Kari's pottying is going well. He uses the litter box at night when it is really cold, but he prefers to be outside. (~9 weeks)
Cyndi/MI
All is well. Isaac is great and Zachary is in love. Our daughter Brianna wants to “puppy sit”, but can’t separate Zachary away for a night out as of yet. It is good that she is busy with her swimming and training for the State meet this upcoming weekend.
Isaac made quite the showing at our vet’s office, the Bellevue Animal Hospital – he was cool – actually fell asleep on the exam table waiting for the doctor, but then perked up quite nicely when she came in. Isaac checked out with great health last week – his weight is a little over 12 lbs. His adjustment with Zachary has been happy and smooth.
Kevin and Zachary would like to ask for more details re: attending field training next Saturday, March 3rd? I wouldn’t be surprised if Brianna would even want to tag along. (~9 weeks)
Theresa/NE
Infinity is happy and healthy and everybody loves him. The only problem that I have had is the kids fighting over whos room he is going to sleep in. This problem is working its way out quickly as none of my sons want to bothered around 2 to 3 am for a potty break.
Anyway thank you so much for this wonderful dog, even my wife who is 100% a cat person ends up with Infinity, who is commly refered to us as Rasco, on her lap at least twice a day. She won't admit it 100% but she is in love even more than the kids are. Thanks (~11 weeks)
Brian/FL
Little Joe is growing like a weed! And what a personality he has. We love him to death. He is so smart and now weighs almost 20 lbs. Long legs, not much of a puppy anymore! He thinks he is a big boy until a stranger comes along or a noise he does not expect! J Please stay in touch. Thanks (~3 months)
Billie/IL
The following are communication with two of the top French breeders/enthusiasts regarding my companions, Fortune and Foster and my breeding program:
Two very nice dogs. It seems that the Bourbonnais is improving fast in the US.
Michael/FRANCE-GERMANY
Very nice Shari ! And you know ? Fortune seem his gran-gran-gran-Mother Bella, (the first had pups with the name "du Pech du Cayrol") he's like a copy !
Scuse my american very bad...
And congratulations Shari !
Marc/FRANCE-SPAIN
(breeder of the first Braque du Bourbonnais to be imported into North America)
I just wanted to drop you a line and let you know how well Ian (AKA Scout) is doing!
In the house, he is doing good. Housebreaking is going well, he definitely has me COMPLETELY trained. He's moving a little slower on that end, but no accidents for quite awhile. He is eating well now that I am soaking his food. I guess teething has set in. I've worked on him for the last few weeks and the mouthing and jumping are almost cured. He is still whining in the crate or when he is gated away from us in the kitchen. Hopefully he'll grow out of that, but he sleeps great in his crate at night. It seems he wants to be next to me all the time (I'm not complaining!) I take him practically everywhere with me (Except work.) He LOVES car rides!
Outside, he is doing great! We are struggling with walking on lead (SO many new scents to explore!), but he is doing superb off lead or on a check cord. He is very aware of me, always running ahead but checking on me every 20 feet or so. His "COME" is almost flawless, and he stops in his tracks when asked. I take him for hikes in the woods and field often to explore, and I'm very pleased with his instincts so far. I am amazed daily with this breed!
We're both NAVHDA registered now. I may be cautiously optimistic as we haven't started any "official" bird training, but I'm aiming to test him in September. Is this a realistic goal?
I hope everyone is well, the "J"s look great! Thank you again for a great dog! (~3 1/2 months)
James/NJ
Thank you again for the great care and attention you have provided our puppy as it is very reassuring to know that we are not only getting a "Top of the Line" Braque du Bourbonnais, but a puppy that was allowed to begin it's time on earth with the total care and attention they deserve at such a critical and influencial time of their life.
I can tell you first hand what impact this has on the puppy and what this means to a new puppy owner, as we begin our existence and companionship together forever. Proud dad of Josi Lynne!
Tracy/CO
Jana arrived safely this afternoon and although she seemed stressed by the plane trip she has settled down nicely, has eaten and has established a toilet spot in our garden. She is very affectionate, playful and sociable. She’s a full bundle of puppy energy for such a little package. I think we are going to have a lot of fun together.
Thanks! (~8 weeks)
UPDATE...
Jana whom we call Sophie was a big hit at the vet this morning. She is their first Braque du Bourbonnais and is very friendly as well as pretty. Although we had the first appointment, there were a couple of grown dogs there by the time I had finished the paperwork and she seemed comforted to see other dogs. She weighed an ounce under 10 lbs and the vet was pleased to see the kind of attention she had received with you. All is going well with her and with house training. Thanks (~9 weeks)
Sherrill/WA
You are right...she is good with "Come" and this morning she ran from my front door to the back door to the front door to the back...so I stood up and she started doodie. She knew to go to the door!!! She is somewhat of a velcro dog and follows me everywhere.
UPDATE...
My vet said that she has great conformation for a Rare-Breed. Her specialty is reproductive sciences and she has dealt with a number of rare-breeds (never this one)…and she said a lot of the time they look funny cuz people are trying to hard. All in all, she was very impressed with Jeri. Her heart was good, lungs/breathing, patella’s, hips, bite, eyes, etc.
Also, Rainy’s breeder is very impressed with your website and all that you do. I told her that you are the epitome of a responsible breeder who is doing it truly for the love of the breed.
Have a good afternoon! (~8 weeks)
Robert/MA
Justice made it safe and sound and the pick up from the airport was really straightforward. Thanks for having it so well organized. (~8 weeks)
Elizabeth/DC
Things are going well w/Jarvis (now Bozeman). Took him to my vet today for shots and a check-up and he says that everything looks great. It’s fun to see his natural instincts. He’s already pointed a bird and he will retrieve a dummy as long as I will throw it to him. He seems to really enjoy the girls (almost 4 and 18 months). They keep him worn out, but no so much that he sleeps through the night. Looking forward to that happening, but I guess it will be a while. Thanks again for all your help. He is already exceeding out expectations. I’ll send you some pics when available. (~9 weeks)
William/GA
Shari, you should be proud of what you are doing as a breeder. Your dedication, professionalism and care would be an asset to any breed and the Bourbonnais are privileged to have you. Every question we had was answered quickly and honestly making the long distance acquire more relaxing. Our veterinarian said it was apparent that our new addition was well cared for during her first eight weeks. In addition to being healthy, she is very social and her presence attracts attention everywhere we go. She already goes to the door when she needs out and is sleeping throughout the night. She definitely shows natural instincts and we are excited about getting involved with NAVHDA. With her arrival, our home is complete! Thanks so much (~9 weeks)
Lee/MN
Just wanted to give you a fast update. Enable (Nana) has been better than we could have ever hoped. She learns fast, hunts hard and is great in the house! I have attached a few photos of a grouse/woodcock hunt in Wisconsin and a quail hunt in SE Kansas.
We are just about ready to get you another deposit for #2. (~1 1/2 years)
Ryan & Jamie/IN
Howdy! Just got back from a visit to a bird dog trainer. Tom is not familiar with the Braque du Bourbonnais
breed, but was duely impressed by our Remy's spectacular time this afternoon with the birds. It was pure joy to watch him run and point like he had been doing so all his life!
Our Remy (formerly Izzy) is having a wonderful time here is Pennsylvania now that winter has finally vacated. He is such a part of our family that I can't imagine what our home would be like without him! Will get some pictures out as soon as possible (I'm not much of a photographer). (~5 months)
Melanie/PA
Sadie Eleanor is doing great and has honestly turned out to be the best dog we’ve ever had! She’s got such personality and loves her humans and her cat! (~2 years)
Debbie/TX
We (tony, diana, tony jr, and eugene) are all doing great!
We thought we would send you a few photos of the Euge with his little brother.
Because Eugene was our first child (or second in theory, as Cooper was really our first) - he has been adjusting to life with a new addition.
He's been great with the baby. (~2 years)
Diana & Tony/FL
The following is posted on the Braque du Bourbonnais Forum (out of France):
Nice video, it seems to be a very healthy litter.
It's quite exeptional to see such a large litter growing without problem. And they seem to be nice pups too, according to the standard. The short tails is the cherry on the cake...
Michael/FRANCE-GERMANY
Rufnit Karamel arrived just fine this morning, she is adorable !!!!!!!!!! Thank You so much for giving us the opportunity to get her from you. We will send you pictures as she develops.
Our children were so excited this morning that we had a hard time getting them to go to school !!
Once again, Thank You! (~8 weeks)
Greg and Mary/TX
I just wanted to let know that "Kazi" made it home safe. It didn't take her long to make herself comfortable. She is actually sitting on my lap as I type, which is quiet difficult. I'll email you again in a couple days.
Thanks (~8 weeks)
UPDATE...
It' been two weeks now and I am amazed at how well Kazi has adjusted to her new home. By day two she was kennel trained and she is sleeping most of the night now (1100pm until 4:30am - 6:00am). We had a little trouble with potty training in the beginning, but we are back on track now. I was giving her a little too much freedom in the house and not watching her close enough. She is so intelligent and responds to commands very well. She also seems to have a lot of natural retrieving ability. I have been taking her out in the field everyday and she is a joy to watch. She is constantly using that nose of hers. I'm hoping to put her on birds in the next couple of weeks. My family and I could not be happier.