Best Dog Breeders In The North Bay

For those looking to add a four-legged friend to the family, it can be difficult to know where to find the perfect pet. Opting to go with a reputable breeder is the best option for sourcing a quality, healthy pet. However, occasionally finding a local breeder with a solid reputation can be a challenge. See below for a list of five top North Bay breeders who specialize in some of America's favorite breeds.

Kentfield Kennels
1458 Cunningham Road
Sebastopol, CA 94572
(707) 823-4124
www.kentfieldkennels.com

Kentfield Kennels are breeders of high-quality labrador retrievers. Having lived in the area for generations, the Kent family offers labs in chocolate, black and yellow. Frequently at the top of the list of America's most popular breed of dog, the Kentfield Kennels labradors are best suited for companionship, hunting and careers as service dogs. The Kents produce a limited number of litters each year and all puppies are well socialized during their time spent at the kennels.

Covy-Tucker Hill are breeders of champion German shepherds. This kennel has been selectively breeding to improve German shepherds for over 40 years, and it specializes in show and companion dogs. In addition to several litters of puppies each year, Covy-Tucker Hill offers stud services from its select dogs. It also offers kennel services, where all dogs have access to large shaded outdoor dog runs. For those still considering a German shepherd, look into ordering the Covy-Tucker Hill DVD on how to select the right puppy as a pet or show dog.

Goldendoodles are an increasingly popular mix of two of America's favorite dog breeds, the poodle and the golden retriever. Wine Country Goldendoodles breeds miniature goldendoodles which are a mix of miniature poodle and golden retriever, and range in size from 22-45 pounds. This well-dispositioned breed is a light shedder and a great choice for families suffering from allergies. Wine Country Goldendoodles has a mini poodle stud and a number of female golden retrievers available for breeding. The kennel focuses on early socialization of puppies and strongly encourages positive reinforcement training. In order to ensure a good home for the dogs, references are required from all prospective buyers.

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Birnam Wood
Cotati, CA 94931
www.birnamwood.com

The owners of Birnam Wood have been life-long golden retriever owners and showers. This family-run business was started by two folks who were brought together by their mutual love of the breed. For the past several decades, they have been striving to genetically improve this sporting breed's overall health and quality. Birnam Wood has several dogs available for stud services, either live cover or shipped. Call for availability of upcoming litters and puppies.

Walkin' Blues Bulldogs are proud breeders of award-winning English bulldogs. The owners are active participants in a number of breed-specific bulldog clubs, such as the Bulldog Club of Northern California and the Bulldog Club of America. Walkin' Blues Bulldogs has a number of stud dogs available for breeding. In addition to its showing and breeding activities, the owners also assist in bulldog rescues.

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Joanna Metheny is a freelance writer covering all things South Bay. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.