Passion, Preservation, and Purpose: The Story of Amélie, a Dedicated Dachshund Breeder
Updated on Jun 22, 2025 12:38 AM UTC
For Amélie, breeding miniature long-haired Dachshunds has been a lifelong passion, a legacy, and a mission to produce healthy, well-adjusted companions for Canadians and international homes.
Amélie’s love for dogs started nearly 18 years ago when, at just nine years old, she fell in love with miniature dachshunds. Her mother, a Great Dane breeder, encouraged her to pursue a smaller breed as her love for dogs grew by participating in the show world. From the moment Amélie was gifted her first miniature, her future was set. The young handler quickly blossomed, and by age 11, she had already achieved her first Grand Champion, a remarkable feat made possible by her passion and the mentoring of her friend Stephanie.
Stephanie, a veteran breeder with more than 45 years of experience, recognized something special in Amélie. Although Stephanie tragically passed away from cancer four years ago, her legacy lives on through Amélie’s breeding program. Today, Amélie carries forward her mentor’s knowledge, expertise, and deep love for the miniature long-haired cream Dachshund, which has become her trademark at HeavenlyHund.
With nearly two decades of experience, Amélie is committed to preserving the health, structure, and wonderful temperament of the breed. Her dogs, some of whom have lived up to 22 years under her care, are a testament to her expertise and careful breeding choices.
Dachshunds are a hound breed and therefore are driven, energetic, and sometimes a little stubborn. The best homes for these dogs are active households. When placed in the right home, dachshunds’ loyalty and companionship are unparalleled. Amélie believes that choosing a Dachshund should be a well-informed decision. She encourages prospective owners to “make a checklist and really consider what you can and cannot handle.” While any new puppy is a big commitment, each breed needs specific care and conditions. These dogs need activity, a healthy diet to avoid health issues like IVDD, and a home that can provide a loving, stimulating environment.
For those looking to bring a Dachshund into their lives, meeting the breeder is key. “See where the puppies come from, ask about health testing, vaccines, microchipping, and deworming protocols, and find out how frequently the adult dogs see a vet.” It’s also a chance to gauge whether the breeder considers their dogs a true part of the family. For Amélie, this is non-negotiable.
Amélie suggests some insightful questions you can ask a breeder, including:
She also highlights a key consideration from a breeder’s perspective: prospective buyers sometimes aren’t entirely truthful about their own home environment. That’s why it’s a good match when both the buyer and the breeder are asking questions. It shows a shared commitment to a successful placement.
Ultimately, Amélie’s breeding program focuses on developing lines that make wonderful companions for Canadian and international families - healthy, well-adjusted, loving dogs who bring happiness to their owners for years to come.
Amélie’s love for dogs started nearly 18 years ago when, at just nine years old, she fell in love with miniature dachshunds. Her mother, a Great Dane breeder, encouraged her to pursue a smaller breed as her love for dogs grew by participating in the show world. From the moment Amélie was gifted her first miniature, her future was set. The young handler quickly blossomed, and by age 11, she had already achieved her first Grand Champion, a remarkable feat made possible by her passion and the mentoring of her friend Stephanie.
Stephanie, a veteran breeder with more than 45 years of experience, recognized something special in Amélie. Although Stephanie tragically passed away from cancer four years ago, her legacy lives on through Amélie’s breeding program. Today, Amélie carries forward her mentor’s knowledge, expertise, and deep love for the miniature long-haired cream Dachshund, which has become her trademark at HeavenlyHund.
With nearly two decades of experience, Amélie is committed to preserving the health, structure, and wonderful temperament of the breed. Her dogs, some of whom have lived up to 22 years under her care, are a testament to her expertise and careful breeding choices.
Dachshunds are a hound breed and therefore are driven, energetic, and sometimes a little stubborn. The best homes for these dogs are active households. When placed in the right home, dachshunds’ loyalty and companionship are unparalleled. Amélie believes that choosing a Dachshund should be a well-informed decision. She encourages prospective owners to “make a checklist and really consider what you can and cannot handle.” While any new puppy is a big commitment, each breed needs specific care and conditions. These dogs need activity, a healthy diet to avoid health issues like IVDD, and a home that can provide a loving, stimulating environment.
For those looking to bring a Dachshund into their lives, meeting the breeder is key. “See where the puppies come from, ask about health testing, vaccines, microchipping, and deworming protocols, and find out how frequently the adult dogs see a vet.” It’s also a chance to gauge whether the breeder considers their dogs a true part of the family. For Amélie, this is non-negotiable.
Amélie suggests some insightful questions you can ask a breeder, including:
- How old is your oldest dog in your home?
- Do you and what health testing do you perform on your breeding pairs to minimize genetic disorders? Read more about what testing is recommended for Dachshunds on Paction’s Dog Breed Guide.
- Are you available for ongoing questions after the puppy goes home?
- Are you involved in a breed club or community of responsible breeders?
She also highlights a key consideration from a breeder’s perspective: prospective buyers sometimes aren’t entirely truthful about their own home environment. That’s why it’s a good match when both the buyer and the breeder are asking questions. It shows a shared commitment to a successful placement.
Ultimately, Amélie’s breeding program focuses on developing lines that make wonderful companions for Canadian and international families - healthy, well-adjusted, loving dogs who bring happiness to their owners for years to come.