Meet Pepper - Our Beloved Foundation Girl
Pepper holds a very special place in our hearts as our first import girl, generously sent to us by Phil Williams at Hashki Kennels, Australia. This has blossomed into a lifelong love affair with this remarkable little dog.
Personality & Character
Pepper is pure sweetness wrapped up in a mischievous package. Her loving nature shines through in everything she does, though she's earned quite the reputation as our resident comedian with a wonderfully wicked sense of humor. Ask anyone in our household about Pepper, and they'll tell you she's appointed herself as the official early morning alarm clock – a job she takes very seriously!
Structure & Appearance
From a breeding perspective, Pepper exemplifies everything we love about the Havanese breed. She has lovely structure and fluid movement that catches the eye whether she's in the show ring or simply trotting around the yard. As a robust, solid girl with a rich, plush coat, she represents the breed standard beautifully while maintaining that essential Havanese charm.
Beach Life
Nothing makes Pepper happier than her trips to Waitarere beach. Watching her play in the ocean is pure joy – she simply doesn't stop! The salt air and rolling waves seem to bring out her most playful side, and she'll spend hours splashing and running along the sand.
Show & Breeding Career
Pepper's show career was brief but successful. She was quickly made up to New Zealand Champion before we retired her to focus on what she was truly meant to do – be a mum. Her contribution to our breeding program has been invaluable.
As a Mother
Pepper has blessed us with three beautiful litters, and her legacy continues to shine in the show ring. Already, three of her babies, and many of her grand and great-grand babies, have achieved New Zealand Champion status with impressive group and in-show wins. She's proven to be not just a wonderful producer, but an exceptional mother.
Her nurturing nature extends beyond her own puppies too. In one of our favorite memories, Pepper welcomed her best friend Gracie, a gentle Bernese Mountain Dog, as a babysitter for her litters. The sight of these two different breeds co-parenting was both heartwarming and amusing.
Life Today
Now happily retired, Pepper lives with Jen and Don in Tawa, where she's found her perfect match in Don. Despite his wheelchair, Don and Pepper have formed an incredible bond. She seems to understand exactly what he needs and has become his devoted companion, bringing joy and laughter to their daily routine.
Pepper represents everything we love about Havanese dogs – intelligence, adaptability, humor, and an endless capacity for love. She may have started as our foundation breeding girl, but she's become so much more: a beloved family member who continues to teach us about the special bond between humans and these wonderful little dogs.
Pepper's story continues to inspire our breeding program and reminds us daily why we fell in love with the Havanese breed.
