About us
Otter Creek Kennel is located in Saltair, BC, on the coast of Vancouver Island. We are a relatively new kennel but have owned and shown Leonbergers since 2014. We currently have 2 females in residence.
Our Story
I grew up around terriers and my husband was raised with Bernese Mountain Dogs. Our preferences in dog temperaments and sizes were fairly divergent. We owned several dogs together and after the passing of our beloved Bernese Mountain Dog, we decided to look for a breed that was new to both of us. My husband had specifications - he wanted a big dog, with long hair (he likes fluffy beasties), and a solid, square-ish head. I wanted an athletic dog that would be good with our children and cats and horses. I also have a weakness for smart, independent minded animals (remember the terriers?). My oldest daughter stumbled upon Leonbergers in a database and the more we researched, the more we liked what we read. We found a registered CKC breeder in Vancouver and filled out our application.
Our little Darling (Little Mountain's Better Than Chocolate) came home with us just before Christmas of 2014. I began showing her the following summer and while we planned on breeding her, the timing never quite worked out for us. Darling is now a beloved pet who enjoys snuggling with her people and going for hikes everyday.
Our experience with Darling convinced us that we wanted to start our own kennel and become Leonberger breeders. Through my show ring experience I met several excellent breeder-mentors and was able to find a dog with good bloodlines and promising conformation. In spring of 2020, we brought home our foundation bitch; Ch Seelowen's Worth the Wait, aka Winnie. Winnie has her Canadian championship in conformation and is showing an amazing physical agility that begs to be put to use. Winnie is learning to use her nose in scent work classes and has recently discovered Rally, which she finds challenging but fun.
