✨ Breeder Spotlight: A Breeder’s Commitment to Education & Collaborative Growth

Thank you, Rachel McArthur, of West Cactus Kennels in California in Texas, for sharing your words of wisdom with the TellTail community.

Rachel, an experienced breeder of Boston Terriers, finds joy in nurturing puppies and constantly improving her breeding program; she emphasizes educating potential buyers, assessing their readiness and expectations, and supporting them throughout the journey; despite challenges such as societal judgment, Rachel seeks mentorship and community to enhance her skills and find solace in a like-minded circle.

💡 Interested in being in the spotlight, or wish to nominate a friend? Email us at hello@telltail.com

What is so special about Boston Terriers?

Boston Terriers are called the “American Gentleman” because of the cute little tuxedo they wear, but I like to call them the Court Jester. On the same day, they can be dignified and calm, and then silly and bouncy. Bostons are known to entertain their families with their silly antics. They are extremely good-natured. I always say they are big dogs in a little dog body. They are great with kids because they are always ready for an adventure. They keep me laughing all day long. And a Boston Terrier side-eye is like no other!

What questions do you ask your potential buyers?

First, I want to know how much experience they have with Boston Terriers or other brachycephalic breeds. It’s fine if they are first-time owners, but I need to make sure they are educated about the specific needs of this breed. While I breed for health and vigor, any brachycephalic breed has special considerations. Educating buyers about the specific needs of these breeds, such as the importance of managing their body temperature in hot weather, is my responsibility.  

I also want to know why they feel this is a good time in their life to get a puppy. This can help me see if they are prepared for the inconveniences the first year of raising a puppy can bring.  

Finally, I want to know what they expect to get out of the relationship with their dog. If they are looking for a best friend for their 5-year-old I would handle it very differently than if they are looking for a hiking buddy for an active single person. We are advocates for our puppies, so I want to know what will be expected of them in their new home. 

Why do you love being a dog breeder?

I am a nurturer by nature. So I love helping tiny things grow. My puppies are my own little kindergarten class where I teach them how to be brave and take on their new lives and challenges. It is incredibly fulfilling.

I am also a science and research nerd, so I am constantly digging into a new problem or a question I have. I spend a lot of time and money on classes and programs and products that can improve the quality of my puppies or reduce my workload. As I learn, my breeding program improves, and I can share what I know with other breeders. 

What challenges do you face as a dog breeder?

We all face a certain amount of shame as dog breeders. The outside world can be hateful to us. But it is so sad when we experience it from within the breeding community. Society is hard on us, our own community and industry can be hard on us, and we can be so hard on ourselves! I try to remind myself to always be compassionate and supportive of other breeders, ascribing good intentions to others. By sharing our insights in a kind way we contribute to the betterment of our industry as a whole. 

Another challenge we face is that many of us breeders are introverts. We enjoy being with our animals, but interacting with humans takes effort. I have developed wonderful relationships with my puppy families because of the effort I take to support them and their needs, but sometimes I need a break from communication and have to designate a “quiet day” every few months. If you are an introvert like me, who has to interact with people daily but feels drained from continuous interaction, you may want to try it! It helps me to reset so I can be present for the people who need me. 

What advice do you have for aspiring breeders?

I highly recommend aspiring breeders find a mentor! It may be someone experienced in your breed, someone in the dog sport you participate in, or someone you take classes from online. Find someone who shares your beliefs, challenges you to improve, or comforts you when things get hard. Our family may have good intentions, but rarely do they understand what this business takes out of us. When things get hard they may even suggest that we quit breeding as a solution. I have some amazing breeder friends who I can call when I lose a puppy or a dam (mother dog) who will NOT say “Maybe you should stop breeding, it’s too emotional,” and will instead offer their love and condolences while still understanding that this is my passion. 

Finally, I think that all dog breeders should join a community. There are many Facebook groups out there, like Dog Breeders of North America, where the community is supportive and non-judgemental. These foster collaboration and learning from others’ experiences. When you find a non-judgemental group, READ READ READ! Take in all you can. It will help prepare you for the unexpected challenges you may encounter on your journey. 

Enjoy your puppies!