Hi, I’m Laura Reeves
I’m the breeder behind The Scotia Kennel located in Oregon.
The Scotia Kennel is dedicated to upholding the integrity of its Registry.
Promoting the sport of purebred dogs and breeding for type and function. Founded in 1982, The Scotia Kennel advocate for the purebred dog as a family companion advances canine health and well-being, work to protect the rights of all dog owners, and promotes responsible dog ownership.
AKC Breeder of Merit, AKC judge, and Good Dog Advisor. The host of Pure Dog Talk and The Good Dog Pod podcasts. Retired professional handler.
How did you get into breeding?
I started with my family in the mid’70s with field trial Labradors, later Clumber Spaniels and GWP. I have always focused on good-looking, good-working, happy, healthy family companions who are successful in a wide variety of competitions. Scotia dogs have earned well over 100 titles in conformation, agility, obedience, hunt tests, field trials, tracking and much more.
What makes your breeding program special?
My ongoing emphasis is on producing dogs who meet the written standard for appearance and the unwritten standard for working ability. This is a breed created to have many jobs as a hunting dog and I strive to retain that work ethic in all of my dogs. Whether they are hunting dogs, show dogs, family companions, or all of the above, Scotia dogs are always bred and raised to be sensible and kind.
Upcoming Litter
Laura’s Publications at the Good Breeder Center
The Good Breeder Center is Good Dog’s online publication built for dog breeders that provides the latest in canine health and science. Check out Laura’s latest publications below and visit The Good Breeder Center to learn more.
Preservation Breeding Defined
Canine Anatomy and Soundness
The host of Pure Dog Talk and The Good Dog Pod podcasts.
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Pure Dog Talk
Pure Dog Talk is THE voice of purebred dogs
The Good Dog Pod
Supporting dog breeders and responsible dog ownership.
Health FAQs
How do you think about reducing health issues in your puppies?
I start with the healthiest dogs I can. Dogs which are tested clear of as many genetic diseases as is scientifically possible. I only include dogs in the breeding program that have been tested clear for multiple generations. If I encounter an issue (Mother Nature is a surly mistress….) I do extensive research to identify and eliminate the problem where at all possible.
What health problems commonly occur in German Wirehaired Pointers?
The most impactful issues in the breed are autoimmune thyroiditis. In itself, it is easily manageable with medication. But it is just one of a number of more serious autoimmune diseases. It indicates a hereditary potential for the body to attack itself in other areas. All Scotiadawgs in the breeding program are required to be “normal” for thyroid function. Hip dysplasia, some cancers and other more random diseases of dogs are seen, although less frequently.
Can you tell me about any health tests you perform on your dogs and why?
Our breeding dogs are tested for and certified clear of: hip and elbow dysplasia, heart and eye abnormalities and autoimmune thyroiditis.
If you have done health testing, where can I see the results?
All results are available at OFA by searching for the dog’s registered name. I am happy to supply links to any of the dogs in question.
Have any of the dogs in your breeding program ever been afflicted with these conditions?
Yes. As has often been noted, “Man plans and God laughs….” As my contract clearly spells out, all of my dogs are guaranteed for life to be free of hip dysplasia or hypothyroid or they will be replaced or have the purchase price returned at the preference of the owner. I spare no expense or amount of time to ensure my dogs are healthy and stand behind that guarantee without exception.