Elois Veltman & Virginia
1. We are Elois Veltman and Virginia Flatley, and we live in North San Diego County, California. Combined, we have been in dogs as exhibitors for 68 years and have been breeding Pugs for a combined 59 years. Elois’ kennel name is Nirvana and Virginia’s is Winsome. Fifteen years ago, we joined forces as Nirvana-Winsome Pugs.
2. Hallmarks include head and structure. Multum in parvo, meaning “much in little,” or as some translate, a lot in a little package. Decidedly square and cobby. Short, level back, high tail set with a tightly curled tail. Large, round head with large, globular-shaped eyes. Short, blunt, square muzzle. Wide underjaw. A slight roll of the hindquarters typifies the gait, which should be free, self-assured, and jaunty. The hind legs should follow in line with the front legs. You see a lot of Pugs that move very close in the rear, which is not correct.
We emphasize soundness in our breeding program. Pugs are companion dogs and need to be able to hold up to the vigor of jumping up and down off couches. Keep in mind, Pugs are a lot in a little package, with heavier bone. Although we do advise our buyers to lift them up and down or use stairs/ramps. That said, Pugs have a mind of their own. Too many Pugs are having hind-end issues later in life. This could be a combination of their curly tail being an extension of their spine, bad knees/hips, and/or flying off furniture. Our experience has found that with the proper structure, front and rear, they are more apt to remain walking throughout their lifespan. Maintaining our Breed Standard is paramount.
3. Yes, most definitely! We maintain a healthy-sized waiting list with close to 60 percent repeat buyers. Between the two of us, we will have four litters this year with plenty of buyers on our waiting list.
4. We do all the DNA health testing available on our breeding stock. Unfortunately, these tests are not definitive and can only be used as guides for matching up sires and dams. Perhaps one day these tests will be precise. We also use the latest scientific advances with the medical care of our dogs and assist buyers with pet health insurance using links to sign up prior to picking up their puppy.
5. Not really! We live in a semi-rural area with a large animal-friendly population. We don’t see a negative perception of purebred dogs in our area.
6. With respect to our breed and in California, we have seen a substantial decline in the number of breeders and exhibitors. It is very important for the seasoned breeders/exhibitors to cultivate the future generations in the sport.
7. One of the most positive changes is the AKC’s (American Kennel Club) development and expansion of the NOHS (National Owner-Handler Series). It opens the door for more success with new exhibitors coming into the sport. We see a lot of the new exhibitors we are mentoring stay active in the show ring past their dogs attaining a Champion title. We’ve also seen a number of them transition into breeding.
