Our Story
The dream of Joy’s Dood Ranch began during a family vacation to the mountains in November 2019. I was taking my nieces to a petting zoo in Elijay, Georgia when I saw this perfect little fluffy teddy bear thing sitting straight up in the tailgate of a pick up truck. I had heard of golden doodles before but this one was different. He had a very distinct pattern that set him apart from a typical golden doodle. Black, white and brown. A perfect little tri colored face, a white cross on his chest and tiny little white socks for each paw. He was perfect! When I approached the truck to find the owner, I noticed he was not harnessed. I looked around and could not find the owner anywhere! Was this dog really alone? Without any supervision? He was free to run away at any moment and yet he sat. Resolute and unyielding. His focus was so fixed on whatever command his owner had left him with that it didn’t matter that there were screaming kids and animal noises begging for his attention. No, sir. His owner told him to stay and by golly, he was staying.
I was blown away! I had never seen such an obedient dog in my life. Of course, I grew up with strays and “free puppies to good homes” so it was a good day if I could get my dog to sit for a treat. Don’t get me wrong, strays and rescues are loyal to a fault and some of the most loving pets I’ve ever had.
When the owner finally came back to his loyal pup, I asked him what kind of dog this was, “A Bernedoodle!” He exclaimed. “This is the best dog I have ever owned. He is smart, funny, gentle and loving. I happen to be allergic to dogs, but not with him. He’s non shedding and hypoallergenic.”
Of course, now that I am many years into this adventure, I am still learning so many more reasons to love this breed.
“I’m in!” I said. “I have to have one of these dogs.”
From then on, the pack began to form. First to join was Huck, our stud. Since his arrival, I have had absolutely no time for myself and have never been happier. He brings so much joy to our lives with his dynamic and goofy personality. There has never been a dull moment with this one and I expect he’ll be making us laugh for years to come.
It was almost 6 months later that we added our first girl, Hazel May. Now, I admit she was a last-minute decision. I had a deposit down on what was supposed to be my first girl, Dolly, but then after seeing Hazel’s picture I fell instantly in love. Her coloring and personality were infectious and although she wasn’t apart of the original plan, I can’t imagine life now without her.
A month later came Dolly June. Let me tell you, I thought after bringing home Huck and Hazel, my love tank would be capped. But boy was I wrong. Dolly has this very special “it” factor about her that just makes you think your heart might explode. Dolly is graceful and athletic. She’s dignified and playful. She’s strong and affectionate. She’s charming and feisty. She has the softest, curliest coat and somehow it never seems to mat. Needless to say, Dolly June is irreplaceable and my love for her is BIG.
Then, almost a year later, we added Maple Rose. Oh Maple. Maple never has a bad day. She is loyal to a fault and is the spunkiest, brightest little personality in the whole pack. She LOVES hugs. And I mean, loves them. You can’t get away from her fast enough. If she wants your affection, she’s going to get it. Whether she’s curling up in your lap for snuggle time or standing at eye level to give you one of her famous hugs, you can’t help but fall in love with this silly, endearing little girl.
Another year passed and we decided it was time to add a standard poodle to the bunch. Miss Reba April is the newest addition to the pack and has fit right in. She is a standard apricot poodle with white socks and chest. She has proven to outsmart just about every dog in the bunch and is still as sweet as can be. She is gentle and affectionate and loves to chase our kitty cat around the house. We have spent little effort on basic training with Reba as she has picked up on commands so quickly. We can’t get enough of our Reba April!
Looking to the future, we plan to continue to expand our dood ranch with different sizes, coat patterns, and generations. Be sure to follow us on social media to watch our family grow!
