Health and Testing

At Simply Sharing Love, we breed with the intention of bettering the breed, not just producing puppies.

What we invest goes directly back into our dogs and program. This includes high quality nutrition, preventative care, genetic testing, enrichment, and long term support for the homes our dogs are placed in.

All of our dogs are genetically tested through Embark using over 230,000 genetic markers. This screens for 250 plus variants associated with canine disease, along with physical traits such as coat, structure, and size.

Embark maintains strict quality control standards with over 99 percent accuracy for mutation testing. Additional testing is performed when needed to support responsible and ethical breeding decisions.

We do not rely on genetics alone. Results are interpreted alongside structure, temperament, and real world development to ensure each dog is evaluated as a whole.

Genetic Approach

Color and appearance are only a small part of genetics.

In Dachshunds, coat color is influenced by how pigment is expressed, not just which genes are present. For example, red and cream tones come from pheomelanin intensity, while darker colors come from eumelanin expression.

These are not single gene traits. They are influenced by multiple factors, including modifier regions that affect how color is expressed across the coat.

We also consider how foundational genes interact. Dogs that are recessive red do not express darker pigment in the coat, even if genetically present. This is important when planning pairings and understanding outcomes.

Genetics are evaluated with intention, not assumption. The goal is not to chase color, but to maintain consistency, health, and structure within the breed.

Breeding

Our program is built on practices learned from Spotta Dachshunds, combined with our own hands on experience raising dogs in a real home environment.

Our dogs are cared for long before they ever become part of a breeding plan. Each dog is evaluated individually for both mental and physical readiness. Health, stability, and temperament always come first.

We prioritize proper diet, conditioning, and regular movement, as these directly impact pregnancy, delivery, and long term health for both the mother and her puppies.

Dogs raised in a structured pack environment develop stronger social skills, clearer communication, and more balanced temperaments. This foundation carries into both breeding and placement.

During pregnancy, care is adjusted based on each female’s needs. Some require additional support as their bodies change. For these dogs, we incorporate low impact movement such as water therapy to maintain strength and mobility.

As delivery approaches, each mother is transitioned into a quiet, private space designed specifically for a safe and low stress whelping experience.

Why This Matters

Breeding is not just genetics. It is preparation, observation, and responsibility at every stage.

The decisions made before a puppy is ever born directly impact its health, stability, and ability to thrive long term.

Our goal is not just healthy puppies, but well balanced dogs that are set up for success in the right homes.

The difference in how a dog is bred is not always visible at first, but it is always felt over time. That is why our responsibility does not end when a puppy transitions into a new home. That is where it begins.