Adrienne Scott is an AKC Breeder of Merit who has realized a lifelong dream in her small hobby kennel, Prairie Crest Beaucerons, of Maysville, Missouri, devoted to preserving the centuries-old Beauceron breed. She has produced many champions and, through health testing, improving temperaments, and structure, she strives to produce the best Beaucerons possible. Adrienne has traveled to France several times to breed and acquire dogs. There, she’s competed in the French National Elevage with GCH Dominicia Mes Yeux Vigilants.
AKC: How did you get started breeding dogs?
Adrienne: I started with my first show quality female in 1983, a Shetland Sheepdog. Pedigree research opened my mind to all the possibilities. My first litter, a singleton, sparked a desire to learn all I could. I have a background as a vet technician. Therefore, the whole process of breeding, whelping, and puppyhood became my passion.
What is the most important thing to know about Beaucerons?
Their intuition, their devotion to their people or person, their depth of humor, personality, and their brilliance. I am loving every day with my Beauces. It’s my type of heaven.
How has AKC Marketplace helped you find puppy buyers?
AKC Marketplace has brought me potential owners who have already researched the breed, who have questions ready to ask, and a commitment to the pup they purchase. I feel that going through AKC Marketplace gives me a standard to uphold and a check system that proves I have guidelines to follow. In a way, the same applies to potential owners.
What is your favorite question to ask of potential puppy buyers?
“Please tell me a little about your family life.” It helps to begin a dialogue without being too invasive too fast.
What are the main qualities you look for in potential owners?
I look for owners with prior experience with certain breeds. Then I can adjust my education about raising a Beauceron pup. I am honest if there are too many moving parts at their home, such as a new baby or multiple dogs. If I place a puppy with a Beauceron novice, there is an education that needs to be in place, as this breed is smart, large, and athletic. It is my job to lay forth the best path so both puppy and owner can succeed. There are developmental stages of the Beauceron that need to be managed, such as adolescence. I am not a trainer, but I feel like I know my dogs. I have worked hard to bring certain individuals with certain virtues to my program.
What is the best advice you would give to novice breeders?
Take your time to find a genuine mentor. Research your breed’s health. Get involved in your breed’s parent club. Attend your breed’s national specialty show as often as you are able. Prove yourself to be someone a breeder can trust with their best. Breed for the future, not the present.
Do your dogs participate in AKC sports?
Yes, conformation, Rally, Obedience, tracking, and herding.
What do you like best about breeding dogs?
Whelping puppies and the care and conditioning of the mom and sire. Plus all the developmental stages of puppyhood.
Do you have a favorite breeding story?
My favorite story is about flying to northern France with my husband and a dear friend to breed my first Beauceron. We didn’t speak much French, and they didn’t speak much English. There were misunderstandings and some glitches but, in the end, Chaumette had a lovely litter of nine puppies. It only took six people and two dogs to get it all to work. I will never forget beautiful Uclat’s owners. We ended up with new friends and happy memories. I thank my co-breeder for opening my horizons with this breed and for travel abroad.