Salishan Tibetan Terriers, in Tolland, Connecticut, was founded by Gary and Susan Carr. They began exhibiting Tibetan Terriers in 1975 and breeding them in 1979. The Carrs became AKC Platinum Breeders of Merit, and their kennel has produced some of the top show dogs in the country. Their dogs have earned more than 300 AKC Championships and Obedience titles. In 2016 Gary passed away, and their daughter, Kristen Carr, became Susan’s partner.
AKC: How did you get started in breeding dogs?
Susan: Gary, Kristen, and I loved the breed and showed the Tibetan Terriers for five years before we did a breeding. At that point we decided on a purpose and a style that met the Standard to start our breeding program.
AKC: What is the most important thing to know about the Tibetan Terrier?
Susan: A most important thing to know about Tibetan Terriers is that they are a natural breed and very healthy.
AKC: What is your favorite question to ask of potential puppy buyers?
Susan: My question to potential buyers is, “Do you have time for a dog?”
AKC: What are the main qualities you look for in potential owners?
Susan: Potential owners I feel should have owned a dog previously, have a fenced yard, and TIME!
AKC: What is the best advice you would give to novice breeders?
Susan: Novice breeders should find a successful breeder for a mentor. Jane Reif was a wonderful mentor to us.
AKC: Do your dogs participate in AKC sports?
Susan: Our Tibetan Terriers participate in most AKC activities. They are an empathetic breed and make great therapy dogs. They are also beautiful and very athletic.
AKC: What do you like best about breeding dogs?
Susan: Kristen and I like producing healthy, happy puppies, who make wonderful companions to people who want this breed.
AKC: Do you have a favorite breeding story?
Susan: My favorite breeding story happened as I watched my daughter loving the Tibetan Terriers and who over time became capable of whelping a litter on her own. We had a dog at home when we first found out about the breed. Kristen wanted a second dog to show. I told Kristen I had never heard of a family with more than one dog, and we didn’t even know what Tibetan Terriers looked like. Then we saw them in the National Geographic Book of Dogs. I said, “Why not!” They have decorated our life ever since.