Sunshine Bernese Mountain Dogs

Dan and Celia Cuellar operate Sunshine Bernese Mountain Dogs, a breeding business located on 12.5 acres in Northern California. They share their home with their Bernese Mountain Dogs, two sheep, and three cows. Celia dedicates her time to their dogs, family, and dog-related activities.

They have been breeding dogs since 1984, initially with Labrador Retrievers until 1995, and then focusing on Bernese Mountain Dogs since 1992. Their breeding program has produced over 50 champions, with wins at multiple specialties, a Best in Show, and numerous group placements and Awards of Merit at National Specialties. Their dogs are recognized as top producers of champions and working dogs across the country, and they import new bloodlines from Canada, Belgium, Norway, and Sweden to enhance the health of their dogs.

While primarily breeders, Dan and Celia offer comprehensive guidance to prospective and current Bernese Mountain Dog owners, which includes valuable insights relevant to dog training and care. They emphasize the importance of obedience training for Bernese Mountain Dogs, advising that these sensitive dogs require careful handling with a loving, firm, yet gentle approach. They also provide detailed recommendations on puppy management, including acceptable and unacceptable activities and toys to ensure healthy development.

Their expertise extends to educating buyers on responsible dog ownership, with a “Buyer Beware” section that cautions against purchasing puppies from pet stores or puppy mills. They also offer extensive lists of recommended dog supplies, vitamins, and food, along with links to various dog-related organizations and health information. Dan and Celia have been accredited AKC judges since 2006, bringing a deep understanding of breed standards and temperament to their work.

Accomplishments

Dan and Celia Cuellar have been breeding dogs since 1984, focusing on Bernese Mountain Dogs since 1992. They have bred over 50 champions, achieved multiple specialty wins, and secured a Best in Show with their homebred dog Dakota, along with numerous group placements and Awards of Merit at National Specialties. Their dogs are recognized as top producers of champions and working dogs nationwide.

They have imported new bloodlines from Canada, Belgium, Norway, and Sweden to enhance the health of their dogs. Both Dan and Celia have been accredited AKC judges since June 2006, judging various events including puppy and B-OB matches, supported entry, and regional specialty sweepstakes. Celia judged the Top 20 at the National Specialty in 2020 and 2021, and Dan judged at the Tacoma Kennel Club in January 2016.