By Joy Lazarus
In 1996, I saw, and fell in love with, my first Greater Swiss Mountain Dog while attending a horse show. The devotion, dedication, and determination I saw in the breed captivated me. I was put on a wait list, and after a period of high anticipation, I welcomed my first Swissy: CH. Windrider’s Northern Aire, whom I named “Hunter” after one of my favorite show horses. Not only did I finish Hunter to his Championship title, but I also earned his Obedience, Rally, Drafting, Hiking, Herding, and Weight Pull titles as well. Hunter made history as the first Swissy to compete in Dock Diving! Additionally, he became a Registered Service Dog.
In 2000, I had the incredible opportunity to acquire a second Swissy and foundation bitch: CH. Park Place’s Lightning Vision. “Vision,” named after another beloved show horse, became instrumental in my journey as an AKC Breeder of Merit.
As I gained knowledge and experience, my breeding program expanded in size and sophistication. I took Vision overseas to Germany to breed her, aiming to enhance the Swiss Mountain Dogs' gene pool in America.
From that litter, I kept the pick male: GCH. CH. Park Place Alpinez Barclay. “Barclay” achieved numerous show titles and awards. One of my proudest achievements was Best Of Opposite Veterans at the 2012 Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Nationals in Colorado. Barclay produced the 2010 National Champion: GCH, CH. Shamrock Courageous Admiral, “Bosco.” Bosco then went on to produce CH. Blossom Hill’s Magnificent Magnolia, “Nola,” who was Best Of Opposite at the 2012 Nationals in Colorado. Barclay sired several National champions.
Through Barclay, I developed a wonderful friendship and mentorship with Ellyn Signet, and many of my dogs can trace their lineage back to Ellyn’s lines.
In August 2007, I flew Vision to Oklahoma to breed her to GE-LO’S Hasso Brush Creek, “Has.” This pairing produced a singleton: Park Place Crème De La Crop, “Colby.” Colby won Sweepstakes 15-18 Puppy Dog at the 2012 Nationals in Loveland, CO. He finished in 3 shows, achieving a fourth in owner/handler group placement. Colby also played a vital role during Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and indoor sessions with therapists at Calabasas Counseling and Grief Recovery Center.
Another exceptional Swissy was Blue View’s Salt On The Rim, “Rita.” As a Registered Service Dog, Rita actively participated in EAP sessions, assisting therapists, and truly enjoyed helping people through their recovery.
In 2021,
