We recently connected with Brody Coates and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Brody thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What were some of the most unexpected problems you’ve faced in your business and how did you resolve those issues?
I have loved dogs for as long as I can remember. I used to watch the Westminster Dog Show on Thanksgiving and loved seeing all the beautiful, well-trained dogs with their handlers. I was never able to have a dog as a young child due to living in apartments and moving while my mother worked on her degree. It wasn’t until she met my current stepdad that my dog dreams started to come true, as he was a lover of dogs and a breeder himself. I was able to learn and experience so much about breeding, raising, and training from him. He trained hunting dogs, but he never competed in the show ring.
After I moved out of my home, it didn’t take long before I had my own purebred dogs and started breeding myself. I began with Chihuahuas and then moved to Boxers. I was very successful at pairing, raising, and finding fantastic homes for them. Then I took a break from breeding and went dog-less for a couple of years. That was when I discovered Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. I instantly fell in love with them and began my research.
Cavalier puppies are among the cutest pups you can imagine, and they stay cute their whole lives. I was so enamored with the breed, but then I learned about all their health problems. Cavaliers are one of the most unhealthy breeds today. Their founding stock was just a handful of dogs after WWII from Europe, and a couple carried some serious genetic issues that were not visibly apparent. Those genetic problems, combined with low diversity, did not set this breed up well in terms of overall health. I was heartbroken to find out that many of those cute Cavalier puppies on the internet would not live past eight years old and would develop a variety of issues passed down to them from their ancestors. Genetic testing was just going mainstream for breeders, and many were already at work trying to remove those genes from the gene pool. Others were not as concerned because they thought the dogs were fine and focused only on conformation.
I then began my search to find a breeder who focused on health as well as conformation. It was not an easy task, but I ended up finding one less than a mile from my home. I found a breeder who was a professor in the veterinary department at the college where I lived. They had a litter of Blenheim and Tricolor pups from their line imported from Ireland. I was able to visit the pups when they were two weeks old and met Windsor, my first Cavalier. I was able to go over every week and watch Windsor grow while also listening to and learning from his breeders. I saw how much they loved their dogs and how hard they were working to produce healthier and happier puppies. I was inspired and knew I wanted to be the same way.
I was able to bring Windsor home at eight weeks, and everything I expected from a Cavalier puppy was exceeded. They are the cutest, sweetest, happiest little dogs ever. I was hooked. I found another breeder who met my standards and brought home a Ruby pup several months later as a friend for Windsor. I found another breeder who met my standards and brought home a Ruby pup several months later as a friend for Windsor. They were the start of my breeding program and the inspiration for Windsor Cavaliers.
The years went by, and I met other breeders and produced some fantastic litters, but I didn’t feel complete; I wanted more. I looked at the show ring again, but this time I wanted to be in it with a beautiful, healthy Cavalier. I wanted to show that you could have health and conformation together. My dogs were healthy and pretty, but I would need to bring in another pup to start that journey. By this point, I had met and known many breeders and started to investigate further. Then COVID came and changed the world, and I changed my life.
My long-term relationship ended, and I moved, taking two of my dogs, Windsor and his daughter from his last litter, Victoria, with me. I chose Hyde Park Cavaliers in North Carolina as the breeder from whom I wanted a pup to show and put down a deposit on a pup not even conceived yet, out of a male she had imported from Europe. I quit my job as well and focused on my dreams, deciding I was going to go for it. That is when Windsor Cavaliers started to come together. Being born on a Friday the 13th comes with some challenges, but I was not fully prepared for what was to come.
After passing up several litters, Phillip was born. I knew from the moment I saw his picture the day after he was born that he was the one. I felt something I had not felt with the others before. He was Phillip! I said yes, and the countdown began. I would be picking up a puppy from Salt Lake International Airport in eight weeks, who would be my first show dog and the launch pad of Windsor Cavaliers. I was filled with inspiration. I formed an LLC, created a brand name, designed a logo, and was off! I experienced a sense of joy, excitement, and pleasure working hour after hour to establish the brand and kennel I had always dreamed of.
The weeks flew by, and pretty soon it was just a week away from picking up Phillip when my plans changed drastically. I was life-flighted on Easter Sunday 2023 due to a massive heart attack at age 38, and I am 5’8 and 145 lbs. It was discovered that I was not having a heart attack but had pericarditis brought on by either COVID or the vaccine. A virus was now in the sac that surrounds my heart, and when it is active, it causes inflammation and swelling, effectively squeezing my heart and interrupting its ability to function properly. I will have this virus for the rest of my life, and it can flare up at any time. I was on three pills, three times a day, and was completely exhausted. I could barely walk up the stairs and couldn’t exert myself at all. I was getting the puppy of my dreams, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to care for him the way he needed and deserved. My heart broke even more as I tried to figure out what to do.
I was able to find an amazing boarding school for puppies and got Phillip registered. I would pick him up on Wednesday and drop him off on Friday for 6 to 8 weeks, I was beyond sad and angry that I wouldn’t be able to be there for my dream puppy. However, I was thankful he would get what he needed to become the dog I wanted him to be. I would focus on my recovery and building the brand while he was growing and learning from the amazing team at Puppy Steps Training (https://www.puppystepstraining.com).
I recovered and brought Phillip home, and he was as amazing as I had hoped. We enrolled in show classes and started learning how to do what I wanted to do. Then I lost my job. After that, we entered our first show because I finally had the time to do it! We took second place each day in our class, and I was hooked. Currently, Phillip is an IABCA International Champion, has his AKC Puppy of Achievement, and has won 1st in class in Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and California, where he won Best Puppy in Show. He has sired successful litters and is my little friend. The problems have not stopped at all, but because I love what I am doing, I find a way to keep moving forward. Phillip is a dazzling IABCA International Champion and has earned the distinguished title of AKC Puppy of Achievement. He has proudly claimed 1st in class honors across the beautiful landscapes of Utah, Idaho, Oregon, and California, where he shone brightly as Best Puppy in Show! This little friend of mine not only captivated hearts but has also sired remarkable litters that continue to thrive. Though challenges may arise, my passion for what I do fuels my spirit, allowing me to embrace each moment with joy and determination as I forge ahead towards new obstacles and opportunities.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
*You can pull some from the previous question as well if you like.
1. When looking for Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeders, it is important to find one that is top of the line. The breeders at Windsor Cavaliers meet all of the necessary requirements and go beyond to ensure that their Cavaliers are healthy and happy. All of their dogs are AKC registered and they are all genetically tested. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeders at Windsor Cavaliers have a love of dogs and puppies that is evident in everything they do. Their Cavaliers are well socialized and have great conformation. They have a team of experts that work hard to make sure that all of their puppies are healthy and happy. If you are looking for a top of the line dog breeder, then look no further than Windsor Cavaliers. We are dedicated to raising healthy, genetically tested, and well-socialized puppies that will bring joy to your family. All of our puppies are AKC-registered and have been health-checked by a veterinarian. We have a great love of dogs and a commitment to excellence, which is why we have been in business for over 20 years. Our puppies are raised in a clean, safe, and healthy environment. We offer a wide variety of color options, including Ruby, Blenheim, Tri-Color, and Black and Tan. If you are looking for a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeder that you can trust, look no further than Windsor Cavaliers.
Contact us today to learn more about our puppies!
2.I always had a deep love and connection to animals ever since I was a young child. Having a single mom navigating through college and moving from place to place, furry friends were my companions and source of joy as I was the continual new kid. It was during one of these moves that my life took a turn and I gained a new stepdad. It was he who taught me the art of breeding starting at the age of 15. This hobby became more than just a skill – it was our special bond, something that brought us together.
With admiration for dogs, I started off my breeding journey with chihuahuas, moving to boxers before eventually finding my heart stolen by the elegant and charming cavaliers. Witnessing how these dogs exuded pure happiness and beauty inspired me deeply; I knew right then that my goal was to breed these gorgeous canines who would bring joy into people’s lives and showcase the incredible bond between humans and our four-legged companions. It was then I learned of all the health issues plaguing the breed and how many of them suffer from it. It became my mission to source only the healthiest of the breed, taking a year or more to find the pups I wanted with the health I required.
My journey has led me to start showcasing my dogs at competitions. Now, I dream of expanding my bloodlines by importing new pedigrees from Europe – combining tradition with innovation to create a legacy rooted in love for these amazing animals. I believe you can have health and conformation together, not sacrificing one for the other. It just takes more work, but the rewards are more than worth it for me. With every litter born under the Windsor Cavalier’s name, I aim to share this immense happiness with others so they, too, can experience the unconditional love and delight these precious pups bring into our lives.
3. With a focus on quality and genetic excellence, Windsor Cavaliers – Stud Services is proud to offer you the opportunity to elevate your breeding endeavors with our remarkable Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Stud, International Champion – Prince Phillip Mountbarking Windsor registered with IABCA, AKC, and UKC. With champion bloodlines and a lineage fit for royalty, Phillip stands as a beacon of grace and charm in the realm of canine companionship. His 14-pound frame holds the key to unlocking a world of top-notch genetics, ready to enhance your breeding program or enrich your fur family with superior quality. From producing exquisite Cava doodles to Cavapoos and beyond, Phillip’s impressive track record as an International Champion speaks volumes about his stunning looks and impeccable health.
Not only is Phillip genetically exceptional but he also boasts a clean bill of health with Embark Testing clearances for various hereditary conditions and is quadruple clear. He is proven with three successful litters, able to produce Blenheim, Ruby, and Tri-Colored pups so far, showcases the diversity he brings to any breeding endeavor. Whether you’re seeking natural breeding services (current vaccinations must be provided first includding kennel cough) or considering AI options at Nible Heritage Animal Hospital, rest assured that Phillip’s prowess extends far beyond just physical appearances—he is intelligent, loving, and adored wherever he goes.
With non-registered stud services starting at $500 for the first tie and $100 each tie after paid at time of service, accompanied by additional perks like boarding arrangements and complimentary at-home dog pregnancy test kits from Bellylabs after three ties—Windsor Cavaliers offers a comprehensive package tailored for those looking to elevate their breeding programs with regal flair.
To ensure utmost quality control and adherence to standards set by registered breed associations such as AKC & UKC—only approved females will be granted access to registered stud services from Prince Phillip Mountbarking Windsor himself. Stud fee will be the sale price of the pups or Pick-of-the-litter. These options are reserved exclusively for such approved females while payment terms are flexible yet straightforward: fees due at each service session guarantee peace of mind knowing that an unsuccessful pregnancy cycle entitles you to future breeding opportunities free-of-charge the next heat cycle or at discounted rates following cycle—all backing our commitment towards fostering healthy litters under royal guidance provided by Windsor Cavaliers Stud Services.
How did you build your audience on social media?
I currently have over 24,000 Insta followers and 16,000 facebook for Windsor Cavaliers. I will admit, puppies are very cute and work pretty well to draw people in but there is a lot of work behind the scenes! Canva’s paid subscription and looking at my competitors plus using Insta’s Business tools have set me apart and ahead of other breeders. Most people don’t have a good view of a dog breeder, they think puppy mill. I have to work hard to show how I care for and raise my pups. I post silly, sad, happy, funny, cute, anything I am feeling or doing so my followers get a range of material from me and it isn’t always focused on selling but branding is there. So I say know your brand, know who your clients/customers are or who you want them to be and appeal to them! Don’t be afraid to have fun or be silly, sentimental, etc. use the tools to see what works for the segment you are after. Boring never gets likes and everyone is selling something. Think out of the box!
Can you talk to us about manufacturing? How’d you figure it all out? We’d love to hear the story.
*You can pull this from previous questions lol
I always had a deep love and connection to animals ever since I was a young child. Having a single mom navigating through college and moving from place to place, furry friends were my companions and source of joy as I was the continual new kid. It was during one of these moves that my life took a turn and I gained a new stepdad. It was he who taught me the art of breeding starting at the age of 15. This hobby became more than just a skill – it was our special bond, something that brought us together.
With admiration for dogs, I started off my breeding journey with chihuahuas, moving to boxers before eventually finding my heart stolen by the elegant and charming cavaliers. Witnessing how these dogs exuded pure happiness and beauty inspired me deeply; I knew right then that my goal was to breed these gorgeous canines who would bring joy into people’s lives and showcase the incredible bond between humans and our four-legged companions. It was then I learned of all the health issues plaguing the breed and how many of them suffer from it. It became my mission to source only the healthiest of the breed, taking a year or more to find the pups I wanted with the health I required.
My journey has led me to start showcasing my dogs at competitions. Now, I dream of expanding my bloodlines by importing new pedigrees from Europe – combining tradition with innovation to create a legacy rooted in love for these amazing animals. I believe you can have health and conformation together, not sacrificing one for the other. It just takes more work, but the rewards are more than worth it for me. With every litter born under the Windsor Cavalier’s name, I aim to share this immense happiness with others so they, too, can experience the unconditional love and delight these precious pups bring into our lives.
I always had a deep love and connection to animals ever since I was a young child. Having a single mom navigating through college and moving from place to place, furry friends were my companions and source of joy as I was the continual new kid. It was during one of these moves that my life took a turn and I gained a new stepdad. It was he who taught me the art of breeding starting at the age of 15. This hobby became more than just a skill – it was our special bond, something that brought us together.
With admiration for dogs, I started off my breeding journey with chihuahuas, moving to boxers before eventually finding my heart stolen by the elegant and charming cavaliers. Witnessing how these dogs exuded pure happiness and beauty inspired me deeply; I knew right then that my goal was to breed these gorgeous canines who would bring joy into people’s lives and showcase the incredible bond between humans and our four-legged companions. It was then I learned of all the health issues plaguing the breed and how many of them suffer from it. It became my mission to source only the healthiest of the breed, taking a year or more to find the pups I wanted with the health I required.
My journey has led me to start showcasing my dogs at competitions. Now, I dream of expanding my bloodlines by importing new pedigrees from Europe – combining tradition with innovation to create a legacy rooted in love for these amazing animals. I believe you can have health and conformation together, not sacrificing one for the other. It just takes more work, but the rewards are more than worth it for me. With every litter born under the Windsor Cavalier’s name, I aim to share this immense happiness with others so they, too, can experience the unconditional love and delight these precious pups bring into our lives.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://windsorcavaliers.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/windsor_cavaliers/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/windsorcavaliers
- Other: https://marketplace.akc.org/breeder/windsor-cavaliers
Image Credits
All the pictures are amature except the win picture from Palm Springs and I have the rights to use it.