We are Mark and Retta Dunn. We live in the mountains southwest of Denver, Colorado. Our home is called,"Eagle Bear Ranch." The peak of our ranch is at 8500 feet. Our home is nestled in a lush, green valley 500 feet below; nothing but pristine beauty and rocky mountain wilderness surround us. We have deer, elk, bear, ducks, and birds of all kinds. We have a pond for swimming, trails for hiking, and a valley floor for playing frisbee or fetch.
Mark and Retta with our Golden children
We have spent the last 25 years loving dogs. We've had a melting pot of dogs that we rescued from various situations. We had a Great Pyrenees named "Smokey", a chow named "Chewy", a shepherd named "Maverick", and a white shepherd named "Chance." We 've also had Goldens named "Cody", "Utah", "Nell", and "Daisy". Our family slowly changed to include "Noah", "Willow", and “Gracie"......all of whom have left us here physically but not in spirit. In fact, mark and I plan to meet them all again on the "other side of the valley by the aspen grove" some day. Each and every dog taught us about living for the moment, loving unconditionally, and that "loss happens" but the love remains.
Our home, Eagle Bear Ranch
The more Goldens graced our hearts, the more we became aware of the amazing qualities that the breed possesses; they can play when you want, or sit calmly by your side. They can be driven and focused if needed, or relaxed and at ease. The greatest attributes that Goldens have are an unwavering desire to please their human, an unmatched level of devotion, and a capacity to love deeply...unconditionally.
The day we went to our first dog show everything changed. We knew nothing at the time about the huge amount of work that went into showing dogs to achieve a championship. All we knew was in that moment, when all the champions entered the ring to compete for best of breed, our breath was taken away. One dog in particular stole the show that day ....ch snowshoe's escape to big sky ---- "Montana". Montana was the number one golden in the country two consecutive years, a show dog hall of fame member, and the best of breed winner at Westminster in 2003. Long story short, and almost 12 years later, we have created "Coeur de Canoe." Our kennel is named after Montana's son, Canoe. Canoe is an amazing soul. Words cannot begin to convey the blessings, lessons, and love canoe has brought to our lives.
Canoe, our namesake
We have learned an immense amount about the golden retriever since we began showing Goldens. We have learned about the importance of proper body structure, from the neck to the feet, to ensure efficient and sustained movement thru water and fields. We have learned that accurate coat type protects their skin from puncture, a coat's ability to dry quickly preventing skin infections. A Goldens head and muzzle are essential to his ability to return prey unmarred. A Golden's drive and commitment sends him into icy waters and thorn-filled brush to retrieve... his loyalty and desire to please bring him back home.
Mark and I take great pride in our dogs. We feel they are excellent examples of what the breed is meant to be. They are strong in both structure and temperament. Showing our dogs is a hobby for us. Finding shows that take us to neat places and sharing time with good friends is a large part of it. Winning is pretty fun too!!! Breeding our dogs will be minimal and very selective. Our passion and ultimate desire will be to ensure the happiness, health, and longevity of our golden children.