Testimonials (emails received from families of our puppies)
References are available upon request
We were so fortunate to find Christine and her Avonview Kennel! Ivy joined our family in February of 2023 and life with her has been a joy. Christine sets the bar high for any other breeder out there. The time and love she puts into her dogs is amazing and it shows in her dogs. Then there is the support she offers once a pup joins your family. From health and grooming tips to feeding recommendations and any other question you may have, Christine will always ease your concerns and offer very knowledgeable advice. We hit the jackpot and I wouldn’t change a thing! Valerie 2024
In 2014 we knew we wanted to add a dog to our family, we also knew we wanted a Springer Spaniel. Luckily, I found Christine’s website and enquired about an adult dog. We were invited to go visit Christine’s home in NS (we are in NB) and we knew right away this was where we wanted a dog from. They were all living in the house, were happy, well cared for, and so well behaved! We fell in love with Autumn instantly, who was three at the time. After some time getting to know us, Christine told us Autumn would be coming to live in Saint John! Since that time (almost 9 years later), Christine has stayed connected, and any time I have a question about Autumn’s care, or behaviour, she is there for us. Autumn is 11.5 now and is showing no signs of slowing down. We (and our families and friends) all love her so very much. We recommend Christine to anyone who asks us about owning a Springer and wouldn’t get a dog from anyone else. Janice 2024
I know everyone’s dog is the best dog, so instead of speaking to how amazing I think Maggie is (obviously she is the best) I think it’s important to stress how great Christine is. I’m a first time dog owner, and although I’ve been around family dogs my whole life I still found I had a million questions that Christine was always happy to answer. I was definitely a high maintenance owner (by accident) but she is always there to help out when I need it. She has also curated an amazing group of owners who are also always ready to help with anything. Christine’s care for the puppies she breeds shows in every aspect of avonview kennels. - Katie April 2023
Hi Christine, We love Archie! He’s a funny, happy, healthy, fun loving boy! He has recently had his yearly vaccinations. He has lots of playmates in our neighborhood - probably a busier social calendar than his humans! Here are a few photos of him. He loves to play ball outside, chase his big Jolly Egg around, watch the birds and squirrels from the loveseat and snooze on his blanket at the end of his busy day. We have recommended your pups to many people who have asked where we got him. Janice and Birt PEI, 2023
Good Afternoon Christine! We are so incredibly happy with Lily. She is perfect for our family; you really did match her well. Jamie is transitioning out of the military and has a lot of free time at home; she has brought happiness and purpose to his life during the hours spent alone. She is essentially his therapy dog. With our son and I, she is kind, caring, and provides us with the same love and affection that she gives Jamie. She does not display any alpha female qualities with us - at all. She is 100% part of our family, and we are so grateful. She has not had any health issues, just one occurance of an ear infection. All vet visits confirm that she is in good health and weight. Amy, NB 2023
I spoke to two other Springer breeders before coming upon Christine, and her devotion to her puppies and her knowledge of the breed came through so clearly that it wasn’t difficult to choose her over the others although she was many many miles away. During the waiting period, I was silly with questions and Christine was always patient in answering all of them very professionally. I enjoyed how she fed us with adorable photos and videos throughout the wait and appreciated very much how she was transparent with the few problems the puppies or mom encountered. I have now had my puppy for 3 weeks and it shows how much work Christine put into making them ready to leave their mom and mates. Our Gustave has gone into his crate without a huss since the second night (normal first night adaptation), has come when he is called, sits to receive his meal and has done ALL his poos outside. His socialization skills also shine. I feel very privileged to have one of Christine’s puppies and to be part of the Avonview family. I did not get to meet Christine in person because she even went to the trouble of finding Gustave a ride to Quebec to reduce our travelling costs to pick him up, but I certainly plan on meeting the big family not too far in the future. Isabel, Quebec North Shore 2022.
“We feel so lucky to have discovered Christine, of Avonview Kennels! She is dedicated to breeding high-quality English Springer Spaniels with a focus on health, temperament, and beauty while preserving the breed standard. From the very first conversation with Christine, to the various follow-up calls, emails and texts, she has always been so willing to answer all of our questions and generously shares her wealth of knowledge about the breed. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel from Newfoundland to Nova Scotia and visit Avonview Kennels, twice! I’ve seen firsthand the love, care, and time Christine devotes to her program and would recommend her to anyone without reservation. We are overwhelmingly pleased with our new companion and truly grateful for the training and skill set Christine has instilled in each puppy, to help make the transition into their forever homes seamless. A heartfelt thanks to Christine for such an incredible experience, our beautiful boy, and new found friendship. We are so happy to be a part of the Avonview Kennels’ family. “ -The Fox Family St. John’s, NL 2022
Hi Christine, everything with Ember is going great. Her belly issues were up and down for about two days, but have fully settled out now. She loves being outdoors, chewing, cuddling, and her treats. She's peeing mostly outside, a couple of accidents if we miss her cues, but she's definitely giving cues, and barked today to tell us she had to go out. She's great with learning to Come, sit, and has started giving her paw. The kids are loving teaching her things. It feels like she has always been here, not sure what we did with our time before, lol. She's on a great routine, and easily goes to her kennel to sleep. We are in love. Brenda NFLD 2022
Worth the Wait!
After the passing of our family dog, we searched for a CKC registered breeder of English Springers and found Avonview. The website had us interested but it became clear after meeting Christine and her dogs that we had found a very special breeder and would consider ourselves very lucky to be able to welcome one of her dogs into our home. Christine is so passionate about her dogs and she is absolutely tireless in her efforts to breed, raise, maintain and train high quality, intelligent and gorgeous award winning dogs with a beautiful temperament. She continues to offer advice, guidance and care to all of her families and dogs. While it was difficult to be on a waiting list and wait many months for our new family member to arrive, we can attest that waiting for an Avonview springer was so worth it! K. Koch Halifax 2022
After the passing of our family dog, we searched for a CKC registered breeder of English Springers and found Avonview. The website had us interested but it became clear after meeting Christine and her dogs that we had found a very special breeder and would consider ourselves very lucky to be able to welcome one of her dogs into our home. Christine is so passionate about her dogs and she is absolutely tireless in her efforts to breed, raise, maintain and train high quality, intelligent and gorgeous award winning dogs with a beautiful temperament. She continues to offer advice, guidance and care to all of her families and dogs. While it was difficult to be on a waiting list and wait many months for our new family member to arrive, we can attest that waiting for an Avonview springer was so worth it! K. Koch Halifax 2022
Christine of Avonview Kennels is a breeder of exceptional quality.Her knowledge of the English Springer Spaniel breed is extensive and she shares this knowledge willingly. Each of her dogs and puppies are treated with love and genuine caring. She chooses dogs for breeding that are high standard for health,personality as well as beauty. Avonview Kennels is located on a piece of property that is a perfect environment for her Springer dogs and puppies. Any one who is lucky enough to have the opportunity to adopt one of her pups will be over the moon with their new addition. I can only say that from my experience I highly recommend this caring, helpful breeder. Sharon S. 2022
My husband and I met Christine when we adopted Skye, a 5 year old retiring “Mum”. I cannot say enough by way of praise about Christine and our ongoing relationship with her. Christine is a true professional in her field.....wise, caring, dedicated to her dogs and the very best of breeding practices. And I would add that she does it all joyfully !! Ongoing, Christine is very supportive of us in all ways providing advice, “peace of mind” boarding, grooming services and a variety of training classes, all enhancing life with our dear Skye. Thank-you, Christine.
Sandra & Malcolm 2022
Sandra & Malcolm 2022
Dixie has been a wonderful girl since the day we brought her home. She slept through the night in her crate every night. She quickly learned to ring the bell to go out and we had minimal accidents (the ones we had were most likely us not seeing her cues). She learns quickly and is such a wonderful addition to our family. Christine always answers any questions we have. We loved being able to meet the pups when they were small, take Dixie to Christine’s classes for obedience and for grooming. Thank you for allowing Dixie to become part of our family. She is loved and spoiled and makes our family complete.
Julie, Jim, Wesley and Wyatt
Julie, Jim, Wesley and Wyatt
Thanks! Aspyn is an awesome dog – we couldn’t of had a more perfect fit into our family. She is the best mix of cuddles and crazy outdoor energy :)
The goofy photo of her is my favourite too. “rub my belly humans" Melissa 2019
The goofy photo of her is my favourite too. “rub my belly humans" Melissa 2019
I did not sell this family a puppy but got this lovely email after I referred them to another breeder.
Christine: I was just thinking about the past year since you came into our lives, and everything that you have helped us with. From finding a puppy, grooming our puppy, inviting an outsider to your annual Springer party, teaching us how to enter shows, and for showing Molly for us in Cornwall Ontario as well as the 4 Pictou shows 2 weeks ago. We would have been lost without your help. In the process I believe we have made a special new friend that has come into our lives. During my life as a Battalion Commander in the army, to the Director of New Business Development for AON Financial for Canada it has been my job to assess people’s talents and gifts and how they apply them in life. I have watched with amazement your dedication and commitment to your chosen field of being an English Springer Spaniel Breeder. The love and dedication you show your dogs, as well as being a huge Ambassador for our breed throughout our community. On behalf of my family please accept our heartfelt thank you for everything that you have done for all of us. We wish you nothing but the best in the future and if there is ever anything, we can do for you, all you need to do is ask and we will be there. We are truly thankful that you have come into our lives and we are all proud to call you our friend! 2019
Christine: I was just thinking about the past year since you came into our lives, and everything that you have helped us with. From finding a puppy, grooming our puppy, inviting an outsider to your annual Springer party, teaching us how to enter shows, and for showing Molly for us in Cornwall Ontario as well as the 4 Pictou shows 2 weeks ago. We would have been lost without your help. In the process I believe we have made a special new friend that has come into our lives. During my life as a Battalion Commander in the army, to the Director of New Business Development for AON Financial for Canada it has been my job to assess people’s talents and gifts and how they apply them in life. I have watched with amazement your dedication and commitment to your chosen field of being an English Springer Spaniel Breeder. The love and dedication you show your dogs, as well as being a huge Ambassador for our breed throughout our community. On behalf of my family please accept our heartfelt thank you for everything that you have done for all of us. We wish you nothing but the best in the future and if there is ever anything, we can do for you, all you need to do is ask and we will be there. We are truly thankful that you have come into our lives and we are all proud to call you our friend! 2019
Hello Christine, The past two nights were good. Sunday she slept the whole night. Monday night she did wake up, I think Jean woke her when he went to the bathroom. So she had a “business night pee” and had a few small whimpers in the cage and went back to sleep. We went to the vet today and she did great! She now weighs 12.08 lbs. She is so perfect! We still can’t get over it. She is so gentle when meeting dogs, people, and babies. Thank for all the work you did to make her great. For training we are working lots on “look” “come” “ sit” “give” and her name. She has been doing really well with “come”. Melissa & Jean (2018)
Hi Christine. I will definitely give Abby a big hug and kiss from you on her birthday. She is so special and is growing into a beautiful dog. In our eyes she's the picture of her mom Autumn. Every day we love her more! Ann, Dwight, Jillian (2018)
Thanks Christine! We absolutely love Cooper & feel like we've had him forever. He has a special place in our hearts. Matthew has been shopping for treats & toys to celebrate Cooper's special day. Laurie (2018)
Mya is sitting pretty looking like a model LOL. We bought her a kitty pool yesterday and she had a blast!!! We're having so much fun. Mya does what Skye does....take the toy and lets everyone know hahaha. Carlyn (2017)
I love Brady He's a good dog. He just had a crazy spurt on the coach LOL. Making all kinds of crazy noises LOL. He's so funny. He loves loves loves Huey the golden retriever. Wines when we walk by their house. He follows me EVERWHERE! Always wants to be where I am. I love it. Oh and I forgot to mention! We took him to a lake on the weekend for the first time with the other doges and he flipping dover right in! I thought maybe he'd wade himself in but naaaa just dove head first in. He's a big sookie, lovessssss to cuddle. He's a cuddle monster!!!! He makes me so happy. He's such a charming little bugger. Tiffany (2017)
Morning, Happy Saturday! We are a week in and having an awesome time! Cooper is the cuddliest dog we've ever! Things are going well, settling into a routine. Cooper has met a few neighborhood dogs & lots of new people. Everyone loves him - they can't get over how calm he is. Laurie (2017)
Hi, Charlie is doing fine. I had him for his needles. I was so proud of him! There were 2 very large bull dogs there in harness and leashed that starting barking like fools and trying to plunge toward him. Charlie just sat there looking around, not bothered at all. The owners were so impressed with him. Charlie has developed quite the personality. He has an extremely short attention span when it comes to peeing outside but has a very long attention span if it's something that's a challenge to him. He is a good boy and is not destructive in any way. He is amazing outside as staying with me, not going around vehicles and won't even run to someone he sees coming until he is permitted to do so. He is growing and getting very tall! It's amazing what he can reach, ha. I will send some pictures when I get a chance. Talk Soon Linda (2017)
Thanks Christine, We can't seem to remember the time when our little Frankie wasn't around. She is certainly fit right in and we couldn't love her more! Lucy definitely saved her best work for last! Please stop by for a visit when your in the city, we'd love to see you, Kerri (April 2016)
She's doing so great! They're getting along better every day. She is learning the boundaries of the yard and sleeping great all through the night (no accidents) in her kennel right on schedule. She's fitting right in and we couldn't love her more! Kerri (Fall 2015)
"Gary is doing SO well so far. It was a tough drive home for him, but he eventually fell asleep on Chris' lap. He's curious and excited about our cat, but pretty nervous at the same time. They'll bond in the next few days I'm sure. :) He's such a snuggle bug and wants to be beside me at all times. He's sleeping soundly now. He's the perfect pup for us. Thank you so much for making our little family complete. We'll send you another update in the morning." Sarah & Chris (Fall 2015)
"Another great night for Abbey! She visited with her Vet yesterday and everything is perfect. Her Vet, Nancy Kersey fully checked her over and gave her a 100% bill of health. She has really settled in incredibly well in her new home and both her new parents could not be more pleased." Thanks, Wally (Summer 2015)
"Well it must be your great training, we had about 5 minutes of crying last night and then she settled down for the night. Abbey slept all night until about 5:45. She played in her kennel for 15 minutes and then she went out and peed and pooped. We came back in and she played until breakfast and then she ate about ¾ of a cup of food. Abbey seems to have settled in really well. Many thanks for providing us with such a wonderful Springer." Wally (Summer 2015)
"Well it must be your great training, we had about 5 minutes of crying last night and then she settled down for the night. Abbey slept all night until about 5:45. She played in her kennel for 15 minutes and then she went out and peed and pooped. We came back in and she played until breakfast and then she ate about ¾ of a cup of food. Abbey seems to have settled in really well. Many thanks for providing us with such a wonderful Springer." Wally (Summer 2015)
"We finished puppy classes when Rose was 16 weeks old but we are continuing to take her to Fetch Inc. doggy daycare one day per week to keep her socialized. A lot of her puppy friends go there as well, plus we really like the ladies there. Rose is very much a social butterfly and loves say hello to everyone she meets. She is full of love and was definitely the right fit for our family. We’ll keep you updated with pictures periodically." Nicole, Paul, Jessica and Rose (Fall 2014)
"Just thought I would send you a couple of pics of Tux.... can't believe he's 5 months already. He is so funny, has a great personality! He's always wagging his tail and so curious about everything:) Libby and him are becoming good buddies and love to play together." Debbie (Summer 2014)
"She's honestly being so easy. She hasn't had an accident in her crate or the house. She's been doing nights in her crate and I put her in if I have to do errands. Otherwise she is at my side. The vet looked her over yesterday and is happy with her health. She had her next shot and kennel cough nasal spray. She has met a lot of kids and she is very gentle with them. Adults can't believe I don't have to put her on a leash, how well behaved she is and that she doesn't bark. She's met a couple of dogs and that went well, too. I have us signed up for obedience classes in September. In the meantime we are still working on the basics with the kids. I feel like I'm training everybody! All this to say that we love her to pieces. We feel fortunate to have found such a good dog. One question, how much does her mother weigh? We are trying to buy a life jacket for her but have no idea how big of one to get! She's gone out with me on my kayak and sat calmly between my legs." Jennifer (Summer 2014)
"I thought I would give you a quick update on Rose, it’s been since the end of July when we boarded Rose that you’ve seen her. I have attached a couple of photos I took on the weekend. She’s growing up fast. I weighed her at the pet store yesterday, she is now 23.4 pounds. We finished puppy classes when Rose was 16 weeks old but we are continuing to take her to Fetch Inc. doggy daycare one day per week to keep her socialized. A lot of her puppy friends go there as well, plus we really like the ladies there. Rose is very much a social butterfly and loves say hello to everyone she meets. She is full of love and was definitely the right fit for our family. We’ll keep you updated with pictures periodically." Nicole, Paul, Jessica and Rose (Summer 2104)
"I can't believe he has been with us a year as it has been so much fun. I didn't think a dog could have so much character and we laugh at the things he loves to eat; carrots, string beans, and apples! He sits in the La-Z Boy every morning with Cindy when she has her breakfast as she always gives him the last spoonful of her oatmeal. The kids come down a couple times a week to play with him and really tire him out. He is very gentle with them so they aren't nervous around him at all. He just loves being around people. It looks like he is just like his parents. I will send you some pictures soon, he is growing like a weed. He is just the best little feller there is." Paul (Summer 2014)
"Rosie is doing great! She is a sweet girl. Very loving and sweet. She just LOVES the kids and they her. She sits at the bottom of the stairs in the mornings and waits for them to get up. She saw her first rabbit the other day on our lawn. Surprisingly, she did not really do much when she saw him. Once he ran into the woods she ran over to see where he went but that was it. She is a big fan of sticks, leaves, stones…anything she comes along on her walks. She is 41 pounds. She was at the vet a few weeks ago to be spayed, which went well. Carrots are her favorite snack. She loves her toys. She is not a big “chewer” at all. If I give her a chew stick or anything it is hilarious because she runs around with it in her mouth looking for a place to bury it. She tries a few different spots (usually behind cushions) and then digs it back out again and runs around. Eventually, she finds a place, settles down and waits about 5 minutes to go back and get it and chew on it! She is totally house broken and has been for some time now. Never has accidents. She lets me know that she has to go out and if I do not notice that she is trying to let me know, she will “paw at me”. Which is cute. We love her." Jennifer (Summer 2013)
"Just sending you a quick note to say that Watson is doing great. Had him to the Vet and he is perfect, so the Vet said. He is growing and is such a good dog. He doesn't leave the yard. What a joy to have him. Hope all is well with you." Lisa and Watson (Summer 2013)
"Hi! We recently got home from Calgary and I wanted to update you on Reo's progress. She continues to amaze us every day. Her weight is around 24 lbs. and she is very healthy. She listens really well still- coming when called immediately about 95% of the time. We are working on sit and stay which is coming along nicely. It scares me how much I love her. Thank you sooo much for bringing so much happiness to us both. Kevin is equally in love with her. I highly recommend you to everyone I meet. Reo is the best addition to our family since grand kids!" Marsha (Summer 2013)
"Hi Christine Well Scout has had fun checking out his new home and getting to know his family. Yesterday he went for a swim in our kiddie pool, had a meet and great with his grandparents and visited the local ice cream shop where he was very popular. Jillian is learning to be gentle and loves his kisses and each child is looking forward to feeding him. This morning he got up at 8am and promptly went outside and did his business! What a good puppy. Thanks for the great dog." Jennifer (Summer 2013)
"He is such an awesome pup and so good natured. When we tell folks we have a Springer, the comment is always that they are so hyper but that is so far from the truth with this guy. He plays hard but when he is done, he crashes. As expected the visit at Jonathan's work was a hit. Everyone was excited to see him and they all gathered around and took their turn petting him. He is so good natured. It didn't bother him at all. He just took it all in and had a great time." George (Summer 2013)
"Hi Christine, I thought you might like an update on Summer. She is fitting in so well. She is such a good puppy and growing like a bad weed :) we have taken
her swimming a few times, she likes to splash but not actually swim. She loves to cuddle on the coach with me and watch a movie. We love her." Chrissy (Summer 2012)
her swimming a few times, she likes to splash but not actually swim. She loves to cuddle on the coach with me and watch a movie. We love her." Chrissy (Summer 2012)
"Sully is doing soooooo well! He is such a happy guy. He moans when you rub his ears the right way. lol We love him to bits!" Susan (Summer 2012)
Christine - I must tell you I think you are amazing, being leery of breeders I know you are one of a kind. Thank you for taking such good care of Shimmer. We went for a long walk when we got back to the city, left her off-lead for more than 1/2 the time and she was lovely. She was relaxed and rolling in the grass and slowly trotting along. Both Claude and Shimmer are now sleeping - one on each sofa. Ciao Karen (Fall 2104)