Klancraig can be found nestled in the heart of Shropshire, England.
The Klancraig Affix was registered in 1996 in time for our first litter of cocker spaniel puppies - at that time we were also actively involved in showing dalmatians. Although we still own Mimi (our remaining cocker spaniel who now lives with Penny's mum) and Roman (our remaining dalmatian who is very much top dog at home), since the arrival of Fergus in 1999 our name has been associated more with German Wirehaired Pointers, a breed which we have admired for many years.
We are very proud of the fact that three of our wires have achieved their Show Titles – Ch Kimmax No Kompromise For Klancraig (Fergus), Sh Ch Kimmax Kiss and Tell For Klancraig JW (Bronte) and Sh Ch Kimmax Kandy Storm By Klancraig (Ollie) - and 2006 saw us make up our first Full Champion (show and working awards) which saw the ‘Show’ part of Fergus’ title dropped in favour of him being a Champion. This is in no small part due to the help and support of our friend Paul Gardiner (Eukrates) who is Penny's training partner and has shared with her his knowledge of training and working GWP's which he has acquired over a number of years.
In the UK the GWP is still a ‘dual purpose’ breed which continues to be shown and worked unlike many gundog breeds which have split and are bred to fulfil one role or the other. Our dogs have been carefully chosen from proven show and working lines for their conformation and working ability (beauty and brains) and are successful in both the show ring and field and as such, we are dedicated to continuing this ethos.
However, first and foremost our dogs are companions and all live-in with each other as part of our family which is a testament to their sound temperaments. Their health and well being is of paramount importance.
Our breeding dogs and bitches are all hip scored and have either been DNA tested for von Willebrands or come from lines which have been DNA tested clear of Von Willebrands. As future DNA tests become available for conditions which affect the Breed, we will test accordingly.
Although Klancraig is a joint affix and behind the scenes Gary is responsible for helping to care for and exercise our dogs, it is Penny that will usually be seen handling them at shows or working events. Penny is a professional dog groomer and currently a member of the German Wirehaired Pointer Club Committee and is a (GWP) Breed Rescue Co-ordinator having also been actively involved in Dalmatian Rescue.