Zoe Saunders

From Banker to Breeder: A life long adventure.

From a successful career in international banking to becoming one of the world’s most recognised dog breeders, my journey has been driven by passion, resilience, and a deep love for animals. Over the years, my work has earned global recognition, including prestigious awards such as Breeder of the Year 2025, Award of Excellence 2024, and the Influential Women in Business Award 2025. Through dedication to health, genetics, and responsible breeding, I have built a reputation for producing exceptional Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Dachshunds trusted by families and celebrities around the world.

An Award-Winning Dog Breeder Recognized Worldwide

Today, I am honoured to be recognized as one of the world’s leading dog breeders, with accolades such as “Breeder of the Year 2025” and the prestigious “Award of Excellence 2024 and more recently Influential Women in Business Award 2025.” As a speaker and author, my work has earned global recognition, including a loyal clientele of celebrities who trust me to deliver exceptional puppies and semen, often based solely on a photo or video.

Achieving sustained excellence in any field is no easy feat, yet I’ve consistently maintained this standard over the years. My reputation as a rising star in the breeding industry, both in the UK and internationally, is a testament to my dedication, skill, and ability to produce extraordinary dogs.

A Childhood Love for Animals

My journey began in the countryside of Essex, where I grew up surrounded by nature and developed a deep love for animals. Spending my early years in this peaceful environment helped shape my connection with dogs and the natural world. What started as a simple childhood passion would eventually lay the foundation for a remarkable career built on dedication, creativity, and a lifelong commitment to improving the health and quality of beloved dog breeds.

From Investment Banking to a Life-Changing Turning Point

Initially, my professional path veered into a very different direction. After excelling academically and in sports, I embarked on a successful career in London, becoming Vice President at the American investment bank Merrill Lynch. With global responsibilities managing offices and overseeing complex operations, my life was fast-paced and immensely rewarding. During this time, I also built an impressive portfolio of properties and stocks. Yet, despite this success, everything changed with the birth of my second son, who faced serious health challenges that required years of specialized care at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

Suddenly, my priorities shifted. My demanding career in banking ended abruptly, as I dedicated myself to my family and, particularly, to being present for my son. While this marked the end of my corporate journey, it also heralded the beginning of a new chapter—one that would combine my love for animals with my entrepreneurial spirit.

Discovering a Passion for Dog Breeding

During my banking career, one of my cherished hobbies was competing with my dogs at championship shows, including the worlds most prestigious dog show Crufts. I found great success in the UK Championship Dog Show scene, but more importantly, I discovered a deeper connection with my dogs. This passion became my driving force as I identified a new opportunity: to enhance the health and quality of the Pug, French Bulldog, and Dachshund breeds—dogs I owned and loved dearly.

Innovation in Genetics and Rare Colours

Through the health testing process of my dogs, I stumbled upon rare genetic colours revealed in DNA blood test results. Fascinated, I began studying gene dilution, DNA profiling, and colour formation. With a background in Biology, this exploration ignited a profound curiosity and marked the beginning of an incredible journey. I founded my breeding business with a mission to improve the health and genetic diversity of these beloved breeds.

The results of my efforts were groundbreaking. I became a pioneer in the dilute colour scene for Miniature Dachshunds in the UK, producing the country’s first lilac and tan (Isabella) Mini Dachshund. One of my dogs, “Charlie Chaplin,” achieved global fame, becoming the most celebrated Dachshund in the world, with offspring across the globe—an achievement unmatched by any other dog. I also achieved the extraordinary task of creating the world’s first lilac and tan Pug and, more recently, the pure white “Ghost” Mini Dachshund—a testament to my innovation and dedication and all while improving the health too in the same process.

Expanding into French Bulldogs

While I initially focused on Dachshunds, my three sons expressed a keen interest in French Bulldogs, which led to our family expanding into that breed. I have since worked tirelessly to improve the health and quality of French Bulldogs, further broadening my impact in the breeding community here in the UK and overseas in America where I have been invited as a special guest and judge at many shows in Miami, Los Angeles and Texas.

At the heart of my success is my unwavering commitment to health, care, and integrity. All my dogs live in my home with myself and my 3 boys, they are pets first and foremost and cherished members of the family. Additionally, with access to a local vets and a 24-hour animal hospital in London owned my best friend  my dogs receive unparalleled attention and medical expertise.

More Than a Business — A Lifelong Passion

As a Council-approved breeder, I uphold the highest standards of responsible breeding. All my dogs and their litters are registered with the UK Kennel Club, ensuring the utmost quality and care. Beyond my business, I believe in giving back. I have proudly provided therapy dogs free of charge to children’s charities and ran the London Marathon to raise funds for Children with Cancer UK.

This journey has not been without its challenges, but it has also been profoundly fulfilling. What began as a way to stay close to home for my son has blossomed into a lifelong passion and a way of life for my family. My story is one of resilience, innovation, and an enduring love for dogs and their health. For me, every puppy is more than just a transaction; it represents a piece of my legacy, heart, and hard work and I often say to my clients that buying a puppy from me marks the beginning of a special relationship where we can share in the love of these beautiful fur babies together, and that is the greatest reward of all.

The path from the world of finance to becoming a globally recognized dog breeder was unexpected, but it has been the most rewarding journey of my life. Through my work, I aim to leave a lasting impact on the health and quality of these beloved breeds while sharing my passion with families around the world.

What Our Puppy Families Say

Zoe was incredibly helpful throughout the entire process. Our puppy is healthy, well-socialised and the perfect addition to our family. We couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

Emma Thompson London

From the first enquiry to bringing our puppy home, Zoe provided excellent guidance and support. Her knowledge and care for the dogs really shows in the quality of her puppies.

James Walker Manchester

An amazing breeder with exceptional knowledge and professionalism. Our dachshund is beautiful, healthy and full of personality. We are so grateful to Zoe for everything.

Sophie Bennett Birmingham