From Banker to Breeder: A life long adventure.
From a successful career in international banking to becoming a globally recognised dog breeder, my journey has been driven by passion, resilience, and a deep love for animals. My work has earned prestigious awards, including Breeder of the Year 2025 and Award of Excellence 2024, reflecting my commitment to health, genetics, and responsible breeding trusted worldwide.
- Health-Tested Dogs
- Award-Winning Breeder
- International Clients
- 25+ Years Experience
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.


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
My career initially took a very different path. After academic and sporting success, I built a fast-paced career in London, becoming Vice President at Merrill Lynch, managing global operations and responsibilities.
Alongside this, I developed a strong portfolio in property and investments. However, everything changed with the birth of my second son, whose serious health challenges required years of specialist care at Great Ormond Street Hospital.
My priorities shifted overnight, and I stepped away from my career to focus on my family. While this marked the end of my time in banking, it also became the beginning of a new chapter, one that would lead me towards my passion for dogs and building my own business.
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 health testing, Zoe discovered rare genetic colours in DNA results, sparking a deep interest in gene dilution and DNA profiling. With a background in Biology, this led to the creation of her breeding programme focused on improving health and genetic diversity.
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.
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 been both challenging and deeply rewarding, growing from a personal decision into a lifelong passion for my family. For me, every puppy represents my legacy, care, and dedication, and marks the beginning of a lasting relationship built on a shared love for dogs.
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.
Along the way, my dedication has begun to attract the attention of the right people, opening doors to exciting opportunities. This has led to appearances on ITV’s This Morning and Loose Women, and more recently on Channel 5’s Rich Holiday, Poor Holiday, allowing me to share my story and expertise with an even wider audience.
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.
Posted on Ilona MarshTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I honestly can’t recommend Zoe highly enough. I bought a puppy from her and also completed training through her academy, and both experiences were absolutely outstanding. The puppy I brought home has been incredible in every way, healthy, well-socialised, and with such a lovely temperament. It’s clear how much care and dedication Zoe puts into raising her dogs. The training was just as impressive. It was well structured, supportive, and genuinely enjoyable. Zoe has a fantastic way of explaining things clearly and making you feel confident, no matter your level of experience. I came away with so much knowledge and a much stronger bond with my pup. You can really tell that Zoe is passionate about what she does, and she goes above and beyond to support both her dogs and their owners. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her to anyone looking for a puppy or high quality training.🩷Posted on Natasha WilliamsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I’ve worked closely with Zoe Saunders as both a friend and whelper, and I can confidently say her level of care and dedication is second to none. She goes above and beyond for every dog in her care, and the quality of her dogs speaks for itself — well-bred, well-raised, and given the best possible start in life. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Zoe to anyone looking for a trustworthy, knowledgeable breeder. 🤍Posted on JadeTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Finding a reputable breeder when buying from overseas isn’t always easy, and it’s natural to feel cautious at the start. Being introduced to Zoe Saunders made that decision effortless. From the outset, Zoe was warm, attentive, and highly professional. She guided me through each step with such ease and clarity that any initial worries quickly disappeared. Even from a distance, I felt reassured and fully supported throughout the entire process. When our puppy arrived, it confirmed everything. Healthy, beautifully natured, and clearly well cared for from the very beginning. It’s evident that Zoe raises her dogs with genuine dedication and a great deal of love. I’m absolutely delighted with the experience and would wholeheartedly recommend Zoe to anyone, especially those considering bringing a puppy home from abroad.Posted on Jon WatsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Buying a puppy from overseas, especially from Dubai, is a gamble if you don’t know who you’re dealing with. Trust is the whole game. That’s where Zoe Saunders stands apart. I was pointed in her direction and, in hindsight, that recommendation made the entire experience. From the first conversation, she was calm, clear, and completely in control of the process. No confusion. No uncertainty. Just straight answers and steady guidance. Exactly what you need when you’re doing this from another country. She made something that could’ve felt complicated feel simple. That’s not luck, that’s experience. And the proof is in the dog. Healthy. Confident. Well-socialised. The kind of temperament you can’t fake or rush. It’s obvious these puppies are raised properly, with time, attention, and standards that don’t slip. I couldn’t be happier with how it all turned out. If you’re buying from abroad and want to remove the risk, Zoe is someone you can trust without hesitation. The family and I couldn't be more happier with would recommend who to anyone whose serious about quality, health and peace of mind. Thanks Zoe...Posted on Patricia BrooksTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Love Zoe - incredibly reliable, expert knowledge, wonderfully honest and such a lovely person all round.The dogs are beautiful and you can just tell they are well kept. Would highly recommend.Posted on Dilan AbeyaTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Zoe Saunders at Unique Stud & Pups is in a different league. What stands out most is her knowledge, honesty, and genuine care for the dogs. She clearly understands genetics, health testing, and breeding at a level most people simply do not, and that gives you real confidence when speaking to her. You can tell this is not just about selling puppies, it is about producing exceptional-quality dogs with health, temperament, and long-term wellbeing in mind. She is also incredibly trustworthy and direct, which is refreshing. If you are looking for someone who truly knows her craft, takes quality seriously, and clearly puts huge thought into what she does, Zoe is someone I would highly recommend. A real expert, and a real professional.Posted on Julianne ReadingsTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Zoe is an amazing lady, who is very caring, professional and extremely knowledgable about her business. She works so hard to improve every day. Would highly recommend her.Posted on Scarlett SaundersTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My lovely auntie who gave me a puppy for my daughters, only right for me to leave a comment Little dolly has brought us so many memories over the years, & many more to come i will forever be greatful xxxxxx top class breeder & i am so proud of you & all u have achieved. XxxxxPosted on Victoria KirleyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. “Zoe is incredibly passionate and genuinely cares about her dogs. You can see the love and effort she puts into everything she does. Such a great experience and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend!”Posted on Gerry O'CallaghanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am now the proud owner of 3 fluffy Frenchies. I would never buy a family member from anyone but Zoe Saunders. She really knows her stuff and produces top quality, healthy dogs. The after care and advice given is exceptional.