I'm the breeder behind Kodiak Acres located in Bethany, CT. We only breed to produce the best in health, temperament, and type. We put a lot of love, time, energy, and resources into our Newfs. Whether it is in the show ring, training for water rescue, working with draft carts and sleds, or playing with our grandchildren, our Newfoundlands possess all the qualities attributed to this breed. We participate in both conformation and working events with our dogs. We can't wait to connect with you!
About Sheila
We've been members of the NCA & multiple Regional Clubs since 1997. Keith served on the NCNE board for 16 years and was Working Dog Secretary. Sheila served as secretary and Rescue Chair. Keith earned many titles on his dogs and is a skilled and knowledgeable handler/trainer, instructor, and NCA Water & Draft Test Judge. Sheila has done therapy work with her dogs, including the READ program.
What makes Sheila’s program special
We are a highly responsible breeder and because we want our puppies to have the best possible start, we follow the Puppy Culture recommendations to ensure happy, well-adjusted puppies. Additionally, we will provide advice and support for the life of your Newfoundland and enjoy staying in touch with our pups and their new families!
Sheila is a member of 2 clubs
Newfoundland Club of New England , Newfoundland Club of America
Sheila’s certifications & recognitions
AKC Breeder of Merit
Sheila has been certified by Good Dog's screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you're ready to reach out, feel free to ask any questions about the breed, their program, or specific puppies. You'll also have the chance to share a bit about yourself and what you're looking for in a new companion. Together, you'll choose the puppy that's right for you, stay in touch with regular updates, and plan how to bring your new puppy home.
Puppy prices range from $3,500 and include a refundable deposit of $500.
“Included with your puppy are AKC Registration, a microchip, a vet exam, first vaccinations, and deworming. We only take a deposit once the puppies are born and you have been approved to get a puppy from that litter.”
Sheila may provide a written contract or health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you both have a clear understanding of the terms of your puppy purchase. If Sheila offers a contract or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them. If you have any questions or want to know more, don’t hesitate to reach out to Sheila directly.
Puppies are raised in an enriched environment involving toys, love, and attention. They also are exposed to play, learning skills, and Problem Solving Games such as age-appropriate play, puzzle toys, and learning. All are taught with positive reinforcement. For sound conditioning, they get exposure to different sounds in a positive way. We believe that socializing a puppy is more than just exposure – it’s a rich blend of skills, positive experiences, and enrichment. I utilize the following enrichment methods: Puppy Culture.
All puppies are vet checked and heart checked by a board-certified cardiologist prior to going to their homes.
We send our puppies home with Blanket with Littermates Scent, Blanket with Mom's Scent, and AKC Registration.
Sheila offers options to help you easily get your new puppy home.
If you’re nearby, you can visit in person to pick up your pup. If you’re far away, you can travel by car or plane.
“We do not ship puppies. We require families to meet us at our home to pick up their puppy.”
Why Sheila started breeding
I fell in love with the Newfoundland when I began my search for a large breed dog for our family. At the time, we had two young children and it was extremely important that our dog was good with kids. The Newfoundland is the only AKC registered breed to list sweetness of temperament as the hallmark of the breed.
Sheila has been a member of Good Dog for over 3 years
Sheila was screened for responsible practices and has been a member since 2021.
Sheila’s program includes one color
Sheila’s Newfoundland puppies are black. Colors will vary depending on the parent dogs.
Kodiak Acres meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:
Newfoundland
Excellent level
Kodiak Acres reports to performing the health tests below on their breeding dogs. Ask your breeder about the tests performed on the parents of your litter. Learn more about health testing for Newfoundlands.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip testing reduces the chance of passing down hip dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause hip pain and the eventual loss of the function of the hip joint.
Elbow Dysplasia Finals (OFA, BVA, SV, FCI)
Elbow testing reduces the chance of passing down elbow dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause arthritis in the elbow joint and front leg lameness.
Cardiac Evaluation (registered with OFA)
Heart testing reduces the chance of passing down congenital heart disease, which can cause a range of symptoms ranging from trouble exercising to heart failure.
Patellar Luxation
Knee testing reduces the chance of passing down Patellar Luxation, which results in the kneecap becoming displaced or dislocated and can cause mild to severe joint pain.
Cystinuria Type 1A, Newfoundland Type
Genetic testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide variety of hereditary diseases of differing prevalence and severity such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disease) and Von Willebrand's Disease (a blood disease).