A boutique kennel, in the heights of Sillery.
One breed, two coat varieties, two sizes — and a breeder who knows every line by heart.
It started with Mimi, who was never meant to become a mother.
Mimi came into my life in 2013, simply as a companion. It was her character — curious, a little stubborn, fiercely attached to her people — that made me want to learn more about the breed, and then about responsible breeding.
The name "Belle Époque" is no accident: I've always loved the sinuous lines of that era, the posters, the botanical curves. A dachshund's long back, a silhouette that seems drawn in a single stroke, always felt like it belonged to that same world.
Since 2016, Belle Époque has raised small litters of dachshunds in Sillery — never more than three a year — with full health screening and support that doesn't stop at the door.
One breed, four faces.
We raise only the dachshund — but in both recognized coats and both recognized sizes.
Smooth-haired
The most common variety: a short, dense, glossy coat that needs minimal upkeep — a rubber grooming glove usually does the job. This is the "classic" dachshund, all clean lines and no fuss.
Long-haired
A silky, medium-length coat with distinctive "feathering" on the ears, chest, backs of the legs and tail. A weekly brushing keeps it tangle-free — the softest compromise between elegance and upkeep.
Standard size
Roughly 16 to 20 lb (7 to 9 kg) as an adult. Sturdier, with a slightly denser build — a great match for an active family that wants a real walking companion.
Miniature size
Roughly 9 to 11 lb (4 to 5 kg) as an adult. Very popular in apartments and condos. The smaller frame calls for even more care around the back — we discuss it in detail with every family.
What we screen for, and what we guarantee.
The dachshund is a beautiful breed, but its elongated silhouette calls for particular rigour. Here is what is never left to chance.
Spine
Both parents' spines are assessed before any mating, to limit the risk of disc disease (the dachshund's well-known "bad back"). No absolute guarantee exists, but careful selection measurably reduces the risk.
Degenerative myelopathy
DNA testing on our breeding dogs to avoid pairing two carriers of this hereditary neurological condition known in the breed.
Eyes
Annual ophthalmological exam by a specialist veterinarian, to screen for hereditary retinal abnormalities.
Patellas
Orthopedic knee exam to rule out luxating patella, a common concern in small, short-legged breeds.
A two-year guarantee against serious hereditary conditions, given in writing when the contract is signed. We also hand every family our tips for protecting their dachshund's back day to day: limiting jumping, managing weight, avoiding stairs during growth.
Come and see before you decide.
We welcome families by appointment, even without a firm plan. You'll see where the puppies are born, meet the mothers, and get to ask the hard questions.
One piece of advice, even if you don't adopt from us: be wary of a breeder who offers to meet in a parking lot or won't show you the mother. It's the most reliable signal there is.