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CB Animals and Pets Review of Northwind terriers
Northwind terriers

Northwind terriers review: ego and attitude 29

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9:08 am EDT
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I was so upset about the treatment from this breeder after writing her an email inquiring about the purchase price of a terrier pup. The lady the runs the kennel responded generally rude and arrogant stating that if price was of main concern than she may not have anything for me, and wants her pups to be cared for by responsible people, not stop and shoppers. How she got that from a few ?'s it's unbelievable! I have no idea. I don't have to subject myself to that nonsense.Can't believe there are people that actually act like that and think it's OK. heads-up before you inquire about a dog from this breeder consider yourself warned. Hope you catch her on a good day maybe she will be more pleasant. I mean how much effort does it take to treat others as one would wish to be treated themselves?

29 comments
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Truthandnothingbut
Bronx, US
Feb 15, 2023 6:12 pm EST

she is a very disgusting and rude person, I can only imagine how she treats the puppies beind closed doors. If she treats would be customers as pest imagine a 6 pups crying thru the night. She acts holier than thou about the dogs with this extended family nonsense , but has her "extended family" up for sale and profit lol. truly sad , sick, disgusting and manipulative behavior.

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Joe Polaski
, US
Apr 21, 2020 11:38 am EDT

I have known Linda Otto for over 10 years. I have purchased 3 Airedales from her and I have directed 4 other airedale buyers to her. Do not be put off by her demeanor. Linda is one of the best breeders I have ever met.

I am 61 and I have always had a dog or two in my home. I have been to many breeders and regardless, Linda's dogs are tops. I am not buying for show but as companion dogs. I have never seen a better-tempered dog than what Linda breeds.

It starts when they are puppies. I have been to Lind's when she had 10-15 puppies on her back deck free to roam and explore. Linda has chickens and cats and other farm animals and I always enjoyed watching them all interact. Those poor chickens! The dogs would follow them around and try to play with them. Her poor flowers were regularly attacked and jumped on by 6 week old puppies..and if you were lucky enough you could lay down and let the entire litter swarm you.

This is why Linda's dogs are so well tempered. When you get them they are used to being around other animals and people. I regularly take my dogs to my wife's preschool. The kids will gather around all touching the dogs and petting them. They love the attention and never even flinch, even when a child comes up unannounced from behind.

My dogs have never growled ir snapped at anyone or anything, save for the 'salesman' that knocked on my front door at 8pm when I was travelling on business. They are protective and intelligent rascals who love everyone and everything. Like all Airedales thay are a handful.

Bottom line is that Lind's dogs are all wonderfully socialized and make wonderful companions. She breeds judiciously and wants to create a beautiful healthy dog. Every dog that I have seen come from Linda's kennel has been a great dog. So if you deal with her just understand that she is really very nice and you will be lucky to get one of her animals.

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Bill Wetherholt
, US
Feb 23, 2020 1:02 pm EST

Sold my elderly father, a lifelong caretaker of Airedale Terriers, a dog with behavioral problems (nervous, skiddish, etc.). My father ever the optimist, has spent three years trying to rehabilitate this dog, and recently expressed frustration with Linda Otto. Linda then took it upon herself to post accusations about him in a public forum and further badger family members defending my father. Very unbecoming, and has caused the family distress. I would strongly suggest patronizing a different breeder. We were suspicious of this breeder from the beginning and recent actions only reinforce the opinion.

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Linda Otto
, US
Oct 13, 2021 1:00 pm EDT

I am sorry but your Dad was told how her temperament was on adoption and thought a calmer one dog household would be the answer.
In that it was not he could have returned her.
He had the choice given all information.
Your Dad is a grand guy and is why I trusted him with her.

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KathyRitter
, US
Dec 19, 2018 10:25 am EST

I have known Linda for several years now. My current Airedale, Abbie, was sired by one of her dogs, as was my previous Airedale, Molly. Linda is a hard-working, down to earth, no nonsense women who cares greatly for her dogs. My Abbie is a friendly, lovable goof. I take her everywhere with me - and people are constantly stopping to pet her and admire her. She is a beautiful dog. People have even asked me if they could take her picture. They comment on what a happy, friendly, well-behaved dog she is. I have two friends that I introduced to Linda, and they each have one of her pups. They are thrilled with their Dales from Linda. I give her name out all the time to people who stop me and inquire about my dog. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend Linda to any one! Happy Holidays Linda!

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Happy with Loki
, US
Dec 02, 2018 12:28 pm EST

I met Linda many years ago while searching for my Airedale boy Loki Rex. I found her to be very patient as she quietly vetted me while I asked many questions and silently observed her handsome selection of pups and breeding adults. She learned about me while I gained invaluable knowledge and insight from her regarding the breed during that time.
Best to describe her as a true New England Yankee. Hard working, dedicated, concise of words and slightly wary of strangers. Add her keen instincts about people and that's simply the way folks are around here. Her lovely puppies and dogs are a testament to her efforts over many decades. These animals are her passion and lifeblood. She has every reason to be proud and protective.
As far as weeds, we should all know by now that chemical killers are carcinogenic and not to be used around animals. So if you don't like a particular home based breeder then simply move-on without leaving this ridiculous trail of online tears. I am thankful everyday for having her beautiful, strong, funny, furry-faced boy in my life!

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Linda Otto
, US
Sep 05, 2018 8:52 am EDT

I would also like to add that I have found out that a person of what I thought was a friend is the one writing this negativity under false names. A sick person who is not about to be outdone and will try anyway to hurt you for her own gain. Pretty sick. I also have since found out she has done this to others. She specifically targets older people. All that she has said about me is what she was doing. I would think that someone who has horses and has one never been out of its stall since it has been born. Another show animal has also been stalled for years. Because she cannot handle them and her fencing would not hold them. Disgusting, you bet. There are no high placed perks for me, just no problems. Maybe this one from upstate will eventually move again. Hope springs eternal. Such viciousness, sad to think people have to stoop to such nonsense. I still get harassed online to find out what I am doing. Why? Only God knows.She does sell under different names. Be aware. AKC has been notified. Maybe her grounds should also be checked at her house for the bodies of all that have mysteriously died. When you have to change your name and titles to sell your animals, what does that say? My name is the same . I am not about to lie to anyone and will not, but she has regularly. Fact! Like her dogs walk on leash. No they do not. She cannot handle them. Over tight choke collars left on till they have to be cut off. Wow. I put my dogs first and always will. She has no capacity for love, only the bottom figure . $$$$ I know she will read this and answer it. ;)

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Linda Otto
, US
Aug 20, 2017 8:48 am EDT

All I can say, the world has definitely gone out of control.
Glad I refused to let you adopt one of my puppies.
Such vileness and attack on the elderly .
Shame on you!

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KathyEllett
, US
Aug 15, 2017 7:57 pm EDT

Wow, you are so right, you can't fix stupid. I will not argue with a troll. My dog is healthy, no fleas, great health and you my dear where the one unfit to have a puppy. I too am done wasting my words on someone that obviously has issues. Bye Sweetie!

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KathyEllett
, US
Jul 12, 2017 8:26 am EDT

I did visit her home and was there for several hours. I met my puppy's mom and she was in wonderful health and looked beautiful, friendly and happy and we gave her belly rubs. She was a sweetheart and we watched the loving interaction between Ginger the mom and our puppy Flynn. If a dog is craving attention that means he is or she is socialized (unlike you apparently) and expects to be giving attention. Unsocialized dogs will hide or cower. Let me guess, Linda wouldn't sell you a dog because she knew you were not a good choice, right? She sells several breeds of terriers and she is so far from being a puppy mill it is laughable. My vet said on Flynn's first exam we got a healthy beautiful cairn that was definitely well handled and cared for because he was so socialized. Overgrown Weeds! Gasp! The Horror!

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Concerned K9
, US
Jul 26, 2017 6:23 pm EDT

This is a puppy mill no matter which way you look at it. Truth be told, I think she paid you to write this for her since I know she has people in high places, but make no mistake about it, I am and have already taken this to the proper authorities and they will make the decision about whether she is fit or not. You think the Mama was in good condition? I guess you weren't paying attention to the sores and bald spots about her body? What about the fleas. The majority of the dogs are kept in small cages with two dogs in each. The cages are disgusting and not cared for, as well as the dogs themselves. In addition, if you notice, she hasn't sold ANY of the other puppies...what of that? Because 'decent' people that know what 'proper' conditions are all about will REFUSE to give this woman a dime. Incidentally, this woman does NOT have a breeders license, and beyond that, she has been instructed to bring her number of dogs down to ten on the property by local authorities, and she is WAY over that. Recently, she 'sold' her 'retired' male and female Scotties :/ And, YES, overgrown weeds. GASP. And then you wonder why there are ticks and fleas? Why don't you go and live in conditions like that and see how you feel about it? BTW, did you get a chance to go in the barn or behind it? I think NOT. I'm done wasting my words on you. You can't fix STUPID.

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Linda Otto
, US
Oct 13, 2021 1:02 pm EDT

Little Tinny. Lol

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Concerned K9
, US
Jul 09, 2017 4:53 pm EDT

There is a serious issue with this place and the woman that runs it .THIS IS FOR CERTAIN A PUPPY MILL. The elderly woman that runs it alone is rude and not at all concerned with the well-being of the dogs that are not her own. She sells multiple breeds which is a clear indication of a PUPPY MILL and not concerned with proper healthcare, love and surroundings. These dogs are living in horrible conditions in steel mesh cages and are not cared for like you would care for your own pet .People should be aware that these dogs are livestock in a business to her. Overgrown weeds surround the cages. The Mama dog was desperately craving attention and love. Mama also had skin issues and loss of hair about her body. Some of the males are viscious and unsocialized. What does this tell you about the love and attention they are exposed to? It tells you that they receive none! DO NOT SUPPORT HER HORRIBLE LIVELIHOOD. PUT IN A COMPLAINT WITH THE LOCAL SPCA AND MAYBE WE CAN PUT PUPPY MILLS OUT OF BUSINESS altogether. Incidentally, currently she is working without a breeding license and is only now applying for one even though she claims to be in this business for 30+ years. .Go and visit this horrible place and you will see how these poor animals live on a day-to-day basisi

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Linda Otto
, US
Oct 13, 2021 1:04 pm EDT

Bushland designer

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KathyEllett
, US
Jun 28, 2017 8:27 pm EDT

An update on Flynn Rider. He is beautiful, fun, healthy and has such a sweet temperament. Thanks Linda! We adore him.

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Patricia Miller
, US
Jun 25, 2017 11:14 pm EDT

Want to say Hi to Linda! Her questions at the time of our adoption of our Lady Pearl Cairin Terrier 31/2 years ago were equal to our own. We have a most faithful and loving dog, an Alpha Female to her older, and needy brother. We often wonder how her Mom, Ginger, and Aunt Nilla have shaped her sweet and loving, abiet mischievous personality! She is loved by all in our home, and has been a Healthy and delightful addition to our family! I hope to find an address to send you a picture of our wonderfull girl! Patti Miller

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Glenn W. L.
, US
Oct 11, 2016 8:55 am EDT

No complaints from this breeder. I have just gotten a beautiful 11 week old female Cairn from Linda, and she is such a joy! I am sorry if some of the other disgruntled people on here seem to have it out for this breeder, and I find it unfounded. She cares a lot about all of her dogs and does not want to have them end up in homes that are not right. As mentioned by another person, I would rather have a breeder who is like this and shows she cares for her dogs than a puppy mill who just wants the money and could care less how the puppy/adult dog turns out.

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LTPerkins
, US
Jul 16, 2016 6:28 am EDT
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I just purchased a Cairn Terrier for my parents and could not be happier with this breeder. I called her first and then had my father call her from NC. She took the time to speak with us both and politely answered all our questions. It's good that a breeder interviews her clients. Dogs are not cars, they are living breathing things and its important to know where they are going and how they will be treated.

The puppy made the 4 hour trip home in my car very calm and comfortable. Then two days later a 10 hour trip in the car to NC. He is playful, healthy, and loves people. The vet said he was very well cared for and socialized as a pup and unusually well socialized for a pup his age. My parents vet said he was obviously held and cuddled and extremely healthy. What more can you ask for in a puppy breeder? I would recommend this breeder to anyone!

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KathyEllett
, US
Jul 11, 2016 5:55 pm EDT

I purchased a Black Brindle Male Cairn Terrier from this wonderful breeder. Yes I was absolutely interviewed and fortunately for me she felt my home was suitable. Any decent breeder will ask questions. She puts her dogs first and I admire her for this dedication. I think the difference between the people that were insulted and those that recognized her vetting process as being protective of her puppies is the ones not insulted would be as equally protective of their dog. He is my baby and is such a smart and polite little man. He isn't a pet but but a valued family member. If being asked questions upset you, visit a puppy mill (we have quite a few in PA). The only questions they will ask are Do you want it and Are you paying by check or credit card? . If more people took the time like this breeder to assure the dogs would have a good home less dogs would end up in shelters. I would happily recommend this caring and knowledgeable breeder. Thank You Linda, Flynn Rider sends his love!

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linda otto
, US
Mar 03, 2016 8:24 am EST

I have never posted a response on here as I feel it is eveyones right to disagree, however, I do feel that most were very unfair. I get calls all the time, with lies and deceitful ways, If you get over vetted, you should be aware that my pups and dogs are my children and I sure will protect them from people who are not upfront with me.
I have always treated people how I would like to be treated, but that is not always how it goes. I am sorry to the White Rose person, I thought we left on good terms, however, guess you could not get what you wanted from me . Sorry, but my adults will be cared for by people who really love them. I placed Rose in a forever home as well as her dam, who is loved in Canada by a couple who treat her like the queen that she is.
You certainly cannnot please everyone, but I will not be talked down to by anyone.
Just recently, a man coming to get a pup he so wanted, stalled twice, last correspondence was we need a hot water heater and would you take half of its price. I told him to buy the hot water heater and sorry I could not help him. Well, that released a tyrade of insults, saying I was rude and in it for the money and omg. I am sorry, but you had one already and one of my pups was not going to be your other dogs play toy. Sorry, I think more of my animals than that.
The stories are endless, but be sure I am a generous person, but I have been around too long not see the fraudulent people out there. I can deal with any honest person, and will, but you lie to me, it is over. This makes the ones who tried their cute ways with me mad because they thought they were smarter and going to get one over on me, Sorry. that is not going to happen.
So if you want a great pup or older dog, I will help ou and I will be fair; but know this, I will protect my animals from the deceitful, because that is not the home they should be going to. I can talk to anyone graciously and passionately about my dogs, , just be up front and honest.
Yes, I am not a stop and shop, I do not want people coming from one facility to another bringing in possible disease to my animals. I will make an appt. and emphasize that . This is my home, my rules, for the protection of my dogs. I am not a store. My dogs are not disposable, and I will take them back anytime. I guarantee my animals from genetic defects and will replace them if need be, but not from mishandling by layman or professional. I have met some very wonderful people and have credentials to back it up. Rough world out there, but will see that you will have what you came for with respect . My passionate feelings for what I believe in are sometimes taken out of context. Just emphasis on some things to make sure you understand if I see that blank stare. I am always available by phone, etc and I will always answer you. Thanks for the ear.

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nyccairn
New York, US
Jun 30, 2015 9:54 am EDT

I experienced the same as most other people so far on this board. I, however, took it in a completely different way. She was more concerned with where this puppy was going, how much exercise it would get, who would be taking care of it than anyone who was just in this for the money. She completely vetted us to make sure our home situation would work for our new dog and I really appreciated that. It shows she cares what happens with her dogs and that they are going to go to homes that are equipped to handle them. Our Cairn Terrier is now 5 years old and is incredible. So happy we chose this breeder over others.

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CookieTheCairn
CookieTheCairn
, US
Jan 04, 2021 5:38 pm EST
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Replying to comment of nyccairn

Hello,
I agree with nyccairn 100%.
When I called Linda to discuss a Cairn pup, she was clearly very concerned about the home life that we would provide for her. I believe the breeder has every right to scrutinize the new parents as much as she wants. This WAS one of the reasons why I was very excited about meeting Linda and getting a pup from her. It was clear she was asking me the right questions, and I have to say I had all the right answers. WHY, because me and my wife are very loving parents to our pups and we treat them like children. I KNOW that there are other breeders out there that are just concerned about the $, just like a pet store, and that's exactly what we DID NOT want.

When we went to pick up our little Cookie, it was love at first sight. And we could not have asked for anything more from a breeder! She gave us such great advice (some of which we already knew) and it was very clear she was not in this for the $ and she was very concerned that the parents would provide a good home.

I can tell you that our Cookie is SOOOOO happy, very well adjusted, and doing just fine. She is the BEST Cairn we've ever raised, and I believe it is largely due to the fact that she came from such a good breeder.

When I first searched for a breeder, I saw a few very negative postings about her. BUT, I was (am) able to read through the BS. It was clear that the posters were either misinformed, ignorant, too hasty, inexperienced or all of the above. It was clear that Linda's responses were polite and very very fair and sensible. This was the breeder for us!

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Karlyqt
Collinsville, US
Jan 18, 2012 6:56 pm EST

I recently bought a Cairn from this breeder. I found her down to earth, personable and very knowlegable about dog breeding. She cares very much about the homes her pups will be going to, and I don't find that a bad thing. I have e-mailed her since about our pup we bought from her and she seems very happy to hear from us and we now keep in touch. Also, a note about the pup...she is a beautiful, healthy Cairn who has proven to be very intelligent with the perfect Cairn personality. We couldn't have asked for a better puppy. The 5 hour round trip ride we had to make to get her was well worth it.

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kntrykt
Broadalbin, US
Dec 05, 2010 4:33 pm EST

I had the same experience some time ago and found this woman very snooty. Having lived with airedales for 24 years, some of whom had White Rose breeding, (i did not reveal this), I felt quite insulted. I suppose since I am not high income level that means not being good enough to own one of hers. As far as asking about pricing, why wouldn't one ask what she gets for male vs. female, companion vs. show potential?

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Love My Scottie
Calllicoon, US
Oct 26, 2010 6:14 pm EDT

Stephanie, I due believe you are wrong, she cares about her dogs, and if you didn't fit the criteria of this breeder you should look elsewhere, she has beautiful, well tempered healthy pups and has a wating list of many customer that fit the criteria. This breeder cares about placement of all her pups she stands by their health and tempermant and has been breeding for many years...if she was just " looking for money" she wouldn't have asked you any questions. The dog or dog's you were interested I'm sure have found the "right" home and have been placed already and sweetie I think you are just angry because you "'didn't make the cut"

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stephanie034
, US
Oct 11, 2010 5:09 pm EDT

this woman is over the top no class, grade A ignorant JERK! had the identical experience as the original post! again, after one email. i don't tolerate well being talked to like that so it went downhill from there. to chris_ she was "helpful and nice" to the teller cashing your check too! this woman is a SOCIOPATH looking for money and could give a crap about her dogs!

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mommytass
Adams, US
Dec 18, 2009 10:58 am EST

I know this post was a LONG time ago... but I just received an email back from her telling me that she does not sell 2 puppies to one person (we are looking for 2 Cairn Terriers), and I had told her that we wanted 2 to keep each other company while we're at work. I was then informed that they leave her home "personable and would not end up that way because of how they will be handled". So, this leaves me to ask her "Do all of your adoptive families stay home all day?" Apparently you have to be independently wealthy (having nothing to do with price of puppies) for her to consider selling you a puppy...? I'm confused!

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Love My Scottie
Calllicoon, US
Nov 21, 2008 9:34 pm EST

I purchased a Scotty pup from this breeder, I found her very helpful, and nice. She is protective of her puppies, and want's the right home for her dogs.

I have a wonderful female brindle Scotty and she is well mannered, smart, and socalized. Sounds like you need some socialization, and manners...frankly Scotties are not for everyone and before I found North Wind, I went through the same screening from other responible breeders, Scotties are a challenge and patience is important in winning the respect of this breed, maybe you showed charistics of not being a good pet owner, or Scotty owner.

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avro
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Aug 28, 2008 10:38 am EDT

I agree with this don't waste your time on a rude breeder! You should never feel uncomfortable asking anything to a breeder. A good breeder can find out if you are a good home without being short or harsh. Conversation should be give and take. You ask ?'s the breeder asks ?'s