Prelude Kennels

Welcome to Prelude!

 A love for animals set the stage for the International success of Prelude Kennels, and for owners David Swartwood and Thomas Nesbitt. Both active in day to day activities of the busy kennels and farm, they also are committed to the ongoing development of purebred dogs through their judging duties all over the world. 

​Prelude Kennels & Farm is located in Gananoque, ON, a beautiful town located along the historic St. Lawrence River. 

My love affair with the English Springer Spaniel began while I was in high school working as a veterinarian technician. One of our clients repeatedly brought in some of the most beautiful dogs I had ever seen. I finally got the nerve to ask if I could buy one from her and she found me a sweet girl named Samantha looking for a home. Sam taught me a lot and produced my first litter. From this litter a girl named Chelsea began my journey with obedience and conformation and all a springer can do.

Now after over 40 years I am proud of the many accomplishments achieved by Bryden dogs and their owners. I still continue to produce a couple litters per year and have come closer and closer to making that nearly perfect dog. I have been blessed to incorporate some outstanding pedigrees into my breeding and want to thank all those that helped me get to this level of producing top dogs. 

Minature Wire Haired Dachshunds

Thom and I started into Miniature Wire Haired Dachshunds 1994 with “Willy” a handsome red dog from Emma Jean Stephenson’s well known “EJ” kennel in Pittsburgh Pa. He was to become the first of many American and Canadian Champions here at Prelude.  We also acquired a little red girl named Peanut who turned out to be a great friend and is behind almost everyone of our puppies. Her calm sweet demeanour endeared me to the breed as up to this point I was not used to a “hound” temperament.  Peanut was also an incredible producer and loved her puppies. Her first litter of 6 was followed by her next of 7 and her final litter of 8