After a Quiet Summer Break, We're Back with Exciting News! From expanding our kennel facilities to welcoming a new pack member and our plans for the upcoming season – find out all about it in this exclusive interview.
Earlier this summer, we announced the planned pairing between Nukka and Zero, which, unfortunately, was not successful. Such setbacks are part of breeding life and nature itself. While it was disappointing, we're not letting it get us down. Instead, we’ve used the past months to further develop Cathi’s Meadow Garden.
A Year in Swedish Lapland: Personal Insights from Harald and Cathi
It's been a year since you and the Meadow Garden Malamutes moved from the German Black Forest to Swedish Lapland. How has this year felt for you and the dogs?
Harald: It's been an incredible year, full of highs and lows. The transition and all the preparation were intense – for us and the dogs. While we haven’t entirely cut ties with Germany, we’ve settled well into our second home and enjoy the rugged beauty of Lapland. For the dogs, the move has been positive; they’re truly thriving here.
And for you, Cathi? What were the biggest challenges of moving to such a remote and rugged area? Did you have any particular expectations or concerns?
Cathi: The biggest challenge was mentally preparing for the isolation. It’s really different from the Black Forest. I was concerned about how we would cope with the long winters and the language barrier. But the people here are so friendly, and our “neighbors” have been very helpful, which made everything much easier.
How has life changed for the dogs? Have you noticed any differences in their behavior or performance since moving to Lapland?
Harald: Definitely. The cold climate and wide open spaces have given the dogs new energy and endurance. They’re more balanced and work with even more enthusiasm. They seem to love the untouched nature – though the midnight sun in summer sometimes leads to a few sleepless nights. Since our Malamutes sleep outside year-round, their coats have grown much thicker in winter.
Cathi’s Meadow Garden is both a breeding and sled dog kennel – how has the Lapland environment affected the training of the dogs and your breeding efforts? Any particular advantages you hadn’t considered before?
Harald: The untouched nature and endless open spaces offer us opportunities we didn’t have in the Black Forest, especially not in the Neckar Valley. We can train on long trails without obstacles, and there are no neighbors to disturb. Plus, the climate is perfect for our Malamutes – they’re in their element.
Cathi: Especially in summer, it’s wonderful to have so much space to mentally challenge and engage the dogs. Whether it's games or small training exercises, they love it. The puppies, in particular, thrive in the snow, developing wonderfully. You can really see they’re in their natural element. Our Aurora 'Borealis' litter handled the cold temperatures perfectly. This environment is great for strengthening their immune systems – and no more muddy paws from German winters!
The landscape here is stunning but also challenging. How do you use this environment to further develop the abilities of the Meadow Garden Malamutes?
Cathi: I actually started sledding here in Lapland, something I never considered in the Black Forest, mainly due to the inconsistent weather conditions. Here, it just makes sense. The snow, the vastness – it’s perfect for working with the dogs and strengthening our teamwork. It’s really something special when you’re sledding through nature as a team.
You expanded your kennel facilities in Sweden over the summer months. How important is space for the dogs, and what do the new expansions look like?
Harald: Space is essential for the dogs' well-being. Our new kennels provide more room for play but also for rest, which is especially important in winter when they use a lot of energy on the trails. The expansions are designed so that the dogs have plenty of room to move and can easily avoid each other if they need space.
The Meadow Garden Malamutes have a new addition to their pack! How is Lumi integrating into the group, and what role does she play in your breeding vision?
Harald: Lumi is a real asset. She quickly found her place in the pack and brings a fresh energy. With our senior Xandra and the M&M siblings, we have high hopes that this little Swede will take our breeding to the next level. Her temperament and her unique genetics fit perfectly with our breeding goals for a healthy and diverse mix.
What are your plans for the coming months? Are there any specific goals you’re hoping to achieve in the far north – both for your family and the Meadow Garden Malamutes?
Harald: Our plans mainly include participating in a few regional sled dog races or dog shows to showcase our dogs' potential and make connections. We also want to continue developing our breeding program with Lumi and the other dogs, building long-term partnerships with reputable breeders in Lapland and beyond, for future generations of Meadow Garden Malamutes. Personally, we’re looking forward to further integrating into the community here in Lapland and experiencing the unique culture and nature even more deeply.
Cathi: I fully agree with Harald. For me, personally, the focus is on mastering the Swedish language and immersing myself further into the culture here. Long-term, this will become our new home, and I want to be fully integrated.
Bonus Question for the Birthday Boy: Do you ever have moments of regret, where you miss Germany?
Harald: Nope ;-)
What’s Next?
Winter is just around the corner, and things might start heating up – not just on the trails! Along with intensive sled training and perhaps a dog show or two, we might also be expecting a new litter. Nothing is set in stone yet, but plans are definitely underway.
Stay tuned, and we’ll keep you updated on all our adventures! Don’t forget to subscribe to our news updates and follow along!
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