Our Story
Sonderbar Dachshunds is a world-renowned kennel that began in Australia and now proudly continues under the next generation in Canada.
The Legacy of Sonderbar: Honoring its Founder
"To breed a dog is a responsibility; to preserve a lineage is a work of heart and tradition."
The Vision of a Founder
Sonderbar is defined by the legacy of its founder, Bill Hardie of Australia, whose lifelong dedication to the Dachshund established a standard of excellence that remains our cornerstone. His principles of integrity and hard work are the threads that weave through every generation we raise.
The Foundation: 1961–1963
The journey began in 1961 with Bill's first Miniature Smooth, Ch. Windswept Sunday Best, gifted by Steve and Sherry Pausey. In 1963, her litter with Ch. Windswept Hold Me Close established a foundational lineage so influential that the vast majority of Sonderbar pedigrees today—over sixty years later—can be traced back to that single, extraordinary pairing.
A Lifetime of Achievement
Bill’s pursuit of perfection and keen eye for quality resulted in 171 dogs achieving the titles of Champion, Grand Champion, or Supreme Champion. His commitment to the breed's future also led him to personally import eight dogs, ensuring the Sonderbar line remained at the forefront of international standards.
A Tradition Carried Forward
Bill’s philosophy was rooted in the belief that true excellence is the result of a strong pedigree, fueled by a lifelong commitment to the mentorships and friendships he curated over sixty years.
Today, we carry that torch by upholding the rigorous standards he established decades ago. At Sonderbar, we do more than breed Dachshunds; we are the stewards of a historic legacy—one that began with a man’s vision and the extraordinary dog named Sunday Best who started it all.
"Dedicated to the memory of Uncle Bill, whose love for the breed continues to inspire me every day."
Honoring the Past, Owning the Future
My name is Joshua, and for over 30 years, Dachshunds have done more than share my home—they have defined my life and followed me to Canada. What began as a childhood passion in the Junior Showmanship ring has evolved into a lifelong mission dedicated to the preservation and excellence of this remarkable breed,
I was incredibly fortunate to be mentored by my uncle, the late Bill Hardie. Growing up in the competitive dog world under his guidance provided an education that no textbook could offer. In my younger years, we didn’t always see eye-to-eye, and I often thought I knew best—though looking back, Bill was almost always right. He taught me that in breeding, there is no substitute for leading with kindness, experience and patience.
Today, as a registered CKC breeder, I am proud to carry on Sonderbar Dachshunds, upholding the high standards and values Bill instilled in me. As I move forward, I remain respectful of the sacrifices made by those who came before me to preserve the Dachshund as we know it today. I believe we must always think in generations—not just in the dogs we breed, but in the wisdom we pass down and the health of the breed we leave behind. I am dedicated to ensuring that every dog from my program reflects the exceptional qualities my uncle valued so much, continuing a tradition of excellence decades in the making.
