Dixie Pugs of Tennessee began not with a plan to breed dogs—but with a season of life that required healing, purpose, and something small enough to change everything.
In 2008, a serious car accident left me with lasting injuries that drastically altered my daily life. Simple things—holding my child, managing a household, even feeling useful—became overwhelming. Along with chronic pain came isolation and a loss of purpose that is difficult to put into words.
After months of struggling physically and emotionally, my doctor made a suggestion that initially felt impossible: get a puppy.
Like many people, we had always considered ourselves “big dog people.” I had grown up with Dobermans, my husband with a Dalmatian mix, and the idea of a small dog didn’t appeal to us at all. I pictured constant barking, nervous energy, and fragility—none of which felt right for our family or my limitations.
But curiosity led to research, and research led to the Pug.
What I discovered was not a yappy lap dog, but a sturdy, affectionate, comedic companion—one who thrived on closeness rather than constant physical exertion. A dog content to simply be with you.
In 2011, we brought home our first Pug, Dixie Diva (“DD”). She joined our family during a time of profound loss, shortly after my father passed away unexpectedly. From the moment she arrived, she fit seamlessly into our home—and even won over our aging Doberman, who became her most gentle and devoted protector.
That little dog gave me something invaluable: purpose.
Caring for DD didn’t require physical strength I no longer had, but it gave structure, responsibility, and meaning back to my days. She didn’t need long walks or demanding activity—she needed companionship, consistency, and love. And she gave all of that back tenfold.
How a Passion Became a Program
As time passed and our family prepared to relocate to Tennessee, a conversation began to take shape. Could this be something we did together as a family—not casually, but thoughtfully? Could we honor this breed, preserve its standard, and help bring healthy, well-adjusted Pugs into the lives of other families?
After many conversations—and ensuring our children were truly ready to help—we committed to doing this the right way.
We welcomed our first male, Butch, whose arrival coincided with saying goodbye to our beloved Doberman. Named in honor of my father, Butch completed the foundation of what would become Dixie Pugs of Tennessee (AKC kennel name: DixieDarlings).
From the beginning, we approached breeding with humility and education. We spent countless hours reading, researching, learning from mentors, and immersing ourselves in everything related to the health, structure, temperament, and preservation of the Pug breed.
Our first litter arrived in 2013—and from that moment forward, we knew this was more than a hobby. It was a responsibility.
Why We Do What We Do
We love our dogs deeply. They are companions, comforters, and family members. They also give me purpose on the hardest days—when pain limits what I can do, but caring for them still gives meaning and direction.
Every puppy raised here is prepared with intention. We focus on early socialization, confidence-building, sound temperament, and a smooth transition into their future homes. Learning never stops—for us or for our dogs—because responsible breeding requires continual growth and reflection.
Our goal has always been simple, but significant:
To raise healthy, well-adjusted Pugs that meet or exceed the breed standard, and to support the families who love them for a lifetime.
If you choose a Dixie Pug, you’re not just bringing home a puppy—you’re becoming part of an extended family built on care, honesty, and a shared love for this remarkable breed.