Introducing Violet's 2025 Litter

Though things may have been silent here on the blog, lots has been happening at Russell Homestead!  Our very own Violet, born to Tachi in February 2023, has been growing up and maturing into a gorgeous salt & pepper girl much beloved by our daughter, MJ.  We are thrilled to introduce her first litter to you!  They were born on the first day of spring (March 20, 2025).  There are six puppies - one boy and five girls.  Of the crew, two girls are salt & pepper and the rest are black & silver.

Cole ~ Black & Silver Male

Meet the lone ranger male in the litter.  He was named Cole by CJ (age 13) after a character in the Green Ember series.

Starla ~ Salt & Pepper Female

Next we have Starla, who was named by EJ (age 8) because her peppering reminds him of stars.

Anita ~ Black & Silver Female

Here's Anita - named by AJ (age 14) because he wanted an old-fashioned, short name for his puppy.

Anne ~ Black & Silver Female

This is Anne with an "e" (a nod to Anne of Green Gables).  She was named by GJ (age 11).

Naomi ~ Salt & Pepper Female

If you've been around here any length of time, you may remember we pick a Bible name for at least one puppy in each litter because we recognize God as the Giver and Sustainer of all life.  Naomi was named by MJ (age 10) for Naomi in the story of Ruth in the Old Testament.

Ethel ~ Black & Silver Female

Meet Ethel, who was named by me because I just love a good old-fashioned name for a schnauzer!  And Ethel felt just right.

Though the puppies may look sleepy and idyllic in these photos, they are very active seeking food and warmth when separated from their nest.  They are very adept at moving (see photo below).  At this stage, Violet and the puppies spend all their time together.  The puppies want nourishment and warmth from their pile of siblings.  And, yes, I do mean pile.  Healthy, happy puppies pile together all over one another.  Violet is doing an excellent job taking care of them.  I wish you all could feel the smooth, velvety coats that Violet maintains with diligence.  We are pleased that Violet is doing well, and all the puppies are gaining weight.  We will be continuing to update on this litter of puppies as they grow.  If you are interested in one of these puppies, please let me know.  Several of them are reserved already.

​We'll close today with a snapshot of how they move at this age:

Naomi propelling herself trying to get away from the photo shoot.