The Woman Behind the Breed

I’m Julie, the creator of the Habibi Bear breed. My breed was developed exclusively for children with Autism & special needs. I was inspired by my students and their beautiful souls.  I’ve had two loves all my life; children and dogs. As a teacher in an after school therapy program, my student’s parents would often mention how they longed to have a dog for their child, but they had allergies to the hounds that I was raising.  This sparked a desire to meet that need for them.  One day I had an event take place that set me on a course that I never dreamed of happening.  It was one of those crossroads in life that redirects you to a higher calling.  I took a leap of faith and left behind the purebred world  for what became my mission, to develop a breed that will meet all the needs my families were asking for.  Little did I know at the time, this new adventure would become my life’s work. 

Time flies when you’re having fun, and the power of healing I see when my puppies are placed with the perfect home for it’s abilities is something magical!  Over the years we've expanded to include more offerings to support our families.  I’ve created curriculum for the puppies to empower them in the role of service, therapy or emotional support. In 2021, another divine alignment occurred when I met our trainer, a true soul sister who is as passionate about these dogs as I am! Together we developed a complete in-house training program for families in need of this invaluable service.  By allowing my puppies to show me their innate abilities with my puppy assessment process, I am able to intuitively match our puppies to the family that is meant for them. 

I told myself when I started,  I would do this as long as I am enjoying it and there is a need for my dogs.  Here I am years later,  and I’m still having a ball! Every litter amazes me with their uncanny ability to connect to people's hearts and transform their lives. It’s an honor to be the guardian of my breed, and be part of something quite magical between the hearts of child and dog.