Kennel Wayosi is located in Fetsund, 30 minutes outside Oslo – Norway. We live in the middle of the forest with a lot of space and nature around us.

We own and breed Rhodesian Ridgebacks and German working-line Airedale terriers, with an emphasis on enhancing their working abilities and functionality. The name ‘Wayosi’ is inspired by the Swahili word ‘Wayo’, meaning ‘footprint’, and is complemented by the initials ‘S’ and ‘I’, representing the first dogs of each breed at the kennel, Sheriff and Isi. This naming is a reflection of the journey embarked upon in dog breeding, beginning with these foundational dogs.

My family has had dogs since before I was born; Airedaleterriers since 1978 and Riesenschnauzers since 1993, and have had several SAR dogs (search and rescue) besides competing in obedience and working trials. I bought my first Rhodesian Ridgeback in 2005 followed by my first Airedale in 2009. Since I was very young my life has been centered around dogs and dog training. Because of this, I have had the privilege to learn a lot about mentality, health, and training dogs from my family.

My family has a long-standing history of dog ownership, with Airedale Terriers being kept since 1978. This includes engagement in Search and Rescue, Obedience, and Working trials. Our own personal journey in dog ownership began with the acquisition of a Rhodesian Ridgeback in 2005, followed by an Airedale terrier in 2009. A lifetime surrounded by dogs has provided extensive insights into their mentality, health, and training.

The preservation of the mental and physical characteristics inherent to both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and Airedale Terrier breeds is our primary goal. Breeding efforts are directed towards maintaining adherence to the original breed standards, particularly in terms of functionality and health. The breeding program is designed to produce dogs that exhibit confidence and a temperament that aligns with the historical roles of these breeds.

Our breeding plans are developed with a long-term perspective, focusing on selecting combinations and individuals that align with the kennel’s standards. The primary focus is placed on the mentality and health of the dogs, with no compromises made in these areas. We believe that dogs possessing stable temperaments and the ability to adapt to various situations, whether in work, hunting, or daily life, also serve as excellent companions and family pets. They are envisioned to be a source of pride and joy for their families.

A range of quality assessments, including mentality assessments, working trials, conformational evaluations, and comprehensive health screenings (HD/ED/spine X-rays, cardio tests, DNA tests, eye examinations, etc.), are integral to our breeding program. These assessments are utilized to both preserve and enhance desired traits and to address any areas requiring improvement.

While the breeding of show champions is not the sole focus, significant attention is given to the dogs’ mentality and health. High standards are set for breeding suitability, with the aim of producing “Wayosies” that are well-rounded, exhibiting an appropriate level of activity, confidence, and a balance of guarding instincts and cooperativeness. Known for their initial high energy, the puppies are expected to mature into well-adjusted, humorous, and dignified adults with the right training.

Find literature about mentality and genetics here! 

 About Mona
  • Certified as a dog trainer at Level 1 by the Norwegian Kennel Club (NKK instruktør trinn 1) since 2008.
  • An approved Rally Obedience instructor with the Norwegian Rally Obedience Club since 2015.
  • Held several key positions on the board of the local dog club, Fet og Omegn Hundeklubb, since 2013.
  • Served as the leader of the Mentality Committee in the Norwegian Rhodesian Ridgeback Club from 2010 to 2015.
  • Currently a member of the Committee responsible for Breeding, Health and Mentality within the Norwegian Rhodesian Ridgeback Club, a position held since 2018.
  • Past roles include serving as a board member for the Norwegian Kennel Club in the Oslo/Akershus region (NKK region Oslo/Akershus), as well as holding positions such as vice chairman and board member in Stovner Hundeklubb, the Norwegian Rhodesian Ridgeback club, and the Airedale Terrier breed group.
I have attended breeders seminars (Oppdretterskolen 1 og 2) and cynology classes by the Norwegian Kennel Club.
 
With a degree in Biotechnology, specialising in Molecular Biology and Genetics, I am employed at the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. My primary area of expertise involves prevention of cervical cancer through vaccine surveillance, screening and research on human papillomavirus (HPV). Throughout my educational and professional career, I have continuously pursued a deeper understanding of canine genetics and health, allowing me to apply these insights for the betterment of the breeds.