Meet McKenze Ocampo

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful McKenze Ocampo. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with McKenze below.

McKenze, so great to have you with us and thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts with the community. So, let’s jump into something that stops so many people from going after their dreams – haters, nay-sayers, etc. We’d love to hear about how you dealt with that and persisted on your path.
We live in a time of Adopt Don’t Shop, where the “designer dog” hater and keyboard vigilante are around every corner.

But amidst this chaos, I pride myself on the ethical, purposeful and respectful breeding practices I follow. I am proud to be a Blue Ribbon Goldendoodle Association of North America breeder. I aim to be a part of the bigger change we are seeing in the breeding world. Where the health, structure and temperament of the dog are paramount.

Goldendoodles are not just living teddy bears, they are also the breed that healed my heart and the hearts of so many others. Their loyalty, wisdom, mischievous nature, and rambunctious spirit make them truly unique and heart-healers in every sense. It’s this unwavering belief in their goodness that keeps me going, even when faced with the negativity of haters and naysayers.

As a GANA breeder, I strive to uphold the highest standards of ethical breeding. I actively engage in ongoing education, ensuring that I am well-informed about the breed’s health, temperament, and responsible breeding practices. By doing so, I hope to set an example and inspire others to follow suit.

To persist in this world of haters and naysayers, I rely on the support and camaraderie of fellow Goldendoodle enthusiasts and responsible breeders. Together, we share our experiences, exchange knowledge, and collaborate on initiatives that promote the well-being of these amazing dogs. It’s within this community that I find strength, encouragement, and the motivation to keep spreading the paw-sitive message about Goldendoodles.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

 Hello there! I’m McKenze, the proud owner of Twilight Doodles. As an entrepreneur, wife, mother of three, friend, and avid dog lover, I have embraced a variety of roles on my journey to becoming a Goldendoodle Breeder. However, none of these experiences have brought me as much joy as breeding these wonderful dogs. Each role I’ve taken on has shaped me, provided valuable life skills, and fueled my passion for this field.
 I have always been driven to pursue my passions wholeheartedly, and education is no exception. I consider myself a bit of a “nerd” when it comes to expanding my knowledge base. There is nothing I love more than diving into educational resources to enhance my understanding of breeding practices and dog care.
 My ultimate goal goes beyond personal fulfillment. I aspire to be a valuable contributor to the Goldendoodle breeding community as a whole. I firmly believe that well-informed breeders and families are essential for the overall health and well-being of these incredible dogs. By prioritizing education and responsible breeding practices, I aim to make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the Goldendoodles I breed and the families who welcome them into their hearts and homes.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
1. Seek out a mentor: When it comes to embarking on a new venture or pursuing a passion like Goldendoodle breeding, having a mentor can make all the difference. Finding someone who has experience and expertise in the field and who is willing to share their knowledge with you is invaluable. It’s like having a wise guide who can provide guidance, answer your questions, and offer insights that you may not have considered. Sometimes, finding a mentor may require reaching out to multiple people or even paying for their mentorship, but the investment is well worth it. Having a mentor can accelerate your learning and give you the confidence and support you need to succeed.

2. Never stop asking questions: In the age of the internet, we have an incredible wealth of information at our fingertips. Take advantage of it! Join online groups, forums, and communities that focus on Goldendoodle breeding. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and learn from the experiences of others. The internet provides an avenue for continuous learning and networking with like-minded individuals. Additionally, consider attending classes, workshops, or seminars related to Goldendoodle breeding. These opportunities can provide valuable hands-on learning experiences and the chance to connect with industry experts. Remember, curiosity is key, and by never stopping to ask questions, you’ll always have the opportunity to expand your knowledge and grow as a breeder.

3. Find your why: Passion is a powerful driving force, but it’s even more impactful when you have a clear understanding of why you’re pursuing it. Take the time to reflect and identify the underlying reasons that have fueled your passion for Goldendoodle breeding. Is it the love for these amazing dogs? Is it the desire to improve the breed or provide families with wonderful companions? Whatever your why may be, connecting with it on a deeper level will bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment to your work. When your passion aligns with a clear purpose, it won’t feel like work at all. It will become a labor of love, and you’ll be motivated to give your best every day. So, take some time to introspect and find your why, and let it guide you on your journey as a Goldendoodle breeder.

What’s been one of your main areas of growth this year?
As a dog breeder, I’ve found marketing to be quite challenging over the past year. The love and companionship of a dog is something that almost everyone can benefit from, but it’s difficult to effectively communicate and connect with such a broad audience.

First I’ve found it’s crucial to define my target market. Instead of trying to market to everyone, I’ve narrowed down my focus by considering factors such as demographics, lifestyle, and preferences. This has allowed me to tailor my marketing efforts and messages to resonate specifically with the audience I want to reach.

Also highlighting the unique qualities and benefits of the dogs I breed has been essential. While dogs bring joy to people from all walks of life, different segments of the population are attracted to specific qualities. For example, families may be interested in breeds that are great with children, while elderly individuals may prefer low-energy and easy-to-care-for breeds. By emphasizing these unique qualities, I can speak directly to the needs and desires of my target audience.

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