about

Mini

Forest Lakes She Makes it Look EZ!

Strengths:  muzzle, head, eyes, squareness, topline, chest, tail set, movement, showy personality

Introducing Mini, the shining star of Forest Lakes Poodles!

Mini, AKC Grand Champion Forest Lakes She Makes it Look EZ!, is a bright and accomplished young Standard Poodle whose career reflects both exceptional breeding and thoughtful development.

Born from the distinguished pairing of her dam, Am CH USGCH Katmary’s Rainbow (of Forest Lakes) DCAT CGC TKN RACEA DASH TDx2 VCX (ranked the #5 Poodle in UKC for 2023 and #9 for 2024 with limited showing), and her sire, MBIS BISS MRBIS Can GCHG Am GCH CH Litilann’s Wintergarden Style N’ Eaze (the #1 Poodle in Canada for 2023 and #2 Sporting Dog), Mini’s pedigree speaks clearly to her quality, consistency, and promise.

Mini’s Beginning

Although Mini was the sole puppy in Katie’s first litter, her arrival was eagerly anticipated by all who recognized the strength of her lineage. Just four days later, another Forest Lakes girl, Porsche, welcomed a litter of her own. In a fortunate turn of events, Porsche’s guardian chose to have her litter whelped at our home.

Katie, ever the attentive and generous mother, stepped seamlessly into a shared role—helping to raise not only her own puppy, but also three of Porsche’s pups. The result was a remarkable co-mothering arrangement in which two devoted dams raised eight puppies together, ensuring abundant nourishment, stability, and emotional enrichment for every puppy involved.

This unique start provided Mini with a rich social environment. Initially reserved, she soon flourished among her ‘littermates’, developing into the confident, affectionate, and animated girl she is today. Surrounded by constant interaction and play, Mini found her voice and her sparkle.

At just 20 weeks of age, Mini attended the United Poodle Association National Specialty at the UKC Premier Nationals, a global stage for elite dogs. There, she captured attention by outperforming five competitors—three of whom were just days from aging out of the novice class—demonstrating maturity and ring presence well beyond her age.

Mini’s Show Career

After an eye-catching puppy debut, Mini took time away from the ring to mature before launching her AKC career in spring 2025. She returned with momentum, earning four majors between March and April, and adding a significant milestone with a win in the American-Bred class at the Poodle Club of America National Specialty—a notable accomplishment amid some of the most respected kennels in the breed.

Mini completed her AKC Championship swiftly, finishing her title on May 23, 2025, and continuing to demonstrate consistency, balance, and showmanship as she matured.

Most recently, Mini has achieved an exciting new milestone, earning her AKC Grand Champion title in partnership with her co-owner, Chelsa Brandsen. This accomplishment reflects not only Mini’s quality and drive, but also the strength of a collaborative ownership and handling relationship built on shared standards and respect for the breed.

Mini continues to exemplify the goals of the Forest Lakes breeding program—sound structure, stable temperament, and the ability to succeed in both competitive and real-world environments. We look forward to watching her next chapters unfold as she continues to mature, compete, and shine.