Founded in January 2021 by Madeleine de Vrije, The Canine Country Estate began as Paws in Line — a boutique canine adventure company servicing Auckland’s Devonport suburbs. Following the completion of her Canine Behaviour and Training qualification at Unitec, Madeleine set out to create something different: a premium experience centred on enrichment, adventure, and exceptional care. The company quickly earned a loyal following as one of the first in the area to offer structured off-lead adventure hikes designed to fulfil both the physical and social needs of dogs.
In 2023, our beloved Small Dog Social Club was introduced — an exclusive weekly farm experience created specifically for smaller breeds. Designed to nurture confidence, social skills, and positive group interaction in a safe and carefully managed environment, it has since become one of our most treasured offerings.
As demand continued to grow, the company relocated in 2025 to its beautiful private headquarters in Dairy Flat — a peaceful six-acre farm where dogs are free to explore, play, and thrive in a secure countryside setting. This expansion marked the beginning of our Private Farm Adventure programme and the addition of Lennie as Senior Handler, further strengthening the level of expertise and personalised care within the team.
In 2026, senior Pack Hike Leader TJ joined The Canine Country Estate, allowing Madeleine to step back into a more flexible role as she began maternity leave, while continuing to personally oversee our homestay guests and farm adventure dogs.
In June 2026, Paws in Line was thoughtfully reimagined as The Canine Country Estate — a name that reflects the refined, premium experience the company has grown into over the years. Today, our philosophy remains simple: to provide an exceptional standard of care not only for the dogs entrusted to us, but also for the people who love them.
Having spent years delivering a premium, highly personalised service to discerning clientele, we understand the importance of trust, communication, flexibility, and genuine relationships. Every dog within our care is treated with deep affection, respect, and individual attention, while our close connection with owners remains at the heart of everything we do.
When a dog joins The Canine Country Estate, we consider it the beginning of a relationship with the entire family. We prioritise transparency and communication, ensuring you always feel connected to your dog’s experiences and confident in the care they receive. Above all, we hope every client who joins us feels warmly welcomed into the CCE family — a place where dogs are adored, adventures are meaningful, and care is delivered with elegance, integrity, and heart.
