Interested in German Line Breeder only

[kms90]

Hi all.. I was wondering if anyone had advice on a reputable breeder using only proven German lines producing pups with sturdy, solid, pure German conformation. I would be interested in importing or using someone in the states. I have had a German import for over 10years, he is now 11.5yrs and the vets comment he does not look a day over 7 :-) We got lucky with him he was originally supposed to be part of an American breeders program but they gave him to us instead (long story we had originally bought 2pups from them and went through 3 females and 1 male with serious health/behavior issues). We lucked out with Walles he has been a wonderful dog, my best friend, with no health or behavior problems to speak of. Needless to say I do NOT want to return to those breeders but Walles is past his prime and while I want him to live out his golden years with us I am also feeling that "puppy itch", it may be time to make another addition to the family. I love his conformation, character, structure, everything, he is an absolutely beautiful dog and I would like something similar. A picture of him this past winter at 11 yrs old is my avatar and I have other pics if anyone is interested in seeing more of what I am looking for. Any advice where to look or personal experiences would be great!
Thanks!

[jaggirl47]

So, is it German Show or German Working Lines you are looking for?

[kms90]

I would prefer working lines. Sorry forgot to include that!

[jaggirl47]

There are actually several excellent breeders on this board. I honestly couldn't name them all. I have been captivated by the Czech lines. I am sure more members who have first hand knowledge will post.

[Chris Wild]

From what I can see in your avatar pic, Walles looks to be German show lines. Though it's hard to tell for certain from such a small pic. Are you looking for a dog of similar bloodlines to him, or for working lines (which will probably have a very different physical appearance, amongst other things)?

[kms90]

He is such a couch potato! Always has been ever since we got him! Which Ive never seen in a Shepherd, maybe it is just him. According to the breeders he was from working lines but Im not sure I ever really believed that. We were told during his time in Germany he was in Schutzhund training but was deemed unfit due to timidness (IDK why he has never been timid a day in his life I consider him very well adjusted). I am looking for something with a little more energy then he had (dont get me wrong I dont want a nut LOL) which is why I say working line. I am also considering some sort of search and rescue involvement. Not sure whether I will be 100% into that or not yet but I would like to keep my options open... I guess what I am saying is I need a pup to fit me rather than a show/work standard necessarily? Does that make sense?

[jaggirl47]

Chris can lead you the right way. She is one of the excellent breeders on this board.

[kms90]

Thank you! :-) I thought I knew what I wanted and already Im starting to question myself LOL good thing I came to get advice before just going will-nilly and buying. I can confidently say Walles is the BEST dog I have ever had and if I could clone him I would but add a little bit of interest in fetch or swimming or something... even if its only for an hour or two a day LOL. I have a mid sized backyard to fetch in and a second home on a lake for swimming/boating etc but Walles has never liked swimming or fetching really (or the boat...) So while I love how he is laid back and likes to chill out on the couch I would also enjoy a dog who likes to swim (maybe go boating) or play fetch..and then come home and chill out on the couch.
I should also mention that we are expecting so I should probably give more information then I already have. ( Also why I am starting to look early.. I dont expect to take in a puppy with a newborn and I want the best match possible) Oyy the choices and possibilities are so open. Walles has always been a good protector of the house but once you're inside hes a big mush ball who loves his ears rubbed. I would like another "home protector" and I would be open to a teen or young adult as this is the age range we got Walles in.

Now that I am writing everything out I guess I have specific needs for a good match.

[jaggirl47]

I did the whole puppy/newborn thing. It can be difficult but is doable.
The majority of working lines do have a higher energy/drive. On that note, take time and talk to breeders. When you narrow down who you want to go with, make sure they understand exactly what you want. I mean, tell them everything, work schedule, baby schedule, all of it. This way, they can best match you with a pup/dog who will fit your needs.

[Cassidy's Mom]

Workingdog Kennel van Gogh

This litter will be half siblings to my girl Halo.