Look for a breeder who at a minimum:

Keeps their animals clean, healthy, well fed, and who treats their animals as part of the family. Has animals who appear happy and healthy, are excited to meet new people, and don't shy away from visitors. Shows you where the animals spend most of their time--an area that is clean and well maintained. Encourages you to spend time with the animals parents--at a minimum, the animals mother--when you visit.

Breeds only one or two types of Dogs, and or Horses and is knowledgeable about what is called "breed standards" (the desired characteristics of the breed in areas such as size, proportion, coat, color and temperament). Has a strong relationship with a local veterinarian and shows you the records of veterinary visits for the animals.

Explains the animals medical history and what vaccinations your new animal will need. Is well versed in the potential genetic problems inherent in the breed--there are specific genteic concerns for every breed--and explains to you what those concerns are. Gives you guidance on caring and training for your animal and is available for your assistance after you take your animal home.

Provides references of other families who have purchased animals from them. Feeds high quality "premium" brand food. Doesn't always have animals available but rather will keep a list of interested people for the next available breeding. Good breeders will also work with local, state, and national clubs that specialize in their specific breeds.

  Encourages multiple visits and wants your entire family to meet the animal before you take it home. Provides you with a written contract and health guarantee and allows plenty of time for you to read it thoroughly. The breeder should not require that you use a specific veterinarian, however can make suggestions due to their expierence. In addition to the above criteria, you'll want a breeder who requires some things of you, too.

A reputable breeder doesn't just sell her animals to the first interested buyer! The breeder should require you to  Explain why you want the animal. Tell them who in the family will be responsible for the animals daily care.  Have you provide a veterinary reference if you already have animals or, if you don't have other pets, they should ask which practices you are considering for your new animal. 

Sign a contract stating that you will return the animal to the breeder should you be unable to keep the animal at any point in the animals life.

More Testimonies

Dear Steven and Martha,
Our “puppy” Bosco is already 9 months and he is fantastic. Bosco has beautiful thick hair and is extremely strong. He doesn’t stop, very active, and has a lot of energy. He is the happiest when my husband and I take him on walks or to the park. Bosco already guards the backyard. Although, he is friendly with visitors that come to the house, he really still enjoys a lot of playtime. Thanks for all the work and we are really in love with our Bosco.  Here are some pictures of him as he has been growing. (note: pictues coming soon) Thanking you from Miami,

Patty & Ozzie

Steve and Martha,
Luger is now 10 months old and is doing great.  He is wonderful dog to our children (ages 2 and 4).  He does everything they do-including climb the swingset ramp and slide down. He is a beautiful dog and so loving.  Our neighbors love his company as much as we do.  Thanks again.  We'll gladly come back to your farm for our next Shepherd.

The Reece Family,  North Carolina

I have known Steve & Martha for some time now. I have to say that they are great people and very dedicated to the working German Shepherd. I have been involved with canine training for 18 years, so I know there are allot of unethical breeders out there. Steve & Martha have excellent working lines and believe as I do that the German Shepherd should above all remain a working breed. That being said they know that you should only breed to better the breed, and in doing that you also have to know how to pair the correct male to the correct bitch. They have to compliment each other while correcting faults that may be present. You also have to know how to do a proper evaluation on the different drives the pups will have to know which home the individual pup would be best suited. Because we all know that everyone is not ready to handle a very high drive pup.
Steve & Martha have the experience to know the above, and are honest people that will follow their contracts. In the many years that I've been involved with the working breeds, I can honestly say that Steve & Martha are among the best people I know and I would highly recommend them if you are looking for a great German Shepherd. Sincerely,

Sammy Walker Tennessee