World-renowned Dog Trainer and Behavior Specialist
In Germany, dogs are categorized in two main breeds:
Breeders and trainers usually separate the two lines as having distinct abilities and, therefore, they will perform and behave differently.
Michael, drawing from his experience, believes that both show line dogs and working line dogs have similar abilities. He has known of a West German show dog with world championships in the show arena but also won championships in the working arena.
They can excel as companions in family settings and know what’s expected of them as protection dogs.
His aim is bringing out their best qualities.
They need to be the proper bloodlines in addition to being raised in quality environments where they trained for up to two years.
It’s a process that includes special attention paid to breeding. In Germany, to breed bloodline German shepherds, they must have passed a Level 1 Schutzhund, or IPO test, as well as a genetic test or breed survey.
Once sires have bred 30 females they are genetically tested again.
Physically, they have a wonderful build with a cooperative temperament.
Michael, at the age of nine started what would become his life long passion for training, titling and showing of the German shepherd dog. He has been employed by the German government to train their dogs for guard.
Jeannette, in 1992 I imported her first German shepherd who was a male, show line, Schutzhund-titled, IPO3, and FH-titled dog. He was a top son of the famous Enzo von der Burg Aliso.
So, the journey began.
At Wüstenberger-Land K9s, it is Michael and Jennifer’s mission and passion to breed the best bloodline German Shepherds that families will love. Furthermore, a elite German Shepherd that will be your friend for life!
Families often ask if they should choose a male or female. It’s a matter of personal preference, one is not necessarily better than the other.
A subtle difference is that males are generally more protective of their surrounding territory while females are more protective of their families.
Quality breeding is the foundation for the most distinguished dogs as noted in the history of the German SV:
Right from the beginning, the selection of the female breeding dogs was valued above all. Breeders were instructed to report not only individual animals, but complete litters to the pedigree office.
Development takes place physically but also emotionally.
Michael and Jeannette pay close attention to a dog’s behavior, needs, and stay current on the latest research.
Puppies: although cute and active, it’s important not to stress them physically or you’ll risk damaging hips and elbows until they mature. Be careful to not let them jump or run up and down stairs despite the energy they have.
All German Shepherds, female or male, should not be spayed or neutered until after 24 months of age.
Competition dogs will need to learn to relax and decompress so they can bond easily with families
This is a key moment in a German Shepherd’s success. The Wusterberger-Land philosophy includes letting the dogs have fun while learning and to handle their tasks without any associated stress.
Michael spent the early part of his career training dogs for German law enforcement and a high-pressure atmosphere. He learned what it took to keep a calm and steady even in the midst of sounds like explosions and the bursts of gunfire.
His approach is drawing up a full routine but breaking it down and teaching the dog one step at a time. The dog is never rushed and advances to the next steps when ready. Meat treats, toys, and jumping one-meter hurdles and A-frames are part of guiding the dog into performing a full routine.
This approach bolsters their confidence and builds their trust in the people around them.
We understand what is important to you. A beautiful, pure breed German Shepherd dog. Grown up in a loving environment. Being feed only the best nutrition. Having a dog that can be a true companion for life.
Yup, you have come to the right place at Wüstenberger-Land K9s.
