My husband and I own two dogs from this breeder. Our first dog, Brock (4.5 years old), is an…read moreexcellent dog and was provided with complete AKC paperwork, as advertised on the website and stated in the contract. Unfortunately, our experience with our second dog, Nala, purchased in October 2022, has been very different and concerning. Nala was never provided with AKC registration paperwork, which does not align with the breeder's advertising, contractual terms, or Maine state laws.
Over the past 3.5 years, we have repeatedly contacted Kevin and Patti regarding Nala's missing paperwork. Patti has generally been polite and responsive. Kevin, however, has been dismissive, unprofessional, and, at times, insulting. Rather than addressing our concerns, we were blocked and removed from Lebenshunger's online platforms, preventing us from contacting owners of Nala's littermates. In Kevin's most recent correspondence, he stated that we were removed from their group due to what he characterized as "pissing and moaning," referring to our long-standing concerns
In addition to the missing paperwork, we have expressed concerns about Nala's temperament and behavior. Despite numerous inquiries, Kevin has failed to provide clear answers as to why Nala has no AKC documentation, other than stating he has been "working on it" for over three years. We have also been unable to obtain photos or information about the breeding parents or littermates.
As a result of this experience, we will not be purchasing from Lebenshunger German Shepherds again. We are currently researching and communicating with other German Shepherd breeders who demonstrate transparency, compliance with legal and contractual obligations, strong customer service, and a GENUINE COMMITMENT TO THE DOGS THEY BREED AND PLACE. Unfortunately, these are qualities we did not consistently experience with Kevin Schmersal at Lebenshunger German Shepherds, despite being repeat customers.
Daniel and Beverly B.