I would normally wait a little longer for a review of a breeder to see how the dog grows up, but confident enough to leave this one early. I saw there is a litter coming for Colt and Nica and my pup (Alice) was from their last one. She is the most remarkable puppy I have ever had (raised 10 puppies of various breeds) or even known of, do not hesitate to get one of their pups if you have a good home and sure you can handle a big working line shepherd. I'll break this into three parts: Facilities, Service/Care, and My Dog Facilities: The dogs are in beautiful peaceful countryside with tons of room to play outside and a nice converted horse stable for raising the puppies. Stephanie seemed hesitant about random visits, but don't worry for a second that it's because things aren't top notch at her kennel; I think she doesn't want to disturb the dogs too much and be able to focus on raising them which she does exceptionally well. Everything was clean and orderly, dogs had plenty of personal space, they were all clearly very happy dogs who led great lives. Never seen a more assuring dog farm and I see how spending her first and formative weeks there has helped Alice to be the remarkable dog she is. Service/Care: Videos were posted consistently on the day of the week she said and did a great job showing the development of the pups. I had one I thought the temperament on was best for me (yellow collar girl), but never know for certain from video clips. She provided temperament testing on all pups to confirm! I way over analyzed it as I am excessively thorough on those things, hid the dogs identification from myself so I wouldn't be biased, and sure enough the perfect one... yellow collar girl. I was third in line on girls though, so tried not to get my heart set on her (and failed to do so). On picked up day all of the pups were clean, but not in that just washed to cover up that they weren't kept clean kind of way; more in the clearly they were well cared for and maintain clean. Turned out one of the people before me backed out last minute and the other person chose one of the other pups... so that perfect yellow collar girl was all mine. She was just as remarkable in person and incredibly cute too (as if any of them weren't). Stephanie didn't rush at all and gave me plenty of time and space with the pups to be entirely certain and I did take some, but nothing changed my view.. I knew which one was meant for me. Truth is, they were all great pups, but thanks to the extra effort from Stephanie I was able to really find the best one for me and she has stayed true to expectations. My Dog: I've had some great dogs, so I don't say it lightly that Alice is on another level the best dog I've ever had. While I will take some credit as I've now got training really well down and this is the first dog raised since I started working from home, there is no denying her incredible natural abilities and temperament. When picking her up, Stephanie had said she should be able to hold through the night and would pick up housebreaking in a couple of days. Normally dogs aren't even able to physically do that (some may just be breed here), but she did something no dog has ever done.. Not a single accident ever. Not on day 1 or in the 5 months since. She picked up housebreaking immediately and even when she had some stomach problems (ate something bad), she absolutely would not go inside. I do have a good training method, but it's never had results like that. She also didn't just hold through the night, but she went in her crate when I asked at bedtime and not a wimper... ever. Every night of her life she has gone in the crate when asked and stayed quietly until I let her out in the morning. I could write a book on how remarkable this dog is, but you probably get the point - she is this good about everything and I feel like I am cheating when training her. Sub-section Health: This is where I'd usually want to wait longer, but Alice is clearly an incredibly healthy dog with no issues. Her hips are super solid and no hint of joint problems or other common issues for GSDs or any dog. So, in conclusion, if you are ready for a big working line german shepherd this is THE person to get it from. Just be sure you can handle the dog and provide it a good life. She has an incredibly strong drive and an everlasting endurance. If this is what you are looking for (I was) then they are perfect dogs, but if you want/need a dog that will be happy sitting on the couch watching tv most of the time (not saying she doesn't love this also; very protective of her tv) you may not have as good an experience. Alice and I walk a minimum of an hour a day and play tug pretty much non stop when I'm working during the day, and she is totally happy with all day hikes. She is also extremely social and is much happier when able to spend time around lots of people and other dogs. read more

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Ethical and knowledgeable breeder. AKC pups in a farm setting. Gorgeous and healthy parents. Love our pup so much already! read more

Von Ward Kennels - Big and handsome GSD pup... 24 lbs at 8 weeks - Pet Breeders Near Me

If this scale had more stars I would have selected them. Von Ward Kennels is where you need to go for your German Shepherd. I got two. I've never been happier. Beautiful dogs that were well raised. Amazing AKC bloodlines. Stephanie was amazing to work with and i think quite highly of her And her business. in particular there were three things that really stood out to me: her knowledge about the breed, that she only raises straight backed working GSDs, and that she'll refuse sale to people who aren't a good fit. Thank you again Stephanie! read more

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Amazing dogs. A breeder that truly cares about her dogs and their puppies. We adopted a dog that was "retiring", one of the best German Shepherds we have had. Even tempered, well behaved, a gentle giant and affectionate with family members. read more

Great breeder! Wonderful dogs!! Can't say enough good things. If you are looking for an excellent dog and a person that is easy to deal with, this is the place read more

I fell in love with Stephanie's dogs a year ago. Freyja has been the best thing that's ever happened to me. She has a perfect calm yet assertive temperament and turns heads wherever I go. She's great with humans young and old. Strangers compliment her on her looks (straight back), her perfect manners and agility. Freyja has changed my life and I'll be forever thankful to Von Ward Kennels! read more

Von Ward Kennels - Pet Breeders Near Me

Stephanie has been so kind and helpful with the process of getting a puppy. We never had a large dog before, but she took the time to answer all our questions and making sure we picked out the right puppy for the right household. Flash forward to finally getting our puppy! He was born on Christmas day of 2017! Koa is absolutely the best thing that has happened to us. When we first brought him home at 8 weeks old, he did not pee or poo inside the house! So impressive! He knew to pee outside in the grass, so potty training has been a breeze. He still hasn't had an accident in the house! How awesome is that?! Crate training was a bit tough, but it's like that with ALL puppies. However it only took him 4 days to finally sleep through the entire night. That's the fastest I have ever seen! Most puppies take the full week to two weeks! Also training him has been amazing!! He learns so fast! Each tricks only takes him 20 minutes to learn! He's the best puppy I have ever seen. Whenever we take him out, we get so many compliments! Kids and other dogs loves him. Stephanie does a really great job with all her dogs. They are well loved and trained. And I'm all about rescuing, but when you want a purebred German Shepherd that is healthy and well taken care of, you go to a breeder. And that is exactly what stephanie is. An excellent breeder. When we decide to get another German Shepherd we will only go to Stephanie!! I also would like to mention that koa goes to puppy training with 2 other von ward puppies, and they are just as a darling as he is. So that says a lot. All her puppies are consistent! read more

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In 2015 we contacted Stephanie in regards to finding the perfect German Shepherd for our family. Stephanie was extremely knowledgeable and informative about all aspects of the breed. Stephanie cares for her dogs so immensely, she makes sure that they all are going to a good home. She makes it clear that if for any reason you are unable to continue care for your pet, that she desires you to bring it back to her so she can rehome the animal. Even after we got out boy Zeus (now two & a half), we contacted Stephanie on multiple occasions to ask follow up questions, referrals & diet suggests. Stephanie is phenomenal and has exceeded our expectations. We have no doubt that when we are ready to add another dog to our family that we will be exclusively going to Stephanie at Von Ward. If you have questions, I encourage you to ask Stephanie- she is so kind & compassionate. She will absolutely make sure to find you the perfect dog. Best wishes to you Stephanie, and thank you for providing our family with so much love! read more

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My family and I had such an amazing experience today when we picked up our new puppy Logan. All of Stephanie's dogs are beautiful and so well mannered! We met many of her dogs and were so impressed. Stephanie is knowledgeable and cares for her dogs. Her kennels and everything were just immaculate. We are so happy and have had the best day with Logan. He will bring so much joy to our family for years to come. read more

Von Ward Kennels - Pet Breeders Near Me

It took me over two years of searching and looking for a German Shepherd Dog Breeder. Then I ran across Von Ward Kennels website, and surprise, it's in my area. I read Stephanie's site and my heart started beating quickly. I contacted her and set up a day to visit her and meet her dogs and see her kennel. As I visited I saw her property and how her German Shepherd Dogs lived. I was so impressed beyond what I already saw on her website. It was not a dog breeding business. It was a home with a passion for breeding true superior German Shepherd Dogs. I then came back a second time to meet Axel our Big puppy. He was perfect. We love Axel. He's calm, obedient, loving, kind, confidant, loyal, smart, protective in a non aggressive manner and so much more. I would be writing a book if I keep going on. I have met so many GSD owners that also got their GSD at Von Ward Kennels and everyone of them has given Stephanie (Von Ward Kennels) praises. Stephanie, thank you for your passion and I wish you continued success in breeding beautiful superior laGerman Shepherd Dogs. You are the true definition of a Breeder. read more

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We got our beautiful Layla from Von Ward Kennels a year ago. We had never owned a German Shepard before and I was anticipating a terror. She was nothing like that. She has a great temperament and already thinks she is our home security system. Lol. I'm sure we'll be back to see Stephanie when we're ready for our next Shepard. I would highly recommend Von Ward Kennels if you're looking for a great addition to your family. read more

Von Ward Kennels - Pet Breeders Near Me

So Thankful to the owners and operators of Von Ward Kennels. Stephanie has taken the time to research the best bloodlines in the German Shepherd world. She brings only the best into the bloodlines to the litters. She is very careful about what she feeds the adults and new litters to gain ultimate in nutritional adult and puppy results. I have seen some beautiful, strong and healthy pups come from Von Ward Kennels We are so proud to have bought our Ziva from Stephanie read more

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Vala has been one of the greatest sorce of joy in my every day life. I can not wait to get my next dog from stephanie. Believe me if I had a house vala would already have a friend. read more

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When my family and I first met Stephanie we knew she was all we had heard! We were looking for a beautiful bred Shepherd. We had been looking for a very long time. Looking at different breeders. Everyone who had known her had nothing but amazing things to say. They were all spot on with her. When we got to her property we were already in love with her land her set up of the dogs and the love she had. She is very knowledgeable about the breed. She answered all questions as she gave us a tour. We had never seen such well taken care and of animals absolutely beautiful and so healthy. At that point we knew we had chosen the right place. It has been a blessing knowing her. Our Monroe is the talk of everywhere she goes. We are so thankful and recommend Von award Kennels to everyone we know all the time. read more

Von Ward Kennels - Pet Breeders Near Me

Can't say enough wonderful things about Stephanie and her gorgeous dogs! We just adopted a puppy from her and we were so impressed with how well she cares for her dogs. She is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to GSD's. She even sent us with a goodie bag to get started with food, toys and treats. We are so excited to have our beautiful sweet pup! read more

We are a family with 1 elementary age child and 1 preschool age child. My husband and I have always known our dog of choice would be a German Shepherd when the time came to introduce a dog into our household. After much research, it was apparent that Von Ward Kennels is the best German Shepherd breeder to contact. Stephanie is a German Shepherd expert that runs her business with absolute professionalism. She guided us through the process of basic dog ownership plus German Shepherd specific must-know's... and for all you people out there that know German Shepherd's... Germans are like no other canine. Our GSD is now approaching 5 months and he's amazing. No matter where we go, our GSD is admired by everyone that crosses our path. He is absolutely stunning. We love our boy and Von Ward Kennels. read more

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I cannot say enough about Stephanie and Von Ward Kennels. She is a very caring person who raises her dogs ethically. She takes excellent care of both the parents and the puppies. The kennels are amazingly clean and the dogs are allowed to run free on the property during the day. She encourages visits to see her place before deciding to purchase from her. I loved that she will always take a dog back for any unforeseen circumstance. I volunteered with a GSD Rescue and fostered before deciding to purchase. I think the decision to Rescue vs purchase from a breeder is an individual one. I love my pup from Von Ward, he is the dog I have always wanted! read more

When I lost my beloved German Shepherd last June, I knew when the time was right, I wanted another GSD. Someone told me about Von Ward Kennels. I struggled with getting a dog from a breeder because so many dogs need adoption from shelters. But I also knew exactly what I wanted in A GSD and knew I could wait years trying to find what I wanted. I visited Von Wards one day. I had preconceived notions about breeders and Von Wards is NOT like that. The dogs are well cared for and loved. They obviously do what they do for the love of the breed. Thanks for my beautiful boy Stephanie ! read more

Von Ward Kennels - Pet Breeders Near Me

I've been raised around dogs all my life, mainly yellow labs. I got my first GSD from Von Wards Kennels almost 8 years ago and I will never get another dog anywhere but from Stephanie and Von Wards Kennels. Remi has been such a blessing to our family, my two sons(age six and three) adore her. She is the most intelligent, loyal and protective dog I've ever owned. Everywhere I take her people always tell my how beautiful she is. Last week a woman told me she was blown away how uniquely colored she is, she had never seen a "California blonde" Shepherd. read more

Von Ward Kennels - Pet Breeders Near Me

Stephanie is by far THE BEST German Shepherd dog breeder in the world!!! I have two of her pups, and they are the best ever!!! She does an excellent job and produces the best GSD anywhere!!! read more

We got our precious German Sheppard from Von Ward Kennels. Serenity is gorgeous and well mannered. A day doesn't go by without someone stopping me to tell me what a beautiful dog I have. Stephanie has also always responded right away when we had any questions about best practices for raising and caring for a healthy German Sheppard. She will also take back her dogs if you find yourself unable to keep them for any unforeseen reason. She will rehome your animal to a new loving home! I would highly recommend Von Wards to anyone looking for a German Shepherd. read more

We just added a new addition to our family from Von Ward Kennels. Our little (ha ..... pretty big already) nine week old fur baby Jake is already an amazing puppy. Stephanie breeds awesome, very healthy, well behaved puppies (already at nine weeks) and we highly recommend Von Ward Kennels if your a German Shepherd lover like we are. Her Kennels are like a resort for these little guys. We will definitely be adding to our family of fur babies when the time is right and look forward to our future visits out there. Stephanie is very friendly and extremely knowledgeable about every aspect of Germans. Thank you Stephanie! It was a great experience! read more

In August 2013 I lost my beloved German Shepherd Bella after an unbelievable effort to try and save her even though she was nearly 12 years old. My heart was beyond broken for months. I literally cried ever day and I will always always miss her. In December 2013 I met my Meredith 'Meri' Christmas, a beautiful Von Ward black and tan German Shepherd puppy. Stephanie at Von Ward was wonderful. I asked tons of questions and was so nervous about getting another German Shepherd. But I knew I needed that giant shepherd head and body to hug again. And more importantly than my own healing was my other dog Piper. We had also lost our Golden Retriever Lab Ginger in March of that same year. My rescue dog Piper had been through so much and literally walked around the house crying. Then we got our Meri and we healed. Stephanie's knowledge of the breed and love for her dogs is so wonderful. I love all dogs but if I could have more than my two I now have, I would have as many Von Ward dogs as possible. I can't recommend Von Ward more. They are amazing breeders and their dogs are simply perfect! read more

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Stephanie at Von Ward Kennels is an extremely knowledgeable and conscientious breeder -- her dogs, both adults and puppies, are provided exceptional care. The facility is one of the best I have ever seen. She genuinely cares about each and every dog she owns as well as the puppies . If you want a wellbred puppy you can't go wrong contacting Von Ward Kennels. read more

Stephanie & Von Ward Kennels is the very best of the German Shepherd breed. Breeds only the healthiest, best temperaments. She truly loves each & every puppy. She gives support above & beyond after you purchase your puppy. We will ALWAYS have a Von Wards dog in our home... read more

Stephanie is honest, ethical, and caring. I searched for two years trying to find someone who was breeding German shepherds with health as a priority, and that's when I found Von Ward Kennels. Everything they do has the well being of the dog in mind, including being picky about who can have a puppy. My two babies have great temperament, great protective instinct, and absolutely love being around us and our friends. I have truly never seen someone who cares so much and puts the pets first. Her kennels are large and clean, and the dogs have acres of property to run and play on. I will always recommend Stephanie to anyone who wants the perfect family dog. read more

Stephanie of Von Ward Kennels is a breath of fresh air. She is honest, trustworthy, and truly cares about the well being of all her dogs. She breeds beautiful, well tempered GSDs to maintain the amazing characteristics we all love of the breed. You don't have to worry about interbreeding or poor hips. Stephanie goes the extra mile for her dogs and ensuring you're matched with your perfect puppy. Our dog Kiera is the best dog we could ever ask for, and we are so grateful to Von Ward Kennels for breeding such a perfect baby! read more

I've heard nothing but good things about Stephanie and her dogs. She seems to really care and take pride in what she does. I emailed her towards the end of the year letting her know I'll be making a visit sometime this year, and she replied that she is looking forward to it. Her dogs are beautiful, and I can't wait to add another German Shepherd to my one dog pack lol read more

We purchased our German Shepherd from Stephanie about 5 years ago and I can't say enough amazing things about Stephanie and our beautiful dog! We have small kids and wanted to make sure we were getting the highest quality dog with a great temperament and drive. We visited many breeders but after we met Stephanie and saw her amazing ranch, we were sold. If you are looking for the perfect German Shepherd, there is nobody who takes more time and care into producing the most beautiful and well tempered dogs than Stephanie. She is also a wonderful person and made the entire experience so seamless and fun! We can't thank her and Von Ward Kennels enough! read more

After a terrible experience with a different breeder and a puppy with hip dysplasia, we set about doing extensive research and visiting over a dozen breeders in the area before choosing a new pup. After seeing many filthy kennels, borderline puppy mills, and very unhealthy looking dogs we were losing hope for the German Shepherd breed and even considered going with a different kind of dog. That's when we found Stephanie and Von Ward Kennels. The first word that comes to mind is ethical. Her goal is clearly not money or show ribbons, but to take the breed back to what it originally was, a solid built working dog that also doubles as a loyal and gentle family pet. Her kennel is impeccably clean, well ordered, and professional. Her dogs are straight backed, sound, gorgeous, and the most affectionate German shepherds I've ever met. We purchased a sweet little male puppy from her who is now 2 years old. He has grown up to be strong, and healthy with no medical problems whatsoever. His temperament is incredible, he's brave, but also kind, loving and patient with my children and other pets. I've had GSDs my whole life and he stands apart as the best one yet. People stop us all the time to admire him and ask about his breeder, which is probably why she sells out and has a wait list, her reputation from clients precedes her. Thank you Stephanie, for working to save this special breed and putting happiness into people's lives with these wonderful pups! read more

Responsible dog breeders succeed through their reputations. Producing puppies for sale is not as easy as breeding two dogs in one's backyard and placing an ad in the local paper when the puppies arrive. Some of the factors involved include meticulous research into the health and other records of the sires and dams, medical testing to ensure they are in good health before each breeding, health checks during the gestation period, assisting the whelping, and more checks as the puppies develop to ensure they are healthy and ready to go to their new homes. Stephanie Ward excels in her responsibilities, not least in keeping her kennel in excellent condition. She more than earns the fee she collects for each puppy. Further, Stephanie, as with all reputable breeders, is committed to bettering the breed. When I interviewed her prior to purchasing my puppy she also interviewed me to determine my ability to care for a German Shepherd. My boy is turning three years old soon and is the best companion I could ever hope for. I highly recommend Von Ward Kennels for serious buyers who want the best possible when selecting a German Shepherd puppy. read more