At Vom Wildenlund we use only SV European Lines. We believe that the SV in Germany has done an excellent job at maintaining Max von Stephanitz's vision, that the German Shepherd Dog remain a working dog with the structure needed to perform work.

We have dogs that hold pink registration papers. These papers indicate that both parents and pup are registered with Schutzhund in Germany. They have VDH-recognized working titles (Schutzhund titles or HGH herding title) and hip certifications. Papers ensure that the physical and mental well-being of the breed is monitored.

Good breeding should contribute to and improve the German Shepherd Dog breed overall, not just breed pets. By doing extensive pedigree research and upholding a breeding code similar to the SV breeding code, we help maintain very high standards for the German Shepherd Dog breed.

When researching our breeding dogs, we are concerned with structure, pigmentation, intelligence, and temperament. Inbreeding is always avoided. It is very evident that our dogs are from Schutzhund bloodlines. We use only dogs that have health clearances including OFA certifications. They have great intelligence and excellent temperament so they work hard when necessary and are easily able to socialize when not working.

Before dogs leave Vom Wildenlund, they receive socialization, some obedience training, and some training in tracking if required. We pay close attention to their abilities so they can be matched appropriately with owners. We take time to determine if the dog's temperament is hard, soft, or in between. Our goal is to help you select a dog that matches your needs. We take time to determine the dog's level of play drive and retrieve drive and to help them develop appropriately. Our mothers and puppies have good nerve, which enhances trainability.

When a puppy is taken home, it's a good idea to have a few toys to make the puppy's life interesting. It's also helpful to expose your new puppy to the many sights and sounds that make up its world. It is okay to let your puppy visit with people, but try not to allow people to fuss over or play extensively with your new puppy. It's enough that your pet is friendly. Your dog needs to learn that the world and the people in it are nice, but it doesn't need to become the social highlight of the day.

Join a local Schutzhund club to learn how to develop working drives. Obedience exercises can be molded at a young age through motivation. Remember that your dog is a puppy and not a machine.