 |  | | | Crooked River German Shepherds | | | Specializing in Longcoated German Shepherds | |
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August 31, 2011
Hi Kelly, Just a update on our Honey Bunny, She is such a joy and wonderful addition to our family!! She and Skeeter play for hours on end. She loves the pond which is about the same size as her! She is sooo happy and good natured. She goes and waits for Chris to come home when it's getting time for him to arrive from work. I say, where's your daddy, go see if he's home and she looks out the front door and climbs on the swivel rocker in the front entrance room and looks all around for him! She gets so excited when either of us come home, even if it's only a 1/2 hour or so!! She has been wonderful and sooo patient with Skeets who can try her patience cuz he is such a Puppy! She lays on the couch with me and snuggles and the same with Chris. She loves the bed, the love seat couch, the chair you name, it she is on it! We tell her she is the queen and she can do what she wants. I haven't made any plan yet to get her fixed, I want her to settle in as long as I can. I think her and Skeeter will go in together sometime around end Oct or beginning of Nov. I find myself as excited to come home from work to see them as they are to see me it's funny!! Take care and as always THANK YOU! Kim
 
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June 12, 2011
My Story of how Rocko came into my life.
Nugget was a tiny 1.8 pound, two week old, American Bulldog puppy. She came
to me suffering from severe aspiration pneumonia. Her mom died just two days
after giving birth so the puppies were all being bottle fed. Being the worst
of five puppies, her owner decided to have her euthanized, as she was so
very sick and without the means to treat her condition, they had no other
option.
As I held her, I felt her little soul in my heart and hands, I knew she
wanted to live, I knew she needed me to make that happen. So I asked them if
I could just try to save her, they gratefully allowed me to take her and
give her the chance to prove herself.
After a few long weeks of sleepless nights filled with breathing treatments,
oxygen therapy, tube feedings, antibiotics and a whole lot of love, she
pulled through and went on to be a happy, healthy, energetic puppy! We had
quite the bond, that Nugget and I. Everyone that met her fell in love with
her, she was just so happy and friendly. She was top of her class in basic
obedience, destined for bigger and better things! She had so much potential
as a Canine Good Citizen, and we began exploring our options in certifying
her in therapy dog work and agility training.
Until that fateful day two weeks before her six month birthday. She woke me
up in the early morning hours having a seizure. My heart broke for her,
after all she had been through, after all she had over come, she didn't
deserve this.
Her seizures progressed quickly from bad to worse, she began having clusters
of them, at least 6-10 at a time, this cycle would last for one to two
hours. I finally took her to see a neurologist where she had an MRI and a
Cerebral spinal fluid tap. All her tests came back non-conclusive, no
answers for all this, we would never understand why this started, why she
had to endure all this.
Two long weeks after her seizures began, after all the testing, several
seizure meds, anti-inflammatory meds, and antibiotics, and literally my life's
savings totally depleted, I had to make the most difficult, painful decision
I had ever had to make. I had to end her suffering. I saved her once, I
could not save her again. All the love I had for her wouldn't fix her, the
best neurologist in the state couldn't fix her. I had to say goodbye.
I know that my Nugget had more friends and knew more love than a lot of dogs
ever get to know in a lifetime. I find comfort in knowing that. She was very
much loved by all.
For another two weeks after losing my Nugget, I slipped into a deep
depression. All I did was go to work, come home and lay on the couch and
fall asleep. I lost all interest in life as I knew it. Losing that pup that
I had put so much into was more than I could take and I didn't know how to
deal with it. It finally took my son, who was also finding it hard to deal
with, to bring me up from this painful low. He asked if we could PLEASE get
another puppy? A German Shepherd puppy?? I said no way! No more puppies, I
couldn't stand to do all this again. My heart can't take it.
After a while I started thinking that I can't go on like this, it's not at
all fair to my son, who was so wonderful during everything, and our other
pets were being a little neglected also. I had to do something, so I
thought, well, it couldn't hurt to look, right? Put the word out, see what
was out there.
Enter Rocko:
I had searched the internet for German Shepherd breeders in Ohio, found a
couple and sent out a few e-mails.
The first one to respond was kind, caring, and sympathetic to my story. She
seemed to really understand what I was going through. And it seems my timing
was just about perfect, she had an 11 week old male GSD that was recently
returned, he just didn't "fit" into the other persons household. Along with
the e-mail came his picture. His eyes just went right to my soul. I promised
myself I was 'just looking'. I convinced myself that I was going to find
something wrong with this pup, that I simply would not fall in love with
him.
We made arrangements to meet that following weekend, and well, the rest is
history, as they say.
Of course, as soon as our eyes met, I was done. Although at this point, I
was still trying to convince myself that I was NOT bringing this pup home.
We met both his parents, and watched him interact with the other dogs. I
held him, rolled him around, did every thing I could to elicit a negative
reaction. I found absolutely nothing wrong with him, in fact, he seemed
perfect. The only question was, he's got some pretty big shoes to fill,
could he do it? His eyes said it all; it was like he understood, I would
swear that he said "yes".
The little guy bonded with my son and I right away. I took him in for a full
physical the next day and he passed with flying colors. I took him to my
trainer next. As soon as they met, I knew I had a good one. He said "Deb,
you know we all loved Nugget, right?" I said yes, he then said "but this is
the perfect dog for you."
We have graduated basic obedience and start the advanced class in a couple
weeks, as well as Canine Good Citizen training.
I can truly say that Rocko helped save me. He helped pull me from that
downward spiral of depression. He gave me a reason to function again, gave
me a purpose, gave me a reason to smile and be happy once again.
They say everything happens for a reason, and I usually believe in that. I
had a hard time finding that reason when I lost Nugget, but in losing her, I
learned a few lessons, and her loss opened the door for Rocko, for without
her, I never would have met him. And through him I have met some wonderful
people, people that have made a difference in my life, people I am proud to
call friends.
Thank you my Nugget, you will always be loved, and thank you Rocko for
saving me.
Debby
 
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August 26, 2011
Hi Kelly:
I wanted to share updates on how Major is doing. We are so very pleased with our pup and everyday we experience something new with him. He is now 7 1/2 months and keeps growing. We took him to Niagara Falls and everyone stopped just to see him and pet him. They were taking pictures of him at the same time of the falls. Too funny. We're in Canine Good Citizen Class now and he is very bored. I have never had a dog train so easily as he was housetrained before 3 months and stopped crating him after 5. He is the hit of our neighborhood. He's already been to work with me in the department and the officers love it when he comes around to visit. He has attended a few military activities and brought so many smiles to so many faces. Such a good sound temperament and always happy to see everyone. Once he receives his TDI we can do more at our local veterans hospital and other outreach centers. I look forward to future litters as we would love a little girl for Major.
Cindy
 
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September 7, 2011
Hi Kelly -
There are a couple people that live in an A frame across the street and down a bit. They are 'weekenders' and friends of another couple that live on the lake. Each couple have 2 goldens. They take them to an empty field/meadow like to run and I think we'll join them next time. But, first have to introduce the woman to the big man, Jiles. She has made comments to a friend that he is so big and fierce looking and he barks so loud!! Yup, that's my boy. Of course, a few of those 'intrude alert' bellows that she has heard from him have been about her dogs roaming in our woods too!
Love all the pictures of these guys on facebook. Somehow, though, seeing them by themselves you don't really get the full impact on how big they are!
Dorothy
August 21, 2011
Kelly
It's his temperament that is so great. My grandson Adam, 10, got down in the play position with him last week Sunday. Jiles just tried to lick his face and his ears. Adam went nuts laughing, giggling, screeching, having a great time. Deanna, 5, could practically ride him but has no fear of him whatsoever. Yet, a couple of guys, working on a neighbor's house came over and knocked on the door. Oooops. They back pedaled in a hurry! and wouldn't come in. He is very fearsome on the other side of the door, with a voice that can really bellow!!
He has not been neutered yet, but will be as soon as the vet thinks he's grown enough. Ha! How much more will he grow!!
Dorothy
 Jiles 15 mos old and still growing.
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August 15, 2011
Hi Kelly,
Good to hear from you.
Rockie( her name changed when we saw her) is doing very very well. She is adorable as well as beautiful. I will send you a picture.
She is a piece of work though but we love her. She runs in the wood with me every day and keep the other runners away LOL!! She is a real good family dog getting along very well with my Lola.
She loves sleeping on the stairs of the pool, her belly fresh in the water... She started to swim and really enjoys it:)
Have a good day.
Sophie.
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Jimmy Choo is a very special pup.
August 6, 2011
Look at him at 7 months - he is now 75lbs and you would never know he was soooo tiny as a pup. Goes to show what extra special TLC and a very special person (my mom) can do.
 
Growing up - he is just so darned cute, isn't he.
 
January, 2011
He started to thrive and grow when his new owner (my mom) took him home and provided extra special TLC.
 
He was only 2 lbs at 5 weeks old and fit in my pocket
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May 16, 2009
Hi,
Just came from the vet from Panzer's annual checkup. He weighs about 110lb and everything is great. The vet said Panzer is awesome.
Thanks
Senthoor
December 19, 2008
  
October 10, 2008
  
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May 28, 2009
November 4, 2008
Hello Kelly,
There are some pictures of sonny taken last week. We got another dog, a female golden retriever in September to play with sonny. They get along very well.
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October 14, 2008
Hi Kelly,
How are you? Heidi is doing super .She is the best dog ever.She got potty trained very fast too..When I get home I'll send you couple of pics from my phone(have to hook it).She 's almost 60 pounds now and today she has her first professional nail clipping.I don't mind doing it myself but years ago I did it myself and once hurt my dog.I think I cut it too short.
Heidi is also very course very loyal and she follows me everywhere.My boss also agreed I could bring her with me to work on the days I have to be there.
Have a great day
Anya
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April 10, 2009
 
 
December 13, 2008
  
 
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May 28, 2010
Hi Kelly,
Neika couldn't be doing better :) She's perfect and she's an almost full time house dog except for her walks and play time...She sleeps in my bed every night also hahaha
I have to get you pics ASAP...your pup is a beautiful girl now and her health has been perfect...A million thank you's truly :) You made our family complete again and we love her :)
My brothers health has been rough and he will be needing a kidney transplant soon...he's been through so much...
I will keep in much closer contact...we owe ya so much Kelly:)
Thank you thank you :)
Pics ASAP, definitely :)
Truly my best,
Jeffrey
June 17, 2009
Hi Kelly,
Very sorry for the delay in contacting you.
I can not thank you enough for allowing my family to adopt Neika, she has acclimated perfectly within our household.
The vet was extremely impressed with her, and she's been started on a vitamin regimen (as prescribed by the vet) to greatly lessen any potential future hip/joint issues.
A funny thing about the name, while going through the paperwork, my mom noticed that our original alpha Sheba's mothers name was Dominique, so Neika's given name Dominica (please excuse my spelling) seems all the more fitting.
Sheba was our first female back in 1974 or 75, and has always held a very special place with my mother as the greatest dog we've ever had, and has often referred to her as her (my mom's) "sister."
I'm terribly embarrassed by my lack of contacting you, but there had been a misunderstanding, and I had believed that my brother or my dad had been in contact with you.
I'll be updating you soon.
Sincerely,
Steve from NJ (and of course Neika too)
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Hi Kelly,
It was great meeting you, your mom and your dogs last night. I still can't stop thinking about Draven! My husband and I talked about him a lot, lol. He has always been more of a Malamute person and I the GSD person so I had to convince him we would find a well bred GSD. But when he saw Draven he said he would have taken him in a heartbeat or one like him. In fact he agreed that when you breed Draven, especially if possibly producing long haired blacks, to please put us on the list! We are very serious.
The pup is doing great! The kids were quit excited and really love him. He slept in my baby's co-sleeper, lol. She never uses it and ends up in bed with us so we thought why not put it to use. This way he was next to us but not in bed with us. Well..until morning, lol. He held it all night just fine. Only one partial pee accident today and that was my fault as I lost track of time after he ate and drank. He has went pee, and even poop once, every time I took him out. He loves the baby and keeps laying by her. Probably thinks she is a funny looking pup, lol.
He follows me everywhere and whines of course but overall he is doing very well. We are pleased with him. Thank you for your time with us and for him. I will keep you updated. Pics are attached. They're not the best as the lighting was not good and I don't think I had my camera settings right.
Take care,
Jennifer
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August 31, 2009
Kelly; Here are a couple of photo's from last week. His weight is exactly 100 #.
Bob
February 17, 2009
Kelly; Here are some updates. Zeus is finished with his formal training now. He is the most challenging dog we have ever had. He will do what you tell him but if he don't like it he will give you a little lip. I can get him to stay in the place command when one of us is in sight but if we leave he can't stand it and will follow.He wants you in sight all of the time.
As you know he gets brushed every day, we took him to the groomer and she gave him his first bath. I would like to have a video of that.
We had him to the vet to be weighed, the same day as bath, for his heart worm med. He weighs 79 pounds now.
He looks like a fully grown dog and its hard to remember he is still a puppy.
Best Wishes Bob
January 28, 2009
Hi Kelly. I had my final puppy wellness check up on Tuesday and I am fine. I now weigh 58 pounds and getting bigger every day. Both of my ears are standing up now.
I get brushed every day and I am putting up with it but I would MUCH rather be doing almost anything else.
I started my formal training last week and I now sit and stay, tonight I am going to have my next lesson. I will have 5 more after this one.
I am attaching some current photo's of how big I am getting and 1 of the house I own.
Zeus
January 6, 2009
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March 11, 2010
We had to put Arce Girl to rest today. She was a beautiful girl with the sweetest way about her. We will miss her.
She can now play with Dozer.
Paul
CRGSD's Note: Arce had eaten something that caused a blockage in her intestines. Due to the heart murmer she had it was decided not to chance surgery. Rest in Peace Arce!
January 19, 2010
 Hi Kelly,
Arce is doing great. She is a VERY lovable sweet little girl who steals everything! Every day we have to go out and retrieve her "booty" from the kennel...socks, shoes, pants, shirts, grandkids toys, etc.,etc.,etc...Her 1 ear is up some days and down some days. She snores when she sleeps...and her tail is too long...it drags on the ground! But like I said...she is loveable and an awesome dog! Her and Diesel are so much fun to watch as they learn how to play together...sometimes all around the back yard like race horses and sometimes just the lazy laying around play...They are a MAJOR source of amusement for us!!!
Dozer (my big ole boy) hasn't bonded with her...maybe 10 times a day she starts licking his face...all he does is show teeth and maybe growl...and she drops to the floor...flat...in this totally submissive position.. then a while later the same thing all over...when they are all outside he'll run around the yard with them and sometimes even play with them...but in the house he doesn't want to be bothered!
Do you use one of them "waste" digester things for your dogs? I've started looking into them but don't know anyone who uses one.
When is your next litter? WE will be getting another female in the spring and really love Arce girl. Let me know if you are planning a litter and how much you will be asking.
Thanks,
Paul
November 17, 2009
Hi Kelly,
I got the check...thanks.
Here's a few pictures of Arce Girl...ears up...ears down...
She's an awesome little puppy. Very playful at times...very smart all the time. She's already mastered simple commands. Dozer isn't real excited about her but a simple snarl or curled lip keeps her away. We got another little puppy to keep her company! (we're still interested in one of your awesome puppy's in the spring) He's a shiloh (which to us means he's a lighter colored gsd.) They are already best friends...to the point that they are getting inseperable and play together whenever they are awake...regular childhood sweethearts! Diesel is a couple weeks older.
It will be a hard thing when the inevidable occurs...but we wanted the best for Arce Girl...we're such saps...
Thanks for everything,
Paul
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January 8, 2010
Kelly, Thanks for the update. I'm going to send you a recent picture when I get back to my work computer, but right now I am wondering if Dante has an AKC number. I'm looking into joining a GSD club and they ask for it on their form. By the way, I am enjoying the heck out of him. He has discovered the squirrels and birds in our yard, and it looks like he should be in agility classes. I have a row of arborvitae out in my yard and he zigzags through them when he is outside. He is such a happy puppy, and I am a very happy owner. Connie
Have a great day!We are happy, Kelly. I just told my mom he doesn't like me talking to my friend Kevin on the phone. He wants to be the only man of the house! It is a blast building a life with him. Lots and lots of fun, really. He is learning and playing, and is very smart. Helluva a strong jaw, though. Jaws of steel!
You continue to be a great resource and contact. Thank you so much. Connie
January 8, 2010
  These were taken within the last two weeks.
Little bugger got into his kibble just a few minutes ago while I was out of pocket. I'd say he has a very full belly. New nickname: (Devil Dog Dante). Smile.
Honestly, he is a blast and a half. Over the holidays he made his second appearance at a dance competition. Everyone there thought he was j These were taken within the last two weeks.
Little bugger got into his kibble just a few minutes ago while I was out of pocket. I'd say he has a very full belly. Honestly, he is a blast and a half. Over the holidays he made his second appearance at a dance competition. Everyone there thought he was just amazing. I keep telling everyone how wonderful his breeder was, how well prepared is was.
Everyday he gets more beautiful.
Let me know if the pictures don't come through. Connie
November 11, 2010
a happy little guy.
Just for kicks and grins.
Connie
October 26, 2010
 Hi Kelly, I just wanted to let you know that you were right about how wonderful a traveler this puppy would. You were right. I have to give you a lot of credit-he is so adaptable, so open, very level in his behaviors. He frets to settle himself to sleep, frets in the car when he needs to have a rest stop. We had no trouble with him in the hotel. He pottied outside every time. As I started out on the final leg of my trip and Kevin headed home to Wisconsin, Dante laid down on the passenger seat and slept. He wasn't climbing all over me for attention, just happy to be there, happy to go where ever we were headed together.
This morning as I got ready, he was desperately trying to lay down for a nap, but wanted to sleep by my feet. Every time I moved, he got up to reposition himself. Finally, after he had to move half a dozen times, he looked at me and told me he needed rest! At that point he gave up and laid down a few feet away-where he could still keep an eye on my comings and goings.
You prepared him wonderfully well to go out into the world He is quite a good citizen. You should be proud of your methods. If you ever need a recommendation on that score, let me know. What an easy transition! Since home he introduced himself to my mom and several other people. No jumping, no yapping, demanding constant attention. Just a gentleman. He sad down in front of them all to meet and greet. He's frisky, happy and very well mannered.
Now that you have my accolades, you should also know that my vet Kathy checked him out and she found him very sound. We talked about testing his hips and neutering, and will do both at 2yrs so that hopefully he will only need to be sedated once for both procedures. She had a question for me about when you take your puppies off of puppy kibble and start them on adult dog food. Her concern was with long bone pain. She said that there had been a study on Lab puppies where they grew them lean-to avoid this problem. Half were grown lean-controlled, healthy amounts-taking it up after 20 minutes. Then switching the lean eaters to adult food at 4.5 months-and the other half not. The siblings all achieved optimal size (90 lbs)-both the lean and heavy eaters. But the lean eaters didn't have the long bone pain issues. My last dog had a lot of problems with long bone pain. She's trying to help me avoid this for this fellow.
It seems like I had another question, but I'm going to go take a nap with the pup. We are tired.
Sincerely, Connie
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November 23, 2011
Kelly, I just cannot tell you how much I have fallen in love with my big lug of a dog. I absolutely adore him. He is just such a comfort to me, like a favorite sweater or a warm cup of cocoa on a cold winter day. I can't wait to get home every day from work to see him. He has been here for 5 months now and it just seems like he has always been a part of the family. He just fits in my crazy family so well.
He is everything I "never" wanted in a dog, but he has somehow managed to weedle his way so far into my heart and soul it is unreal. Let me explain that. LOL I never wanted a sable coated shepherd nor one that was a czech blocky type. I love the lythe look of the German working line german shepherd and I just love the black and reds. But along came Vasko and that is all she wrote. I am so proud of him and just stare at him all the time. His head is magnificent and he is such a character to live with. I honestly love everything about him. I feel totally lost and only half there when he is not riding with me in the car or walking with me at a store or laying by my side at night. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for bringing him into my life. He means more to me than I can ever express in words. He is one special boy.
Thank you Kel, you are a wonderful friend.
Sue
August 30, 2011
Kelly,
Vasko is such a great dog. I could not be happier with him. He loves my grandkids and spends long hours playing with them, especially the youngest, Jonathan. They tease each other to no end. It is so much fun watching them playing together. He loves people especially kids. Vasko is such a gentle giant and I adore him. Sue
 
August 6, 2011
Well you have outdone yourself with this guy. He is wonderful. He has the best nature and the most beautiful rich red coloring. I am in love with this big boy.
   
Isn't he too cute at 7 wks below - cant believe he is as big as he is now. 85lbs at 6 mos above - sheesh!
Sue
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February 2, 2010
Hello Kelly,
We took Ruben in for his second round of vaccinations yesterday. He is in great health and is up to 23.2lbs! We are all adjusting well. We exercise, play, and do obedience training everyday. He has also met a lot of new people and dogs and is doing well with the socialization. He has learned (some better than others) to sit, stay, come, shake, and lay down. He knows sit the best; the other dogs taught him that. He is very intelligent. I have to remind myself that he is still a puppy! It seems sometimes like he has skipped straight to adolescence but he is still all pup. I'll send another update and some pictures soon. The phone doesn't do him justice. His colors are really coming out!
Have you gotten any updates on his siblings? I am curious about their weight and how they are doing.
Have a great day!
Kevin & Jane
 
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May 6, 2010
Hi Kelly, sorry I didn't get back to you sooner! I kept thinking I would get around to downloading Samson's pics before I got back to you and time just got away from me.
Hi Kelly,
I just have to show Samson off, what a beauty he is! I'm not sure you remember or can keep everyone straight. One of the reasons we wanted Samson was to go with us to festivals and fairs when we are working our ice cream concession stand. This week is the Holland Tulip Festival and we took Samson for the first time. He did awesome! So many people wanted to know what he was, we had to put a note in the window telling his name what kind of breed, and how old he is. He got more attention then the ice cream! No one could believe he was only 8 mos. old. He is so calm and laid back and loves to have people pet him. I was also asked over and over again where we got him. I told them about your website. But I was wondering if you have any business cards you can send me and I would be happy to hand them out to interested people if you like.
We have not had him neutered yet, but will be making an appointment next week.(Had to wait for the money to start coming in for the season)!
Enjoy the pictures.
Lisa Tompkins
February 6, 2010
I can't believe he was ever little, he is turning into a big beauty! I was so surprised when I finely did the pictures at how much he has changed!
He is currently in what I call his sassy stage. If you tell him no, he just looks at you and give a little sassy hi pitch bark back at you. (At least I hope its just a stage he's going through.) He also uses his paws to get your attention. He's like a little kid pulling on your pant leg going mom, mom, mom. He just keeps throwing one front paw and then the other onto your lap if your sitting. When I'm at the sink doing dishes he will run his paw from my butt down to the floor. It's cute until he does it to hard and it hurts. He doesn't realize his own strength.
He loves to be outside. The cold doesn't seem to bother him at all. When he is ready to come in he takes his paw and scratches it down the window. It's like a sliding glass window only it swings in instead of back and forth. I can't keep it clean anymore!
I can't get him to sit still for a nice full body picture of him just sitting. How do I measure him the correct way to get his height? I have no idea what he weighs anymore, he was 58 lbs just after Christmas when we had him at the Vets for his last set of shots. He has grown alot since then. I would not be surprised if he was at least 80 lbs now.
I'm sorry again for taking so long on getting back to you. Please feel free to use any of his pictures on your website if you like. Lisa
October 6, 2009
What A Sweetie! Hardly a peep out of him on the ride home. He just sat on my lap and looked at us like he was interested in everything we had to say. He cat napped on and off, doing the headbob trying so hard to stay awake! We got home and took him out through our kitchen onto the deck. I went down the steps without thinking that maybe he had not used them yet! He was so funny, he went down kind of sideways. We didn't stay out long, I just wanted to give him a chance to go to the bathroom, but he wouldn't go. We knew he was hungry, went back inside he ate and drank. He whines and kind of whimpers as he is eating. Any idea why? We took him back out, he did much better on the steps. He pooed but I never saw him pee! Came back inside, he layed down under the kitchen table. I gave him his towel. Thank You what a great idea! That's where he is right now. Our little dog is not to sure of him, she barks at him if he gets to close. It didn't bother him, he's already tried to get her to play. I just wanted you to know we are home safe and sound. Your mom and dad were great, and thank you for the bag of goodies! Didn't expect that. I'll be sending picture soon.
Thanks again Kelly!
Lisa
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September 19, 2010
Stella is such a little smarty pants - she aced her AKC STAR PUPPY test today. I am so proud of this little peanut.
August 29, 2010
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Gunther
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
05/25/2010- Gunther - 9 months
Gunther's CGC certificate finally came in the mail today. I've attached a photo of it along with him wearing his medal, and couple others. As usual I get compliments on Gunther's beauty, and temperment everywhere I go. From Tractor Supply to Gander Mountain, everyone wants a "Gunther". He truly is the most awesome pup!
Take Care
Peggy
Just wanted to let you know Gunther passed his CGC test last night. Exciting stuff! He didn't appreciate going through all the exercises without being treated at all, but he kept plugging away. I asked the tester to do the TDI part, even though he can't officially test for it until he's 1yr, and he passed that part also. So I guess we go back in a few months and do it again.
We start our Intro to Novice Rally class tonight. The instructor said we should have no problem with it and should be competing by mid-Summer. Our tracking class starts in 2 weeks, and we're in an all day tracking clinic at the end of the month which is supposed to be a ton of fun.
On Sunday mornings we have joined a Schutzhund obedience class, since I couldn't find anything "obedience-wise" that was challenging. We get very bored with the usual "sit' "down" "stay" etc.... This I must say is our most fun class. Gunther is by far the youngest dog in the class (by a year), but sometimes shows up his older peers. The instructor loves him. She hopes that when he's old enough, 15 months, that we will try for our BH title which is the obedience test. Sounds good to me. We will be starting a tracking class with this club too. I'm not so sure about the bite work stuff, looks intimidating, but they assure me it's all very controlled.
Well that's the latest from the world of Gunther. He was 77lbs at 8.5 months.
I've enclosed photos of him chasing his ball over the horse jump. He loves it.
Have a great day, hope all is well.
Peggy and Gunther
April 9, 2010
Hello
We got our AKC medal in the mail today, and certificate. I made a big deal out of it, so Gunther knew it was something "special" and he wore it around all proud. I've enclosed photos of it, and some from Easter playing with my niece. The big boy will be 8 months Sunday. I'd guesstimate him to be about 75 pounds. I've been meaning to take him to the vet and throw him on the scale.
We are half way through our CGC class and he is once again the superstar. The instructor has talked me into trying competitive obedience with him. We are signed up for a workshop on heeling in a couple weeks, and are going to start private lessons next week. Hopefully we will be competing by Summer. He can do all the Novice A exercises, so I think it will be fun.
He has become a "Stage 5" cling on to me lately. I don't know if it's a phase, or is this is how it's going to be. I can't move 5 feet without him getting up and following. It's kind of funny. He's a complete mama's boy.
Oh my gosh he cracked me up today, the Fed Ex guy came up the driveway, so I went outside since the dogs were out there. Didn't Gunther climb up into the poor guy's truck and wouldn't get out! He just sat next to the driver's seat and wouldn't move. The guy and I were dying. I had to go in the truck and drag him out. The only thing I can think of is he thought it was the UPS guy, because that one always brings him a bone. Like you warned me, they definitely have a sense of humor!
Well enjoy the photos. Hope all is well with you and your pack. I'm so happy we have an early Spring!
Peggy and Gunther
March 27, 2010
With the gorgeous weather today I finally remembered to bring my camera outside. So here are his 7 month photos. As you can see, he is the most gorgeous boy on the planet
Enjoy
Peggy
 
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Hello
Tonight was our AKC STAR puppy test and Gunther passed with flying colors! Exciting stuff. We started the CGC class on Monday. Definitely going to be a bit more challenging, but I think we'll do just fine. We're also signed up for a "Tricks" class which starts in a couple weeks. Should be a fun one. The superstar is doing awesome. He's about 68 pounds at 7 months old. Absolutely adores children and has taken to his frisbee almost as much as chasing balls. I've been slacking on taking photos with my digital camera, I always seem to have my camera phone in hand instead. I do promise to take some this week. What gorgeous weather to do it! The one I've attached was taken a week or so ago. He has reallly taken a liking to my Paint.
Hey, does Gunther have an AKC number? It's supposed to go on this form that was filled out for the test tonight. I told the trainer I don't get his papers until he's neutered, but she thought you could provide me with his number.
Hope all is well
Peggy and Gunther
February 14, 2010
Happy Valentine's Day
The big boy is 6 months old today, so of course many photos had to be taken. He is totally a dog with ball-drive. Loves all balls of any shape, color, or size. He went into the horse pasture and stole the horse's jolly ball, and it has become one of his favorites. He loves to "jump" for it. You'll see what I mean in the attached photos. He's becoming more athletic, and less clumsy every month.
We take our AKC STAR puppy test March 2nd, and I'm quite confident that we will ace it. Gunther has already been claimed the star pupil by his peers, and the instructor wants us to continue with obedience or rally. I'm not sure what direction he'd like to go in, I think whatever involves the most yummy treats. Dustin's pushing for dock diving.
I think he's starting to become "protective" of his home. He has started to bark when someone knocks on the door, and his favorite place to lay outside is on the porch in front of the door. Or maybe he does this to be sure he's the first one to get pets if someone should come over. The UPS and Mailman have become his best friends, always giving him treats. He is definitely loved and complimented by all who meet him. He's such a sweetheart.
I apologize for all the photos, but I'm a very proud mom :-)
Peggy
 
February 1, 2010
Hello
Attached are photos I took today at 5.5 months. He's still a super pup. We all were assigned a "trick" to teach our puppy in our last class to perform in our next class. Ours is spin and turn. The genius learned it in a day. Now all I have to do is flick my wrist and he's off spinning. I can't wait to sign up for the tracking classes they offer in the Spring. He is starting to get that light colored line down his spine like Tuffi has, pretty neat.
I'm going to the Bahamas Thursday, and I'm already having separation anxiety. I've never been away from him for longer than 12 hours. I told Dustin he has to send me photos everyday.
Sorry for all the pictures. I couldn't decide on which ones to send. I wish a couple of them didn't come out blurry, but those action shots are tough :-)
Have a great week
Peggy
 
January 18, 2010
Hello
Well the big boy is 5 months old already. How time flies when you're having fun. He is still the sweetest pup ever. Even our new instructor (who shows her 4 GSD in obedience) commented on his sweetness, and said how lucky I was to have him. I'm taking him to the vet today to throw him on the scale. My guess is he has hit the 50lb mark. School is going well, and he has really taken a liking to fetching balls. The poor boy is in teething pain though. Yesterday he was pathetic, struggled to eat his meals and just slept a lot. This morning I wet his food with chicken broth and he gobbled it up. I opened his mouth and saw the size of the molars trying to come through, now I know why it hurts. It's too bad there isn't anything we can give them for the pain besides freezing rags and fruits/vegtables.
Hope the new year is treating you well. Please forward photos of his littermates if you receive any. I'd love to compare.
have a great week
Peggy and Gunther
1/1/2010 Happy New Year!
Gunther survived the Holidays, and is doing awesome. He was a trooper with all the different homes we visited, and the chaos that occurred in them. When feeling overwhelmed, he just found a cool floor to fall asleep on. Everyone that met him was very impressed by his great manners, and low key demeanor....especially for a puppy!
We continue to go to puppy socialization groups twice a week (there are actually 2 other long hair GSD in our group, and they all seem to stick together), and start our AKC STAR puppy obedience class next week. I know he will be the star! He enjoys going to the barn with me for breakfast and dinner feedings and tries to boss the horses around. It's funny though because as soon as they pin an ear at him, he goes running. I think he better stick to chasing the cats instead. He loves to watch me ride in the arena, sits very attentive for as long as I'm in there.
The one picture I've attached was so funny. He tries to squeeze himself into the mini's dog bed for naps. As you can see has was so tired he passed out balanced on his nose. I wish I had the video camera for that one. The others are from Christmas morning with his bone from Santa. Needless to say we are thoroughly enjoying every day with him. Wondered what we ever did without him. Now I completely know why you got into breeding them. One is definitely not enough!
Take care
Peggy
 
December 13, 2009
Hello Kelly
Here are some updated photos. The photo with all the dogs and Dustin is being used for our Xmas card. Gunther was very cooperative, as usual. He absolutely loved the snow we got last week. We are signed up for the AKC puppy obedience class which starts next month. He gets a medal from the AKC if he passes his testing on the final day. I think he will do awesome.
Take care
Peggy
 
November 30, 2009
Hello
Congratulations on your most recent litter. I hope all are healthy and happy. I can't wait to see photos.
Gunther is doing awesome! He has an A++ with housebreaking (no accidents and will hold it for 3-4 hours during the day). We are half way through obedience school and he sits, stays, comes, and downs. He has incredible concentration, and holds the eye contact forever. Working on heeling tomorrow night. The instructor is trying to talk me into getting into it seriously with him like competition-wise.
I hosted Thanksgiving here for 20 family members, and he was great. Loved my 2 year old niece, whom you'll see in the photos. Went on a wine tour Saturday, and brought him along since it would have been way too long to have him "hold it", and I figured it'd be great experience for him. He was a hit at every winery with the patrons and the owners (I've attached some photos from that also). My other son, whom you didn't meet was home from college (you'll see him in the one photo along with Dustin and I). He finally got to meet Gunther for the first time, and loves him. He said his roommate has an all black long hair female GSD. Maybe a match for Draven?
Take care
Peggy
   
November 06, 2009
Hello
You might regret telling me you didn't mind updates/photos :-) I just had to write you today after our first outing to the local farm/feed store, and Tractor Supply. Gunther stopped everyone in their tracks with his friendliness, and calm/quiet demeanor. I literally had one mother and daughter keep following me around the store in awe of how laid back he is for a puppy. The guy checking out in front of me at TSC, couldn't believe how young he was because he was so well behaved (he was asleep under the candy counter waiting for our turn). I had the most wonderful comments about him all day.
We went to the vet Tuesday. All went well. He weighs 17.5lbs. The vet says he is on the thin side, and she'd like to see more weight on him. He received his kennel cough intra-nasal shot so that we can start puppy obedience with him Tuesday evening. That should be fun. Dustin is very excited to take him and show off his good manners. He is doing awesome with the housebreaking. Hasn't had a single accident, and now cries when he needs to go out. Just need to work on him sleeping through the night. At this point I'd rather have him cry to go out, than clean up a messy crate. Rudy (my red head) and him have become really good buddies. They play for hours together in the morning, and outside in the afternoon. It's a riot that Gunther still lets him "rule the roost", but I kind of figured that might happen, he's a very dominant dog.
Well enough of my rambling. Enjoy the photos!
Peggy
  
October 29, 2009
Hello
Gunther is absolutely awesome! He is so smart, and such a quick learner. Housebreaking is going very well, only one accident since we've had him (which was my fault with a delayed response). Last night he only had to get out of his crate once to pee at 1:30am. My son has been taking him out on a "venture" every day to see different sights and people. I'm going to take him to the big pumpkin patch today to experience a lot of screaming/running kids. He has no interest in the horses, he'd rather investigate the cats while we're in the barn. The horses did give him a bath yesterday by licking him to death. He took it like a man. I'm not sure why they like to do that? He has already fallen into the routine of the household, with a lot of help from my bossy doxie Rudy. Gunther found out real quick who runs things around here, and seems to be okay with it. We haven't gotten him to the vet yet, that's on my list of calls to make today. I did clip his nails the other day, and we try to run the brush over him everyday (since that's not his favorite event). I've attached some photos, well okay more than "some". I have taken so many it was hard to decide which ones to send.
Have a great day
Peggy
  
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