I'm am taking in to consideration all the flags - I'm not "stuck on" this particular kennel. However, I wanted to put forth all the information (including puppy bloodlines) before I made a decision. So far almost all the "flags" have been based on their training *pictures* - and, yes, I know a picture says a thousand words, but I wanted opinions on the puppies available as well, not just perceived training techniques. I hesitate to say this, because I know some people will jump on me for this, but I simply cannot afford a dog over 1000 at this moment in time. I know there is a "get what you pay for" involvement, but I just wanted to research thoroughly. I'm not in an all-fire hurry to get a puppy RIGHT NOW, as I already have Bodo to practice training on, but I do want a puppy eventually, and this opportunity arose. It would be irresponsible for me not to do this research, and if I continue to ask questions, it's not because I'm fishing for the answer I "want" but because I want to be thorough. If anyone has another suggestion for a local kennel (I want to be able to go see my puppy before I take it) that is within my current budget, I'm all ears. I do appreciate everyone's input, but I don't appreciate the insinuation that I'm not taking everything said into account.

Thanks again for the help.
Kameron

Kameron,
I am simply giving you friendly advise.Yes we are basically giving you advise from photos & video.You have to understand that some of us have made plenty of mistakes in the past and know quiet a few other that have done the same thing.Just want you to learn from that that's all.Look , breeders that have such bad photos and websites and are iffy, how do you think they are taking care of their own dogs? Some breeders will tell you their website is very important ,it reflects on them and their dogs.Putting bad photos(telling ones) is just a hint of the rest.I know I said you get what you pay for , not meaning you have to pay lots of $$$$! Simply that watch what hands you put your money into.I know you want to be able to go and see the pups and the dogs.Why not go see this kennel in question and be the judge.I don't think you can go wrong by going to look for yourself.Don't take the advise in the wrong way, I hope you find what you are looking for and it's a great experience for you , nothing less..

I really think the best way to choose a breeder is to visit several different breeders, if you can. That way, you have several options and you have something to compare to. Some people with wonderful websites have terrible dogs, and some people have terrible websites and wonderful dogs. That being said, having seen some iffy website content, you should go in with a little suspicion. It'll be better to mistakenly blow off a good breeder than to ignore the signs and make a mistake.

I ignored my gut instinct when we bought Bella (the little one in the picture with the bald neck). I ignored all the warning signs, filthy kennels (it must be hard to keep on top of cleaning with a litter on the ground), anti-social dogs (well, aren't they supposed to be reserved with strangers?) and as for the purchase, no questions asked (maybe it's just be obvious that I'll be a good dog owner?)). This time around I was really picky and willing to wait, and now I'm getting exactly what I wanted.

Take your time, talk to a lot of people, and trust your instincts.

Here's the thing with breeders. The best trainers get the best dogs, because the best breeders don't want their dogs going to just anyone, they want the dog going to where the dog will achieve something. If the training sucks, generally the dogs they have suck too because nobody in their right mind would give a crap trainer a brilliant dog.

And bloodlines aren't everything A crap dog might produce good pups, a good dog might produce crap pups, it all depends what they have produced before. The best kennels are kennel names you will have heard of because their dogs will have achieved something, and kennels who breed good dogs directly out of those kennels. There are exceptions, but generally speaking... "if the dog is so great, then why has nobody heard of him?". There are exceptions, n not everybody needs a world champion pup, but the lower in quality and reputation you go the more likely the nerve issues and training problems you will encounter shall be.

As for your $1000 budget, it is very possible to get a pup for $1000 that'll do what you want, but you need to have the right contacts to know who is breeding good $1000 puppies.

Thanks, everyone. I do appreciate all the input. I'm still researching...if anyone knows of a kennel/breeder in TX (preferably near San Antonio, but I'll drive anywhere in TX) to recommend, please do so (privately if you want.) I still want to stay well under $1000, and would rather stick around the $700 mark or less (if you are near San Antonio, I could throw in a rhino - or some other zoo - encounter as an incentive!!! That oughta be worth something!!! *kidding* kinda) I'm really serious about getting a dog and expanding my training experience (I've professionally trained a lot of animals, just not domestic dogs but I'm making a lot of head-way with my military wash-out GSD) and still appreciate any help y'all can throw my way!

Kameron

They also breed showline dogs, thays not a pic or video, its what they breed. Save up and wait for the right dog, you'll be better off in the long run