finding a good breeder/kennel - Page 1

So everyone my names mike an i apologize ahead of time for all the typos and sloppyness of this post for im on my phone and at work. I just signed up to ptd. I have been research for the last two years and every day its like i have a million more things to learn dogs in general. But i really wanted help on finding the best place to get a gsd. Im in ny but would drive anywhere. I want a well bred no issues shepherd. I liked the look of the kraftwerk an the size an strength of them but as i furthered my research some are talking negitive of them an i dont know why. So i was just lookin for some help.

You will probably recieve about 300 PM's from
'good breeders' just from your first post 

Go visit a few working dog clubs, ask about the
dog that catches your eye. Visit a few clubs!
You will meet the hobby breeder that is out
actually working/titling their dogs in some venue.
They will likely even be working a dog of their
own breeding. See what they produce, see if it's
what you like! 

Immediatley cross off your list any breeder that 
doesn't work their dog(s) in some venue.
Or the ones that talk about how their dogs 'could'
do this or that. The ones that don't health test their dogs,
and have the proof to show it. Remember, hips
and elbows at a bare minimum!

Decide if a guarantee is important to you or not.
If it is, start learning about all the 'ins and outs' 
of a guarantee. Things to look for, things to ask.

It's nice to see someone looking before they leap 
I'm sure others will chime in, I'd offer more, but the
tracking bus leaves in 10 minutes, and I don't want to
miss it 

Thank you for your input. Yeah i been doing so much research and this site has definitely helped the most thus far. I didnt realize you can learn so much from other people in the world just helping one another. I been looking into a breeder near where i live seems pretty good but im really looking for a male an i definitely either want him to be dark sable or black sable. And it seems any sable for that matter are hard to come by?

workingdogz has said it perfectly with no nonsense, go out and see people working their dogs,
meet the dogs in person and ask the people where they got their dog.
  You may even be able to call your local veterinarian office and ask if they know any GSD breeders that are reputable, they usually have some good leads...

       Good luck with your search!

Also, when you have found what you are looking for, read and re-read their contract and make sure it's something you are comfortable with.

Sables hard to find? OMG. You need to get out more 

Where in NY are you? How far are you willing to drive?
Do you want a 'guarantee' with your pup, or are you 
willing to buy 'as is'?  What exactly do you want the dog
for? Companion? Agility? Schutzhund etc?

We are not a fan of guarantee's and/or contracts,
and won't buy any dog that comes with 'strings' 
attached. But, some people feel better about that
kind of deal, so depending on your mindset, we can
recommend a few breeders to send you to.

Hi, the New England region should have enough quality breeders for you to choose from. You'll be able to visit them & evaluate the dogs temperament.

You can view the New England Region of United Schutzhund Clubs of America website -  http://www.newenglandschutzhund.com/clubs.aspx 
Most of the breeders will belong / work their dogs in one of the following clubs. It's nice to see their dogs out working & get an idea of the type of puppies they produce.

Note; one club might have majority of their members with dogs from one breeder in the area / also member. They will obviously be bias toward their dog & breeders dogs.
Which is great to be able to see so many offspring from one breeder at once. But keep in mind what are the positives & negatives the dogs seem to have in common.

Also ask about the dogs general health, ease of training, social ability level in public, can you pet their dogs? How are they with children / other pets? etc..
These will all be things you'll have to decide what you prefer in a future dog. A more aloof dog might require more socialization as a puppy. A dog that is
more independent & not as willing to please, might be more challenging to train if your inexperience. Also what are the activity & drive levels of the dogs?
If they are very high do the dogs calm down when not working? Could you handle owning a very high active dog, or would you prefer a more moderate level of activity?

I'm located in CT & train my dogs in NY.  I'll be happy to direct you to some breeders if you have trouble in your search.

We breed higher drive working line dogs that are not always best for new GSD owners, but I know some other breeders that might fit your needs.