July 2014, Rachel from Minneapolis, MN wrote:<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
“When we got Thor, we had no children and our goal was to have a well tempered family pet. Since then we’ve had two kids (Odin 2 yrs and Osgar 6 mos) and Thor has turned out to be equal parts family pup and guard dog.<\/p>\n We used to dote on him all day and night. With the arrival of little ones, we have had less time and attention for him, but he’s such a team player, that he doesn’t mind. He instantly adapted to them as part of his pack. He herds them and looks out for them. He’s very protective of his babies. When Odin was learning how to interact and starting to grab at our little dog, buddy. Thor would always be close by. When buddy would give Odin a warning growl or nip, Thor would wedge himself in between and herd buddy away from the baby. When family or friends come over and hold the babies, either of them, he has to supervise. He always looks to us to make sure it’s ok that a new person has his baby. He’s done this since Odin was born. If Osgar cries at night and I don’t get up right away, Thor nudges me awake and escorts me to the nursery, pushes the door open and waits outside (he knows he shouldn’t hang out in there) to make sure I get the baby.<\/p>\n We live in the city near a large park so we get the best of both worlds, but that can come with some kukoo people and animals too. He is such a big lovable doofus. He has, on more than one occasion, in the blink of an eye, thrown himself between a family member and a perceived threat with a snarl on his face, hair up, ready to protect. Usually, it’s an off leash aggressive dog that he chases off with a little nip on the butt, and comes right back to his loving self.<\/p>\n He’s constantly investigating bumps and noises and accounting for all of his family, even if we are on different levels of the house, even in the middle of the night. And while his counterpart, buddy, can be a bit annoying, Thor loves him all the same.<\/p>\n When he’s not “on duty” he likes to chew on his toys and chase his tail. He loves going out for a walk or run! He often suns himself on the deck watching all the birds and bunnies go by.<\/p>\n We love him and are so thankful you do such great work with these dogs. He is precisely the dog a burglar would run from, but our children hug! Rachel”<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n 4\/28\/2014, From Dave and Shirley in Idaho who have KeyTo:<\/p>\n “I am writing especially to relate an unusual activity he [KeyTo] performed Friday evening, April 25th. Although he has shown protective tendency toward Shirley, barking if anyone approaches her unexpectedly, Friday night’s performance was especially unusual, confirming that we did get exactly what we wanted in a companion dog from Candle Hill Shepherds.<\/span> ________<\/p>\n <\/p>\n On Apr 27, 2014, at 2:35 PM, Maellenwrote:<\/p>\n “Hi Elizabeth,<\/p>\n Phoebe now has her TD! Collie Club Test today \u2013 she was the 7th dog out, so we had quite a wait with rain earlier, and wind the whole time. She was much slower than usual, with a lot of pauses, which made the judges happy, since they didn\u2019t have to run. The first and last legs were looong, the three middle ones so short that I thought we were just out there muddling around, but the judges said she was on the track the whole time! She even found an ancient bone, but did not try to bring it home.<\/p>\n Phoebe is such a special puppy – once again I thank you for her.<\/p>\n Maellen”<\/p>\n _______<\/p>\n 3-9-2014, Scott in PA writes:<\/p>\n ____<\/p>\n December 25, 2013 Christy writes: “Had to send this to you, she loves William so much follows him and he loves her always hugging and kissing. Thanks again for a lil girl.”<\/span><\/p>\n ____________<\/p>\n 12-14-13 From Carol, who has Anka, a Tag and Dagger daughter, 2004, California:<\/p>\n “I am always amazed at the amount of comments I receive from friends and total strangers alike about Anka\u2019s beauty and sweet face. I think there\u2019s something special in the eyes of your dogs. I don\u2019t know how to describe it but it\u2019s definitely special. We\u2019re going to start nose work again after the first of the year. Anka likes it a lot but I miss agility for the team bonding that it creates. We all have to give up some things as we age. Have a wonderful holiday and keep up the wonderful GSD breeding program.<\/span> Carol”<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n Solomon from Cardinal and Kindra<\/p>\n December 7, 2013 Deborah and Randy who have Solomon (Cardinal and Kindra 2013) \u201cHe has some very intense reactions to what he perceives humans in distress. We had the issue with Randy in the water and him jumping in to “save” him and being quite hysterical. Last night we were watching a movie and in it someone was struggling very hard to breath and Solomon went bonkers again, trying to find the person in the TV and being quite upset about it all. He normally has zero interest in the TV unless a dog barks and then not much of an interest, he just hears it and looks. But he went up to the TV was very agitated and tried very hard to “find” the person. What do you think? \u2026 \u201cWe went on a weeks surfing trip in early November and we boarded him at my favorite place. They play and walk their quests daily — good 3-4 mile walks in the woods and 1 hour play time…doggie spa for sure…anyway the grandson (10 yr old boy) of the owner had a puppy who died and was having a very difficult time, so they brought Solomon in from the kennels to stay with the boy and it helped him through the bad part of it. They said Solomon was a very special dog and seemed to understand the need to be quiet, close and gently playful. Thought it unusual for such a young dog. “I have to say of all the puppies I’ve raised he’s the calmest and least destructive. He is also our alarm clock, very accurate!…You have some mighty fine lines of GSD going\u2026.just want to share what a wonder and pleasure it is to have Solomon in our lives. \u201c 11\/17\/13 From Bob the owner of Mercy, one of the pups we raised until almost a year old. Elizabeth It’s simple. We regard you as the very best person breeding these wonderful canine companions that we have ever met and after my personal 56 years of experience, that’s going some. We are indebted to both you for what you do and Carine for introducing us to you. Bob<\/p>\n 11\/7\/2013 From Bonnie who has Gunner, a pup from Macho and Kuma, 2013 Elizabeth, Gunner is growing so fast and is so smart. He began alerting me of my blood sugar levels about a month ago. Vet and I thought it was coincidence at first but he is doing it consistently. The vet is amazed and I am very blessed to have him. Since he started alerting me, I have not passed out due to low sugars. We are going to pursue his certification for a diabetic service dog. God works in mysterious was. I knew Gunner was speaking to me from the beginning. Forever in your debt, Bonnie 9\/28\/13<\/span> From Bonnie who has Gunner, a pup from Macho and Kuma, 2013<\/span> Good Morning Elizabeth, Gunner is doing awesome. He loves playing hide and seek in the woods. He also loves to bring the newspaper in everyday. His ears are both up. I can’t thank you enough for him. He is the joy of my life. Bonnie<\/p>\n October 4, 2013 One of our Candle Hill puppy families was selling their house. When the new buyers came with their children to look at the property, Valor, from Max and Sara, was there. 9\/23\/13 From Sharon who has Cache, a female pup from Macho and Indy pup born in January, 2013 From Janet who has Lucas a puppy from Macho and Kuma, just ten weeks old at the time of this writing:<\/p>\n 9\/19\/2013From Brandy who has Lilly, a female pup from Macho and Kuma, 2013″Lilly is amazing! What a good girl. Thank you” ” Just a Max update….she is the best! We went to the vet yesterday and she is 32 lbs and according to the vet a PERFECT puppy! Very mellow, sleeping on a big dog bed at night, house broken weeks ago, barks to go out, loves to play and swim…..I could go on and on. I will update you with more pictures as she grows into those ears and paws. Take care, Jacque”<\/span> 8\/12\/13 From Tom in Virginia who has Ruby from Cardinal and Kindra, 2013<\/span> Scarlett and Ruby are getting along very well. Ruby is amazing. She has been housetrained for 3 weeks now. She is growing like a weed and is a bundle of energy. Hachi<\/p>\n 1\/29\/13 From Leah and Becca in Idaho, who have Jekza a Hero\/Legend puppy 2012<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “Jeckza is SO beautiful and sweet and smart and obedient…we are SO grateful and you would be so proud of Beka. She’s doing an amazing job!<\/p>\n 5\/26\/13<\/p>\n 5\/13\/2013 Here is a humorous photo from Chuck in Colorado, who has Magnum, a Strongheart\/Ulrika pup purchased from Candle Hill Shepherds at age two. The dog house was there, but no dog, so Chuck let Magnum model while he snapped the picture. 5\/1\/13<\/p>\n From Dave in California, who has Briar, a Max and Wessa pup 2010,<\/p>\n Briar has excelled in his obedience and we use him as the example dog in the classes as we introduce new exercises. His drive and passion for protection work is only surpassed by his immediate obedience if we do a call off. Everyone loves watching, and listening, as he growls\/barks from deep in his chest and continues growling while biting. One of the only dogs that growls while chasing the bad guy. He is great with our grandchildren and socially I use him for Dog on Dog aggression rehabilitation since he does not react to any dog’s aggression, even if they are directly in front of him. This has gotten around to many of our Petsmart and Petco’s and we are referred to by them many times. We recommend you and your dogs when people ask for breeders with good lines. Leica, Briar’s sister, is just as remarkable and loves to run with her brother and Titan after training like puppies playing.<\/p>\n Dave<\/p>\n 4\/20\/13 From Bill in Maryland, who has Piper from Hero and Legend 2011<\/p>\n Almost 21 months old. She’s so great. She gets into alittle trouble once an awhile, but who doesn’t lol. She loves the outdoors and to play. Her drive is awesome. She’s so smart! Everywhere we go, people tell us how beautiful she is.<\/p>\n 4\/4\/2013 From Josh in Alaska who has Emerald, a Jake and Mica 2012 puppy<\/p>\n Hi Elizabeth,<\/p>\n Hadn’t talked to you in a while, so I thought I’d touch base. Emerald is doing wonderful. We have several dogs and Emerald is referred to as the “sweet girl.” Out of all of our dogs, Emerald is the only one that is allowed in the bed. She sleeps with me every morning after Theresa goes to work. While I was excited to train Emerald in SAR, it wasn’t for her. She has impressive (and I mean impressive) drive, but no matter how fun we made the training, it was simply clear that Emerald wanted something different. Emerald loves agility. It’s her calling. She likes the other people watching, she likes the people cheering, she likes the quickness of the reward – and she loves being agile. As she grows older, she will get to try more and more in the agility realm, but she still takes it easy. We’re careful with our puppies and we’re still making sure she takes it easy. She loves the snow. She loves life. And we love her. You truly made a work of art in her and for that we are grateful. She is intuitive to human senses and I would imagine that when she gets older, she will at least try therapy. She has endless energy, yet is incredibly obedient and has an amazing recall rate. The work that went into breeding her is clear and for that I am grateful. She is the dog that is closest to Theresa and watching their relationship brings me great joy.<\/p>\n I see the hard work put in to your line and the beauty of a creation that Emerald is.<\/p>\n And thank you again, for the wonderful joy to our lives. Josh Oren with a student<\/p>\n 3\/24\/13 From Maellen in Washington State, who has Phoebe, a Max \/Wessa puppy 2009 Hi Elizabeth, Show season started this weekend with agility trials in Moses Lake. Friday Phoebe qualified in Excellent Jumpers Preferred \u2013 first place, and did the same on Saturday to finish her AXJP title. To ensure that I can\u2019t quit showing in agility, she got her first leg in Excellent Standard Preferred. Can\u2019t leave a girl with only one leg. The weekend before: on Saturday she certified for tracking, so I sent in an entry for the Collie Club Test the end of April. I hope she gets in. On Sunday she did a nice job in Utility A at a fun match. This is going to be a fun year! Maellen 1\/28\/13<\/p>\n From Colby in Montanta, who has Hunter, a Strongheart\/Daila pup 2008<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I Just thought I would share this picture of Hunter with you.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n He is doing great. Best dog we have ever had.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 1\/22\/13<\/p>\n <\/p>\n From Pat in Washington DC who has Rika, a 2008 Strongheart\/Ulrika pup<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Dear Elizabeth,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I have been meaning to write you for so long. But I wanted to wait until Rika and I got our final approval visit in at the new Walter Reed. And today was the day. I started the process in September and finally have gone through all the necessary steps. The approval process was agony. It took me 3 trips, 4 blood tests, finger printing, a background check and an interview with an occupational therapist. And that was after I had sent them all of Rika’s paperwork. But it is worth it. I am looking forward to visiting there a couple of times a month.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Rika is such a natural. Today we met a young man who lost both legs in Afghanistan on December 12th. It was our privilege and honor to visit with him and yet all he could do was thank us for taking the time to come. It makes me so proud of the men and women that serve our country. She was also petted today by a guy with a prosthetic arm (he used that to pet her) and she was totally fine with it. She is pretty unflappable.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Rika currently visits at the Armed Forces Retirement Home, the VA Hospital, and Episcopal Center for Children. And she is great with everyone. The picture of her “kissing” the guy was taken at the VA. Unfortunately they won’t let us take pictures with the kids. But that is where she really shines. Generally she is off leash and gets to chase tennis balls. But she has the patience of a saint when a kid decides he\/she wants to brush her or walk her around on a leash. The only problem is she does not want to leave. More often then not I have to get a kid to catch her and bring her to me.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n One of her other talents is posing for pictures. I have set up a little photo studio in our basement. I just bring some cheese and she goes and poses. She is a good sport with all the stuff I put on her as you can see by the pictures. I make cards for her and mostly pass them out to the kids. Although I am finding out that the people at Walter Reed also like them a lot.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Jim just poked his head in and said “be sure to tell Elizabeth how much joy this dog has brought to our lives”. Not only us but so many others as well. Thank you!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Pat<\/p>\n Rika, where words would never be enough<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 11\/12\/12 from Sarah who has Vader, a 2010 puppy from Drago and Kindra,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Vader just turned 2 and he is so amazing with our 15 month old son… you should be so proud of his breeding. He truly is William’s best friend… he smiles so big when William pets him and is so gentle with him! I’ve never had a German Shepherd so intimidating to strangers and yet so cuddly with us and our toddler!! Our family wouldn’t be the same without him.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n I really enjoy the fact that you care about your fur “kids”. You have produced many beautiful dogs. We cannot go ANYWHERE without getting complements from people. It’s almost comical. People stop in their cars as we walk him just to tell us how beautiful he is. Sometimes someone will ask if he is a wolf and then almost always say, “Man, I would NOT break into your house!!!” He has also become my running partner, since he is still young we only do a mile or two with him… but he stays perfectly by your side and some how “reads” where you want to go. It is unbelievable!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Vader and Willia<\/p>\n 8\/12\/2012 from Sue, who has Sasha a Max and Sara puppy Litter V, 2009<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hi Elizabeth,<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Just a quick note to tell you how much we are enjoying Sasha.(Max X Sara 2009) She adds so much joy to our lives with her enthusiasm and love of life. She also adds a real sense of security with her watchdog skills. As you can see from the attached photo, she has proven to be absolutely trustworthy with friends, both 2 and 4 footed. Sasha thoroughly enjoyed the recent visit from some youngsters. She was stuck like glue to them, entertaining them as well as being on guardian duty. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n She is a great addition to our lives!<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Sincerely,<\/span><\/p>\n Sue<\/span> 7\/13\/2012 From Christine whose family has Willow (Max and Wessa 2009) and Meadow (Drago and Piper 2011)<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hi Elizabeth!<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n I hope all is well with your family. Your new puppies look adorable! Did Chinook not have a litter? I saw that you joined Facebook; no one in our family has an account, but we will certainly enjoy all the pictures that you and everyone else put up. Kuma is especially beautiful, she reminds me of a standard coat Willow; they must both look like Wessa! <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n We are all doing fantastic; just trying to beat the heat and stay cool, something easier said than done, when trying to exercise the dogs! <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Meadow went to the vet a couple weeks ago to get her rabies, and he was very impressed with her. It is so nice to have found a vet that understands German Shepherds, and whom the dogs also like. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Willow continues to be our beauty queen. She is so funny, when she first meets someone she is very reserved, but once they start exclaiming how beautiful she is, she “smiles” and is very friendly, wagging her tail and distributing kisses. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n We have a neighbor who works third shift, so we don’t see him very often, but a few weeks ago he was out, and our family was talking to him and Willow was lying at his feet, quite calm and contented. He made a comment on how she looks like a scary dog, but she is actually quite gentle. That is something I absolutely love about the German Shepherds, that they look imposing, and are capable of protecting their family, but at the same time, they are great with kids. Thanks for both of them, and for all the advice and help you have given us over the past 2\u00bd years. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Have a wonderful day,<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Christine<\/span><\/p>\n 7\/10\/12<\/p>\n <\/p>\n From Suzannah who has Selik, a 2012 puppy from Jake and Mica. Suzannah is working Selik in 4H.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “Dear Elizabeth, you will be pleased to hear that Selik is doing very well. Our show is on this thursday and I will send pictures after we are done. We have been taking him EVERYWHERE with us. He is the smartest dog that I have yet to work with. He learns faster than almost all of the dogs in our dog class. Everyone keeps asking me where I got him and they keep commenting on how beautiful he is. Don’t be surprised if you get a few new customers soon as I have been giving your bussiness cards out to people who ask for them \ud83d\ude42 hope all is well.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n -Suzannah and Selik<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Update: Selik won First Place in Show and Third Place in Obedience. He is only six months old!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n From Nancy who has ShaZAM, also a 2012 Jake and Mica puppy.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Elizabeth – <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n shaZAM! is really turning out to be a very handsome dog. He also has a tremendous personality. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Unfortunately we lost Nicco, my 11 year old GS, over the weekend. It was a hard loss for both of us. shaZAM! really looked up to him. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n I am so very lucky to have shaZAM! to help me through this difficult time. <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Nancy<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n From Scott who has Axel, yet another 2012 Jake and Mica puppy,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hello Elizabeth,<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n I have enclosed some pictures of Axel (Jake and Mica’s litter). He is more than we could have hoped for. His obedience and drives are outstanding, but yet he is calm enough around children and other family members. I definitely think we made the right decision with choosing him. The pictures that I have enclosed start from the time that I got him until present time. It’s hard to believe that he is a week shy of six months. Again, thank you for this great dog.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n Scott <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Axel, Jake and Mica 2012, five months old<\/p>\n <\/p>\n 7\/5\/2012<\/p>\n <\/p>\n From Suzie who has Tulip, a 2005 puppy from Tag and Dagger:<\/p>\n <\/p>\n “Hi Elizabeth, I love your updates. My little girl and I always go through the pictures and stories and find Tulips relatives. Tulip was from tag and dagger litter c. She is the best dog ever. The most loving loyal dog I have ever owned. Larkin, my daughter thinks the world of her. I was sad that Chinnok is no longer in the breeding program. Glad to see Piper and Vashti are still in the breeding program to carry on with the great traits Dagger and Tag have. Still makes me sad when I see Max picture as he was the same age as Tulip and she is still so full of life. Have a great summer! Suzie”<\/span><\/p>\n 7\/5\/12 From Justine who has Leia, a Hero and Dakota puppy 2008,<\/p>\n Could not resist sending one of our many HOT summer relief photos.<\/p>\n I know you don’t get sick of great stories so I’ll tell our latest. We go to a dog beach on lake Michigan near us where not only a the humans are well bred and look identical (ha) but they all have some sort of golden retriever. We go with leia and everyone sees her and is apprehensive. Yesterday I had a group tell me they were amazed how wonderfully behaved she was, I said yes she is but more importantly she has a temperament that does not waiver under any circumstance. Thank you again and again!!!!!<\/p>\n 7\/2\/2012<\/p>\n <\/p>\n From Bob who has Mercy, sister to Mica, granddaughter of our stud V Imo vom Werraufer SCH III, FH, a puppy we let go as a young adult.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Elizabeth<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I have never seen such a completely fearless dog. I take her target shooting and she sits there waiting. I take her logging and she looks at the chain saw with curiosity, but never blinks. I am seriously considering a motorcycle with a side car so she can join us.So far, that is the only thing Mercy as not done with us.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Cheers<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Bob<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Mercy wrestling a gator in Florida, 2012<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Please, do not try this at home! :>)<\/p>\n 7-1-12<\/p>\n From Jackie whose son has the Make a Wish Puppy Venus, Max and Wessa 2011,<\/p>\n “I hope you are having a nice summer.Jamie is really enjoying Venus” company.We are very lucky, we were able to negotiate with the doctors for them to be together while we are living in Denver.I think she keeps him fighting.She keeps us all on our toes.Recently we started playing a search game with her.She enjoys it a lot.We make her stay and then we hide a toy, and then tell her “search”.She loves it when Jamie plays with her.She definitely shows off for him.”<\/p>\n 6-30-12<\/p>\n <\/p>\n From Janice who has Koda a Hero Legend puppy 2011<\/p>\n <\/p>\n I am sorry I have not been in touch with you sooner, we have been so busy for the past several months I have not had time for much.He is doing great. He is such a good boy and gentle I just am in amazement over him how well he behaves and how loving he is. I just can not thank you enough for this gift you gave us.. He is coming along great with his training he retrieves sits shakes stays until called. We are working on finding objects when hidden and we are also working on finding people. He is doing well in that area. I can hide my daughter and he will find her within 3 minutes. He does not give up until she is found. That to me is a blessing from God since we live literally in the middle of the woods… He is doing great with our cat i believe they are great friends now. We took him to the beach for the first time last month and he loved it he was very cautious at first but after a few minutes of checking it out he was swimming in the Ocean as if he does it all the time.. We take him to the river as much as possible he loves to swim and he is very good at it… He loves any body that gives him attention and he is very good with other dogs, we do not let him get rough when in play but he really wants too I can tell. he is just a happy well adjusted puppy and we love him very much he fits very well into our family… Again thank you and I will be in touch… As for his health he is doing great all check ups and shots are up to date…. Have a great summer…. Janice Joyce<\/span><\/p>\n 6\/17\/2012<\/p>\n From Suzannah, the fourteen year old owner of Selik, Jake and Mica 2012,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You’ll be please to know that Selik is doing very well! He has grown so much! He is almost 40 pounds now and is still growing into his huge paws and ears! He is very smart and completely house trained now. He knows sit, down,come, stay and heel. He is doing very well in 4H and we will be doing a show this year.<\/p>\n -Suzannah<\/span> 6-16-2012 From Cindy who has Gantz, Macho and Kindra, 2012,<\/p>\n “We LOVE LOVE LOVE our wonderful dog, and he’s just right for us. We’ve given gobs of people your info because they’re so impressed with him, so hopefully that will help you too. People who have had shepherds before are super impressed.”<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 6-2-2012<\/p>\n <\/p>\n From Suzie, Ohio, who has Gunny Litter B10 out of Max and Sara.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Elizabeth,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n We have died and gone to heaven with Gunny II from Max & Wessa. Bill trains him, but he responds immediately to my commands.Can anything be better re: a working dog\/companion?He is now 2 years old, we’ve had dogs all of our married life (working dogs at that), but none better than our wonderful boy from you. Thank you so very much for your diligence for the best. We are blessed because you do all things well. God’s richest blessings to you and your dear family.<\/p>\n Susie<\/p>\n 6-2-2012<\/p>\n From Michael who has Max, Litter H11, Max and Wessa,<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hi Elizabeth, thanks for the update from Candle Hill. Cardinal is beautiful! <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n It’s hard to believe it’s been a year already with Maximillian. He has been such a joy and is really starting to hit his stride. I think he will need a running mate sometime in the future (Cardinal and Wessa). Thanks and have a great evening!<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n mb<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n 6-2-2012<\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hi Elizabeth,<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Thanks for the pictures and the updates. Congratulations – what wonderful dogs you have! <\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n As for our<\/i> wonderful shepherds; we couldn’t be happier. Tonto and Schatzi are absolutely mad about each other\u2026they are joined at the hip. Schatzi is a fast learner and takes cues from Tonto. She is a gentle, sweet girl\u2026and little! I remember you telling me you were sending me the biggest pup – she’s lucky if she’s 65 pounds. We call her our miniature shepherd.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n We just adore them both so much and I can’t imagine not having Schatzi around\u2026and neither can Tonto; he loves<\/i> her. Tonto is still in agility and I hope to start Schatzi up in the fall – she may be better suited to tracking though. She cracks me up often on our walks in the woods – she has found money, a watch and many a squirrel. She’s quite taken with my husband, just as Tonto is my boy\u2026funny how that works out.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n Anyway, we adore them both and I swear I would have half a dozen of your dogs if I could.<\/span><\/p>\n <\/p>\n <\/p>\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/image-500x375.jpeg\")
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We had a light rain off and on all day Friday and Friday night it was 28 degrees about 10 PM. Shirley had taken KeyTo out to see if he had a need to be outside and she went out the garage side door. The concrete walk was not iced but the wooden ramp was icy and as Shirley stepped down her foot slipped on the ice and she fell hitting her head on the concrete. I was in the kitchen doing a little cleanup with the water running, the TV was on in the living room, the garage doors were closed and all doors between the garage and the house\/kitchen were closed. Shirley was alone and isolated in her distress and would have remained so until I wondered where she was were it not for Keyto. When she fell he immediately ran to her and started barking, not a high pitched, excited puppy bark, but a big dog alarm bark and after bumping her with his nose he immediately left her and ran around the front of the garage to the front door of the house and continued to bark as he turned around and ran back to Shirley where she fell and was immobile. I heard the barking and knew immediately that something was wrong, expecting possibly a bear or other varmint. The barking continued as I ran through the house picking up a flashlight and firearm on my way, expecting that kind of situation. As soon as I opened the side door of the garage KeyTo stopped barking and stood erect beside Shirley. Shirley called out that she needed help and I got her to her feet and into the house with KeyTo never more that a couple of inches from her side. KeyTo was 4 1\/2 months old on Friday the 25th and although he has barked at the fox and the deer a couple of times it has only been a bark or two and never with the tone and volume that he used Friday night when Shirley fell. Even when a stranger approaches Shirley unexpectedly it’s only a bark or two to alert us that someone unexpected is approaching. Friday’s bark was clearly an alarm bark, it was urgent and unmistakable that something bad had happened, and he inherently knew how and where to get help.<\/span>
I don’t have words enough to commend you on the German Shepherd lines that you breed, I only know that KeyTo is an exceptional German Shepherd, even though he is still a puppy. I suspect that his performance Friday night is not a surprise to you – that is what you bred him for, Thank You. <\/span>
\nDave and Shirley” <\/span><\/p>\n![\"Phoebe](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/Phoebe-Tracking-Title-27-Apr-2014-e1398988131478-500x452.jpg\"){kind=tracking}
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<\/a>“Elizabeth,Its hard to believe that Axel, from Jake and Mica’s litter is 2 years old already. I can’t tell you how many compliments I get from friends, family members and strangers on how not only good looking he is, but also on his temper and obedience. I have enclosed some photographs so you can see how he is turning out. Thank you so much.Scott”<\/p>\n![\"IMAG0414\"](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2014\/01\/IMAG0414-e1399003477196-500x622.jpg\")
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<\/a> Valor, from Max and Sara 2009, with Ann after winning in Nose Work. In reply to her email about Valor: \u201cJust in case you might be persuaded to get a “Valor” puppy. Take a look at Elizabeth’s web site. Her goal for the dogs she breeds: “Our goal at Candle Hill Shepherds is to produce \u201ca dog a burglar will run from but a child can hug.\u201d I think we proved the latter yesterday.\u201d They wrote the following: \u201cThat’s a perfect description. Yesterday, I looked out in the yard and saw the poster child for the perfect family dog. Valor was fun, energetic, GENTLE and an amazing companion. She matched the energy of the children perfectly. She was Jesse’s best soccer companion and then dialed down and listened to the commands of 4 yr. old Maya. I’m still stunned by Valor’s nose work… not just her success but her rigorous search methodology. She’s an amazing dog and you guys have done a great job training her. Please let her know that if Pasadena is too warm for her beautiful winter coat, she’s certainly invited back to 132 Wilton.\u201d 9\/25\/13 From Pat who has Rika, the Therapy Dog, out of Strongheart and Ulrika.<\/p>\n![\"Image](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/Image-13-500x375.jpg\")
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<\/a> 9\/10\/2013 From Anne who has Mattie, a female pup from Macho and Kuma, 2013 Hi Elizabeth,<\/p>\n![\"Image](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/Image-51-500x375.jpg\")
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<\/a> 9\/1\/2013From Janice who has Koda a Hero and Legend puppy 2011,I too had some computer issues and lost a lot of photos. Koda is doing very well, he is a happy healthy big boy. He is such a joy to have around. He is getting ready for his 2 year check up in October. He is the most gentle dog I think I have ever met ,I couldn’t have asked for a better addition to our family… Thank you so much…Janice Joyce![\"Image](\"http:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/Image-71-500x333.jpg\")
<\/a> 8\/30\/2013From Maureen who had Kaiser, a Cardinal and Piper puppy, January 2013Hello Elizabeth. This is Kaiser at 7.5 m. I told you a while back I wanted a traffic stopper. Well, today as we were walking, a lady stopped her car to tell me how beautiful he is. And, yes, I agree. Mississippi heat won’t go away..looking forward to fall. I hope all is well with u and your family. Maureen![\"Image](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/Image-8.jpg\")
<\/a> 8\/22\/13 From Jacque in North Carolina who has Max, a female pup from Cardinal and Kindra, 2013<\/div>\n<\/div>\n![\"Image\"](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/Image-500x394.jpg\")
<\/a> 7\/29\/2013 From Renee in Ohio, who has Hachi from Max and Wessa 2011, “Hi Elizabeth, I just wanted to share this with you. This is Hachi’s very first agility trial and his very 1st run. It was Novice A Fast and his 3rd run Novice A JWW. We also competed in Novice Standard and I goofed. He entered the wrong end of the tunnel and I did not send him back through the correct end. I didn’t know. He had a score of 100 in JWW. He is the best dog ever. Thanks again for this amazing friend. Renee” ![\"1004476_10200152646728653_1363480859_n\"](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/1004476_10200152646728653_1363480859_n.jpg\")
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<\/a> 3\/31\/13 From Michelle in Wasington, who has Oren, a Cardinal\/Piper puppy, 2013. Michelle is able to take Oren to school where he has a job working with the students, I AM GLAD HE CAN COME TO SCHOOL TOO, IT MAKES SUCH A DIFFERENCE IN THE BEHAVIORS OF MY STUDENTS. WE ARE LEARNING A LOT ABOUT KINDNESS AND CARING FOR OTHERS. HE IS STILL VERY INDEPENDENT AND MELLOW, SUCH A GOOD BOY, AND HE ABSOLUTELY ADORES JULIET!!!!! (Juliet is the family’s other Candle Hill Shepherd) HOPE YOUR FAMILY IS HAVING A BLESSED EASTER! ![\"Image](\"https:\/\/candlehillshepherds.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2013\/02\/Image-7-500x669.jpg\")
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