I cannot remember a single shepherd dog who was not in love with children. Untiring, always zealous for duty, always attentive, always ready to serve, such is the character of our shepherd dog

Ethical breeding is a principle-driven commitment rooted in education, accountability, and respect for the German Shepherd Dog. While the American Kennel Club (AKC) provides foundational guidelines, best practices, and a framework for responsible dog breeding, we recognize that ethical breeding is not governed by a single universal standard. Every reputable breeder develops their own program standards through extensive research, mentorship, participation in breed and all-breed clubs, and adherence to evolving canine health science.

Our breeding philosophy is guided by AKC principles, including the preservation of breed type, sound structure, stable temperament, and responsible stewardship of the breed. We strive to produce show-line German Shepherd Dogs that exemplify the AKC breed standard while also prioritizing health, longevity, and overall quality of life.

Ethical breeding, as we define it, begins with intention. We do not breed for quantity, trends, or financial gain. Each breeding is carefully planned with a clear purpose, considering pedigree analysis, genetic compatibility, health testing results, and adherence to the breed standard. Our goal is to make thoughtful breeding decisions that contribute positively to the future of the breed.

Health testing and transparency are central to our program. In alignment with AKC and parent-club recommendations, we conduct comprehensive genetic, orthopedic, and veterinary evaluations prior to breeding. We utilize third-party testing and verification through organizations such as OFA and Embark to ensure objective assessment and public accountability. While no amount of testing can guarantee a puppy’s future health, ethical breeding requires using every available tool to minimize inherited risk.

Ethical breeding also extends beyond genetics. Proper care of our dogs includes age-appropriate training, mental and physical enrichment, structured socialization, and humane living conditions. We adhere to responsible breeding intervals, do not breed immature dogs, and prioritize the physical and emotional well-being of our sires and dams throughout their lives—not solely during their breeding years.

Placement and lifelong responsibility are equally important. Ethical breeding does not end when a puppy goes home. We carefully screen prospective homes, provide education and support to our puppy families, and maintain lifelong accountability for the dogs we produce. Our commitment includes being available for guidance, accepting the return of any dog we have bred if needed, and ensuring that no dog of our breeding ends up without support.

We acknowledge that ethical breeding looks different across programs. AKC registration alone does not define ethical breeding, nor does participation in dog clubs automatically ensure quality. Through continued involvement in AKC events, breed clubs, and ongoing education, we have established standards that reflect both AKC guidance and our own high expectations. These standards may exceed minimum recommendations, and we apply them consistently and transparently.

Ethical breeding at New Era K9s means honoring the German Shepherd Dog, bettering the breed, and respecting the trust placed in us by our puppy families, and holding ourselves accountable to the highest standards we know how to set. Our mission is not only to produce beautiful show-line German Shepherds, but to preserve the integrity, health, and future of the breed for generations to come.

Our show-line German Shepherd breeding program is founded on rigorous, science-based health testing and strict selection criteria designed to preserve both structural excellence and long-term health. As a large, purpose-bred working and compan breed, German Shepherds are predisposed to a range of orthopedic, genetic, and metabolic conditions. While no breeder can guarantee the future health of a puppy, comprehensive testing, third-party verification, and conservative breeding practices significantly reduce inherited risk and promote generational improvement.

We take pride in every aspect of our breeding program, from careful pairings to the lifelong health and wellbeing of our dogs. Because of our rigorous health testing and meticulous care, we are proud to offer a comprehensive health guarantee with every puppy. This guarantee is more than just a promise—it reflects the standards we uphold, the time and expertise invested in each pairing, and our commitment to producing healthy, balanced dogs.

Each puppy also goes home with a full health certificate, detailing the results of their screenings and examinations. This certificate provides peace of mind for new owners and demonstrates our transparency and accountability. We believe that ethical breeding is about more than just producing beautiful dogs—it’s about responsibility, trust, and ensuring that every puppy starts their life with the best possible foundation. By offering both a health guarantee and a health certificate, we give our families the confidence that they are adopting a puppy bred with care, knowledge, and integrity

All dogs in our program undergo comprehensive genetic screening through Embark Breeder DNA testing. This includes a full panel for breed-specific and non-breed-specific inherited conditions, genetic diversity analysis, and confirmation of parentage. Results are submitted to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) and maintained as part of each dog’s permanent health record. Particular attention is given to Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) status, and dogs that are affected or carry combinations that could produce affected offspring are excluded from breeding.

Orthopedic soundness is a critical component of our selection process, particularly for show-line 

German Shepherds, where correct structure and movement are essential. All breeding candidates receive diagnostic radiographs of the hips and shoulders, which are submitted to OFA for official evaluation and grading. Only dogs meeting our strict orthopedic criteria are considered, with the goal of improving joint health, longevity, and functional movement consistent with the breed standard.

In addition to genetic and orthopedic testing, all prospective sires and dams undergo OFA-recommended advanced health screenings, including cardiac and thyroid evaluations when age-appropriate. These assessments help identify underlying conditions that may impact overall health, fertility, or longevity and further support responsible breeding decisions. When eligible, dogs are worked toward meeting CHIC (Canine Health Information Center) requirements, ensuring transparency and accountability through publicly accessible health records.

All health testing results are available to serious prospective buyers as part of our commitment to transparency and responsible breeding. We provide this information to ensure it is used appropriately, helping buyers make informed decisions and maintain the integrity of the breed.

Under no circumstances will we support the misuse of our health data or participate in unethical breeding practices. Protecting the welfare of our dogs and the standards of the breed is our top priority, and we hold ourselves—and those we work with—to the highest level of accountability.Following successful completion of all health testing, each potential breeding dog must pass a comprehensive pre-breeding veterinary examination. This includes a full physical assessment and professional review of all genetic, orthopedic, and specialty screening results to confirm the dog is medically, structurally, and reproductively fit for breeding.

We maintain strict age and maturity requirements and will not breed any dog under the age of two years. This policy allows for complete musculoskeletal development, accurate orthopedic certification, and sufficient evaluation of temperament, movement, and adherence to the German Shepherd breed standard prior to reproduction.

Through disciplined health testing, independent verification, and a commitment to ethical show-line breeding practices, New Era K9s strives to produce German Shepherd Dogs that exemplify correct structure, balanced temperament, and a strong genetic foundation—ensuring our puppies are built not only to succeed in the show ring, but to thrive as healthy, lifelong companions.

All health testing results are available to serious prospective buyers as part of our commitment to transparency and responsible breeding. We provide this information to ensure it is used appropriately, helping buyers make informed decisions and maintain the integrity of the breed.

We take pride in every aspect of our breeding program, from careful pairings to the lifelong health and wellbeing of our dogs. Because of our rigorous health testing and meticulous care, we are proud to offer a comprehensive health guarantee with every puppy. This guarantee is more than just a promise—it reflects the standards we uphold, the time and expertise invested in each pairing, and our commitment to producing healthy, balanced dogs.

Each puppy also goes home with a full health certificate, detailing the results of their screenings and examinations. This certificate provides peace of mind for new owners and demonstrates our transparency and accountability. We believe that ethical breeding is about more than just producing beautiful dogs—it’s about responsibility, trust, and ensuring that every puppy starts their life with the best possible foundation. By offering both a health guarantee and a health certificate, we give our families the confidence that they are adopting a puppy bred with care, knowledge, and integrity

Titles are important in ethical breeding to prove dogs are capable, stable, and representative of their breed’s intended purpose. At New Era K9s, titles are not pursued for prestige alone—they provide objective, third-party validation that a dog meets established standards for structure, temperament, and overall soundness. Titles matter because they replace subjective opinion with measurable evaluation conducted by qualified judges under standardized rules.

In the conformation ring, titles confirm that a dog meets the AKC German Shepherd Dog breed standard, including correct structure, balanced movement, proper proportions, and breed type. These qualities directly impact long-term physical health, efficiency of movement, and functional soundness. A structurally correct dog is more likely to remain comfortable, active, and capable throughout its lifetime, which is especially important in a large, athletic breed.

Requiring titled dogs also ensures consistency and reliability within a breeding program. For this reason, we will not breed unless at least one parent is an AKC Champion, or the pedigree contains a minimum of three AKC Champions within three generations. This requirement demonstrates that desirable traits are not isolated to a single dog, but are reproducible across generations, providing greater predictability in structure, temperament, and overall quality.

Beyond structure, titles reflect mental stability and adaptability. Dogs that earn titles are exposed to unfamiliar environments, crowds, noise, travel, and other dogs. Their ability to perform confidently and appropriately in these settings provides valuable insight into nerve strength, composure, and resilience—traits that cannot be accurately assessed in a controlled home environment alone.

Performance and companion titles further highlight a dog’s intelligence, trainability, and willingness to work cooperatively with a handler. These attributes are integral to the German Shepherd Dog’s identity as a versatile, working breed and contribute to producing puppies that are not only physically correct, but mentally balanced and enjoyable companions.

We recognize that ethical breeding standards vary among breeders. Through extensive research, mentorship, and active participation in AKC events and dog clubs, we have chosen to make titles a requirement because they promote accountability, transparency, and breed preservation. Titles provide an external benchmark that supports responsible breeding decisions rather than relying solely on personal evaluation.

At New Era K9s, titles are one component of a comprehensive evaluation process. We require each parent to either be titled themselves, or have at least 3 champions within three generations of the pedigree. When combined with health testing, orthopedic certification, pedigree analysis, and temperament assessment, they help ensure that every dog we breed has demonstrated the qualities necessary to responsibly contribute to the future of the German Shepherd Dog.

At New Era K9s, temperament is one of the most important factors in ethical breeding. A dog’s personality, confidence, and emotional stability are critical not only for their own quality of life, but also for producing puppies that will grow into well-adjusted, predictable, and safe companions. We place a strong emphasis on selecting dogs with stable, non-aggressive temperaments while maintaining the alertness, intelligence, and drive that are characteristic of the German Shepherd Dog.

Our temperament evaluation begins early and continues throughout a dog’s life. We assess our dogs in multiple environments and situations to gauge their reactions, confidence, and adaptability. Key factors include response to strangers and new environments, reaction to handling, socialization with other dogs and animals, stress resilience, and play drive or motivation. These observations help us determine how dogs respond to common real-world situations and their ability to remain calm, confident, and manageable under pressure.

We document these observations consistently and combine them with input from professional trainers, veterinarians, and experienced handlers. This multi-source approach ensures that our assessments are comprehensive and objective. Dogs that display signs of aggression toward humans or undue fear-based reactivity are not used for breeding. Selected dogs must exhibit confidence and stability in daily situations, demonstrate balanced drive, and complement the breeding program’s goal of producing predictable, trainable, and safe offspring.

Temperament matters because it is heritable. Breeding for stability reduces the risk of behavioral problems in future generations and ensures that puppies are capable of fulfilling roles as family companions, performance dogs, or show-line German Shepherds. By prioritizing confidence, stability, and non-aggression, we can produce puppies that are safe, reliable, and well-adjusted, while still maintaining the breed’s characteristic alertness and work ethic.

Even after breeding, we continue to monitor and document temperament traits in offspring, noting their responses during early socialization, structured play, and exposure to everyday situations. This ongoing evaluation informs future breeding decisions and allows us to continuously refine our program to produce the most well-rounded, stable German Shepherds possible.

At New Era K9s, temperament evaluation is another cornerstone of ethical breeding. It ensures that our dogs are not only physically sound and structurally correct, but also emotionally stable, confident, and capable of producing puppies that will thrive in loving, responsible homes.

At New Era K9s, the compatibility of breeding pairs is a fundamental aspect of ethical breeding. Every pairing is intentional and carefully evaluated to ensure that offspring inherit the best possible combination of traits in temperament, structure, personality, and coat quality. We do not make breeding decisions based on convenience, appearance alone, or trends; instead, each breeding is guided by a commitment to producing puppies that are healthy, well-adjusted, and capable of meeting both show-line standards and family companion needs.

Temperament compatibility is a top priority. Since behavioral traits are highly heritable, we carefully assess the emotional profiles, drive levels, and personality traits of both potential sires and dams. Dogs selected for breeding must display stable, confident, and balanced temperaments, and they must complement each other in energy levels, motivation, and behavioral tendencies. Pairings are avoided if either parent demonstrates aggression, fear-based reactivity, or other undesirable traits. By ensuring compatible temperaments, we maximize the likelihood that puppies will be predictable, confident, and adaptable in a variety of environments, whether as family companions, performance dogs, or show prospects.

Coat quality is another key factor in parent selection. Healthy, properly maintained coats indicate strong genetics, overall health, and adherence to breed standards. We evaluate coat texture, density, length, and color, ensuring that the combination of parents will produce puppies that meet the expectations of the German Shepherd breed, both aesthetically and functionally. Coat quality is also linked to skin and immune health, making it an important consideration for the long-term well-being of the puppies.

Personality and drive are equally critical. Parents must exhibit traits such as intelligence, curiosity, trainability, and an appropriate level of work ethic without being overly excitable or hyperactive. Complementary personalities help ensure that puppies inherit a balance of confidence, focus, and adaptability, allowing them to succeed in varied roles—from family companion to show or performance work. Observing the interactions of potential breeding pairs in structured and social environments further informs compatibility decisions and helps predict the behavioral outcomes of offspring.

Finally, parent compatibility is assessed holistically. Health testing, pedigree analysis, titles, structural evaluations, and temperament observations are all considered together before a pairing is approved. By evaluating the strengths and potential weaknesses of each parent in combination, we aim to minimize the risk of passing on undesirable traits while enhancing positive, heritable characteristics. This deliberate, thoughtful process ensures that every puppy we produce has the highest likelihood of being healthy, balanced, and structurally sound, while also demonstrating the confident, trainable, and loyal personality traits for which German Shepherds are known.

At New Era K9s, parent compatibility is not optional; it is the back bone of our breeding philosophy. Every decision is made with the long-term welfare of the breed and the future puppy families in mind, ensuring that each litter contributes positively to the health, temperament, and overall quality of the German Shepherd Dog.

At New Era K9s, the health and comfort of our breeding dogs and their puppies is always our top priority. For all litters, we carefully evaluate the safest delivery method, and many of our puppies are born via planned cesarean section (C-section). This approach is chosen to minimize risk and ensure a safe, controlled birth for both the dam and her puppies.

Natural birth can sometimes pose significant risks, especially in large breeds like German Shepherds. Complications such as prolonged labor or difficulty passing large puppies can lead to oxygen deprivation during delivery. Even brief periods of reduced oxygen can negatively affect a puppy’s physical health and neurological development, potentially resulting in temperament or behavior issues, delayed milestones, or, in severe cases, seizure activity. By opting for a C-section when appropriate, we reduce these risks and help ensure that each puppy enters the world healthy and ready to thrive.

During a C-section, the dam is carefully monitored under veterinary supervision to prioritize her comfort, safety, and stress-free experience. Puppies are immediately evaluated and supported, including any necessary resuscitation or temperature regulation, to ensure a smooth transition from womb to the outside world.

This practice reflects our commitment to ethical breeding and the well-being of our dogs. By prioritizing the health, comfort, and safety of the mother, and by carefully managing the birth process, we set the foundation for healthier puppies with a better start in life, both physically and behaviorally.

We believe that ethical puppy raising begins from the very first day of life. The first eight weeks are critical for a puppy’s physical, emotional, and neurological development, and we prioritize their health, comfort, and well-being every step of the way. From birth, puppies remain with their dam and littermates in a safe, nurturing environment that encourages proper nutrition, warmth, and social learning while respecting the natural rhythms and needs of the mother.

From the moment their eyes open, puppies begin gentle, positive introductions to human interaction and early potty training. This is done in a calm, patient manner that encourages learning without stress, helping puppies develop confidence, independence, and the foundation for housetraining. Early exposure to different surfaces—such as hardwood, tile, and carpet—is introduced gradually, allowing puppies to explore safely while developing coordination and confidence.

By 3 to 4 weeks of age, puppies begin exploring their surroundings more actively, practicing social skills with their littermates, and learning important behaviors such as bite inhibition and gentle play. They are gradually exposed to a variety of safe sounds, textures, and minor environmental challenges, including household noises like vacuum cleaners, doors, and everyday activity, in a way that promotes curiosity rather than fear.

Weaning begins carefully around 6 weeks of age, transitioning puppies from mother’s milk to high-quality kibble. This process is gradual and positive, ensuring that puppies adjust comfortably while maintaining proper nutrition and digestive health. Puppies are encouraged to explore solid food at their own pace, without stress or pressure.

From 7 to 8 weeks, socialization, gentle handling, and exposure to new experiences continue in a structured yet supportive environment. Play, exploration, and positive reinforcement are emphasized, helping puppies develop confidence, resilience, and adaptability. By the time they leave for their new homes, they are physically healthy, emotionally stable, and socially prepared, with a strong foundation for lifelong learning and positive interactions.

Our approach is guided by ethics and compassion: we respect the needs of both dam and puppies, prioritize positive experiences, and ensure that every early life experience contributes to confident, well-adjusted, and happy German Shepherds.

Raising well-adjusted puppies begins with intentional socialization and desensitization from an early age. Puppies are exposed to a variety of sights, sounds, textures, and environments in a controlled and positive manner to help them develop confidence, adaptability, and resilience. Early exposure reduces fearfulness, prevents anxiety, and helps puppies grow into stable, well-rounded adult dogs.

We carefully introduce puppies to a wide range of household noises and equipment, including vacuum cleaners, hair dryers, doors opening and closing, and the general sounds of daily activity. Puppies are also gradually exposed to different floor surfaces such as hardwood, tile, and carpet, helping them become comfortable navigating varying textures and preventing hesitation or sensitivity later in life. This early tactile experience teaches puppies to be confident in unfamiliar environments and reduces the risk of fear-based reactions.

Environmental desensitization also includes temperature and weather exposure in a safe, controlled manner. Puppies may experience mild temperature changes, gentle breezes, and supervised outdoor environments to help them adjust to everyday variations in climate and surroundings. All exposures are done gradually and positively, ensuring that puppies associate new experiences with comfort and reward.

Our approach is based on positive reinforcement, gradual introduction, and consistent repetition. Puppies are never forced into situations that cause distress; instead, experiences are presented in a way that encourages curiosity and confidence. This careful, thoughtful exposure is combined with play, gentle handling, and social interaction to create a foundation of trust, resilience, and emotional stability.

By providing structured early desensitization and socialization, we help our puppies develop into confident, adaptable, and well-prepared dogs. This foundation supports success in homes, training environments, performance activities, and future breeding programs, ensuring that every puppy has the best opportunity for a happy, healthy, and well-adjusted life.

We use the Volhard Puppy Aptitude Test (PAT) to help evaluate each puppy’s personality and temperament before placement in a home. Developed by canine behavior expert Dr. Sandra Volhard, this test measures how a puppy responds to new people, objects, sounds, and situations, providing insight into their confidence, curiosity, adaptability, and overall temperament. We do this in a controlled enviroment, with an unknown tester to ensure accurate results.

The PAT allows us to identify which puppies are naturally bold, confident, playful, or sensitive. It also helps us understand how a puppy may interact with people, other dogs, and new experiences. While it cannot predict every aspect of adult behavior, it provides valuable guidance for socialization, early training, and responsible placement.

Importantly, we use the results of the PAT to match each puppy with the home where they are most likely to thrive. Some puppies may be better suited for active families, working roles, or performance training, while others may excel as loving companions in a quieter household. By carefully evaluating temperament and suitability, we aim to ensure the best fit for both the puppy and the family.

Using this test as part of our selection process also informs our future breeding decisions, helping us prioritize stable, confident, and well-adjusted temperaments in our program. The Volhard PAT is just one of the tools we use to fulfill our commitment to producing German Shepherds that are healthy, well-structured, and emotionally prepared for life with their new families.

At New Era K9s, the health and well-being of our dogs is the top priority, and our breeding program is designed to reflect that commitment. We follow strict veterinary recommendations and evidence-based guidelines to ensure that every breeding decision is made with the long-term health of both the dam and the breed in mind.

We never breed any dog under the age of two years, allowing our dogs to fully mature physically and mentally before entering a breeding career. Additionally, we do not breed in consecutive heat cycles and carefully monitor the timing of each litter to support the dam’s health and recovery. Female breeding careers are capped at four litters, with five litters considered the absolute maximum under safe conditions, and breeding typically ends by five to six years of age depending on the dog’s overall health and physical condition. These measures are designed to reduce the risk of complications such as pyometra and to prioritize the longevity and well-being of the mother.

We also recognize that not every female desires or thrives in a breeding role. Some females are spayed because they do not want to be mothers, and we never force a dog to breed. Respecting the individual needs and temperament of each dog is an essential part of our ethical breeding philosophy, and it ensures that all of our dogs live fulfilling, healthy lives whether or not they participate in our program.

By carefully managing breeding careers, we balance the goals of producing high-quality German Shepherds with the welfare and health of our breeding stock. Every decision—from the age of first breeding to the number of litters a female produces—is made with the long-term physical and emotional health of the dog in mind. At New Era K9s, ethical breeding means prioritizing the dam’s well-being while responsibly contributing to the improvement and preservation of the breed.