Wilhendorf, a family owned and operated business, has been breeding and showing champion German Shepherds for nearly half a century.  Wilhendorf was founded by John M. and Susanne Henkel in New Milford, Connecticut in 1959; John E. Henkel currently directs the breeding, training, and showing of the Kennel's Shepherds.  John's wife and daughters, and his sister Karen and her family work with John as part of the Wilhendorf team.  Wilhendorf shows its Shepherds extensively in the U.S. and Europe.  The Kennel's track record in competition is unmatched.

Wilhendorf has placed #1 in the USA in 12 consecutive national competitions. Wilhendorf is the USA's all-time Breeder's Cup leader and winner of the award for the past 5 consecutive years. Wilhendorf has more VA titles than all other USA breeders combined.

Wilhendorf is the all-time highest placing non-European kennel at the German World Sieger Show. Wilhendorf bred dogs are the 5 all-time highest-placing American-bred Working Males at the German World Sieger Show. Wilhendorf has bred more German Shepherds placing in the Top 25 in Germany than all other USA breeders combined.