Testimonials
 

This page encases The Testimonials from our customers.

Hi John, 

When would you like me to bring Hannah up to you for the last shot and so on? She is doing great! The easiest dog I've ever had getting house-broken. 

Regards, 

Ed 

Dear John & Family,

Just a little note to say a very big thank you.  

Today is the 1 year anniversary of bringing Brando home.   I can't tell you how much he has added to our lives - mine, especially.  Brando is incredibly smart, athletic, sweet, sensitive, eager to please, and protective all in one very wonderful package. 

On top of all of that - we now have you guys in our extended family.

In my opinion, life doesn't get any better than that.

Can't wait to see you guys soon-

Love,

Carol R., Rhode Island

Thank you also for the contributions you are making to improve the breed.  It's an honor to be Czeke's owner, as he is truly a special dog.

Thank you for your interest in Czeke.  Any thoughts or recommendations you may have toward raising/training/showing Czeke are always appreciated. 

Thank you also for the contributions you are making to improve the breed.  It's an honor to be Czeke's owner, as he is truly a special dog.

I will not be attending the USA Sieger Show.  As much as I would love to enter him, I will be at a good friend's wedding that weekend.  Nonetheless, I look forward to meeting you in Statesville--and Teejay also?

I'll get you a more appropriate pic of Czeke.  Thanks again for your interest.  Good luck in San Jose!

Bret T., Owner of a Teejay son from Florida

He is truly fantastic in every way. Above and beyond my expecations. And he is GEORGEOUS. I'd love to talk to you more to tell you just what a phenomenally smart, warm, sweet, loyal dog he is, if you have a chance. I am especially impressed by his ability to "discern" how to behave in any given situation. He will appropriately protective one moment, and totally calm and gentle the next. He also refuses to leave my bedside when I am sick. A few monthsd ago I had pneumonia and was ordered bedrest. He refused to go out, or eat, or drink away from my bedside.  Suna, New York, NY and L.A, Ca.  

SUNA

I'd tell you all these amazing amazing things Gabrielle does already, but I know you're more than very very busy. She's a very exciting puppy! (And Teejay can retire to my house anytime in the future. I'll treat him like a King.)

Take care, 

Deb, New Jersey

Hi John

I would like to start by saying I enjoyed speaking with you the other day and we are so excited about out Teejay puppies!!!  They are incredible!  Such great nerves, beautiful temperaments and so smart and very loving.  I look forward to when I can meet Teejay in person.

Today we entered both Rumor and Baara in the puppy match in Beaumont, TX at the AKC Specialty Show.  We were very impressed with them.  They exhibited such great nerves being around all of the other dogs, varying in ages and of course the spectators.  They were very lovable to those who approached them.  In the ring, each acted as if they had been doing this for a while, but of course at 4 1/2 months of age, this was their first event.  The Judge was able to examine them each thoroughly without any problems, even the teeth.  We had a blast and most importantly the "twins" had a great time. 

I have attached a few photos for you. I copied them on a word document, so I hope you will not have any problems opening them and  I hope you enjoy them.  I will keep you up to date on their progress and we look forward to meeting you and your beautiful, precious Teejay in KY.

Terry H.,   Texas

John, Congratulations on another fabulous result at the Seiger Show last weekend.  You and your team deserve every bit of the credit and acclaim.  My observation after being at the show for three days is that your dogs seem very well-adjusted and extremely stable.  There were a lot of dogs who did not seem that way.  We enjoyed getting to know all of you a little better.  Kevin is a real treasure and Danny von Wilhendorf is another winner in the making!

 

I just wanted to thank you again for all the support you have given Warren and me with regard to our "girls"! 

From Connie P.    Lafayette, Ca

she is doing quite well - as we know she must take after her father in brains - congratulations.  I take her out to Mystic everyday for socialization - nothing fazes her and everyone stops to play with her.  She is beautiful...

Tina, Mystic, Ct.    

Hi John, It has been quite a while.

Just a brief note to tell you that Clem is flourishing.  He is friends with the cats, close to the kids, and it seems he’s been with us forever.

A great dog… Just as you said.

Best,

David M,   Boston, Ma. 

HELLO, JOHN I JUST WANT TO SAY......ANOTHER GREAT GREAT JOB,.............. AS FOR TEEJAY I AM SHORT FOR WORDS.....HE IS BY FAR THE BEST AMERICAN BRED MALE THIS COUNTRY WILL EVER SEE OR HAVE...HE JUST CONTINUES TO AMAZE ME WITH HIS OFF SPRINGS....I WISH I WAS THERE TO SEE TEEJAY AND ALL HIS PUPPIES....BUT FISHING, HAS KEPT ME SO BUSY........BUT IN SPRIT AM THERE, MY HEART IS STILL WITH THE GSD,.........DONT COUNT ME OUT YET. I JUST WANTED TO SAY  YOU HAVE DONE SUCH A GREAT JOB WITH WILHENDORF....ALWAYS ALWAYS ON TOP..........NO-MATTER WHERE,........PEOPLE JUST DONT REALIZE WHAT YOU REALY DO WITH ALL YOUR HARD WORK JUST TO GET READY FOR A SIEGER SHOW.........................AND THEN FLY THEM TO CAL, I REALLY TIP MY HAT TO YOU...................AGAIN GREAT GREAT JOB JOHN...............YOU ARE THE WIENERAU OF THE USA...AND BE PROUD OF IT. I JUST CANT WAIT TO SEE DANNY V WILHENDORF IN A YEAR.....WOW,,,,,, AND CZEKIEL..........

ALSO CONRATS TO VA-RHAPSODY..SHE IS BEAUTIUL...... AGAIN JOHN........GREAT WORK.......YOUR DAD WOULD OF BEEN PROUD......

ALWAYS

TOMMY B

Syrus just arrive and is doing great!  It's like he's always been here.  He seems to really

enjoy the kids and Jack, our older dog.   He does have very good drives. 

He really enjoyed chasing and fetching one of the balls that I got for him.   He's doing

great (resting now) and I think he'll be a perfect fit!  Thank you, thank you, thank you!  

Nancy G.  Charlotte, NC

Hi, I wanted to fill you in on my Teddy, is a big boy now et 6 years old  I can,t believe how fast the time has flown by. We were watching TV in our den tonight and I sit there watching him sleep noticing  just   how handsome he is.  Have been up tonight reading everything I can find to help my baby live as long as possible, I wanted you to know I still love my Teddy with all my heart and  am still so thankful for him.   Thank you so much,   Pat Torwich.  

Pat T.

The puppy is great!  We are really enjoying him. Thanks so much! 

Deb D., Maryland 

My goodness this puppy is seriously gorgeous! I hope you know I will be telling everyone where I got him and I am sure you will get people wanting your dogs who meet Octavius. Thank you again and happy new year! 

Jennifer F.   Los Angeles, Ca. 

John,  You sure can pick 'em (I guess Dave and I can too for that matter)!  Congratulations on a very successful day one of your Wesconn competition. Dave said it was an awesome experience. I'm sorry I wasn't there to see Wrangers' big moment, but my time alone with Una was well spent. I adore her and I am beginning to believe the feeling is mutual. Good luck tomorrow. We all four are looking forward to Nass. See you then, Susan

Again congratulations on your excellent showing at the USA NASS show last weekend in Arlington.  VA Quizno made a huge impact on the crowd.  Some of the top AKC judges whio were with me commented on two things:  their amazement at the overall movement, proportions and color/class of Quizno;  and the extreme producing ability of VA1 Teejay based on his progeny class (from a wide variety of different bitches--thus showing his pre-potency for type and quality).

JOHN,

ONCE AGAIN YOU HAVE DONE A GREAT JOB AT THE SIEGER SHOW.......TIME AND TIME AGAIN, NO MATTER WHERE THE SHOW IS YOUR BREEDING PROGRAM OVER THE YEARS GETS BETTER AND BETTER, PLEASE KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK YOU DO FOR THE BREED..................AND REMEMBER  TO LOCK THE TRAILER  WHEN AM AROUND IF SCARLETT IS IN THERE.................SHE IS BEAUTIFUL,  CONGRATES ON HER PUPPY SIEGERIN AT THE USA SIEGER SHOW........I TOLD A LOT OF PEOPLE NO ONE WAS GOING TO BEAT HER......SHE IS BEAUTIFUL

 CONGRATS

BOSTON IRISH

TOMMY BROWN

Rosy seems great. She slept the whole way home in the car (about three hours plus).

She slept last night in the cage with no problems  for about nine hours.

I walked her for about five minutes this morning and she was great.

Overall we think she is a treasure. She likes to explore the house and is getting used to it and our routines.

Thanks John.

J. Stone,  Mass.  

John. I really appreciate the outstanding job you are doing in breeding and training.

From Dr. F.L. , Pittsfield, MA.

Yule is settling in and doing great. She is so sweet and gentle around the kids. I think you matched us up with the perfect dog.

From Rob S. and Family, CT.

Hi John, I thought that you’d like to hear that Zoe  is doing great. We are very impressed by how smart and agile she is. She bonded very easily with her new family, is fine with the crate routine, and quickly learning about walking on a lead, chewing her own toys, and going to the bathroom outside. She is adorable.

Thanks for all your help. We are having fun learning more about her lineage online. Don’t be surprised if we are back for another before too long.

Laura

Hi John, It was great meeting you and Teejay on Thursday..

Indy was great on the ride to Maryland -- slept most of the way (and really took to the crate). Even slept all the way through the night. Indy is doing fine and seems to be adjusting pretty quick (even with all the rain -- she won't be shy about  rain from here on).

I'll send you some photos in the next week so you can see how she looks. 

Thanks again for the super puppy.

Best regards,

-Brian and Anne B.

Dear John, Yesterday, Spencer was filmed in his second film, 'Julie & Julia.'  It's about Julia Childs.  Spencer's first movie, 'The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants II' opens in August.  

Howard

Uran got here in great shape.  He isn't even tired!!!!  They were quite impressed with him at the cargo center.  Uran is simply wonderful!!!  Came into my house like he has always lived here.  He is a very very special puppy to me...Thank you so much...Holly

HOLLY S, KENTUCKY

Hi John - It's Loretta Nizolek, I bought a male puppy from you in May for my son Ryan...."Maxx" is now a fabulous young dog who amazes everyone he meets with his focused, calm nature.... he really is an amazing young dog....I have tried to reach you by telephone a couple of times, I know you are busy and out and about....I would love to bring Maxx to see you (and get his ears done and find out his shot history)....we have enjoyed welcoming him to his new home so much that I have allowed time to slip by me.... Ryan should begin training with you as soon as possible....Maxx is an amazing, amazing dog and I want him to have the benefit of your training so that he can then train Ryan !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  You probably hear all the time that your dogs are amazing, but I have never owned a dog that brought the kind of attention that Maxx does....I have been as far as Danbury, Ridgefield, Washington, Litchfield and there are people that will approach us and say, "that must be a Henkel dog"....now that's amazing!  We hope to hear from you soon....take care, Loretta     

 

Let me know the best time to reach you and we can figure out a training schedule....Bye!

LORETTA N.

(Our puppy) just back back from the vet and he is 19.5lbs!  He is an absolute joy and my wife has fallen for him harder than me!  Great dog....

CLAY E., ORLANDO, Fl.

I also wanted to let you know that Drexl has become an overnight sensation where ever we take him!  We are exposing him to as much as we can and when ever we bump into strangers they comment on how wonderful he is.  Even so called "self proclaimed german shepherd experts" that we run into along the streets comment on how wonderful he is.

Clay E., Orlando, Fl.

Ok, I know I’ve got a ways to go but I just have to tell you how much fun I had with them and this evening Drew stayed in a Plotz while a cat and three chipmunks ran by within a few yards.  You saved my Drew, you are my hero.

Mary K. in Massachusetts.     Dog trained by Von Wilhendorf 

To the Henkel Family

 

My name is Anne G. and I am writing this email to express my family's deepest sympathies to you for the recent passing of John Henkel.

 

Back in the late 60's and early 70's, my father, Jim Genovese, bought his first German Shepherd dog from Mr. Henkel to use as protection in his liquor store in Stamford CT. Dad had three Shepherds altogether from Mr. Henkel... Baron von Wilhendorf, Longrine von Wilhendorf and West von Wong. Mr. Henkel did a fabulous job training them to keep my father safe in his store. For that I am very grateful. I can remember many times when I was a young girl, I would travel to New Milford on a Sunday morning with my father to go see Mr. Henkel for a training session. Though I can't remember his name at the moment, I do remember Mr. Henkel’s son, who was such a cute little toddler running around in his jammies. It was always a very special time for me.


Today I was showing him how the Internet works on my computer and The first thing he asked me was if I could find out if the John and the K 9 Country Club are still around.  Dad and I were both very sad to read the messages as we reminisced for quite a while about his three Shepherds and the times he spent training with John. He asked me to try and get in touch with the family to express our sadness and I am hoping that this Email finds it was into the right hands.

 

In closing, I would just like to say again how very sorry we were to hear about John's passing and to let you know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers.

 

Sincerely,

Anne G. and Dad, James  G.

Dear John

I just read about your dad's passing and I want to express my belated condolences to you and your family. I regret I never had the privilege of meeting him but he was held in the highest esteem by many around the world.

My dog recently turned ten and has been nothing short of fantastic. He's been an amazing friend, companion and member of my family. Thank you and your family for helping make that happen.

Michael B. , Chicago, Ill.  

My new baby girl is doing wonderfully and as I said on the message I left she is smart as a tack. “Posh” as I have decided to call her is I believe so far house trained since she does alarm me that she needs to go out and go potty by whining at the door or in her puppy pen. Posh just loves playing ball, is learning to bring it back, and can find it almost anywhere I hide it. She knows her name already, comes running when called, and is taking leash training like a pro.  Mentioning her ears, they are both up beautifully today so her tattoo in her ear must be healing nicely. Posh is everything and more that I could have dreamed of coming from your kennel and the very beautiful Teejay.  

Kandi S.   Washington State. 

I had trouble sleeping last night because I am beyond excited that I will soon be the proud new owner of a beautiful female puppy by the unsurpassed Teejay & from the prestigious Wilhendorf/Henkel Kennels. John, I cannot express my appreciation or how much this puppy means too me. Sending my best and I hope everyone is doing well your way.
Kandi S., Elk, Wa.

He does incredibly smart things all the time to make my life easier - I will be happy to share some stories with you as well. 

For a small example, he gets his leash and my sneakers and socks every morning and places them by the door for us to go out....:) 

He's just a joy beyond comparison. Even people who ordinarily don't like dogs LOVE Enzo.

John, I just want to thank you again for our female.  Your pick couldn't have been more perfect.  My neighbor came to see her last night and was AMAZED at how well behaved and smart she is.  She listens so well.  We truly love her.  Thank you! 

Kat S.   Clarksville, Tn. 

Gabrielle 1st session with Carlos went, to me, amazingly well. Carlos (Rojas- Nationally renowned trainer) gave her thumbs up and a "very good' at the end. I was amazed that while he worked her she kept her eyes on him when foosing and doing the work - never seen anything like that from her before - thought that was a more advanced "skill". Moved with speed and enthusiasm. Tail wagging.

Near the end she kept following him, off lead and nicely at the left side, when he would just start walking about - he formed a strong connection with her very quickly. Off lead, stayed at the proper side and kept up with him while he was turning/spinning - never worked with her on that before - looked awesome. Etc... Made me laugh and smile, a lot. Couldn't believe that was my girl out there. She's amazing me. Was a lot of fun.

Just thought you might find the info interesting. And I'm so proud of the kid I can't help but "brag" about her. Thank you, thank you, thank you. You and Teejay make nice dogs.

Deb

Just thought I would give you an update on our new little boy.  He already knows his name, sits and comes on command, what an amazing little pup.  Thanks.

Joe K. and Family, Durham, Ct.

"Trooper" is doing well. He is a very smart one, he was house trained in a day. I think he might be quite special.

Kevin S.,  New York.

Hi John, I thought I would drop you a quick note to let you know that everything is going great.  Logan is exploring, learning, and (eating well).    He has been sleeping throughout the night most of this past week.  He loves to be outside and is very good with all the neighborhood kids.  He is very smart and tries to teach me something new every day. Best Regards, JOE.

Congrats, especially on Quizno's great showing! - they're saying awesome things about his protection work - was really impressed by what I saw when he was on the bite practice field that one day - 1st class all the way  (as if you didn't know?).With Danny coming along next, looks like you're setting up to have the 1, 2, 3 KO punch. T, Q, & D! Future great luck,Deb, ^..^

Deb in NJ

John, It was great to meet you, TeeJay and the pup. TeeJay is so friendly and even though Maeve, our three year old, was a little scared at first he was great with her. We love his temperament and hope our pup will be just as comfortable with friends. We love the pup and hope she will love us too. The kids can't stop talking about her. They loved the way she talked to them. Thank you for being so gracious with your time. We appreciate your kindness. 

Anna R. and Family,   Ct.  

Dear John, Ed and I are thrilled with our wonderful German Shepherd. Batz is bright,well behaved, playful and needless to say he is bringing us a great deal of joy.

I am impressed with how easily he is learning the "rules of the house." You were so wise in encouraging us to take him home and be a puppy. We had a delightful weekend.

Thank you for finding such a perfect dog for us!

Judy and Ed,  Newtown, Ct.

Hi John,

You are amazing! To see (my daughter's) new-found confidence is wonderful. And to watch her pet Nero today without any mouthing/nipping was priceless.  "It's" something that I will not soon forget. While I want to do so many things with Nero (show, "schutzhund", etc.), we needed to address this so we can have some peace in our home.

You are the best! Talk with you soon.

With all of my thanks,

J.D.  Connecticut

John:

Re my previous message, I wanted to share a story that shows how just how important Berrin has become to all of us.  About a month ago I had some friends over the house.  After dinner we went out back where we sat around the fire pit talking while my daughter roasted some marshmallows.  After awhile, my daughter took Berrin inside to put him in his crate for the night.  About 15 minutes later we heard Berrin barking (which he never does, by the way).  At first I thought nothing of it but after a minute or so, my wife went in to see what was going on.  She then saw (our daughter) rolling on the floor uncontrollably having a Tourette's episode right next to Berrin's crate.  My wife then held on to my daughter and let Berrin out of the crate where he proceeded to cuddle up next to her to offer some comfort- - he was really concerned and it was amazing to see.  My wife, who was reluctant to purchase a dog at first, was quickly won over by Berrin's affection.

He has a great temperament and is great with (our daughter) and her friends.  My wife brings Berrin with her when she drops (our daughter) off at school every morning and again to pick her up in the afternoon.  He has become the school mascot as all the kids love him.  My wife is amazed at how he sits still by her side when she is waiting for (our daughter) to come out of school.  Kids go by to pet him and he doesn't move until he sees (our daughter) and then he runs up to her and licks her.  My wife says you can see whatever stress she may have experienced that day disappear as soon as she is greeted by Berrin.

Can't tell you how glad we were to find you and to have Berrin as part of our family.

Good morning, I was so blessed to receive one of your puppies back in 2001. Her

german name was Vincie and I changed it to Angel. She has been a wonderful dog

and I continue to enjoy her everday. She will be 10 in June and is in excellant

health. I hope she continues with her health and can live a few more years. She

is the best dog I have ever owned or could ever have dreamed of owning. My

question is about how long is your waiting list? I would not want to bring in

another dog in until Angel's health declines. I would want a female with...excellent temperament, a companion, and I would just assume another

great health line. I have had another German Sheperds but none compares to the

dog I purchased from you.

Thanks,

G.T.

We have never loved a dog more than Zeus, and words can't describe how important he is to our family.  We are seriousy considering a new addition, and will contact you soon!


Hope you enjoy the photo- Zeus has grown up to be a true gentleman and a real looker!! E.S. Miami, Fl.

Hi John,

I stopped by today to drop off the crate you loaned my mom for Ava.  Everything is going wonderfully.  She's a great dog and perfect for my mom.  Yulee and Ava played one weekend when we all went to visit.  Just this past weekend Yulee slept over at my mom's while we were out of town.  She and Ava are a great pair and enjoy each other's company immensely.

Thank you for all your time and effort finding a match for my mom.  They will be an inseperable pair and take great care of one another.

All the best,

R.S

Good morning, I was so blessed to receive one of your puppies back in 2001. Her german name was Vincie and I changed it to Angel. She has been a wonderful dog and I continue to enjoy her everday. She will be 10 in June and is in excellent health. I hope she continues with her health and can live a few more years. She is the best dog I have ever owned or could ever have dreamed of owning. My question is about how long is your waiting list? I would not want to bring in another dog in until Angel's health declines. I would want a female with...excellent temperament, a companion, and I would just assume another great health line. I have had another German Sheperds but none compares to the dog I purchased from you.

Thanks,

G.T.


Hi John, I want to thank for taking such good care of Yanko when I was in the hospital.  From the moment I returned home he became my caregiver.  He never leaves my side--day and night. When he realizes I am in pain, he comforts me with kisses.  This has been quite an ordeal that I could not imagine with his company.  Yanko is such a kind, loyal, and loving dog, and I am so happy that he is mine.  Thanks again for your concern and Yanko.  GNR, Suffield, Ct. 


My brother absolutely loves his puppy.  He keeps telling me that he puppy is exemplary of the excellence of outstanding breeding.

John,

Isa has been fitting in very well with our Husky and her nerves are rock solid she doesn't back down on things and holds her ground.  She is easily the easiest dog we have ever Crate Trained!!!!  She is very quiet through the night and has lots of drive and great focus when we play with her.  She is already doing well on common commands like sit and come.  She is a real traffic stopper everywhere we take her we can hardly get away b/c everyone wants to meet her and comment on her!  We even had a lady in petsmart comment on her and she had an adult german shepherd with her and she said Isa isn't skiddish at all and  has great nerves when she mentioned her dog was alot more timid.  So I have to commend you on the quality of GSD you are breeding and you have exceeded our expectations in so many ways.

Thanks

D.M.,  Florida

Hi John,  thought we'd send you a quick note to let you know that Ocean is doing great.  His ride home was...peaceful, tough decision in deciding who to lay with though (see pic).  He's doing great at home, getting along well with our 8yr old...  He's already sitting on command and we really can't take much credit for that and is very comfortable here already.   We'll update more as he progresses. Thanks John..


"Greta" has fit in perfectly with our family after a mere 2 weeks with us. Not sure how you knew her temperament was exactly what we were seeking, but you nailed it. She is a brilliant, gentle, loyal, and somewhat spoiled companion. Since our Shepard died last November our home has had a huge, sad hole in it. Not any longer...Gratefully, jen


Remi is not ahead of the curve. He is setting the curve.

He is afraid of nothing. He is totally confident. The major changes resulting from being taken away from mom, siblings, and his surroundings since birth appear to have had zero effect on his positive, playful, trusting attitude. It is as if he has been here for years -- both for him and for us. Obviously we already love him so much we could not imagine not having him with us.

 

His confidence at 8 weeks is almost scary.

I have had many dogs including, now, 4 shepherds. Remi is already exceptional. I am no expert on conformation, but I can still see how handsome, actually beautiful, he is going go be. However, his breeding -- as in intelligence, drive, equanimity, awareness, devotion, loyalty, inner power and confidence, love, acceptance of new and strange  things (adaptability), etc. are obvious after only 18 hours. I was just playing with him -- not training him -- and I am certain that "komm" and "sitz" will have been learned by tomorrow. He already is pleased by pleasing.

He is already wonderful. I can only imagine an older Remi von Wilhendorf and whether or not he ever competes or is shown, he is going to be an exceptional GSD. Remi is now asleep on the floor with his head on my foot. I am in heaven. - J.T


John, Henry is an absolutely amazing dog!!!   Brian T., RI.