Our approach

We raise our dogs on a small scale, in our home, never in outdoor kennels. Our top-quality show line puppies are immersed in daily life from the very beginning—surrounded by people, sounds, movement, and meaningful interaction. They are lovingly handled each day and exposed to music, household noises, animals, babies, and children of all ages. Through thoughtful, creative play, along with scent and tactile experiences, we gently stimulate both mind and body. Early foundations are laid through the beginnings of housebreaking and crate training, and by the seventh week, puppies are introduced to leash work as small groups explore the woods and trails on our property. This intentional, hands-on approach helps shape puppies who are calm, confident, curious, and well prepared to transition smoothly into their new homes.

The Story Behind The Photo: At just 7 weeks old, these Von Fahringer puppies were already learning through play. Mika had been engaging them with a long stick when I stepped in and turned their game into a simple recall exercise. I expected cautious steps, as they reached the stick. Instead, one puppy leapt over the stick to get to me quickly, and the others watched, trusted, and confidently did the same. It’s a snapshot of what we believe in at VFS: mother and breeder working together every day to gently challenge, guide, and build confidence in our young puppies.

What we breed for

  • Temperament

    We breed for stable, confident and well-balanced dogs. Our puppies are calm, sound of mind and exhibit the perfect blend of courage, loyalty, and friendliness. We use top West German Showlines because in Germany a Shepherd must earn the right to breed, by not only conforming to the physical breed standards, but they must also meet very stringent temperament testing.

  • Health

    We prioritize the health of our dogs through responsible breeding, high quality nutrition/supplements, genetic testing (such as for Degenerative Myelopathy) and xrays for hip and elbow dysplasia. Each pup has a vet check up and receives their first shots and worming before going to their new home.

  • Intelligence

    Our puppies are highly intelligent and eager to learn, they excel in obedience, training, and problem-solving. Their sharp minds make them ideal for service work, protection, as well as devoted family pets.

  • Beauty

    Our Shepherds embody the breed’s stunning appearance with their correct conformation, rich colors, regal presence and noble expressions. Our dogs turn heads and receive endless compliments wherever they go.

What People Are Saying

“What began as one of the hardest times of my life turned into a deeply healing and unforgettable experience. I can’t thank Linda enough for her kindness, professionalism, and dedication to producing exceptional German Shepherds. From our first conversation, I knew that Linda was special. When I flew to NY, Linda picked me up and welcomed me into her beautiful home like family.It was truly a German Shepherd lovers dream spending the night with Kingsley and meeting Linda’s other well behaved and gorgeous Shepherds.I would fly to NY again and again for another puppy from Von Fahringer Shepherds!”

Caroline G.

“Linda was a wealth of knowledge and support.Jovien has absolutely been one of the best puppies we have ever known! Linda is a BIG part of that. She picked the best parents for him, and set the ground work making potty training, daily structure and daily command training easy.I would 100% recommend Linda and her love of breeding good dogs for loving families.”

Steve W.

“We can’t thank you enough for being the best dog breeder we’ve ever dealt with. The way you love and care for your pups from their first day on is incredible. Thank you for the chats, pictures, updates and welcoming us into your home with such kindness. You are one of a kind and we are grateful that we found you!”

Megan W.

Why Choose a Von Fahringer Puppy?

  • Top West German Lineage

    Our puppies have VA1 World Sieger grandparents on both the dam and the sire’s side. In Germany, dogs chosen to breed, must not only be of correct conformation, they must pass tests for obedience, tracking and protection, as well. Their progeny often carry the same traits: beautiful to the eye, highly intelligent, trainable, obedient, with a sound temperament and natural ability to protect their family and loved ones.

  • Raised in home with children

    Our grandchildren and our photography clients’ babies and children come in and out of our house frequently. Working part time from home our puppies get lots of attention and thoughtful stimulation throughout the day. An added plus, is that your pup will have frequent professional “photos shoots” during his first 8 weeks of life. We are happy to share these photos with you and also take a family portrait for you, when you come to pick up your newest family member.

  • Lifetime Guarantee and Support

    We offer a guarantee against hip and elbow dysplasia and other severe diseases. We care deeply about each puppy and their new family. We are always just a phone call or text away, should you have any questions or concerns. This genuine commitment to you and to your pup will continue for its lifetime.

  • Linda's "Lesson Learned"

    Linda has learned the hard way that if you want the most amazing German Shepherd experience for you and your family, it pays to start with the best example of a true German Shepherd, that you can afford. The initial expense may be more, but all of the expenses that follow, will be the same or possibly less. In the long term, purchasing the best quality German Shepherd that you can, is so worth it.

More of What People Are Saying

“Thank you so much for coming into our life! We are so grateful to find a person and breeder like you. We couldn’t be happier for the communication, transparency and how much you have allowed us to be a part of this journey! We are so excited for our new adventure with Nico!”

Domenica C.

“Linda did a spectacular job posting daily videos, letting me see the wonderful early life that Akira and her siblings were enjoying! At 4 1/2 months old now, she is the epitome of what you would want in a dog. Healthy, beautiful, strong, devoted, intelligent and loving. I spent so very long, looking, learning, and looking yet still more to find the right breeder, the right dog. Linda and I shared many wonderful conversations on the phone, she is pleasant, kind, and is a good person. I truly could not have asked for a better dog than what Linda Peluso (of Von Fahringer Shepherds) provided. Linda will share your puppies fist photos with you, and most importantly make you feel glad you picked one of her dogs to change your life!”

Nik L.

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Former Customer