Von Isengard

Thank you for taking the time to learn about Von Isengard German Shepherd Dogs and how it all began. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Kelly Winkie and I have been an all breed dog trainer since 2000 for a very reputable kennel in Northern IL. I got my start in training dogs because I was interested in the GSD (German Shepherd Dog) and I wanted to breed them, and learn to handle them. I learned very quickly the value of a well bred dog. I took a step back and realized the dogs we had at home were not suitable for breeding, and began my search for a breedworthy dog.

In my years of training, I have seen firsthand the heartache and stress that a poorly bred dog can bring a family. Temperment and health issues abound in this noble breed. I have also seen what happens when a well bred dog is placed in the wrong home for them. It's really quite unfair to the dog and the owner.  I strive to evaluate each puppy I produce carefully, sell it into the right home, and I am very frank and honest about what I feel each puppy will be. I also have no qualms whatsoever about turning away an unsuitable home and all buyers must complete my application.

I have also been given the distinct advantage of seeing many, many dogs from local breeders, from backyard breeders to puppymills to top national breeders. I often ask to see the lineage of the GSDs I train, so that I may make a mental note of what each line produces, both positive, and negative. I occasionally view pedigrees of many local West German police K9s. These dogs, of course, have the total package of health and workability and their pedigrees are always of great interest to me. This can sometimes greatly assist me in making informed breeding decisions.

My goal is to breed a dog that can obtain V rated structure with quality working ability, and the ability to be a safe, stable companion. Without temperment, all the good looks in the world will not make a working dog. Without structural correctness, high drive will not do much good if the dog's body cannot sustain work.

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    • I applaud your scrutiny in placing dogs in loving, nuturing and caring homes. Since my earliest recollections, we have had dogs. My love for dogs has grown over the years. I look upon them as an extension to the family-not just an animal. Of all the breeds that I have had, my favorite is the German Shepherd. He was easy to train, quick to learn, eager to please and ever vigilant in his protection. It is my hope to acquire a German Shepherd upon retiring. This way I will have time to bond, teach, and love my new companion. I would love to have one now; but that would be selfish, as I do not have adequate time to dedicate to the new addition to our family.

    • I highly recommend Kelly as a breeder, handler, and trainer. She has turned my very dog aggressive GSD to where he just ignores other dogs, never thought I would see it for myself, and plus has helped me train for my Schutzhund and knows my dog better than any other trainer I know. She knows my dog's weaknesses and strong points in training and thanks to her training I passes my BH and now I am moving toward my Schutzhund 1 and I might go on to Schutzhund 2 & 3. She has also taught me not to look a gift horse in the mouth to dogs I trust Kelly 100% I have met all her dogs and they love everyone they meet I can't wait to see what kind of puppies Boudica and Pia have. I plan on having a Boudica puppy when she's in breeding. Kelly's daughter did such a great job handling Boudica and I hope her traits pass on to her puppies.

    • Hi! We are looking for a German Sheppard Puppy and would like to contact you. But the email address listed (info@vonisengard.com.) is not working. How else can we contact you? Thanks

    • Hi, my family and I are looking to add a companion to our family. The dog would not be for breeding or show. Just to give me, mama a new best friend. When will your litter be available and what is the fee?

    • I highly recommend the Von Isengard german shepherds. The owner Kelly is the BEST HANDLER/TRAINER/BREEDER. All of her dogs are strong, yet completely obedient and beautiful. She took my Wendy von der neuen welt, who was as rebellious and strong willed as they come and from the moment she began to work with Wendy, she was a new dog. I have never seen anyone work magic as Kelly does. I have seen all of her dogs and they are beautiful. Their color is magnificent.

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