Wilhendorf, a family owned and operated business, has been breeding and showing champion German Shepherds for 60+ years.

 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 are an integral 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 earned #1 Breeder in the USA at over 32 national competitions, with a record breaking placement of #3 Kennel in the World at the 2023 SV Bundessiegerzuchtschau (BSZS). Wilhendorf is the all-time highest placing non-European kennel at the German World Sieger Show. 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 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.

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