Heidelberg German Shepherd

I purchased my GSD, Cisco, from Heidelberg 11 years ago, and he's been the best GSD I've ever had. Protector, loving (w/kids), loyal and HEALTHY. AT 10yrs old, he developed arthritis in his L. rear hip, but he's an old dog, so it's expected. I bought him, sight unseen, but saw his Dad and Mom on the website, who were both Ch. dogs. I told Eugene what I was looking for (a 4 mo. old male) and he delivered as promised. I'm sorry for the folks who have had issues with their GSD's, but I think maybe more of the "unhappy" folks post, than people who are happy and have no reason to post. I just happened upon this site and decided to put my 2 cents worth in. Two weeks ago, Cisco was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) which coincidentally took my last GSD at 8yrs old (different breeder). So, to say I'll miss Cisco when the time comes is a HUGE understatement. We'll just love him and keep him out of pain until that day comes. Overall, a wonderful experience, as a dog, friend, and companion!

Posted 10/14/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

My mom acquired a Heidelberg german sheperd a few years ago from someone who could no longer handle him, he was the sweetest and smartest dog. She followed the Heidelberg reccommended diet and kept in contact with them for their advice. Her dog became very ill very quickly and was diagnosed with degenerative myeopathy. A DNA test was done and showed a positive match for both parent dogs having the same gene. She tried to contact Heidelberg for help as to what to do to help her dog get through it, for any vet recommendations they had, etc to save her dog. They would not even listen to her, they refused to advise her on therapy, vets, anything. She loved her dog very much and had to let him go this past week, it was the hardest thing she has ever had to do. These people are cold and just want to make money off their dogs, they dont consider them emotional and caring animals but money makers that they boast as hip displacia free but dont tell you about the other hereditary genes they have. I do not recommend them to anyone. They do have a beautiful facilities and wonderful dogs but do you really want to promote someone who is so cold and selfish as they are.

Posted 08/17/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I must say the Heidelberg German Shepherds have great temperament and are great dogs. However, I think the owners have gone quite mad. His theory of only feeding HIS type of food and supplements is just plain crazy. If you don't do the diet he does not sell you their heart worm liquid. What a farce. Sounds pretty desperate. I have boarded my dogs there often and they do get sick and come home with fleas. I no longer board my dogs there and no longer feed his diet. My dogs constantly had diarrhea and yes, one of them had seizures. I have now changed them over to a all natural protein diet and their are all doing fantastic. Beware. Call local vets in the area and ask their opinion of the Heidelberg Kennels. You will be amazed of the horror stories. I was once a true believer and loyal customer for over 20 yrs. I would not board my dogs there or get trapped into their one and only diet!!!!!!! BEWARE

Posted 08/05/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I have read many reviews saying both good and bad of Heidelberg. The one thing that is repeated by both sides is how great these dogs look and that they have a perfect disposition or temperament. I have also seen the facility and it is huge these people produce hundreds of puppies per year and if there are some that have problems is that not normal? Even people that appear to be healthy die or come down with illnesses for no apparent reason. And the other thing that stood out for me was a reviewer saying that after hearing of his dogs epilepsy Heidelberg offered him a new puppy. Although I totally understand not wanting to give up the unhealthy dog, after all these dogs do become family to most that buy one. But I don't think it fair to then say you were treated unfairly if you turn down an offer to replace the ill pup with one that is healthy. I for one would buy from these folks and feel fine doing so. And as for "THE LETTER" that some of you claim to have received. I would question why did you get one. Did you call Mr. Thompson and threaten him? Maybe you claimed you would bad mouth him and his kennel? If so he is well with in his rights to advise you that he could sue you for slander. Being a business owner I know that the customer is NOT alway's right and that some people could never be satisfied and will never be happy and some would whine if you gave them a pup free of charge. Mr. Thompson is breeding these dogs to be the best that is possible and I dont remember him ever claiming they would all be perfect. In closing I would say just research the other breeders and you will see most shepherds being bred today are unhealthy poorly balanced dogs. The American breeders are breeding dogs that have sloped backs to the point that they are useless and the german breeders are breeding dogs that have hunched backs that are not healthy either and the german dogs have a tendency to be aggresive. Look at nature the closest relative is the wolf it does not have a sloped back or a hunched back it looks more like a Heidelburg shepherd than any other sheperd American or german. Nature does not make mistakes. If you love shepherds then you must know that the Heidelburg Shepherds are truely the best choice as of this point in time. I hope others will try to breed shepherds like these dogs because these dogs are truely what a real German Shepherd was intended to be.

Posted 06/22/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

If I am to believe you and your story, I now have heard of 4 dogs dead as a result of being kenneled at Heidelberg. According to a previous supporter (below) of Heidelberg, maybe you have your standards too high?

Where else does this happen? Did you also get "THE LETTER" from Eugene Thompson that he would sue you if you sued him? Did you get the "THE LETTER" telling you he would sue you if you said anything bad about him?

You would REALLY be surprised at how many threatening letters Eugene has sent out. Think about how many people have posted their complaints here and how many others are afraid to because of all the "THE LETTER"s he sends out. I think he must mass produce them.

Eugene's typical M.O. is send a certified threatening letter to you as soon as you complain about him or threaten to sue he. I got mine after a simple phone call complaining about the dog I bought. I started checking around on this guy and came across this review site as well as Rip-Off Report website. I asked a few locals who have dealt with him and all I can say is WOW!!!

Did you get yours? Most everyone I've talked to who has a complaint about this guy has received one. Anyone who REALLY knows what this many has done in his lifetime would never do business with him. The rest of the people are ignorant to the facts - like I WAS before I learned better.

Posted 05/25/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I lived in Denver but purchased a GS dog from Eugene about 12 years ago while living in the Woodlands. We boarded our 3 year shepherd when we went on vacation and on our return, Eugene told me my dog was dead. No apology, no compensation, no call, no explanation and no dog. My family was devastated.We took out a lawsuit against Heidelberg and it took about two years but it was finally settled. His dogs are gorgeous and his facilties are well kept but I will would never do business with that man again. He's a strange and insenitive man who has some serious issues. Be careful!!!!

Posted 05/23/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I wrote a positive review about purchasing a GSD from Eugene - Satisfactory transaction.

Recently, I wrote Eugene about getting another GSD as a buddy for our sweet Annie. Moments later, Eugene called me and read me the riot act - you are not feeding your dog my food, drugs, meds, etc and I WILL NEVER sell you another dog!!!!

When we bought the GSD, Eugene recommended his food, etc. I declined right there and then. Now, he refuses to discuss the matter at all. Very strange.

Eugene has beautiful dogs but a very odd way of doing business. Tread carefully

Posted 05/02/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

My husband and I purchased Thor, a gorgeous, vibrant, highly intelligent, German Shepherd Dog from Heidelberg Kennels in December 1996. Owner Eugene Thompson's affection for canines appeared to be genuine (though the same could not be said of his partner Wayne), so when he recommended that we follow his diet plan for Thor's feedings, we enthusiastically did so for several years, right down to the garlic, yeast supplements, and homemade dog biscuits. Eugene was also very solicitous and helpful whenever I called him about minor problems (as when Thor swallowed a small piece of sheetrock!), and we boarded Thor without incident on at least five occasions.

Alas, Eugene "forgot" to tell us that Thor had one undescended testicle -- a potentially serious heath problem -- and he blamed the Clear Lake Water Authority for Thor's chronic irritable bowel syndrome (which our vet, against Eugene's dire warnings of "quackery," successfully eradicated with Tylan). Also during this time, my sister-in-law's friend purchased a female puppy from Heidelberg with the intent of eventually breeding her new dog -- only to find out that Eugene "forgot" to mention that the dog was already spayed. In addition, Eugene "forgot" to point out that a second, unspayed, female dog would never be able to bear puppies to full term, due to her extremely narrow conformation. Evidently Eugene failed to comprehend that lying by omission is still lying.

My husband and I were able to have our precious, magnificent Thor in our lives for less than six years before making the agonizing decision to free him from his worsening arthritis and hip dysplasia, as well as the crippling disease of degenerative spinal myelopathy. The sorrow and anguish we felt while holding our beloved, magnificent boy's head in our laps as our vet gently euthanized him was overwhelming. Afterwards, in our grief, we thought our only possible comfort could be found -- for just a minute or two -- by surrounding ourselves with Heidelberg's young, frisky, joyful puppies.

My husband and I were wrong. As we entered Heidelberg's office, we found Eugene inside and, still choked with grief and pain, I hugged Eugene and exclaimed, "Oh Eugene, we've lost Thor! We've lost our beautiful boy! We had to have him put to sleep!" (Please note that at no time did we blame Heidelberg for Thor's illnesses or eventual demise.) Eugene coldly stepped back, and the first thing he said was, "Did you keep Thor on my diet?" No consoling words, no enquiries about Thor, no pat on the shoulder, nothing ... just an accusing stare, followed by the ferocious statement, "You killed your dog! YOU KILLED HIM! YOU DIDN'T STAY ON THE DIET AND NOW YOU'VE KILLED HIM!" Eugene then disgustedly turned on his heel and walked away.

Astonished by Eugene's breathtaking cruelty and insane accusation, my husband and I left Heidelberg at once, too griefstricken by our loss to take Eugene to task, as he bloody well deserved. We now own two other (non-Heidelberg) German Shepherds, but we will never board them with Heidelberg, nor will we recommend Heidelberg as a breeder. Heidelberg's dogs are indeed alluringly beautiful, and they have brought home the blue ribbons, but their genetic defects are excessive for a kennel of its vaunted caliber. Eugene does indeed seem to love dogs, but he is caught up in his own particular theories of breeding, diet, medication, and vet phobia to the point of delusion -- and he displays an untoward antagonism toward anyone, professional or novice, who doesn't agree with him. Expect to be angrily blamed by Eugene for your dog's "murder" when you endure the heartbreak of your Heidelberg canine companion's euthanasia.

Posted 04/27/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

After reading all these comments, I fell compelled to chime in. I have a 3 year-old German shep mix/mutt (street romance, my Grandmother would say) and have taken him to Heidelberg on numerous occasions for short and long-term boarding. A couple of thoughts come to mind:

1. Dogs have problems. They always have, they always will. If you're not equipped to invest yourself emotionally and financially, don't get a dog. A fish might be more appropriate for you.

2. Who are you people who are suprised that your dog has a few fleas after staying at Heidelberg? Are you kidding me? Have you looked at the grounds? It's a beautiful, sprawling landscape of water, grass, trees and shrubs. It's a virtual heaven for dogs... and fleas. And it's Texas. Come on! Are you the same people who have emergency hand-sanitizers everywhere imaginable? Do you also keep plastic liners on your couch?

3. Seeing as I don't stay there with him when he's boarded, I trust my dog's body language. Bottom line: When I pull off I-45 in Spring, my dog goes wild with excitement knowing he's headed to Heidelberg. Not a bone in my body tells me that he's unhappy or mistreated while there. I never worry about him for a second when I'm away on vacation or business. I know he's in great care.

I might add that Heidelberg was recommended to me by a colleague who owns two GSDs. Her husband is a police officer and they have had Germand Sheps for years and years. Her words to me, "I wouldn't trust my dogs to anybody else". I completely agree.

Posted 04/25/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

We have boarded with Heidelberg in the past with no incident. In September we boarded my Mother-in-law's 10 year old Corgie mix. She has been boarded many times before, but never with Heidleberg. While there, the employes cliped her nails 2 days prior to our picking her up(we had asked them not to clip her nails til the morning that we were to pick her up). That night she managed to escape from the unlocked pin that she was being kept in. Keep in mind this was a 40+ lbs dog. The owner called us after they realized that she had been missing for almost an hour. When we arived to help look for her, the owner had his dog with him ( to help look for our dog). We asked him to put his dog away that it was not helping, he refused. He just kept asking if she would find her way home. We told him no, since she had just moved here from NY. After 20 min, the owner and staff quit looking for the lost dog and stated that they would start again after 9am the next morning. Our dog was found by us the next morrning before 9 am. She had been run over many times on Riely Fuzzle. We had to call Heidleberg to let them know. They denied any responsiblity stating that this 10 year old dog climed the fence. They wouldn't even pay for her disposal. I would never board with them again.

Posted 04/10/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I generally don't write reviews or give my opinion but after reading through the reviews here I decided to weigh in on the issue. I agree with one reviewer that anyone who knows anything about any breed of animal is aware that there is no perfect breed and individual problems can and do occur.

I do not have a Heidelberg German Shepherd but I do have a German Shepherd from a breeder closer to my home. He is a beautiful dog and his family line is also wonderful looking and generally very healthy but at 3 years old he developed health issues and immune system problems. He lost weight, was very inactive, and had no interest in eating. He was declining very fast with no real diagnosis of his problems. Vets were more than wiling to test, test, retest, medicate and re-medicate but all was to no avail. My search for some way to help him brought me to Heidelberg Kennels and their food and care routine.

I put my Shepherd on their diet not expecting much change but sure enough we gradually saw some. One year later my Shepherd is doing very well, the immune issues are still there but not noticeable to anyone outside the family and whatever genetic problem he was dealt cannot be cured but he has improved so much it is like a different dog. For a dog that was on death's door I am happy that I found something to help him. I have now put all my dogs on Heidelberg's food and care program. My cats also love the food which they promised would happen.

We can all look to our own families and realize that illnesses sometimes come out of the blue and some individuals are going to be more prone to illnesses than others even though there was no clue to that in the family history. I do think it is unfair to blame a kennel if a few individual dogs develop issues that were unexpected. Breeding animals is not a precise science where every genetic code is seen, known, understood, or anticipated. If you get a puppy of any kind you could run into issues no matter what the background.

Vets are very quick to take your money and offer very expensive tests and possible remedies so I understand Heidelberg Kennels' caution and desire to self treat their dogs as much as possible. Vets offered no solutions in my case, but Heidelberg Kennel gave me one. I believe they are well meaning, knowledgeable, and experts in their field but only God can produce perfection 100 percent of the time. Perhaps people seeking perfection should avoid dogs altogether. No breeder can meet that standard.

Posted 03/31/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

that didn't do their research. Except I've bought two GSD from Heidelberg. One in 1989, and one TG of 2008. Both were/are healthy beautiful well-bred GSDs. The former dog lived a long life without health issues. Never even knew there was a problem w/this breeder until reading here. Also have a co-worker who has an 8-yo with no probs.

To the point of having to sign a contract w/an agreement to feed only their diet, that's simply bs. Even back in '89 when we bought our male, they never INSISTED on the diet although they did prefer you feeding it. And that was back when they told you to buy them tripe. So I find that point totally without merit.

The issue of them not liking vets, yes they are pretty anti-vets, however that is just another preference. Just like there is group of whole-health advocates, they advocate a type of whole health for canines. It is up to the individual to make the determination.

I have never had to call them for a complaint, so I can't comment to their post-sale ettiquette. What I can address is that this breeder has been in business for over 20 years, and there are only a handful of complaints...hardly enough for a "support group". The reality is that mutts are much healthier than pure-bred dogs and only a novice wouldn't realize that. There is a certain risk in buying a pure-bred such as a Heidelberg, however I doubt that it is a high risk. But granted the breeder should weed out the health risks if they realize them or make good when the issue arises.

I paid top dollar for my recent female. I wonder if those who bought recently for $1200 were buying at the bottom of the litter. This breeder sells their dogs at an average price for Texas, but not necessarily an average for the nation (I researched at least that much). So trying to get them on the cheap here may not be a smart move. We bought the champion of the litter and have not had one problem. Same with our male 20 years ago.

Heidelberg of Spring, is a class-act operation in my view. I have never used their boarding service as we take our Bella with us on vacation and we have grown children when that is not possible. So I was shocked at reading the comments here, and felt the need to give testimony to my experience, since they are so different from the comments here.

Posted 02/24/09 | Report Abuse

1 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Was this review helpful to you?

After purchasing a 6 month old male from Eugene, he developed a serious infection within his first 2 months home. When I called Eugene to tell him about it, he insisted we not take him to the vet and that the infection was from us not properly feeding him their food. The infection eventually cleared with help from a vet and a change from the Heidelberg diet to vet recommended food. Several months later another infection occurred, which we were informed it was a hereditary condition. When we told Eugene this, once again, he insisted the vets do not know what they are talking about and we had to come in immediately and buy thier food. We did not, of course. Unfortunately, our loving and loyal GS eventually developed hip dysplacia and was constantly sick due to his poor immune system.He was an amazing dog with an amazing personality and I hate that his breeders were so careless in thier profession. Maybe if they didn't inbreed and didn't allow dogs with disorders to breed, so many people wouldn't end up with dogs like this. Most importantly so the dogs themselves don't have to go through the pain ours did. He has since been put to sleep to spare him the pain and agony.During this time we also had another breed of dog, not purchased from Heidelberg. Upon Eugene's insistance that we use his homemade heartworm medicine, we gave it a try. A year later while taking him to the vet, he was diagnosed with heartworm, despite us sticking to the monthly doses of Eugene's HW meds. When we told Eugene about this, what do you think he told us? He said we didn't give him his doses like we should have. But we did. Eugene insisted over and over WE did something wrong and refused to accept his HW meds were crap!Although these poor pups are adorable and tug at your heartsrings, DO NOT GIVE THESE PEOPLE ONE PENNY OF YOUR MONEY! It is only giving them more fuel to thier fire. They need to be shut down. Do not let them fool you with thier appearance. once they have your money and you call them about a problem, you will get yelled at like you are a child being scolded by a parent.Eugene you are probably 90 years old but please do not think you can talk to people the way you do. Shame on you!

Posted 02/23/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

Sorry Roberta. You are far from alone with your trouble. I made the mistake of buying a sick and genetically defective dog from Heidelberg too. There should be a support group for us. There are MANY. If you are appealing to his good nature, save you energy for your pet. Your time will be better spent.

My dog also has demodex mange. He is genetically predisposed and it is medical fact that this is a genetic disorder which comes from the breeding parents. I too was told it was because I wasn't feeding him right. Thompson also kept pushing his homemade wormer on me. My dog also has other health problems as well and my vet told me I should never breed him. He's been a total money pit in which I can't seem to get out from under.

Heartbreaking for me, but not for Thompson. He's has his money from me before I brought the dog home.

Posted 02/19/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

ELBOW AND HIP DYSPLASIA: Pray for my Dog
Dear Mr. Thompson,
I am appealing to you for help with the dog that I purchased from you. He has both Elbow and Hip Dysplasia. He also has severe arthritis that is very advanced for a two year old dog. He already has soreness and limps. If I do not have the recommended operation for his elbows done soon, within the next few months, he will eventually be crippled and in great pain and not even be able to take walks. A year from now, it will be too late for this procedure to do him any good. . He cannot ever play with other dogs, or hike and it is recommended he only walk on grass. As you know, Dysplasia is a hereditary condition and this is why I am appealing to you.
Unfortunately at this time, my husband and I both having great hardship and are suffering from the downturn of the economic situation. Our earning power has just been wiped out, and we are trying to stay alive.
It turns out that almost immediately after I brought my dog home, many issues came up about the dogs health that had not been disclosed by you. After only owning this dog for three months, between vet bills, lab tests, skin scrapings, and veterinary specialists and medications I have already spent over $4000.00.
The above is the beginning of a letter I sent by e-mail to Eugene Thompson. As much as I hated to have to deal with him again, I was hoping that he might feel some ethical responsibility for the dog and help out. I also cannot bear the agony of watching my dog go crippled and be in constant pain. The rest of my letter goes on to remind him of health issues that came out when I got the dog home, like the severe case of Demodex Mange, that he said was only Tapeworm and sold me six months of medication for Tapeworm,(which my vet cleared up in three days with a very much less expensive medication), the Irritable Bowel Syndrome as well as the Food Allergies, which meant that I had to donate the over $1,000.00 of Dog Food that he insisted that I buy from him to the Animal Shelter.
Mr. Thompson phoned me and denied that my dog could have Demodex mange and that he must have gotten it where I live. In fact, as both my vet and the veterinary dermatologist told me Demodex mange at my dogs age is evidence of extremely poor care for a long time and a very bad immune system, also evidence of inbreeding. Therefore according to Mr. Thompson, my vet, my dermatologist, and the skin scrapings must be wrong. He said I was ruining the Dogs immune system by taking him off his recommended diet. Why would I fly to Texas, rent a car to pick up the dog and to be able to purchase a huge supply of all that food to drive back to my hometown, only to have to donate it to the Animal Shelter?
He said the reason the dog has Dyplasia is because of not feeding his diet. (It is on every one of the countless veterinarian medical web that Dysplasia is hereditary). His claim then would also discount all findings of my vet, the orthopedic surgeon, the Exrays, the Board Certified Radiologist and Professor of Radiology at Colorado State University Veterinary School.
Mr. Thompson started screaming the names of some antiquated meds that he said my vet had given the dog. In actuality my vet did not use those meds. He blamed me for everything that was wrong with the dog. He then started to scream that my vet and I were going to kill the dog, if I did not listen to him. That is when I hung up.
Besides watching this dog become crippled, he still has all the other issues I described. We are still working on trying to clear up the mange. My dog will always have to be on a severe diet and only eat prescription allergy free dog food. My dog will always have to take meds for the Irritable Bowel Syndrome, He will always have to take Glucosamine, Omega 3 and Adequan Shots for the Dysplasia. He will have to take pain pills, and sadly there is a limited amount of those that a dog can take. I cannot afford the surgery. In a few years the Hip Dysplasia will start to take its toll.
With this economy and the way we have been personally affected, I pray that I can afford the $300.00 plus per month that it will cost to maintain this dog. Because of his health issues, and our economic situation, the writing is on the wall about what his end can be. Pray for my dog.

Posted 02/18/09 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I do not know or regularly converse with anybody from Heidelberg GSD. I have also, never used their boarding services, but when I picked my puppy up, at 22 weeks, he was in the best condition possible. I've had 3 Shepard's Prior to this dog and they don't even compare. I'm from Oklahoma, was wanting a good dog from a top notch breeder, I called my buddy in Houston and told him I was looking and ask if he had any recommendations. My buddy raises and trains horses, and has had many GSD's, and I even got a dog from him when he was breeding. He told me one of the best breeders for GSD's was right there in Houston. He told me that his last dog was purchased from Eugene. His last dog was awesome, beautiful and many stories of heroics and loyalty. His dog was hit by a car and when they xrayed his hips they were perfect. I also have had reason to xray and my dog is also perfect.(it was a soft tissue injury) I do try to follow the diet as close as possible, except for dry I'm using Pro Plan Select, and he's healthy as an ox. I think everyone has to realize his dogs are expensive. Some people who buy GSD's just want a product, and when it falls short they want someone to blame. These dogs are living beings and bad things happen. I feel for anyone who has a dog that suffers ailments, but I can guarantee the chances are in your favor with a Heidelberg.

Posted 12/24/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I boarded our two German Shepherds there over the Thanksgiving holiday for 10 days while we were out of town. When I returned to pick them up my male was not acting normal. By the time i got them home i had to carry the male back to the truck and rush him to the vet. Something had happened to his tongue to where it was so swollen and infected that he couldn't eat or drink anything. He had lost 15 lbs, his teeth had turned black. On the way to the vet i called Wayne and asked him if anything had happened that could have made his tongue this way. He said "Your dog is fine. You are wasting your money by taking him to the vet." For obvious reasons I didn't listen to him. They had to keep my dog overnight at the vet. The vet said that this did not just happen, that it had been this way for at least a couple of days. The next day i took my female in to the vet because she didn't look right either and she ended up having an infection in her eye and she lost 9 lbs. Both of them came home with fleas after they said they bathed them twice for fleas. After all this, Wayne told me that it was my fault that the dogs were in the shape they were in and that i must have taken them somewhere after i picked them up where they got sick. Then he preceeded to tell me that I couldn't board my dogs there anymore, not that i ever would again anyways, just because i confronted him about the condition of my dogs. You would think that a place like that that sells "champion" dogs would take much better care of them. I can only imagine the condition of the other dogs that are there. SPCA Has been informed and hopefully something will be done about the way they treat their dogs. DO NOT GO ANYWHERE NEAR HEIDELBERG KENNELS. They are con artists and will get money out of you wherever they can. When we bought our 2 dogs they kept raising the prices because they were "champions". Don't let them pull the same bull on you.

Posted 12/02/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I didnt buy my shepard from Heidelberg, However their staff is wonderful. The diet has made vast improvements in my 2 german shepards lives. I have nothing but wonderful things to say about Heidelberg the staff is caring and genuinly interested in what is going on with your animal. Dont believe me go out with a problem and see if they dont advise you to try something else before spending $200 at a vet. I have indeed consulted with Dr. French listed in another review and he says that there is nothing to be concerned with by using Heidelbergs diet or treatment to common problems with GSD's. Anyone reading this my dogs are very healthy and I have had nothing but a wonderful experience with Heidelberg. As a matter of fact let me share something with everyone, I was out there yesterday and Eugene Thompson himself asked to say good bye to a GSD that was leaving and getting a new home. How many breeders do you know say good bye to their dogs? Hardly any!!! They genuinely care and will tell you what other options are available and also tell you when it is in the best interest of your beloved dog to take them to the vet.There is an article posted on the web about a woman who's dog had seizures and come to find out it was from science diet and Iams dog food and when she began feeding Heidellbergs diet they went away, when she switched back to Science Diet and Iams the seizures returned. What does this tell you? The comments listed here are absurd!!! I would highly recommend anyone to Heidelberg in a second....

Posted 10/23/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

One 5 star for breeding and one for kennels! THE 2 REVIEWS BELOW ARE THE EXACT SAME MANTRA THAT COMES FROM EUGENE THOMPSON, owner of Heidelberg. Even the same wording! Give me a break! VERY TRANSPARENT!!

The reviews by the (former) patrons are dead on and I believe their reveiws have nothing to do with any competitors. Just very unhappy and unsatisfied customers. I don't even believe there are any competitors in the area like Heidelberg, so whats the point of that comment? The local vets are disgusted with your place and posting your own reviews about your own facility is shameful. WHO COULD HAVE POSTED THIS KIND OF REVIEW WITH THIS DETAIL OTHER THAN HEIDELBERG?

Shameful, shameful, shameful!!

Posted 10/05/08 | Report Abuse

0 out of 1 people found this review helpful.

Was this review helpful to you?

I am disappointed to read some of the negative reviews here, and while I sympathize with any pet loss, I also suspect some of this is deliberately untrue "competitors' sabotage" tactics.

I bought and raised one of Heidelberg's German Shepherd Dogs over the past eight years and I will do so again in the future. Not only is the facility excellent, but the staff are helpful and kind. The paperwork provided does not "require" you to buy their food. However, they do recommend using Professional Breeder's Choice Premium (yellow corn and fish meal based) which is the only commercial dog food product available with zero chemical preservatives, which are what cause cancers in dogs. It is also less expensive than most other well known "chemically treated" brands. In addition, they recommend using a Total Supplement product containing Vit.C/E, liver powder, enzyme yeast, sea kelp, flaxseed,omega oil, selenium, Brewer's yeast, and fish meal powder for superior health, BUT you should be prepared to make the special wet sauce to put on this dry food, consisting of a large puree containing steamed carrots, garlic, alfalfa sprouts, raw eggs and either fish (like mackerel) or chicken to feed a GSD properly. Likewise, the dog treat biscuits are made from these same natural products and the Heidelberg staff will advise you how to make/bake these yourself at home if you do not wish to purchase these. If you are not prepared to put this effort into raising a top class GSD, then perhaps you should not buy one- nor any dog for that matter.

As for the negative vets comments, you should be aware that there has long been serious friction between top breeders and typical vets, with animosity existing on both sides. This arises primarily from the vets insistence on making money by needlessly frightening dog owners' into 6-12 month check-ups, with overkill annual inoculation cocktails of 5, 7, or 9 vaccines administered in huge multi-doses. Contrary to this vaccine shotgun approach, top breeders feel that after a puppy's first full round of vaccines during the first 20 weeks, only occasional partial vaccine boosters (and not for every possible disease) may be needed if the dog is frequently around other dogs, either every 3, 5, or 7 years, if at all, depending on the dog's lifestyle. A single dog living mostly indoors and running in a family fenced yard or private park area without other dogs around, arguably would not ever need another round of shots. Naturally, this can drive most vets insane, since this directly cuts their income drastically. Thus, their low opinion of most breeders, even top class ones such as Heidelberg, and vice versa, because the vets favorite method of over medication is actually harmful to most healthy dogs and thus infuriates the breeders.A good compromise would be to have a checkup if something seems wrong or different with your dog, and to get a "light" set of vaccine boosters every 3-5 years. Be warned, however, that when you go into a vet for ANY reason, they will attempt to administer the above mentioned dangerous vaccination cocktails! Also, remember that as the owner, you have the right to refuse.

Finally, this brings us to the legal question of rabies shots. The vets have lobbied the politicians to make these mandatory annually in many municipal areas, mostly for the same monetary reasons noted above for vets, and for tax/fee purposes for the government. However, do your own research online; you will find that this practice of annual rabies vaccinations is unnecessary and VERY dangerous for most healthy dogs. A rabies booster every 5 years is MORE than enough protection for your dog. Unless you must board your dog you may wish to simply ignore such absurd regulations, or move to a rural area where it is not required.

Furthermore, these dogs are fully documented with verifiable AKC pedigree bloodline certificates and OFA medical documents which can be checked and cross referenced to your specific dog. PLEASE NOTE: This proof is possible because each certified puppy is tattooed on the inner thigh with their registration number and that is a permanent, lifelong tattoo. All things considered, you could never find a better breeder or kennel than Heidelberg if you want a top class GSD. However, you must understand and accept the necessary commitment to properly feeding, training and raising such magnificent dogs with the most wonderful temperament, size, health and pedigree that you will ever find.

In closing, Eugene and Wayne even requested that I never abandon, give away, throw away, or dump the GSD I bought there for any reason including divorce, job change, moving, or family problems. Instead, they asked that I promise to bring him back to Heidelberg if I could no longer care for him properly. Does that seem like an uncaring or unscrupulous breeder to you? I certainly think not, and I fully recommend Heidelberg Farms to anyone who really loves the truly wonderful German Shepherd Dog.

Posted 09/23/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I have been boarding my animals at Heidelberg for many years and have been more than happy with their facilities. Even dogs who are nervous around new people and generally bark at them would go happily with their kennel staff. Their rates are very reasonable, especially considering it includes food. They have a small store with lots of different care items. These guys know dogs and can really help you save a LOT of money on their general care items such as wormer and especially heartworm medicine. It costs me as much for a year of their stuff as it would for a month of the stuff you get from the vet. My veterinarian has never had anything but positive things to say about this place either.

Posted 09/16/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

Recently purchased a 2 year-old female GSD from Eugene. All information was handled via email and the dog was exactly as described.

On picking it up (2 day trip by motorhome) Eugene went over his approach to care and feeding and recommended I follow his approach - I declined.

Was introduced to the dog and reviewed the commands the dog was trained to respond to. Walked and talked to the dog and all went well.

Returned to our campsite and introduced Annie to our current GSD. They got along just fine for a while. In the close quarters of the RV, several confrontations between the dogs occurred. Once home, I talked with Eugene and he explained what was going on and worked out what I needed to do to curtail the behavior - the two dogs are buddies now thanks to Eugene.

I would go back there in a moment for another GSD.

Posted 08/05/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I feel betrayed by heidelberg. I wish I would have done some research before buying my beloved boy from these con artists. I have three wonderful small children who all wanted a puppy, both my husband and I grew up with german shepherds as pets and love the breed. We live in the woodlands, tx and remembered once driving by a place with a beautiful sign heidelberg german shepherds in spring and headed our way there. Beautiful property, lakes, dogs and made a great first impression. We spoke with a man named Wayne who sold us hard and fast on a puppy. He spoke of all his dogs with love and pride and gave us the impression they were perfect and we would never need vet care and could get everything we need there. The puppy we chose was bred from two champion dogs and was 1200.00. He was only 8 weeks old at the time so we had to wait a few weeks to take him home. We were told they don't let them leave because of the risk of parvo which made us think how much more they care and love their dogs. We went every few days to play and visit our new puppy and got attached pretty fast. We brought him home, very very beautiful dog, he potty trained in just a week, he learned not to bite pretty fast, he learned not to jump on us pretty fast, sweetest little boy....wonderful temperment, very smart, we absolutely adored him. Within only a few weeks our nightmare began. He started having grand mal seizures and watching your animal have this kind of seizure is pure terror, horror, we thought he was dying right before our eyes. We didn't know if he was choking to death or what the hell was happening. Once the violent convulsions began to slow and almost stop, as we thought he was dying, he popped his head up and began trying to get up so we helped him up and for 10 minutes he ran into the walls, furniture, lost balance but eventually he started running around playing like nothing ever happened. We called Wayne and he said it sounded like he choked on something or got into something and had a bad reaction. We told him this was a very terrifying event and something was very wrong but he told us do not take him to a vet because they don't know what they are doing and only want our money. This was our first clue this guy was not on our side. We took our puppy to an er vet and they said what we described was a grand mal seizure and they did a bunch of tests and found nothing was wrong with him. They gave him some valium to prevent any further seizure and we prayed and hoped this was a freak crazy thing that would never happen again. A few weeks later he had another one and a few weeks later another one so he was diagnosed with canine epilepsy. When we told wayne he said it was our fault, we weren't feeding him right, he had worms, he has never seen or heard of a german shepherd having seizures yet he knew exactly what phenabarbitol, the seizure meds my dog takes, was because he said if we continue to give him that he will have liver damage. Yes he is at risk for that but if he is not on this then he will have horrible seizures that could kill him. Before we got his meds at the right amount he would sometimes have clusters, 5 or 6 in a day. I have spent thousands of dollars in medical care for him and I feel very betrayed by heidelberg. they offered to trade him in and we told him no because he is not a car, he is our family and we love him. He has been to three different vets that all have horror stories about heidelberg, no wonder they want you to stay away from them. We have had our German Shepherd for a year, he is big and beautiful and loves our family as much as we love him. We will take the best care of him, give him lots of love and a safe comfortable home for the rest of his life. However, I would never recommend these people, they are bait and switch people....sell you the dog and then turn their back at any problem at all. They care only about their business and making money, not at all about the animals (unless it's one of their show dogs making them money) or the new owners with love compassion and real feelings for their new pet. If you love your dog, do not board them there either...i have heard an equal amount of horror stories on that part of their business too!

Posted 07/24/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I bought my GSD 4 years ago from Heidleberg Shepards. When the 4month old puppy arrived he was thin but energetic. I started to feed him the diet they suggested but the dog had constant diahrea. I changed his food to regular dog food (canned and dry together) and his problem cleared up, BUT the bigger problem was the dog was scratching constanly. I tried several things to help him but nothing worked. Then I noticed my 1 1/2 yr.old German Shorthair pointer started scratching. I brought them both to the vet and found out that the puppy had brought "scabies" with him. A microscopic mite which is usually prevalent in kennels etc, where alot of animals are confined together. I called Heidleberg and they insisted he only had worms but I treated him twice for that with no effect. When I treated both dogs with the medicaton the vet gave me it cleared it up , but required alot of work on my part so they did not get reinfested.

My puzzlement is the German Shepard I purchased is everything they said he would be, loving, gentle, protective when he senses a problem , gets along great with my 4 other dogs , loves people and is a joy to be with always at my side. Why then doesn't this guy get his act together. He does have great dogs but he is ruining his own reputation not the dogs he produces. I would suggest if you want a good dog go there, check the dog out physically and be sure its ok before you give them any money.

Posted 07/08/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

Buying a dog to be part of your family can be a big deal. Educate yourself about this breeder before buying. Google the company name and the owner. Call local vets who have dealt with these people. Eugene Thompson does not have any support amoung the local vets and tries to keep you away from talking to them - and it isn't because he is trying to save you money from vet bills like he leads you to believe. The vets know about the horror stories coming out of this kennel. DON'T TAKE MY WORD FOR IT!! CALL!!!

If you buy from Heidelberg without doing your homework first, you will likely regret it.

Posted 05/10/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

Don't be fooled by the nicely landscaped complex. This is not a good place to do business with, especially if you buy one of their dogs that has problems. There are numerous people that have problems from buying unhealthy dogs or had problems after kenneling their personal dogs. The owner will turn the table on you and blame you for all the problems or point to some fine line in a contract and tell you why there is nothing you can do about it.

I read from someone else on another site this statement that holds completely true... "In the dog world, they are known for their inappropriate dealings with people. It's only the novice who will buy a dog from them." - I couldn't say it better myself!

Posted 05/10/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I got my GSD pup at 4 months and he is now 3&1/2 years old. He has an excellent temperament and is great with my 4 and 2 year old grand children. He has NEVER growled at me or anyone else. He will position himself between a total stranger and me, but is perfectly behaved. He is good around other dogs unless they try to attack. Heidelberg Kennels DID NOT require me to feed their food but made it available by mail at a reasonable price if I elected to use it.Max has perfect conformation, very elegant, intelligent and loves to please. He is very intimidating because of his size but is gentle as a lamb. A perfect dog for children.I initially thought their prices were high, but you get what you pay for.John

Posted 04/27/08 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

About 9 years ago. I wanted a german shepherd. Someone told me to go to Heidelberg to get a dog.
I went to buy a dog an the only way they would let me buy a dog is if I assigned an agreement that I would feed the dog only their food.
I did finally get a dog that cost 750.00. Took the dog home an the dog died 3 days later, trying to save the dog cost me 1500.00.The vet indicated poor nutrition.
I swore that I would tell anyone I could not to buy a dog from Heidelberg German Sheperds.

Posted 06/01/07 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

I live in Spring and had seen this place but thought it was only for German Sheppards. I was amazed at the beauty of the grounds! My dog stayed 4 days and seemed to be happy. Will definately take him there again!

Posted 10/23/06 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?

Heidelberg German Shepherds has a wonderful boarding facility for all kinds of dogs, not just Shepherds. The facility is beautiful! It's surrounded by trees, ponds, etc. and there is plenty of shade so the dogs don't get overheated. I called around to many different kennels and most of them wanted $20 a night to board my small dog. Heidelberg only charges $6.50 per day. I don't live in Spring but it was worth the drive to save $13.50 per day.

PROS: Very nice facility, inexpensive
CONS:

Posted 07/27/05 | Report Abuse

Was this review helpful to you?