Kempkes Executive K9s, led by expert Michael Kempkes, offers elite German Shepherd training that transforms dogs into confident, well-behaved companions. Our specialized Schutzhund/IPO programs focus on building courage, intelligence, and obedience, tailored to each dog’s unique traits. From behavioral solutions to advanced training, we help unlock your dog’s true potential.
Elite German Shepherd Training
Schutzhund/IPO Dog Training and Titling in Los Angeles
Watch a Sample German Shepherd Training Session
Watching a sample German Shepherd training session, experience the precision and expertise behind our training. Discover how our elite methods bring out each dog’s full potential.
What Is Schutzhund/IPO Training?
Schutzhund is a German term meaning “protection dog.” It refers to a sport that focuses on developing and evaluating dog traits to enhance their usefulness and companionship for their owners. Michael Kempkes, a renowned German Shepherd trainer in Los Angeles, offers elite training at Kempkes Executive K9s and occasionally at the owner’s location.
At our German Shepherd Training School in Los Angeles, we breed and specialize in imported German shepherds of a German bloodline. We also have extensive experience with all German bloodline working dogs, including Malinois, West German Showline German shepherds, Working Line German shepherds, Rottweilers, Doberman Pinschers, and Schnauzers.
What Is Schutzhund/IPO Training?
Michael Kempkes employs a unique training methodology that integrates traditional techniques from his extensive experience in law enforcement in Germany. His approach not only focuses on obedience and protection but also fosters a deep bond between the handler and the dog, creating a well-rounded companion that excels in various environments.
Our methodology emphasizes three key pillars: Expertise, Commitment, and Compassion.
Expertise
With years of experience, our trainers are well-versed in German Shepherds’ behavioral patterns and instincts. We leverage this knowledge to implement effective training techniques that foster obedience and confidence in your dog.
Commitment
We are committed to building a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd. Our training programs encourage communication and understanding, ensuring that dog and owner feel secure and supported throughout the training process.
Compassion
Training isn’t just about commands and obedience; it’s about nurturing your dog’s instincts. Our compassionate approach creates a positive learning environment, allowing your German Shepherd to thrive and develop into a loyal companion and protect.
Success Stories from Happy German Shepherd Owners
Why Choose Professional Training for Your German Shepherd?
Professional training for your German Shepherd is essential to harness their intelligence, drive, and protective instincts. Their protective nature requires specialized training to channel this instinct into safe, controlled behavior. At Kempkes Executive K9s, we specialize in tailored training programs that address the unique needs of each dog and their owner.
Enhanced Obedience and Behavior
Professional training helps establish clear communication between you and your German Shepherd. With expert guidance, your dog will learn essential commands and behavioral expectations, fostering a harmonious relationship. A well-trained dog listens and demonstrates good manners, making it a joy to be around. It’s important to understand that while a German Shepherd may instinctively protect you, it will benefit from training to respond appropriately to various situations. Without training, its protective instincts could lead to overreacting or aggressive behaviors.
Building Confidence and Trust
Our training programs focus on building your dog’s confidence while nurturing their instincts. A confident German Shepherd is more reliable and better equipped to handle various situations at home or in public. Trust between you and your dog is essential; professional training helps develop that bond. Through positive reinforcement and consistent training, your dog will learn to trust you as their leader, resulting in a more secure and balanced relationship.
Safety and Protection
German Shepherds are naturally protective, but without proper training, their instincts can lead to unwanted behaviors. At Kempkes Executive K9s, we ensure your dog learns how to protect you effectively while remaining calm and controlled. This balance is crucial for a well-rounded companion that enhances your safety. By investing in professional training, you foster obedience and trust and ensure that your German Shepherd’s protective instincts are managed safely and constructively.
Invest in your German Shepherd’s future by choosing Kempkes Executive K9s for specialized, professional training with unique qualities.
CALL Michael and Jeannette Today!
We are ready to place your new Elite German Shepherd in your home.
The Stages of Professional German Shepherd Training
Elite protection dogs have three levels, and shepherds must pass all three levels in one trial to be awarded a title.
Level One: Scent and Endurance Evaluation
This test measures the dog’s scent, mental soundness, and endurance. The dog must find small articles in a field track and signal his find by lying down with the article between its paws.
Level Two: Obedience Exercises
The obedience phase involves two dogs who perform several heeling exercises. The dogs must handle many distractions, including healing with a group of people.
Level Three: Protection Training
The protection phase includes a handler and a helper. The dog’s courage to protect itself and the handler is tested by a helper who wears protective gear on the arm or a full-body suit.
The helper will attack the dog or the handler or attempt to escape. The dog must stop the attack or the escape by clenching the padded sleeve. The dog is commanded to “out” or release the sleeve when the attack or escape stops. The dog must be out, or it is dismissed.
Elite, best-trained German Shepherds for sale, who have mastered all three stages of professional training, are available as exceptional protection dogs and loyal companions.
While dogs of other breeds are also admitted to Schutzhund trials, this breed evaluation test was developed specifically for the German shepherd. Schutzhund is intended to demonstrate the dog’s intelligence and utility. It measures the dog’s mental stability, endurance, structural efficiencies, ability to scent, willingness to work, courage, and ability to be trained.
Specialized Training for German Shepherd
Our specialized training programs meet the unique needs of German Shepherds, from basic obedience to advanced protection and Schutzhund training.
1. Obedience Training
Obedience training lays the foundation for a well-mannered German Shepherd, instilling essential commands like sit, stay, and recall. This training helps owners establish clear communication and set boundaries, which is vital for a breed known for its intelligence and strong will. Obedience training encourages trust and cooperation between you and your dog, ensuring a responsive companion in various environments. For German Shepherds, structured obedience forms the basis of advanced skills and keeps them physically and mentally engaged.
2. German Shepherd Protection Training
Protection training harnesses German shepherds’ natural protective instincts, refining their ability to guard and defend effectively. This training is conducted under the guidance of experienced trainers to ensure the safety for both the dog and the owner. Protection training teaches the dog controlled response behaviors to various threats, sharpening its courage and loyalty. This training also builds confidence for German Shepherds, helping them remain calm yet vigilant in real-world scenarios. Proper protection training fosters a trustworthy and controlled protector.
3. Schutzhund and IPO Dog Training
Schutzhund and IPO training elevate a German Shepherd’s skills, challenging its physical abilities, obedience, and tracking proficiency. These sports evaluate a dog’s character, courage, and willingness to work under pressure. Schutzhund, a German tradition, is often regarded as the ultimate test for a working dog, ensuring it meets high performance and reliability standards. German Shepherds trained in Schutzhund excel in tracking, protection, and obedience, making them versatile, disciplined, and highly responsive companions and protectors.
4. Clicker Training
Clicker training is a positive reinforcement method that utilizes a click sound to mark desired behaviors, followed by a reward. This technique is highly effective for German Shepherds, who respond well to clear communication and positive feedback. Clicker training enhances obedience and encourages your dog’s creativity and problem-solving skills. This method strengthens the bond between you and your German Shepherd, making learning enjoyable and effective.
5. Tracking Training
Tracking training capitalizes on German Shepherds’ strong scenting ability, allowing them to use their natural instincts to follow trails. This training involves teaching the dog to locate objects or people based on scent. It provides mental stimulation and can be fun for owners to engage with their dogs. Tracking enhances the dog’s focus, confidence, and sense of purpose while reinforcing obedience and responsiveness to commands.
Our Recent Training Packages: German Shepherd & Puppy Obedience
At Kempkes Executive K9s, we take great pride in the success of our clients! Our training packages are designed to fit the unique needs of every dog, ensuring a customized and effective approach. Below are some recent success stories that highlight our commitment to excellence in dog training.
Training a Long-Haired German Shepherd for a Client in Virginia
We recently imported a stunning Long-Haired German Shepherd for a valued client in Virginia. This beautiful dog was selected for its exceptional temperament and potential for both family companionship and working roles. As part of our comprehensive training package, the dog is undergoing advanced obedience training to ensure it thrives in any environment. We’re working on everything from basic commands to advanced off-leash training.
Our specialized training approach is designed to bring out the best in these highly intelligent and loyal dogs, ensuring they are both obedient and well-mannered. This ensures a smooth transition into their new home and a long-lasting bond between the dog and its family.
Stay tuned for updates on this dog’s progress as it continues its journey with our training program!
Puppy Obedience Training with a 4-Month-Old German Shepherd
We’re also working with a 4-month-old German Shepherd who is currently learning obedience and basic commands as part of her early development. In this training video, you’ll see how we introduce her to fundamental skills, such as “Place” training—a critical skill that teaches the puppy to go to a designated area and stay there until released. This is just one of the essential behaviors we teach at an early age to set up puppies for lifelong success.
Whether you’re dealing with a puppy or an adult dog, we focus on building a strong foundation of trust, respect, and communication. By reinforcing the fundamentals early on, we help ensure your dog grows into a well-mannered and obedient companion, regardless of age or breed.
Check out the video below to see this puppy in action as she learns her commands and matures into a disciplined, well-behaved German Shepherd.
See What Our Customers Are Saying
Anna Ishiyama
2024-06-09
Both Jeanette and Michael have been beyond helpful when it comes to choosing or training our Shepherds, if I could give them 10 STARS I would!
In 2007, my dad bought a German Shepherd from Germany on his own. We did not who Michael was at the time. We sent him to so many trainers because he was dog aggressive and they all sent him back with a full refund! Our last hope was Jeanette and Michael. Michael was, and will always be the only dog trainer who never gave up on him and could train our dog successfully.
After he passed of old age, my family decided we needed another Shepherd but this time purchased directly from Jeanette and Michael so we knew the upbringing and characteristics of the dog. We have a couple Shepherds from them because they are the BEST dogs (great temperament and great health). Hip issues are a big concern for Shepherd owners and Michael’s dogs are so carefully bred or hand picked that they will not have hip issues throughout life. Even though the Shepherds may seem costly at first, trust me you will save thousands from vet bills if you purchase from someone negligent.
I am eternally grateful to have been connected with Jeanette and Michael as they both have helped my family choose and train our dogs.
If you are unsure of getting a new family dog or a new companion, please do not hesitate to call Jeanette. She is so kind and willing to answer your questions and help choose the best dog for you or your family.
All the Shepherds in the photos are from Wustenburgerland and the Black German Shepherd is bred by Jeanette.
Spider Man Galaxy 8000
2024-06-08
Jeannette and Michael are the BEST!
They are the dream team!
About two years ago, I reached out to Jeannette, wanting a male shepherd that has a specific look, and pretty much a list of requirements. Soon after that, Jeannette told me she has a puppy in mind that she thinks would be the one for me.
After going to their ranch and meeting the puppy in person, HE IS THE ONE!
Jeannette answered all my questions and taught me how to take care of a shepherd.
Michael is the best trainer, he is a German shepherd whisper! Michael is always there to help and he taught me so much about the techniques of handling a German shepherd.
Most importantly Jeannette and Michael they always answer their phones, whenever I have some questions, I can call or text them anytime, they are always there to help and find solutions for me. That makes me feel so at ease and comfortable with my shepherd.
Overall this is just an amazing experience with Jeannette and Michael! And my German shepherd totally changed my life for the better!
lizzie fuchs
2022-06-23
I am beyond grateful to have found the most amazing pupperoni because of Michael and Jeannette Kempkes. Atlas is an all black German Shepherd who came into my life when I didn't even know I needed him.
My mom (Lana) got her amazing baby Lucifer a short time before I got my Atlas. I fell in love with Lucifer and realized I needed a baby of my own. Michael and Jeanette brought Atlas into my life and just knew we would be a perfect match.
Atlas is the most incredible dog, companion, and protector. I've never had a dog of my own and never thought I would but because of these amazing human beings I now have Atlas. He's changed my life and brought happiness back into my life.
Michael and Jeannette not only perfectly matched me with Atlas but are always available to provide advice and guidance on what to do. They have made owning a dog for the first time the most amazing and stress free process. They are incredibly insightful and knowledgeable.
My life has forever changed because of them.
Lana Fuchs
2022-06-17
I am eternally grateful to Jeanette and Michael Kempkes for my amazing Lucifer. He is absolutely gorgeous, healthy and has the best personality. He is my best friend, love-child, constant companion and loyal protector. They matched a perfect dog for my personality and character. Thanks to Michael's custom training, Lucifer is always well behaved and poised. He travels with us everywhere, and is comfortable in cars, planes boats, etc.
Michael and Jeanette are always there to answer any questions I have or provide guidance. In fact, thanks to Luci, they have become family and I am very grateful to have them in my life. Michael not only trained Lucifer but also taught me how to provide Lucifer with what he needs, so that we can have the best possible relationship.
I was so impressed with Lucifer and my experience with them, that I reached out to them for a german shepherd for my daughter. Once again, they found the perfect dog with the right personality for my daughter. Atlas has become my daughter's best friend, companion and executive protection dog.
As Lucifer is getting close to an age where he can be bred, I decided to get a female german shepherd as well. Of course, I reached out to Jeanette and Michael and the search is on for the perfect. Mrs. Lucifer, lol. For those with discriminating taste who will not settle for anything but the best, I highly recommend Jeanette and Michael. I find that it's difficult to find people who still possess honesty, integrity and decency. So when I met this amazing couple, I felt it immediately and decided that they must stay in my life forever.
Thank you again for everything. Looking forward to finding Mrs. Lucifer.
Curtis Koepsell
2022-01-13
The most beautiful and healthy German Shepherds. Wonderful breeders and 5 star training.
Haley Hull
2021-05-02
We can’t thank Jeannette & Michael enough for pairing us with the most incredible addition to our family. We looked at other breeders before but when we met Michael & Jeannette you could really tell they cared and spent over an hour talking to us about their dogs and letting us meet them. We knew they were the right breeder for us and even more so now that Jango our dog is 1. He is the most incredible dog and we constantly get compliments on how beautiful he is. He is so good with children and protective and loyal to us. Michael & Jeannette have also been really good with any questions we’ve had even after getting him. We can’t imagine life without our Jango and we are so thankful for Wustenberger-land for pairing us with him.
History of Schutzhund Training
The first Schutzhund trial was held in Germany in 1901. This trial emphasized the German shepherd breed’s correct working temperament and ability. Initially, German shepherds were herding dogs, but the industrialization of Germany encouraged breeders to promote their use as police and military dogs.
Development of the Schutzhund Test
The Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (German Shepherd Association in English), also known as the SV, realized that many owners would not do such an important job correctly and that many German Shepherds would have mental problems. Therefore, they developed the Schutzhund test.
Global Adoption and Regulation
Since then, many other countries and working dog organizations have also adopted Schutzhund as a sport and a test of working performance in dogs. International rules have been established, and they are administered by the Verein fur Deutsche Hundesport, or VDH (German Dog Sports Association).
Schutzhund Trials in the United States
1970, the first Schutzhund trial in the U.S. was held in California. Today, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA) and the United Schutzhund Club of America (USCA) sponsor trials nationwide. These trials help select a team representing the GSDCA/USCA at the WUSV World Championship. More than 25 countries send teams of competitors to the World Championship for Schutzhund dogs, which the World Union of German Shepherd Associations hosts.
FAQs
Training duration for German Shepherds varies depending on goals and individual temperament. Basic obedience training typically takes several weeks, while advanced training like Schutzhund can span months or even years. Regular reinforcement and ongoing practice are essential for long-term success, especially with specialized training.
Schutzhund training, meaning “protection dog,” is a rigorous program testing tracking, obedience, and protection skills. Originally designed for German Shepherds, it evaluates their intelligence, loyalty, and endurance. While it is suitable for most German Shepherds, not all dogs may meet the necessary physical and mental requirements.
Yes, arrangements can sometimes be made to provide training outside Los Angeles. Depending on specific needs and location, we may accommodate on-site training options or offer consultations to guide remote training progress. Please contact us directly to discuss your location and requirements.
German Shepherds are highly intelligent and eager to learn, making them generally responsive to training. However, they require a firm, consistent approach and regular engagement. Their high energy levels and natural protective instincts mean they thrive with structured, professional guidance.
The best training combines obedience, socialization, and specialized skills like protection or Schutzhund for a well-rounded temperament. German Shepherds benefit from advanced training options that challenge their intelligence and harness their natural instincts, fostering loyalty and obedience.
Effective discipline for German Shepherds is based on positive reinforcement rather than punishment. Rewarding good behavior and setting clear boundaries is key. If corrective action is needed, redirection and consistent commands work best to guide behavior without damaging trust or creating fear.
IPO, or International Prufungsordnung, is an international dog sports standard encompassing tracking, obedience, and protection phases. While protection training focuses specifically on security tasks, IPO offers a balanced skill set that tests and refines a dog’s comprehensive working capabilities in a standardized setting.
German Shepherds typically start to calm down between two and three years of age. As they mature, they naturally become more focused and responsive. Training, exercise, and consistent routines all contribute to a well-mannered adult dog.
While German Shepherds are strong and versatile, they can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia. They also have a high energy level and require mental stimulation, which can become problematic if not properly managed through training and exercise.
One common issue in German Shepherds is hip dysplasia, a genetic condition affecting mobility. Given their protective nature and strong loyalty to owners, behavioral challenges, like excessive guarding or separation anxiety, can also arise without proper training and socialization.