“After my faithful German Shepherd, Taretha, passed away in January at the age of 14, I was devastated. Her last year and a half was difficult, her legs no longer worked, and she was bedbound. I carried her outside every few hours to relieve herself, and she always did so on command. One morning she was unresponsive but still breathing, so I rushed her to an emergency veterinarian. Tests revealed she was full of cancer, and the doctors were amazed she had held on so long. I knew she had stayed for her family and her littermate, Baby, who was only six months younger. I held Taretha as she was put to sleep, just as I have done for all my dogs.
Baby grieved deeply after losing her sister. She stopped eating regularly, and I had to tempt her with cooked chicken and beef. Watching her fade broke my heart. I spent countless hours searching social media and shelters for a German Shepherd puppy, but was met with criticism for not adopting an older dog or a different breed. I tuned out the noise and decided to look for a reputable breeder.
I contacted three breeders I found online. The first never returned my call, the second texted me back days later, and the third Zauberberg was different. Mr. Mueller spoke with me at length, patiently answering my concerns. He assured me that if I came to the kennels and didn’t find the right puppy, my deposit would simply roll over to the next litter. That gave me peace of mind. We scheduled a visit, and I was thrilled to learn there were two female sable puppies available, the same coloring as Taretha and Baby. I’ve always had good luck with females, so this felt meant to be.
Visiting Tucson Estates for the first time, I found the area charming. The kennels themselves were immaculate, well-kept, spacious, with a welcoming office. I was nervous about choosing a new puppy so soon after losing Taretha, but Mr. Mueller and his family made the experience comfortable. His son brought out a sweet little sable, and the moment I held her, I knew she was the one. I didn’t even need to see the other puppy. I named her Erika, after a song my father often sang when he returned from his Army tour in Germany.
Bringing Erika home was transformative. At first, Baby was standoffish, but Erika’s playful spirit won her over. Within days, Baby began eating again, and I could see her depression lifting. Erika brought joy back into our home.
I have never had such a high-quality dog before. My first German Shepherd was a rescue, and Taretha and Baby came from amateur breeders. Erika is different, she is intelligent, easy to train, and learns commands quickly. She is protective of my wife and even helps wake me when I have night terrors. Her temperament, health, and quality are outstanding, and I credit Zauberberg for their dedication to breeding excellence.
Zauberberg gave me not just a puppy, but hope, healing, and a new chapter with my beloved German Shepherds. I am deeply grateful to Mr. Mueller and his family for their professionalism, compassion, and the gift of Erika.“
German Shepherd puppy Erika
