Our Story

Welcome to Von Duro Wildheit Kennels, where passion and dedication meet to produce some of the finest German Shepherds in New Hampshire. Located on 13 scenic acres in the heart of Center Harbor, we are a family-run kennel committed to the breeding of superior quality German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs) from working lines.

What began as Steven’s personal passion for the breed has blossomed into a full-fledged family adventure, uniting our love for dogs with a commitment to excellence. At VDW, we take pride in our intentional breeding program, where the health, temperament, and versatility of each dog are our top priorities.

Our German Shepherds aren’t just companions—they’re skilled, strong, and well-rounded dogs, bred to excel in various environments and roles. Whether you're looking for loyal estate security, a competition dog, working K-9, or a versatile companion, our dogs are bred to meet the highest standards of quality and integrity.

Thank you for considering Von Duro Wildheit Kennels. We’re excited to help you find your next best friend, one that will not only thrive in your home but also become a trusted partner for years to come.

Steven Brown - Founder, Trainer, and Breeder

My journey with dogs started when I was young, training bird dogs like English Setters, Cocker Spaniels, and Labrador Retrievers while working at a shooting preserve for eight years. That experience taught me the foundation of dog handling, training, and the importance of building strong relationships with working dogs.

In 2009, I joined the U.S. Army and served in an elite special operations unit. During two of my five deployments, I had the privilege of working as a specialized canine handler, partnered with multipurpose dogs trained in tracking, explosives detection, and apprehension. Those years deepened my respect for the incredible capabilities of working dogs and ignited a passion that stayed with me long after my military service.

After moving back to New Hampshire in 2014 with my growing family, I started searching for the right dog to begin my next chapter. Six years later, I found Jetta, and with her, Von Duro Wildheit Kennels was born.

Today, I run VDW alongside my family, focused on breeding high-quality German Shepherd Dogs from proven working lines. My goal is to produce dogs with exceptional temperament, health, and versatility—dogs that are just as capable in a working role as they are in a loving home. Every dog we raise is a reflection of the care, discipline, and dedication we put into our program.

This work is more than a career—it's a calling. And I’m proud to share it with my family and everyone who becomes part of the VDW community.

Brittany - Owner, Trainer and Handler

My love for dogs started when I was just a little kid. From the moment I could walk, I had a yellow lab by my side—my best friend until I was nine years old. That bond sparked a lifelong passion that continues to shape everything I do today.

As I got older, I spent countless hours training hunting dogs with my family, learning firsthand the dedication, patience, and connection it takes to work with dogs.

Today, my role at Von Duro Wildheit Kennels goes far beyond just caring for the animals. I manage the daily cleaning and maintenance of the kennel building, and I’ve recently taken over our breeding program after the retirement of our foundation dog, Jetta. It’s an exciting responsibility, and I’m proud to help lead VDW into the next phase—focusing on wildly talented shepherds from our breedings and offering imported dogs from strong working lines.

I'm currently enrolled in a K-9 detection course that will not only lead to certification, but give me the tools and knowledge to train our future litters more effectively. I’m also signed up to complete an Operational K-9 EMS course this August. I’m constantly learning from some of the best mentors in the working dog community, and I’m committed to growing my knowledge every day.

At VDW, my responsibilities range from planning and training to hands-on care, and my mission is simple: to deepen my understanding of working dogs and apply that knowledge in meaningful, practical ways that make a real difference in the lives of our dogs and their future handlers.

Addison - Junior Handler & Kennel Assistant

Hi! I’m Addison, and I’m 10 years old. I help out at Von Duro Wildheit Kennels as part of the family team. My favorite VDW dog is Boca from our “B” litter—she’s super special to me and now works for a police department!

At the kennel, I’m in charge of feeding the dogs and helping clean the kennels every day. Sometimes I even get to assist with training, which is one of my favorite parts. I’m learning so much about how to care for and work with dogs, and one day I want to train my own puppy to be great at obedience.

Working with the dogs at VDW is fun and rewarding, and I’m proud to be a part of what we’re building here!

Oliver - Junior Handler & Kennel Helper

Hi! My name is Oliver, and I’m 9 years old. I help out at Von Duro Wildheit Kennels with my family, and I really enjoy playing with and training the dogs. My favorite dog is Alpha—I help my mom train him, and I’m learning how to lay tracks for our dogs to follow. When I’m old enough, I want to compete with Alpha in tracking and obedience!

At the kennel, my job is to let the dogs outside and watch over them while they play. I also help clean the kennels, and I’m always learning something new about working dogs.

Oh—and my favorite food is pizza 🍕!

Being part of VDW is awesome, and I’m excited to keep learning and growing with the dogs.