Meet Ambassador Kimberly Hoeppner
Owner Kimberly Hoepper (used with Permission)
Hello! I’m Kimberly Hoeppner, and I’m honored to be introduced as an Ambassador for the Dutch Shepherd breed through Dutch Shepherd News.
My journey with dogs began through rescue and eventually led me into the world of dog sports, purebred dogs, breed advocacy, and, ultimately, the Long Hair Dutch Shepherd. Along the way, I discovered how deeply responsible ownership, sound temperament, ethical breeding, preservation, training, and education are connected to the future of our breeds.
Where It All Began
I began training dogs because of my rescue dog, Turbo.
Turbo had significant behavioral and temperamental challenges, and I was determined not to give up on him. I found a local pet obedience class taught by a wonderful woman who was active in the American Kennel Club (AKC) world. She recognized something special in the relationship between Turbo and me and encouraged us to continue.
At the end of our obedience class, she handed me a rally book and challenged me to attend a local conformation show and earn Turbo’s Canine Good Citizen (CGC).
That simple challenge opened an entirely new world to me—the world of dog sports.
Turbo was certainly not the easiest Novice A dog, but he became one of my greatest teachers. Through him, I learned about training, teamwork, perseverance, and the incredible relationship that develops between a dog and its handler.
Upon his retirement, Turbo had earned a UD, MACH QQs, and became the third mixed-breed dog in AKC history to earn a RACH.
More importantly, he taught me lessons that would influence every dog who came after him.
From Rescue to Dog Sports
My involvement with dogs continued through local rescue, where I fostered, trained, and helped shelter dogs find homes.
Rescue exposed me to the difficult consequences of poor breeding practices, including problems involving temperament, health, and structure. Those experiences stayed with me as I became more involved in dog sports.
I began to understand how important it is to consider the whole dog—not simply appearance, but also temperament, health, structure, character, and ability to work and live successfully with people.
That realization eventually led me toward the purebred dog world.
In 2016, I welcomed my first well-bred purebred dog, a Belgian Malinois. In 2017, I joined the American Belgian Malinois Club (ABMC), where I have remained a proud member.
Being part of a breed club opened my eyes to the many ways breed enthusiasts can contribute beyond simply owning dogs. Breed clubs provide opportunities for education, advocacy, health research, rescue support, specialty events, networking, and public outreach.
I learned that being a responsible representative of a breed means helping others understand why preservation and responsible ownership matter.
That lesson has become an important part of my relationship with the Dutch Shepherd.
Discovering the Long Hair Dutch Shepherd
Owner Kimberly Hoepper (used with Permission)
Although I had known about Dutch Shepherds before, I discovered the Long Hair Dutch Shepherd in 2017 and immediately became fascinated by this rare coat variety.
In 2020, I welcomed my first Long Hair Dutch Shepherd into my life.
What began as fascination quickly developed into a deep appreciation for the breed and its unique qualities.
The Long Hair Dutch Shepherd represents much more to me than a beautiful coat. I became interested in the history, character, versatility, athleticism, intelligence, and working ability behind these dogs.
I wanted to learn more—and, most importantly, I wanted to help others learn more as well.
A Life Built Around Training and Partnership
Dog sports remain an important part of my life.
Since 2011, I have actively participated in AKC dog sports and have been fortunate to achieve numerous high-level accomplishments, including multiple performance championships such as the OTCH, MACH, and RACH.
I have also competed successfully at national-level events and tournaments, including the NAC, NOC, RNC, RACH-I, Obedience Classic, Westminster, AGI, NADD Nationals, and others.
But the titles and placements are only part of what I value about competition.
For me, the greatest reward is the relationship between dog and handler.
Training together teaches communication, trust, patience, problem-solving, and resilience. Every dog brings something different to the partnership, and every dog teaches us something if we are willing to listen.
That is one of the reasons I believe dog sports can be such a wonderful way to showcase the abilities and versatility of the Dutch Shepherd.
Becoming an Ambassador for the Breed
Owner Kimberly Hoepper (used with Permission)
In 2023, I founded my Long Hair Dutch Shepherd program, D’Eau Noire LHDS. While preservation and responsible breeding are important components of my work, my larger goal is to contribute positively to the Dutch Shepherd community and to help others understand this breed.
As an Ambassador for Dutch Shepherd News, I want to focus on the Dutch Shepherd from the perspective of someone who lives with, trains, competes with, learns from, and advocates for these dogs.
I believe being an ambassador means helping the public see beyond the appearance of the breed.
It means talking about temperament.
It means recognizing the importance of proper socialization and responsible ownership.
It means celebrating the Dutch Shepherd's versatility and working abilities.
It means supporting education and responsible breed preservation.
Looking Toward the Future
Owner Kimberly Hoepper (used with Permission)
Today, I share my home with five Long Hair Dutch Shepherds and my senior Malinois, so life in our household is definitely a little crazy!
But I wouldn't have it any other way.
Every dog has added something to my journey and helped shape the way I think about training, preservation, responsible ownership, and breed advocacy.
My hope as a Dutch Shepherd News Ambassador is to share that experience with others.
I want to help introduce people to the Long Hair Dutch Shepherd, celebrate the many things this breed can do, highlight the people who dedicate themselves to these dogs, and encourage thoughtful and responsible participation in the Dutch Shepherd community.
Most of all, I want to help preserve the qualities that make the Dutch Shepherd such a special breed while encouraging future generations of dog enthusiasts to know the breed, understand the breed, and appreciate the partnership that comes with living and working with one.
I’m excited to be part of Dutch Shepherd News and look forward to sharing the journey with you.
— Kimberly Hoeppner
Dutch Shepherd News Ambassador