My Journey to the Long Hair Dutch Shepherd

Hello! I’m Kimberly Hoeppner, the person behind D’Eau Noire Long Hair Dutch Shepherds. My passion is promoting ethical and responsible breeding, preservation, ownership, and dog sports while helping future generations of dog enthusiasts understand and appreciate the importance of responsible dog stewardship.

My journey with dogs began with a rescue dog named Turbo. He had significant behavioral and temperament challenges, but I was determined not to give up on him. Through a local obedience class, I discovered the world of dog sports—and a whole new way of building a relationship with a dog through training and teamwork.

Turbo became my first great teacher. Although he was not the easiest Novice A dog, he eventually earned a UD, multiple MACH QQs, and became the third mixed-breed dog in AKC history to earn a RACH. More importantly, he taught me lessons about perseverance, communication, and the importance of temperament.

Through rescue, I also saw firsthand the consequences of poor breeding practices, including problems with health, structure, and temperament. Those experiences shaped the way I looked at dogs and eventually led me toward the world of responsible purebred breeding.

In 2016, I welcomed my first well-bred purebred dog, a Belgian Malinois. The following year, I joined the American Belgian Malinois Club (ABMC), where I discovered the value of breed clubs, breed advocacy, health initiatives, rescue support, education, and preservation.

My involvement in AKC dog sports began in 2011 and has brought many rewarding experiences, including OTCH, MACH, and RACH championships and competition at national events such as Westminster and other major tournaments. But for me, dog sports have always been about much more than titles. They are about the partnership and connection created between a dog and its handler.

Over the years, these experiences helped me understand what responsible preservation truly means: breeding for sound temperament, health, structure, function, and the ability to thrive as both working partners and companions.

That journey eventually led me to the Long Hair Dutch Shepherd.

Today, my goal is to share my passion for this unique variety while promoting responsible breeding, ownership, training, and preservation. I believe that protecting the future of a breed begins with understanding what makes it special today.

My journey to the Long Hair Dutch Shepherd is still unfolding—and I’m excited to share that journey with you.