Our Story

Welcome to BlackSky Dutch Shepherds, where dedication meets distinction in Dutch Shepherd breeding.

After years as a dog behaviorist in the training and handling industry, Sarah Skinner fell in love with the remarkable versatility of the Dutch Shepherd. Driven by a commitment to preserve the authenticity of the breed, we stand out as a small, specialized breeder with a counter-cultural approach focusing on touch, behavior, and imprinting throughout the pup’s development.

At BlackSky, our focus is on quality over quantity, producing just two thoughtfully planned litters a year of highly versatile dogs. We break away from the conventional to prioritize both the breeding and the imprinting and training of the pups, tailored to fit our clients’ needs.

Our Dutch Shepherds excel in protection work, scent work, service work, sport, and hunting. Raised on a ranch, not in kennels, our dogs thrive on real-life challenges, developing natural agility, resilience, and loyalty.

From day one, we begin touch and massage with our pups, activating their bodies and conditioning them for human interaction early. At week 3, groundwork begins, forging neural pathways for a robust training feedback loop. We employ 3-dimensional training with obstacles to advance depth perception, muscle development, problem-solving, and coordination, teaching the dogs to see, think, and move with tenacity.

Sarah takes puppy manners seriously, ensuring they are imprinted and conditioned for training so you can take them to the next level.

When you choose BlackSky Dutch Shepherds, you’re not just acquiring a Dutch Shepherd; you’re investing in canines known for their exceptional trainability, tenacity, and adaptability.

Embark on a journey with BlackSky Dutch Shepherds—where every pup is raised with care, intention, and dedication, embodying the true spirit of the breed.