Purchasing a puppy was a childhood dream that come true for Krista Wade, the owner of Happy Valley Kennel (HVK). Her years of experience training and handling horses and cattle were easily transferred over to training her new puppy. Her education in the Agriculture-Science program at Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) also prepared her for the various stages of animal behavior she encountered as her puppy grew. In her quest to know more about canine behavior, she fell in love with the sport of schutzhund. A sport that demands extreme control in not only obedience but protection. Krista had the opportunity to come in contact with numerous dog owners who did not have the opportunity to learn about animal behavior as she did at MTSU. She noticed that dog owners were struggling finding experienced, qualified and knowledgeable dog breeders and trainers.

As a result of high demand for honest dog breeders and quality trainers Happy Valley Kennel was Born. Krista is an animal husbandry specialists and professional teacher. She taught high school Science, coached the women’s soccer team and homeschooled her two children. She has a passion for dogs and a heart of a teacher. Her love for dogs has resulted in an Elite breeding program that selects proven genetics, producing sound temperaments and dispositions that are strong in body, intelligent and trainability. These are characteristics required for German Shepherds to be successful as family companions, protectors, sport dogs or police and military dogs. Krista’s experience as a top German Shepherd and Wire-Haired Dachshund breeder, competitor and a trainer is known nationally and internationally.

Happy Valley Kennel’s Training Academy is a result of her listening to the needs of the owners and their dogs. An unhealthy relationship with the owner’s dog can create adversarial behavior which could be stressful to everyone. What is the number one problem that plagues an owner’s relationship with their dog? Lack of effective communication. Krista and Happy Valley Kennel understands how ineffective communication can affect the owner’s relationship with their dog. Krista is a gifted and talented teacher who loves teaching dogs, as well as, their owners. She has the skills, tools and knowledge to effectively train the owners in order to build a trusting and loving relationship with their dogs/puppies.
Krista’s breeding program has opened doors to many wonderful opportunities. She has had the pleasure of meeting and developing lifelong relationships with tremendous people who have purchased puppies or adult dogs from Happy Valley Kennel. They are all part of the HVK family. Through Happy Valley Kennel’s Training Academy she has helped countless people to develop lasting relationships with their dog by learning how to effectively communicate with their dog and also by providing training to the owner. In addition, Krista has developed friendships that span the ocean and continents. These friendships have provided her the opportunity to acquire outstanding genetics, as well as, travel to Europe to learn from international judges and trainers. Happy Valley Kennel imports German Shepherds and Wire-Haired Dachshunds from Europe.