Meet Our Founder, Annette Miller
My story began in the 1980s, growing up surrounded by the joy and loyalty of family kennel dogs. One moment with a wet nose and trusting eyes, and I was completely hooked. That kind of bond stays with you. A dog doesn’t just become part of your life — they become a part of you.
I was raised in the countryside by generations of breeders. They didn’t raise German Shepherds, but I was lucky to always have dogs at my side. The real turning point came when I met Angel, my very first German Shepherd. She was a police dog reject with a wild streak and a heart full of fire. That girl taught me everything — not just about training, but about patience, resilience, and how much a dog’s temperament is shaped by where they come from.
That early experience lit a spark in me. I realized that great dogs don’t happen by chance. They’re shaped by thoughtful breeding, purpose, and love. That’s what led to the beginning of Appleridge.
Certifications & Recognitions
With over 40 years of hands-on experience, Annette’s expertise has been recognized by the AKC and other institutions through multiple prestigious certifications and evaluator roles. These credentials reflect her lifelong dedication to canine development, behavioral training, and breed preservation.
- Good Dog - Excellent Health
- AKC Breeder of Merit
- AKC Breeder with H.E.A.R.T.
- AKC Judge
- AKC Trick Dog Evaluator
- AKC Farm Dog Judge
- AKC Canine Good Citizen Evaluator
- ATT Temperament Test Judge
- Search & Rescue Canine Instructor
- All-Breed Handler & Trainer
- Certified Behaviorist
Appleridge Reviews
"We got our 9 week old German shepherd from the Millers and we could not be more pleased. Annette makes herself available to answer any & all questions before and even after adoption.
Each pup comes microchipped & AKC registered. They also provide you with some kibble, treats & a handbook to help you acclimate in your new role."
"I could not be happier with the experience I have had with Appleridge. My buddy is 6 months old now and they have continued to be so helpful as I go through the puppy stages and ask questions. Just about about every day someone comments on what a confident and calm temperament he has. Appleridge knows what they are doing and I can’t recommend enough!👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻"
Memberships & Clubs
Annette is proud to be an active member of respected breed and training organizations across North America. These memberships reflect decades of hands-on experience, deep understanding of the breed, and a commitment to bettering canine companionship through education and responsible breeding.
American Kennel Club (AKC)
German Shepherd Dog Club Of America
Canadian Kennel Club (CKC)
How We Honor The Breed
At Appleridge, breeding isn’t just a responsibility — it’s a lifelong commitment rooted in respect, purpose, and history. For generations, we’ve poured our hearts into raising German Shepherds that embody the best qualities of the breed: intelligence, loyalty, structure, and soul.
Our dogs are bred for sound temperaments, dependable structure, and all-around versatility — free from extreme angles or exaggerated features.
We focus on raising lifelong companions with straight toplines, strong feet, & clean movement. Dogs that are as capable in service & protection as they follow you room to room with total devotion. That devotion to structure began with “Horand” – the first registered German Shepherd and the spark that inspired Max von Stephanitz’s vision.
Max von Stephanitz
We honor the legacy of Captain Max von Stephanitz, who saw something extraordinary in Horand and turned that vision into a breed standard. In 1899, he founded the German Shepherd breed with a clear goal: to create a dog that was intelligent, noble, and versatile enough to serve with both heart and strength. His belief that “utility is the true creation of beauty” continues to shape how we breed and raise our dogs today.
