Karin Jacobs, Portland OR

My name is Karin Jacobs and I have never owned a dog.  I have always been a cat lover, having owned cats for 20 years.  In October 2008, tragedy struck, I lost my husband unexpected on vacation in Hawaii of a massive stroke.  My life turned upside down.

Still in a fog in December, a co-worker referred me to I-Guard when I expressed interest in owning a dog.  I had no idea who Nick was, but I quickly discovered Nick was someone I could trust and his amazing knowledge of dogs.  I wanted a female dog, but after talking with Nick for some length, he said I needed a “alpha male” to balance my life.  I have two kitties, Jake and Elwood, and Nick was correct.  The kitties are warming up to Tank daily!!

Nick was amazingly correct again! He had one puppy left and had 5 people wanting “Tank”, and I was the lucky one that Nick chose me to be Tank’s new Mom!

Tank is amazing, he has become my best friend.  I swing with Tank on my porch swing as I read the “word” to him!  Tank is so smart, I know he understand everything I read to him because he is now kneeling with me every night when I say my prayers!! (well…almost! I’m sure Nick can train Tank to do this if I asked – Nick being the puppy whisperer!)
I am so glad I met Nick, I know he and his family will be in my life forever!

Nick: THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU! --- I LOVE MY PUPPY TANK!!! I call him my “monster puppy” as he seems to grow every day!!

There is NO way anyone can go wrong with purchasing a puppy from Nick – He truly is an amazing man who really knows his dogs!

Thank you Nick!!

Andrew and Casi Chiavaras, Uniontown WA

One of the things that stands out most about I-Guard International is Nick’s unconditional devotion to his dogs. After first meeting him, my husband and I both thought, “Wow, he really knows his stuff and loves the German Shepherds he breeds.” Over the past year, we’ve come to understand why. Living only one town over from Nick, we’ve not only been able to experience  how incredible our dog Faira has turned out, but how unique all of the dogs from I-Guard become. We’ve met person after person who own one of I-Guard’s dogs and say the same thing: “I’ve never in my life seen a dog quite like this one.” Nick’s dogs are sound in temperament, extremely intelligent, seem to have an ability to understand just what their owners want, and then do it. They’re great around kids, make excellent family companions, and can be taught almost anything.  If you’ve seen the pictures, you know Nick constantly produces some of the very best looking shepherds, too.

Nick has always been there to answer our every question, give advice, or help us in any way he knew how. He takes pride in his dogs and devotes his time in making sure all the owners of I-Guard puppies are just as well taken care of.

As much as we have to say about I-Guard’s breeding program, his training credentials are just as high. Thanks to Nick, our dog, Faira, is about to complete her training as a personal protection dog, has begun tracking work, and is very skilled in obedience. Within the year Nick will have taken her far enough to be able to compete in Schutzhund competitions with some of the very best dogs from around the nation. Aside from Faira, we’ve watched Nick transform dogs of all types and sizes. He’s turned vicious Pit Bulls into calm, well-mannered companions, shy puppies into strong and confident protection dogs, high-energy ankle biters into sweetly behaved lapdogs, and has trained numerous service dogs to accommodate all types of disabilities. He’s so confident with his program that he even donated a puppy to serve on the force of the Spokane Police Department. See article here: http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2009/may/27/police-training-awaits-donated-puppy/

I would highly recommend I-Guard International to anyone seeking a top quality German Shepherd or for expert training for dogs of any breed.

Thank you Nick and Jacqueline

-Andrew and Casi Chiavaras

Arlene Anderson, Pullman WA

Nick Lungu of I-Guard International saved our dog from being put to death, through his training by transforming my Pit Bull PeWee from an aggressive, domineering, excitable, jumping, biting, barking guy into a well manered behaved family member.

PeWee, an American Staffordshire Bull Terrier, more commonly known as a Pit Bull is no longer to be feared and avoided, but instead praised and admired for his good behavior by every one that meets him. The transformation is amazing. Nick is a remarkable dog trainer.

Thank you Nick, we recommend you to anyone who needs dog training. You are the dog whisperer in Pullman WA. (View Images)

Paul W Upthegrove, Coeur d’Alene ID

This is going to be a somewhat lengthy letter as frankly I have a lot to say about I-Guard International’s German Shepherds and the total quality I have found.

I first spoke with Nick Lungu on the phone and quickly realized I was talking with someone I could trust and that I would enjoy working with. In the early stages, I worried a little about having Nick pick the pup for me. I remember wearing out Nick’s phone as each new puppy picture caught my eye. Proof, that Nick is patient is the fact that he still talks to me. However, at my wife’s urging, I bit my tongue and accepted. Now I understand why Nick does the choosing. My hairy best friend fits my family and my personal needs perfectly. In retrospect I should have realize that the professional knows his stuff. Thank you Nick for overriding me.

On arriving at his home, I was of course overwhelmed by an undulating sea of hairy bellies. However, my eyes were drawn to a magnificent credit to the breed. Heidi in a one word is magnificent. The kennel area was immaculate. Nick was both knowledgeable and probing in his question for us. It did not take long before I knew I wanted to become a member of the extended I-Guard family. Then came the interminable wait, until finally Nick called to say that Günner our German shepherd puppy, was ready to come home.

We drove down to Pullman, Washington and I got to meet my best friend one on one. Like all dogs, Günner was to have a special purpose. That is to be a fully integrated member of the family. A cuddle bunny with my daughter, a kitchen helper when my wife is cooking, and most importantly my partner assisting me with my disability. To date he has been excelling in all of his training.

Very recently, we had group training at a local mall with four womb mates and their very proud humans. Nick, it was wonderful. At the end, the dogs were exhausted as was I. I have never seen such a beautiful group of dogs in one place before. I think that day did more for the breed locally than all the dog shows on TV.

One of the biggest things I noticed was how truly happy all the dogs were. This seems to speak to Nick’s breeding goals and training methods. Now is my Günner perfect? Perhaps not, but he is perfect for me. AND LOOKING AT HIS WOMB MATES I COULD SEE, ALL WERE PERFECT.

Thank you, Nick and family for making this all possible. (View Images)

The Soros Family, Italy, TX

I would highly recommend Nick Lungu and I-Guard International to anyone who is interested in purchasing a high quality German Shepherd Dog. I was so impressed with the love and care that Nick has for his dogs. He makes sure that his puppies are going to suitable homes. He took a lot of time talking with me to find out what we were looking for in a dog, so he could best match the right puppy for our family. As a mother to a 5 year old son, it was very important to me that my new puppy would love children. Nick raises his puppies in his home with his children, so his puppies are socialized with children from the moment they are born.

Although we live 2000 miles away from Nick, I felt extremely comfortable purchasing a puppy from him. He went above and beyond my expectations! Nick took many hours of his own time to drive our puppy to an airport that would let him be shipped on a direct flight ensuring our puppy arrived safe and sound. When he arrived at the airport I opened the crate and he stepped right out very confidently as if to say “here I am!” I am very thankful to Nick for all he did for us.

Our pup is now almost 8 months old and it’s a joy to have him as a member of our family. He is extremely smart, and is absolutely beautiful with wonderful expressions. He gets complements everywhere he goes! (View Images)

Mary Bradley, Sacramento, CA

Hello - My name is Mary Bradley , I am from Sacramento CA and I haven't had a puppy in 20 years. I was very apprehensive in owning one. I purchased a puppy from Nick in July 08 (thanks to my best friend who owns two of Nick’s dogs). Nick was wonderful in contacting me about my lifestyle as to what type temperament of dog would fit me best...large yard, small yard, children, etc. In addition, if you look on his website you can see all the dogs in different stages of their growth. The dog that I own is so sweet, gentle, and beautiful...he loves my children, grandchildren, and neighbors. Nick loves his dogs...he is very protective of them; this proves to me his is one of the best breeders around. In fact, I am thinking of getting another puppy in the near future.

P.S. You can always call Nick if you have questions on any subjects/concerns!

Sherry Partch, Garfield, WA

I want to say Nick of I-Guard International is a miracle worker with dogs. He has made a great dog of Phoebe, our miniature Schnauzer. When I got her she was very afraid of small children and after a few months with Nick's help, she has become calmer and is not afraid of small people, became my best friend, and is now a better mannered dog than I thought possible. Nick is a great trainer and has turned into a very good friend. Thanks Nick! (View Images)

 

 

Mary Clark, WestLinn OR

I wanted to take the time and say thank you.

I want the world to know that I believe you, I-Guard and your dog's are truly the "complete package." I don't even want to try to imagine where I would be in life if I have not met you 5 years ago. As I'm sure you remember, I was not very thrilled about not being able to pick out my own puppy. However, now I see why you do what you do and the way you do it. I have owned 4 GSD's in my life and never had one that had it all. Jine is the smartest Shepherd I've owned and he is most handsome off them all. He just received his service dog certification and I'm so very proud of him. His loyalty is unbelievable, all he lives for is to is please and protect.

Nick, keep doing what you're doing. Your reputation is earned by the the quality of dogs you produce and the way you treat their new owners. I'm 100% satisfied with everything you've done for me and Jine. (View Images)

Mara Heath, OR

I hardly know where to begin praising Nick Lungu, I-Guard International, and Jake, my I-Guard puppy. They are so wonderful!

I found I-Guard as I searched the net, and I had already spoken with several other breeders. Nick set himself apart and above the others because he cared so much about his dogs and their futures. He asked me about Jake's eventual role among our family members, proposed training, and he asked me about every one of the dog's we have owned. He reserved the right to choose the puppy he considered appropriate for us. Nick wants his dogs to thrive, to be happy and useful.. The degree to which he cares about his dogs and about German Shepherd dogs is really impressive.

His care placed a wonderful puppy, Jake, with us. Jake is smart, sweet, friendly, and agreeable. He is always happy to work and learn, or to try something new. Several people have told me that Jake's fine temperament has caused them to change their opinions of German Shepherds. Jake receives frequent compliments about his appearance; too: his dark face has wonderful expressions (as he talks), and his coloring is black and glowing red.

Nick assured us that he would always be available for us. Last summer I was incapacitated by injuries and our dogs got out of hand. Always courteous, polite, and pleasant, Nick drove to our house (2 day trip) and took the dogs, and evaluated their situation in light of our objectives. After talking with us, Nick took action to fix the problem. He re-instated training and added a good bit more. He kept our dogs at his home for an entire month.

I can hardly believe how much he did for these dogs and us. Nick cares so much about this breed. And when he says that he and I-Guard dogs are "world class" he's not bragging, just stating a fact.

The Blooms, Spokane WA

Before we hired Nick Lungu at I-Guard International, we thought our only option was to "put down" our dog because of his severe aggression towards people and other dogs. We couldn't even take him for walks, or have him around new people or animals. He would lunge and try to bite. Now after training with Nick Lungu, Sergeant can be around new people and other dogs with no signs of any aggression. Dogs and even kids can play with and around him, this would not have been possible with out Nick's training and advice. He now listens to all of his commands all the time even while he has many distractions. We thought we had only one option and it was to "put him down" and now we can keep and love our dog as another member of our family.

Thank you Nick for all of your time and advice, we could not have kept Sergeant with out your help. We recommend you with out any hesitation to anyone interested in training their dog. You're a miracle worker as far as we're concerned. (View Images)

D. Ralston, Post Falls ID

I've read all the letters that people have written about you and they are true. You have excellent customer service skills and you do love and care about your dogs. That is why you excel in your business. You've always been available to me for phone consultations. When Kamuela turned two, I finally drove down to Pullman for a consult, tune-up and boarding. You went above and beyond what I believe other dog handlers would of offered. Kamuela is definitely more content since his visit with you, but still has his high-drive. Thank-you for working out the rough edges. Kamuela is also one of the best looking German Shepherds I've ever seen and the bond I have with him is quite strong.

I look forward to knowing you for many years to come. (View Images)

 

Marc Geller, Mt. Hood - Parkdale, Oregon

My family and I could not have asked for a better Shepherd when we went on our mission to get another dog. Tiki's genetics have produced a disposition which is very adaptable and critical for dealing with the real world. He understands his place in the family, with the horses and goats; and also that when he is in the car or at the office or on a walk or at the coast he has different limits and opportunities. Physically, he's a looker... you can't walk him around town or anywhere w/out compliments and people saying what a beautiful dog.

Tiki dealt w/ learning to repress his prey instinct as my highly active 4 (especially) and 6 year old boys terrorized him during his young puppy hood. Tiki is now bombproof with our kids and other kids and the public. Yet he still has the character and built in traits of protection when appropriate. At only 7 months, the best part is that we have only hit the tip of the iceberg insofar as what he has and will offer our family.

Thanks for producing top notch Shepherds, Nick, and your guidance in assessing our family and directing us toward this dog despite my initial desire to get the slightly bigger and more domineering pup. Tiki was the right choice for us -- and has plenty of size and presence.

We have the utmost respect for you as a breeder and as a person. (View Images)

Bob Hess, WA

I thought you might like an update on Eno. We have been cutting back slightly on his twice daily feeding amounts. Had him weighed at the vet Monday. 57 pounds. He becomes 5 months old this Friday. He is lean and handles his size easily on our daily walks up and down the hills that surround our house. His stamina is good for a puppy and his recovery at rest periods is better than normal. He is selective about the dogs he meets on his travels. Approaches male dogs with no fear and does not retreat but stands his ground without aggression. He is clearly in control of the encounter but not highly aggressive. He treats the females with a different attitude entirely. He does not try to mount, just is warm and friendly as he gives them what amounts to a complete physical exam. With people he is tolerant but not interested in making any new friends unless he sees one of us show friendship to the person. His intelligence is at least average to say the least and his attention to his surroundings is as good as I have seen in a pup since my Champion Lab Jake some years ago. His dentition is coming in well and of course he is experiencing the usual discomfort but continues to work hard on the fresh shank bone slices he gets from the local butcher.

In closing I must say that everything you have told me about the quality and qualities of the I-Guard bloodlines and the dogs that spring from it has been at least grossly understated. As you know, Eno is my third top class Shepherd. It is clear that he is superior to both the first Eno and also to Laredo. Both of those dogs were superb and were recognized as such in Schutzhund circles in both San Francisco and Las Vegas, respectively. Janet, Caitlin and I thank you for letting us take one of your dogs. (View Images)

James and Barbara Richardson, Portland OR

Fritz is everything we wanted in a puppy! We are so satisfied with his temperament and his bond with the family is already so strong at only 6 months old. Thank you for all your help and guidance through this process.

We get compliments on Fritz when we take him anywhere. We always tell people that we got him from I-Guard International in Pullman, Washington and had a great purchasing experience.

Thanks again for all you have done for us! (View Images)

 

The Langs, Seattle WA

My family and I can't thank you enough for your guidance in helping us select the best German Shepherd we have ever owned. As you know, the area we live in has a high crime rate. We knew that we wanted a protection dog; however, our situation was unique in that we have two small children and one teenager. When I contacted you with my desired dog for our family, I was certain that I was expecting something unrealistic. We needed a dog that would be patient with our son (age 6) and our youngest daughter (age 4). We needed a dog that we could take to ball games and social events. We needed a dog that would protect us in the event of a threatening situation and act as a deterrent. We needed a dog that would be smart enough to realize that when our oldest son came home from college and was wrestling with his younger brother there is no cause for alarm. We got exactly what we wanted from you and your breeding program. The training you provided has been amazing. It is very convenient to receive everything we need from breeding to training from one stable and honest business.

Sorry it took a few years to get you this testimonial. We have noticed that many of your new clients have added their testimonials. We feel bad that in the four years we have owned Zack, we have not gotten this to you sooner.

We highly recommend I-Guard International to anyone that is looking for an intelligent and balanced German Shepherd dog or puppy.

A friend of ours took this picture when we were visiting them in Oregon and we thought you would enjoy his natural stance.

Thank you!

Harley & Marsella Charron, Yachats OR

When we decided to go through a breeder, we made a decision to find someone who was ethical and would have a long term investment in their pups.

We spoke to nearly a dozen breeders before we found I-Guard International. From our first phone call with Nick, we knew he was a serious breeder who cared about the future of his pups.

Since we picked up our pup, Nick has called to checked up on us and has offered his expertise. His knowledge and experience has been an invaluable resource to us. Our pup is adorable, smart, and even-tempered. We are constantly stopped and asked where we got him.

We not only recommend I-Guard, but we encourage potential GSD owners to call I-Guard before any other breeder. We feel lucky to have found I-Guard. This has been our first experience with a breeder and we can't imagine it could have been better. Thanks again for everything that you have done, Nick! (View Images)

The Walters, Vancouver WA

We wanted to write you a letter to thank you for your hospitality during our visit. You were so patient with us and explained so much to us about this noble breed! You went above and beyond what we ever expected from a breeder. You know so much about and take such pride in raising German Shepherd puppies, breeding dogs, and how to care for our new puppy. We named our new puppy "Lizzy" and she is perfect in every way. She has become a part of the family in such a short period of time!

Out of all the German Shepherd dogs we have owned and raised from puppies, we have never had a puppy that has been able to learn so many commands by the age of 12 weeks. Its almost like we don't have to tell her what to do, she already knows what is expected of her and does it willingly. She is also to become a little guardian of the family. She is very protective of everyone in the family, but especially the kids.

We are so thankful for your follow up phone calls to make sure we are doing okay and adjusting fine. You have gone out of your way to make sure we have an easy transition with Lizzy. (View Images)

Judy Dunn, Pullman WA

I want you to know that it has been a wonderful experience dealing with you both. I have seen the work, care, and especially the love that you put into raising top of the line German Shepherds. I would highly recommend you and your puppies to anyone. I am especially grateful for Nick always being available and willing to answer all of my questions and to assist me whenever I have a problem. Your help has been way more than I ever expected from a breeder.

My Maggie has more than met my expectations. She is very healthy, extremely intelligent, and absolutely beautiful. I love her dearly and I wouldn't give her up for anything.

Thank you for all of you help and especially for a great German Shepherd puppy! (View Images)

The Shellys, Chattaroy WA

I want you to know that Eike is a great dog. We love her very much. (View Images)

 

 

 

 

Mark Lopez, Spokane WA

I got a digital camera for Christmas so I can finally send you pictures of Niko. He is a beautiful dog! (View Images)

 

 

 

 

The Murrays, Potlatch ID

Words seem insufficient to express the appreciation we have to you for bringing our new baby into this world. At 8 weeks old, our little boy Rebel has been a wonderful addition to our family. My husband and I, even as children have always had a German Shepherd in our lives and have always loved the breed. In September of 2003 we put down our beloved 13 year old Shepherd, Jessie which was devastating. Two years later In September of 2005 we discovered I-guard International. My first acquaintance with Nick was, to say the least, a very informative one. I learned more about the breed and his dogs and ethics in one hour than I did in my 40 years of owning one. Now, after having a new puppy in our home for the last 4 months, I have found Nick’s knowledge and advice to be a great support in raising and training our puppy Rebel. Nick is always there for me to answer any questions by phone and in person and is not hesitant to provide me with any visual aids or quick tips for use in training my puppy or in safeguarding his health. Rebel learned most of his basic commands by or before he was 10 weeks old and he still loves to learn. I have had the privilege of meeting a few of Nick and Jacqueline’s magnificent dogs and I am very impressed with them. All have awesome temperament, personality and intelligence. I am also very impressed with Nick’s passion and responsibility for all his dogs and puppies. I am so glad that he screens new owners and matches them with the perfect dog—it worked for us as Rebel is indeed perfect. Thank you Nick and Jacqueline. (View Images)

Jerry and Jean Morse, Pullman WA

We initially had German Shepherds for twenty-five years and we then waited five years before purchasing Riley from Nick. We could not be more pleased with the whole process. Nick does a great job matching people with his dogs, and his expertise after the sale has been extremely valuable to us as we adjust to Riley (and vice-versa.) I have no reservations in recommending I-Guard International to anyone looking for a quality dog sold by a professional breeder/trainer. (View Images)

 

 

The Roberts, Spokane WA

When we first learned about you and your breeding reputation in Pullman, WA, we decided we wanted to buy a German Shepherd puppy from you. Although it took a long time to go through your screening process, we are completely satisfied with the puppy we received. She is more than we could have asked for in a family companion and a protector of our home. She is very loving around our two small children. You have been very helpful by answering all of our questions we have had regarding our new puppy. You always take our phone calls and give us all the information necessary. We are very honored and thankful you were willing to sell us our German Shepherd puppy. (View Images)

Clifford Alexander, San Francisco CA

I wanted to write you a letter to thank you for importing Rex, our German Shepherd, from Germany for us. He has worked out great and has been a wonderful addition to our family. He is growing every day and is becoming more alert and aware of his surroundings. We took him to a local Schutzhund trainer and everyone is very impressed with his learning abilities. The trainer only has to show Rex something once and he remembers everything! All the trainers and other dog owners ask where we got this wonderful dog. We will be sending you some pictures soon to show you the great dog he has turned out to be! We just wanted to take the chance to thank you and I-Guard International for everything you have done for us. (View Images)

 

Dave and Nikki Murphy, Portland OR

We purchased Storm when he was eight weeks old. Since the first day we brought him home he has been everything you promised he would be. Storm is now eight months old and he is everything we expected and more. He is very alert yet friendly towards new visitors. The training you provided has really got him to pay attention to his commands. We tell all of our friends and relatives about you and we'll make sure they get their dogs from I-Guard International. Thank you for breeding such great dogs! He is a wonderful guardian and member of our family. He has changed our lives for the best. (View Images)

 

 

Kim Keizur, Pullman WA

Nick has an amazing way with training dogs and their owners. We saw a difference in Shadow's behavior after his first session with Nick. Nick also worked with our entire family on an individual basis to further our skills with handling Shadow. (View Images)

 

 

 

 

Angelo, Pullman WA

Rotty, my five year old Rottweiler, was trained by Nick at I-Guard International. He is now a more alert and obedient dog. We feel more confident knowing Rotty can handle any situation that will arise, yet I feel comfortable taking him around children and people he doesn't know. (View Images)

 

 

 

 

Richard Berger, Viola ID

My wife and I have owned German shepherds for quite a few years. One of the hardest things we've ever had to do is put our last dog down after we've loved him for many years. After looking around for quite awhile we didn't think we could find another dog that we could love just as much again. Then we found I Guard. We got a new German shepherd from them that lived up to our expectations. Now we have a new member of our family for years to come. (View Images)