Today we’d like to introduce you to Tyler Smith.
Hi Tyler, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
At a very young age, I found my passion for the outdoors, hunting and hunting dogs, when my grandfather and uncle would pick me and take me hunting with them. Many life lessons were learned from being outdoors. I quickly fell madly in love with versatile hunting dogs, namely German Shorthairs. These dogs are a versatile breed bred to hunt fur, feather, water, or land. These dogs will point and locate pheasants and chukars as well as track a wounded big game animal. I was 15 years old when I finally got my own German Shorthair “Top Gun Copper.” This has led me to where I am today. Since then, I have been a part of different testing/breeding groups, which ultimately landed me on the Deutsch Kurzhaar, the true original breed originating from Germany over 175 years ago. The Deutsch Kurzhaar Verband is the largest performance testing & breeding organization for the DK in the world. I am one of the original founders of the DKGNA (Deutsch Kurzhaar Group North America, DKGNA.org) here in the USA. I am currently serving my 5th year as Vice President of the DKGNA. Through all of this my kennel “vom Hochland” (from Highland), www.vomhochlanddk.com, was founded. We raise train, and breed this wonderful breed of dogs. We live by the credence from performance to a standard, and form follows function to uphold old traditional breeding standards. Our goal is to educate the public on what should constitute a breeding dog & the trained dog for the ethical usage of hunting. We also offer training seminars, testing opportunities, and community outreach, especially to the youth. We produce the most versatile hunting dogs in the world that can be used for nearly any task. Most importantly, we create exceptional hunting dogs and great family companions.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Nothing has been smooth for me. In fact, breeding a true breed-worthy dog is full of challenges. The DK must hit a minimum standard in Hunt performance, Genetic test, Confirmation test, and Temperament test prior to being approved for breeding. When I got my first DK Jinx, I was the only guy in Utah with a DK. I had to drive 16 hours one direction just to attend a test. I am also a self-started and taught myself how to train amidst reading lots of books and talking to lots of other dog guys. I have helped grow Utah into a huge hub for the DK.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in and train a very unique type of dog for hunting. I am known as the “German Shorthair/Deutsch Kurzhaar” guy of Utah. I have created a culture here known as the “Kurzhaar Kulture” which is a standard of excellence all of our breeders and members and dogs must adhere to.
Some of my greatest accomplishments are as follows:
-Breeders award for my A- Litter
– Highest Scoring Solms dog in the USA 2018.
– Founder of the DKGNA & Desert Mountain Region
– Founder of the DK breed in Utah
– First registered DK kennel in Utah
– Golden Needle recipient: one of the youngest members of the DKV to receive this distinguishing award.
– Having 22/24 of my puppies passed the standard for breeding.
– Successfully passed 4 dogs through the rigorous German testing system. Passing 12 different exams/tests.
– Fostering a “Kurzhaar Kulture” Where all are excepted and welcome in the club. We invite all others to come and learn.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
I have had too many supporters to count. A few to note are the following:
1. Gaby, Tate & Wade: My wife and sons. The Smith crew who deals with my crazy addiction of hunting dogs and loves “the babies” (our dogs) at home.
2. Scott Jacob: The man who introduced me to the breed I love and filled my memories full of great times!
3. Daenen Scott: my best friend and brother who traveled to every event, trained countless hours, and helped me get my truck unstuck to many times to count.
4. John Heiner: A great friend & leader who helped build serious credibility to our mission. Also, a world-class outdoor photographer.
5. Chazz Holt: Former manager of Wasatch Wing and Clay. He gave me the chance to become their full-time pro trainer. The experience and learning are priceless.
6. Wasatch Wing and Clay: The club that allows me and my team to train weekly on their stunning property.
7. Copper and Cotton (empty collars): Run free in the fields of Heaven. Till we meet again
Pricing:
- General cost of a puppy $2500-4500
Contact Info:
- Website: www.vomhochlanddk.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kurzhaarvhochland/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vomhochlanddk/
Image Credits
John Heiner
