Who
we are
Two people. Two Hovawarts.
One story.
We are Conny and Achim. And as so often, everything begins with a dog — or more precisely, with the absence of one. Our first Hovawart, Esker, known as Nando, was part of our lives for many years. When he passed away in 2019 at the age of 13½, the house grew quiet. Very quiet. Too quiet. At the same time, both of us were deeply involved in our professional lives, and for a long time we asked ourselves whether we could truly do justice to another dog. The desire was there — but so was a deep respect for the responsibility.
If it was going to be a Hovawart again.
When we heard that a litter was expected at vom Schmollensee kennel in the spring of 2020, we truly realized just how much we were missing a dog. And that, if ever, it should be a “Schmolli” again. We hesitated. Thought it through. Maybe a little too long. When we finally called the breeder, reality set in: all 11 puppies had already been reserved. Disappointment followed, everyday life took over once more — and yet, the wish remained. Some things simply need time.
Sometimes, timing is destiny.
In July 2020, Achim retired after many years of hard work. Suddenly, there was time. And plenty of space. The decision was made: if not now, then when. In early 2021, Frannie vom Schmollensee once again set off on her “wedding journey” to Ennio vom Drei Ruten Berg. The I-litter was on its way. On May 10, 2021, eight black-and-tan Hovawarts were born into the world — six males and two females. One of them might become the one. We were hoping for a dog with a balanced temperament, a confident and steady nature, and the ability to accompany our everyday life in Oldenburg with calmness and ease.
The Journey to Usedom –
and the Decision
When the puppies were five weeks old, we were allowed to visit them. So we set off for Usedom full of hope. And then something happened that cannot be planned: Isker won Achim’s heart from the very first moment. Effortlessly. Clearly. We were incredibly fortunate that the breeders agreed with this choice. In July 2021, Isker moved in with us — and our home was complete again.
Settling into Everyday Life
We attended puppy classes, worked on leash training, and watched as Isker grew into a confident, playful, and impressive male Hovawart. He accompanies us almost everywhere — on foot, by bike, and in everyday life. He presents himself as friendly, self-assured, and relaxed.
Aggression is unknown to him. In May 2023, he passed his breed suitability test in Sannum with flying colors. In short: he is exactly the dog we had hoped for.
Finding Our Way into the Ring – Without a Master Plan
When we began showing, we had no big goal in mind. We simply wanted to give it a try. What followed was a shared process of development — as a team, with highs and lows and a healthy dose of humor. Isker is clever, confident, and funny — complete with a very expressive “Dachshund look.”
And yes: his adolescence was… intense. Especially in the ring. Questioning things was very much part of it — preferably right in the middle of the judging.
Becoming Club Champion –
A Special Milestone
In 2022, on the occasion of the Hovawart’s 100th anniversary, the title Hovawart Club Champion was established. Three years later, we were honored to receive this title — the first ever to do so.
Between 2022 and today, we have attended many shows at home and abroad, earning numerous titles along the way. Yet the most valuable part of this journey has been the people — friendships that extend far beyond the ring.
Active Beyond the Show Ring
Alongside everyday life and the show ring, we are also active with Isker in dog sports. He has not only successfully completed the BH-SKPr, but has also passed the IGBH-1 and IGBH-2. In this work, he shows exactly what we value so highly in him as a working dog: joy in work, focus, and the ability to engage with new tasks — all without losing his calm and steady nature.
For us, sport complements both everyday life and the show ring in a meaningful way, rounding out Isker’s profile as a versatile and resilient Hovawart.
Looking ahead
Our journey is not yet over. We hope that Isker will be able to pass on his wonderful qualities. There are also a few goals still on our list: the IHF Champion title and the Swiss Grand Champion. And who knows — perhaps we will meet at CRUFTS 2026 or the World Dog Show 2027 in Wels.
One thing, however, is certain: Isker is a dog who makes us happy. And that is exactly what it was all about from the very beginning.
