Meet Arlo, the most handsome, respectable, and loving German Shepherd owned by Milja and Tony Font. Arlo lives in Magnolia, TX with many of his other furry four-legged brothers and sisters at Timber Ridge Farms. Arlo invited himself over for portraits during the show. She likes to wander around Great Southwest Equestrian Center and kept coming over to our booth to hand out in our little living room we have set up. I knew we had to grab a quick portrait while he was there handing it out because he is so incredibly handsome.
Milja is originally from the city Kangasala in Finland which is located in the western continent/region of Europe. Eventually, Milja made her way to the US where she settled in Magnolia, TX at the most fabulous 65-acre farm where there her and her husband, Tony, buy, sell, and train horses. She has an unspeakable love for the German Shepherd breed and eventually came across Arlo a few years ago through Hillview Kennels who breed and train German Shepherds. Milja shares “Not only is Hillview Kennels unbelievable, but their dogs are also. And so smart. Through the good and bad they helped us find 2 special dogs and we can’t thank them enough!”
Most people are familiar with the fact that German Shepherds are extremely smart and very diverse dogs. Did you know that the breed is considered to be the third most intelligent dog breed behind the Border Collie and the Poodle? German Shepherds are extremely athletic dogs and are often entered into agility and sports competitions. They will often explore everything with their noses – this is why they generally make such great police dogs/tracking dogs.
If you own a German Shepherd, it’s hard to not have a sneaking suspicion that your dog might actually be smarter than you. After all, what can’t your dog do? These dogs are known for their intelligence and many can learn new behaviors in only a few repetitions. Arlo is no exception to this. He absolutely loves attending horse shows and riding around on the golf cart. At times, Arlo will demonstrate his furious speed while running next to the golf cart! He is among one of the smartest, most intelligent German Shepherds that Milja has ever owned and always listens to every command given. German Shepherds are known for being fearless and self-confident. They will assertively stand their ground and are suited to be either watchdog or guardian, whichever the situation demands. Some people think of this breed as defensive and protective, which some of them can be, but not Arlo. Although he is protective of his guardian, he is the biggest lovebug.
Did you know that German Shepards are members of the herding group? Whether it’s a nose in the back, a nose on your leg, or even a nose in your face, your dog is just doing what comes naturally. Although this breed isn’t often used to herd anymore, this herding heritage still remains.
Karinda K. is a Houston, TX based equine photographer that travels around the United States photographing equestrians and their horses. Karinda specializes in Outdoor Horse & Rider Portrait sessions that bring to life the magical relationship equestrians share with their horses, Senior Portraits, and Fine Art Black & White Background Portraits for those that want a piece of art featuring their very own animals. Karinda accepts a limited number of private clients each year, if you are interested in having her photograph you and your horse or an equestrian in your life, you can reach the studio by sending an email to equine@karinda(.)com or calling (832)598-8715.
Portraits for Charity was an idea Karinda dreamt up to help give back to families impacted by Childhood Cancer in memory of her husband’s sister Jessica. During the 2021 Pin Oak Charity Horse Show Karinda photographed around 140 Horses, Dogs, and even Goats, and was able to donate $10,000 to Candlelighter’s Houston. These are the stories of the Horses, Dogs, and Goats that were photographed at the show, these stories complement a photographic book that Karinda is printing and donating to Texas Children’s Hospital featuring Portraits of each and every animal she photographed.
The Waiting List for Pin Oak 2022 is now open, click here to join: https://equine.karindak.com/pin-oak-2022-wait-list
If you are interested in having Karinda attend your event and host a Portraits for Charity day, send an email to equine@karindak(.)com.
