Welcome to Guardians of Olympus
Here at Guardians of Olympus, GOO, we are dedicated to the ethical breeding of German Shepherds. We are a small, family-run kennel nestled into the foothills of the San Gabriel mountains. Since 2023 we’ve been running a free range kennel, meaning that other than the time the puppies spend in the whelping box, they have access to the entire house and grounds. This experience early on in the lives of the pups helps them to develop better emotionally and creates less anxiety. It also fosters a stronger bond between dog and owner by giving the dog access to its owner without any restrictions. Loyalty is one of a GSD’s best attribute, so we do all we can to increase this natural aspect of their character.
About Us
Hi there, my name is Gary Graves and I’m the breeder and trainer here at GOO. I am the proud father of five children and G Daddy to two granddaughters. I have always had a dog in the house ever since I can remember. Growing up, some of my best friends were the family dog. My father was in the Air Force, so we moved from base to base, a lot. The one constant companion was the furry family member that made these transitions easier than they would have been. I knew no matter what, those dogs were always there for me, my Guardians.
It is in honor of these dogs that I started GOO. I wanted to raise dogs that would have the same impact on their owners that my dogs had on me. I chose German Shepherds, GSD, because of their fierce loyalty, high intelligence, and their desire to work hard to please their owners. Every decision made in the breeding program is designed to ensure the majestic look, and the amazing character of these wonderful dogs remains the same for generations to come.
Most of the men in my family served in the military. When I was 17, I was diagnosed with an astrocytoma, brain cancer. The Air Force medical personnel did a fantastic job of removing the tumor and leaving me mostly the same as before surgery. I did walk away with a seizure disorder and the combination of these two things kept me from serving. It didn’t stop me from trying though. I made the Air Force and Navy say “No!” to me before I resigned to not serving in the military.
Even though I could not serve, I still wanted to support military families in any way I could. That is why I designed the “Help a Veteran in Need” program here at GOO. Proceeds from every sale go to helping pair a disabled veteran to a service dog. The dogs we provide are ready to start their life of service to a veteran. We breed working dogs that are ready to work. All the veteran has to do is have the GSD trained for their specific needs. A working companion is invaluable to veterans who are trying to cope with life after being disabled.
Adoption Process
The first step in the process is to fill out the application. We are very selective when it comes to who takes home a Guardian of Olympus, but once your application is accepted, a deposit of $500 USD is required to ensure you receive a Guardian from the litter of your choice. After your deposit is received we will schedule a call to discuss what your goals and dreams are as far as your new Guardian is concerned. We temperament test all of our Guardians so this will help us match you with the perfect puppy for you and your family. The remaining balance will be due a week before your Guardian is ready to go home. Guardians are typically ready to leave their mom at 8 weeks of age. This final week of their life at the kennel gives us time to coordinate delivery/pickup. We deliver nationwide, and the kennel is open to visitors during business hours if you prefer to pick up your Guardian.
Your Purchase Helps Veterans in Need
Every Guardian adopted from GOO helps pair a disabled veteran with a service dog. For every litter born at GOO, we donate a service dog to a disabled veteran. If you know of a veteran in need, please, send them our way.