Forever Family K9

Susan D.

Breeder of Belgian Malinois and Chihuahuas

  • Elizabethton, TN
  • Responds within a few days

Available puppies

Schmackle Brack

Ready June 14

2 weeks old · Male

Ace the Mace

Ready June 14

2 weeks old · Male

Meet the breeder

I'm Susan D., the breeder behind Forever Family K9 located in Elizabethton, TN. Forever Family K9 focuses on matching dogs so it is Forever. Therefore many of my puppy matches are made when the puppy is older around 12 weeks. Having a background in behavior science, it's believed we can determine more of the dogs mature temperament at this time, making for less risk of mismatch. Every puppy is also gifted ENS to ensure a healthier dog. I add scents and noise at this time for stronger environmentals. I try to produce a working dog that aims to please. By 12 weeks they have been progammed to see the handler as their world incorporating existential feeding and marker work. Being a trainer first, I can also train to your specific needs, just ask. Do you need a dog good around horses, bicycles, or ATVs so you can take your K9 down the trail with you? Do you need a dog that is gold in public under high distractions so you can have a service dog? Do you need a dog with certain reaction qualities or drives? Let's talk, I can probably train to your needs or there might be a dog available that already has your needs covered. I have found arguably the best foundation stock. My dam is from worlds stage working bloodline, Ot'Vitosha Kennels. She possess all the qualities of a great working dog that I want to reproduce. Trying for a dog with enough drive for whatever you desire. Any dog can come back for any reason at anytime. They are Family and are my Forever K9!

Q. & A. with Susan

  • Why did you start breeding?

    One of my case studies was on a fearful Belgian Malinois, that's when I fell in love with the breed. I had goals of owning one. 15 years later I was gifted one and the rest was history.

  • What makes your program special?

    I perform ENS for a scientifically healthier dog. They are socialized with many different animals being farmed raised. I have aimed for the top bloodline for my breeding stock that is CHIC certified.

  • What are the different breed coat colors in your program?

    Our Belgian Malinois puppies include fawn sable, mahogany, black, and red sable. Colors will vary depending on the parent dogs.

  • Where do your breeding dogs live?

    They live in my home.

Matched dogs

These dogs are already reserved or have gone home.

Getting a puppy from Susan

Susan has been certified by Good Dog’s screening team for responsible and trusted breeding practices. When you’re ready, reach out to ask about the puppies or anything else on your mind. You’ll get to know each other through messaging, phone, or video and pay securely, all on Good Dog.

After buyers complete the application and screening process, Susan partners with them to find the best puppy match.

Price

Puppy prices include a $200 refundable deposit and between $2,300 - $3,300 final payment, before taxes & fees.

“AKC reg, wormings, age appropriate vaccinations(rabies at 16 weeks), vet visit(checks for murmors, hernias, ect.), microchipped, health papers if needed for transport.”

Contract & health guarantee

Susan may provide a written contract or health guarantee when you purchase a puppy. This helps protect both you and your breeder, ensuring that you both have a clear understanding of the terms of your puppy purchase. If Susan offers a contract or guarantee, the details will be personalized by them. If you have any questions or want to know more, don't hesitate to reach out to Susan directly.

All contracts are handled securely through Good Dog.

You’re protected
on Good Dog

When you pay and communicate on Good Dog, you’re covered by Payment Protection.

What's included

    • From Good Dog
      • Lifetime support from Good Dog’s Care Team
      • 10% lifetime discount on Figo pet insurance
      • Puppy Training Program & private community
    • Enrichment & socialization
      • Various sounds
      • Car rides
      • Surface & tactile stimulation
      • Socialized with children
      • Socialized in new places
      • Scent introduction
      • Daily handling
      • Socialized with other dogs
      • Introduced to people of different ages and appearances
      • Socialized with other animals
    • Puppy health practices
      • Vet check
      • First round of shots and deworming
      • Microchip
      • Vet records
    • Extras
      • AKC registration
      • Toys
      • Registration
      • Puppy starter kit
      • Initial potty training
      • Food & treats

Location & pick-up

You can drive or fly to pick up your puppy from Susan.

Breeder's location

Meet in Elizabethton, TN

4384 miles away

·

Other pick-up locations

Meet at Knox County Airport

3514 miles away

·

Flexible meeting point

Susan can meet at a location that works for both of you

More about Susan

  • Certifications & recognitions

    CHIC Certified, Canine Behavioral Consultant Certificate (e-Training for Dogs).

  • Susan has been a member of Good Dog for almost 3 years

    Susan was screened for responsible practices and has been a member since 2023.

Susan is a trusted Good Dog breeder

Forever Family K9 meets or exceeds our community standards in these areas:

  • Responsible breeding practices
  • Health of breeding dogs and puppies
  • Puppy environment and enrichment
  • Buyer education and policies

Litter and program updates

Parent dogs

Parent health testing

Breeder-Reported Testing

Excellent level

Forever Family K9 reports to performing the health tests below on their breeding dogs. Ask your breeder about the tests performed on the parents of your litter. Learn more about health testing for Belgian Malinois.

  • Hip Dysplasia

    Hip testing reduces the chance of passing down hip dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause hip pain and the eventual loss of the function of the hip joint.

  • Elbow Dysplasia Finals (OFA, BVA, SV, FCI)

    Elbow testing reduces the chance of passing down elbow dysplasia, which is primarily found in large breed dogs and can cause arthritis in the elbow joint and front leg lameness.

  • Eye Certification (CAER, registered with OFA)

    Eye testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide range of hereditary eye illnesses including retinal dysplasia, lens luxation, and glaucoma, which can cause impared vision or blindness.

  • DNA Disease Panel

    Genetic testing reduces the chance of passing down a wide variety of hereditary diseases of differing prevalence and severity such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (an eye disease) and Von Willebrand's Disease (a blood disease).

Verified owner stories

Hear what other owners say about working with Susan to bring home their puppies.

  • Troy J.

    Verified owner · Mar. 2026

    Best experience I have ever had buying a pet. We have 3 German shepherd, 4 bengal cats, and other pets on a large property. I’ve had so many animals over the past 20-years, and never would I imagine a Belgian malanois puppy behaving so well that I can keep him in my home with very delicate furniture, in fact this is the first dog to ever live in my house - the others live in the garage. This 4-month old puppy behaves better than my 5-year old shepherds. Susan is great and I would have confidence buying any puppy from her and will most likely get another from her when the time comes. I drove 1700-miles round trip to get the puppy and would do it again in a heartbeat. Thanks :)

    RF

    Rob F.

    Verified owner · Apr. 2025

      • +5

    Susan was incredible through the entire process. She took the time to listen and learn about our family, home and our idea of what would be the ideal temperament and personality of the dog for us. She went above and beyond answering all our questions. At the end she had enough information to make a recommendation (which we asked for) on which puppy she thought would be a perfect fit for us. SHE WAS SPOT ON!!!! She recommended a transporter and coordinated getting him to us. When he arrived it was an instant connection. She absolutely recommended the perfect pup. He has fit in so well with our family. We couldn’t be happier. Thank you Susan!!!

    Shateal H.

    Verified owner · Aug. 2024

    Susan's passion for her craft is evident in the way she meticulously prepares new owners for life with their pup, from stocking up on favorite treats to sharing expert tips on toys and activities, making the adoption process a truly rewarding experience! Thank you!!

  • Neil H.

    Verified owner · Feb. 2026

    Susan was a nice lady and breeder. The puppy we got from her was perfect. The puppy is doing great. Would highly recommend her dogs to any one looking.

    RV

    Ron V.

    Verified owner · Nov. 2024

    Susan had great knowledge about the breed. She answered all questions I was very pleased with her answers. I have nothing but good things to say about our transaction with Grile. I would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a great dog. Thank you Ron

    MC

    Michael C.

    Verified owner · July 2024

    Susan has been working with me for 6+ months finding the right Mal for me and my family. I wanted a dog that was well adjusted to cats and dogs. Susan went above and beyond to show me the different options I had. She was aware that I wanted a smaller statured, calm, and aware pup. And we went back and forth with different dogs. She answered absolutely every question I had pertaining to my specific situation. Being honest and upfront with what standard you have for your breeder and your life is imperative to choosing the right dog. Susan was more than willing to help me. I almost felt intrusive at times. A good human who is willing to place the right dog in a home is the reason why I chose Good Dog for my adventure. I had plenty of choices locally and regionally but Susan was aware that I was coming from Arizona to see family AND add a fur baby to my household. We were able to communicate through the App via pictures and videos and she showed great care and compassion while easing my anxiety about flying with a puppy. When we decided on a puppy, she showed me the parents and was able to give me a better understanding of their personalities and why she chose the puppy for me. I trust her judgement. She showed me the temperament of the prospective puppy around cats. She showed me how much she takes care of her litters and parents and went the extra mile to assure the she and I made the right call with choosing the puppy for my specific needs in this breed. Susan traveled to my hotel, gave me all paperwork, explained to me how to register my new dog with chipping and the AKC. Our meeting was pleasant and it was felt like it was meant to be from the beginning. Forever Family K9 is top notch and when the time comes to get another Belgian Malinois, Susan will be the first one I call. Keep up the good work, Miss Susan! Me and Marjorie (Maggie) and Forever grateful for your kindness.

Photos

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Health testing is one key piece of responsible breeding and is performed on breeding dogs to prevent the presence of heritable conditions in their puppies.

Health testing is one key piece of responsible breeding and is performed on breeding dogs to prevent the presence of heritable conditions in their puppies.

Health testing is one key piece of responsible breeding and is performed on breeding dogs to prevent the presence of heritable conditions in their puppies.

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