John Bontrager

John Bontrager and Dale Hochstetler raise Percheron horses in Topeka, IN in northeast Indiana near Fort Wayne. They have over ten years of experience, maintain memberships in the Percheron Horse Association, and follow registry guidelines with comprehensive health evaluations including farrier, dental, and lameness exams.

Their horses live in pasture-based herds with daily handling, early socialization and weather-protected stabling to encourage balanced development and strong herd dynamics. Young stock spend daily time with visitors of all ages to build confidence and calm around people, and foals are introduced to basic ground manners before weaning. Their facility includes roomy loafing sheds, seasonal turnout paddocks and year-round access to high-quality hay and fresh water to support strong muscle growth and respiratory health.

Several of their colts have placed in regional show classes, reflecting careful breeding for conformation and gentle disposition. They select bloodlines tracing to historic French Percheron stock and focus on longevity and soundness.