Where to Buy German Shepherd Puppies
A favorite choice for military, police and other service dogs German Shepherds are intelligent, secure and loyal. They're also extremely active, requiring plenty of exercise and stimulation.
Their natural instinct to protect themselves can manifest itself as aggression towards strangers, therefore early training and socialization are essential. They can also exhibit compulsive actions such as tail-chasing.
Health
German Shepherds are generally healthy, however good breeding practices may reduce the risk of developing certain health conditions. Breeders with a good reputation screen their parents to avoid passing on issues that could be prevented to puppies, including hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy.
Regardless of their breeding background, all puppies should be examined by a veterinarian before they go to their new homes. This allows the veterinarian to detect and address any health issues as soon as possible, thereby reducing the risk of complications and improve outcomes.
When it concerns the health of your German Shepherd dog, regular veterinary visits are vital. Regular veterinary exams, vaccinations, and other preventive measures can help your dog lead a long and happy life.
German Shepherds are at risk for autoimmune disease, hemangiosarcoma and seizures and epilepsy. They could also be prone to bleeding disorders. These ailments can be treated and prevented by following the correct diet, avoiding table foods and treats, and starting preventive medications as soon as is possible.
A common health issue that affects all dogs is digestive issues, such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. It can be caused by eating the wrong kind of food, or food allergies, and the underlying medical condition. High-quality commercial foods, frequent urination, water consumption and limiting sweets can help with digestive problems.
German Shepherds have deep, narrow chests, which make them prone to bloating, also known as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and then twists on itself, cutting off blood flow and resulting in death within a few hours if not treated. Signs of GDV include rectching or attempting to breathe but not swallowing, an increased abdomen, restlessness, lethargy and lying in a prayer position with the head down. Preventive surgery that sutures or tacks the stomach in place will reduce the risk of this devastating illness.
German Shepherds are not immune to the effects of dental disease. If tartar is not treated, it can lead to gum disease and infections at the root of teeth. In the end you German Shepherd may lose her teeth or require a lengthy and expensive treatment, which could be difficult on your pet's emotional well and financially.
Training
German Shepherds are intelligent herding dogs which have been extensively used as protection, service and police dogs. They are active, athletic and highly trainable. They are ideal for those who have plenty of time to devote to training, exercise and cleaning up shed fur. They are also a great choice for those who are looking for an extremely reliable, trustworthy friend.
A trained German Shepherd is a reliable pet for all family members. This includes children and older adults. They can be protective of their family members, and are aloof towards strangers. These dogs do best by using fair, firm and consistent methods of training. They also require a lot of mental stimulation, so having a variety of games and puzzles for training is essential to keep them interested.
Find a German Shepherd breeder that cares about the quality of their puppies and is eager to establish relationships with you. They should be able to show you their litter and their mother and their health history, the environment in which they were raised, and answer your questions. They can inform you about the socialization of their pups and how they compare to their siblings.
Beware of puppies sold at pet stores. They are more likely to be from mills rather than breeders with a good reputation. They are typically bred to make profit and may have serious genetic problems. A reputable breeder will screen their breeding stock in order to avoid hereditary diseases and other health issues from arising in the puppies.
It is crucial to begin training your puppy as soon as possible, no matter which puppy you choose. Teach basic commands such as sit down, stay, or sit. Also, work on leash training to ensure your German Shepherd is calm when out and out and about. Training in obedience early is essential to keep them from chasing everything that moves. Recall exercises are an excellent way to stimulate their natural herding instincts, as well.
Spend lots of time with them while they're young so they can learn to love you. This is especially important because they experience a critical socialization phase from around 16 weeks old, following which they might be less open to new experiences, people and places.
You can also learn how to care for yourself.
No matter where you purchase the German Shepherd, he will require care for the rest of his life. This includes annual vet visits and vaccinations, as well as preventive medications ($700-$1200 annually). You'll need to pay for pet food, grooming appointments, and an annual pet insurance policy. $250-$300 annually). Consider the costs of dog walking, boarding, and professional obedience training. These can be several thousand dollars over the course of your puppy's life.
Find a breeder who maintains high standards and follows good breeding practices. Ask the breeder to provide proof of hip dysplasia as well as elbow dysplasia testing for the mother and the father, as well as temperament testing for the litter.
Ask local veterinarians, German Shepherd owners, dog groomers and trainers to get recommendations. These individuals are familiar with animals, and they are aware of an abundance of information about ethical breeders.
Although a German shepherd's instinct to herd can cause him to leap and chase others but he will be able to respond to discipline and training. Introduce him to all the members of your family as you grow. German Shepherds are very close to their families and need a lot of socialization.
Dogs are susceptible to dental disease, which begins with tartar build-up and develops into gum disease and the roots of teeth. It's a condition that's frequent and can lead to tooth loss and serious complications like kidney, liver, and heart disease.
Cancer is another issue and is a major concern in dogs of a certain age. Hemangiosarcoma is a type of cancer that causes tumors rich in blood, is typically located in the spleen and heart. Other types of cancer include lung, bone and intestinal.
If you are unable to pay for a purebred German Shepherd puppy, you might be able to get one from shelters. Shelter staff can help you select a dog that is compatible with your lifestyle and has a positive temperament. Adopting a dog can be cheaper than purchasing one. The adoption fees typically include initial medical exams and vaccinations, as well as spaying or neutering. The staff at the shelter will provide advice on how to prepare your home for a dog. For instance they can advise you on what items should be put away and where.
Exercise
German Shepherd puppies are incredibly active and need to have an outlet for their energy. If they are not given sufficient physical exercise, it can result in them becoming bored and directing their energy to undesirable activities like digging up the yard, or chewing on anything within reach.
It's an excellent idea to expose them to a range of different people, locations and situations when they are young, as it will help them realize that not everyone is a threat. This can be done by taking walks on the street or in parks, getting to know neighbors during play sessions or even taking their children to places that they've never been before (as long as they are safe).
It's a good idea, aside from getting out and socializing to incorporate obedience training during exercise sessions. This can be something as simple as teaching your dog to stay on his mat. It can be as complicated as heelwork or playing games of recall.
Dog sports like agility or flyball are excellent for your German Shepherd pup and can also aid in improving their mental abilities. Start slowly, so as not to overexert the puppy. Always remember to stay clear of engaging your German Shepherd in extreme weather conditions, since this can lead to heat-related illness in young dogs.
Apart from these activities, it's an excellent idea to take your German Shepherd puppy for daily walks. They require this to engage in active and to discover the world outside of their home. It is a good idea to vary where you go on these walks so they can experience new places and are exposed to the sounds in this wonderful world that they live in.