Buy a German Shepherd Puppy From a Reputable Breeder
A German Shepherd puppy purchase is a significant commitment. Before you purchase a puppy it's essential to conduct some research about reputable breeders.
Check to see if parents of the litter have been deemed free from degenerative myelopathy and megaesophagus, exocrine dysfunction and Von Willebrand's disease.
Find out about the breeder's return policy. Reputable breeders will be willing to return their dogs if they don't fit in with your lifestyle.
Find a Breeder who is Reputable
The last thing you'd like to do is purchase a German Shepherd dog from a breeder that isn't reliable. It is a large breed dog that needs adequate living space and high levels of exercise, training and excitement to remain happy and healthy.
Choose a breeder that has transparent practices and allows you to observe the place where the puppies are housed. The majority of reputable breeders have live webcams social media pages, or websites that let you observe the conditions of their homes. Look for sanitary bedding, a spongy footing that doesn't allow the puppies to walk or lay in their own poop and clean areas.
Entzückende Schäferhund Welpen will also be able to explain the genetic diseases that are common to this breed of dog, and what they are screened for. This includes hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia as well as degenerative myelopathy and Von Willebrand Disease. The breeder should be able to explain what genetic testing they are doing and how often.
A reputable breeder won't sell their puppies in pet stores or at markets. They will only sell them to a responsible owner that will take care of the puppy in a responsible manner. If you come across a breeder selling their puppies on these sites be cautious. This is against the law in most states and it indicates that the breeder does not take their responsibilities seriously, or has no interest in improving the genetic health of the breed they are breeding. This could be devastating for the breed and its descendants. It's also a waste money. The puppies you buy are more likely to have health problems and may not exhibit the temperament you desire in your new puppy.
Visit the Litter
German Shepherds are intelligent pack dogs who are very active. They are great dogs for families and are extremely loyal to their owners. They can be very preoccupied with strangers and they may even show aggression when they believe they are in danger. Training in obedience early will help to ensure your dog isn't acting in a way that isn't inappropriate.
Certain health conditions are more prevalent among certain German Shepherds. Breeders who are responsible for the health of their dogs should conduct the necessary health checks to avoid the spread of diseases. Breeders should be honest about the results of the tests and be able to address any questions regarding the health of the puppies.
German Shepherds are at risk of hip and elbow dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy and spinal stenosis. Inbreeding was responsible for these problems during the beginning of the breed, however responsible breeders are now working to minimize their incidence.
Another issue that may occur with German Shepherds is hemangiosarcoma which is a cancer of the blood vessels in the lungs and other organs. It is typically located in the spleen or heart, and it can cause a variety symptoms, such as bleeding, weakness, trouble breathing, weight loss and anemia.
Finally, as with all breeds, it's essential to ensure that you are providing your German Shepherd with the right diet and exercise. A balanced diet can lower the risk of developing hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, as well as Von Willebrand's disease. It is also recommended to avoid feeding your German Shepherd table food or animal bones, as they can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis.
Examine the health of the Dogs
A German Shepherd puppy should have an ideal body proportioned to its size, a dense coat and healthy eyes. It should be active and playful and capable of engaging in appropriate activities for its age like play and short bursts of exercise.
A healthy German shepherd should have a satiating appetite and continue to gain in weight. It must also have a sturdier stool that indicates proper digestion and nutrient intake.
Observe the way they interact with their littermates as well as other dogs as well as adults. They should be curious and playful but not scared or aggressive. A trustworthy breeder will provide the documentation of temperament tests for the puppies and parents.
Pay attention to the ears of the puppies when observing them. When not in use, they should stand straight and free of bald or discharge spots. A reputable breeder will ensure that their puppies are vaccinated and dewormed according to per veterinary recommendations.
These massive, double coated dogs are available in a variety of colors and patterns. They typically come in black and tan, or white and tan but may also be gray or liver. Their outer coats shed year-round and require regular brushing.
While German Shepherds are generally healthy, they can be prone to conditions like elbow or hip dysplasia, eye problems, and autoimmune diseases. A good quality dog diet and regular exercise can decrease the chance of developing these conditions.
Also ensure that your puppies are properly socialised from an early age. This will allow them to become calmer and more confident around people and animals particularly if they have a history of growing up together. Introduce your pets slowly, particularly when you have cats. German Shepherds can be bossy with other pets if they have not been properly introduced to them at a young age.
Check the Veterinarian's Recommendations
Veterinary professionals are an excellent source of information on ethical breeders. Consult a few vets in your area for recommendations, and consider asking pet groomers, trainers and dog-related businesses as well. In the ideal scenario, you'll want to become acquainted with German Shepherd owners and visit dog shows in your area to talk with people who are acquainted with the breed.
A puppy is an investment that should not be made on a whim. It is important to take into account the cost of food and grooming and also the costs of training and vet care. Before you start looking for a puppy, ensure you have a set budget.
Due to their herding instinct, German Shepherds have lots of energy and need plenty to do to keep them happy and occupied. They may develop behavior problems like excessive barking or chewing on furniture. This can be a source of frustration for pet owners. Training in obedience, exercise and a daily routine will help to reduce the temperament of this intelligent dog.
German Shepherds, like other large breeds of dogs, are susceptible to health conditions like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. They are also susceptible to spinal disorders like degenerative myelopathy or hemangiosarcoma. Breeders who are responsible for screening their pups for genetic diseases caused by inbreeding.
It is recommended to make an appointment with your veterinarian prior to when you bring home your new German Shepherd pup to ensure that your new puppy is healthy and able to be a part of your family. You will also want to discuss a training program and how you can help your puppy grow into a well-adjusted adult dog.
Check the reputation of the breeder
Ideally, you should find a breeder who has the same top qualities as you for the perfect German Shepherd. If they don't have puppies on the ground right now or don't have the kind of puppy you're seeking Ask for a recommendation to another breeder that does.
After you've found a breeder who meets your qualifications, it's time to start checking the breeder's reputation. You will find reviews and feedback on their website or on social media from other families who bought their pups and also from dog trainers and veterinarians.
You should also check whether the parents have certificates from OFA or AKC. If they don't have certifications, it could be an indication that the breeder does not value health or is unethical.
Check out a history of breeding of the parents and grandparents as well. This will aid in determining the probability that your puppy will be affected by genetic diseases like degenerative myelopathy, which is a progressive paralysis of the hind legs.
A lot of reputable breeders will be willing to share their breed's history with prospective buyers. They'll also have a breed history available for you to look over. Some may also have an application form for you to complete, which will include questions about your lifestyle and home environment to ensure that the puppy is happy in your care.
In general, German Shepherds are affectionate towards pets and other dogs, but can be territorial as they grow older therefore it's essential to socialize them from an early age. Additionally, they are known to bite when they're in the process of teething so be aware of this and be aware that it's not a sign of aggression. They are very protective of their family and will bark if anyone comes near your house.