Buy a German Shepherd Puppy From a Reputable Breeder
A German Shepherd puppy purchase is a big commitment. It is essential to research reliable breeders prior to making a purchase.
Find out if the parents of the litter have been confirmed to be free of degenerative myelopathy, megaesophagus and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency as well as enlarged hearts and Von Willebrand disease.
Ask about the breeder’s return policy. Breeders with good reputations are willing to return their dogs if their dogs do not match your lifestyle.
Find a Breeder who is Reputable
The last thing you would like to do is purchase an German Shepherd dog from a breeder that isn't reliable. This is a large breed dog that requires adequate living space, as well as plenty of exercise, training and excitement to remain healthy and happy.
Find a breeder that has transparent practices, and lets you see where the puppies are kept. Most reputable breeders have websites or social media pages or live webcams that allow you to see the living conditions. Be sure to look for clean bedding, a clean and absorbent floor that doesn't allow the puppies to walk around and lay in their own poop, and clean areas.
A good breeder will also be able to explain genetic diseases that are common to this type of dog, and what they are tested for. This includes hip dysplasia as well as elbow dysplasia as as degenerative myelopathy and Von Willebrand Disease. The breeder should be able explain what genetic testing they are conducting and how often.
A reputable breeder won't sell their puppies to pet stores or at markets. They will only sell them to a responsible owner that can care for the puppy in a responsible manner. If you come across a breeder selling their puppies on these sites be wary. It is against the law in many states, and suggests that the breeder does not take their responsibilities seriously, or is not interested in improving the genetic health of the breed they are breeding. This could be disastrous for the breed and their future progeny. It is also a waste of money. The puppies that you purchase will be more likely to have health issues and may not exhibit the personality you want in your new dog.
Visit the Litter
German Shepherds are extremely intelligent pack animals who enjoy being active. They make great family dogs and are dedicated to their owners. They are often cautious of strangers, and may display aggressive behavior when they feel their owner is in danger. Early obedience training can aid in ensuring that your dog doesn't behave in a manner that is inappropriate.
Like all breeds, certain health issues are more prevalent in certain German Shepherds than others. Responsible breeders should perform the appropriate health tests to help in preventing the spread of these diseases. Breeders should also be honest about the results of these tests and be capable of answering any questions you have about the puppies' health.
Some of the more common health issues that can affect German Shepherds include elbow and hip dysplasia degenerative myelopathy and spinal stenosis. Inbreeding caused these problems during the beginning of the breed, however responsible breeders are working to minimize their incidence.
Another issue that can occur with German Shepherds is hemangiosarcoma which is a cancer of the blood vessels in the lungs as well as other organs. It is typically found in the spleen and heart, and it may lead to a variety of symptoms, such as bleeding, weakness, difficulty breathing, weight loss, and anemia.
Like all breeds, it is important to give your German Shepherd the right nutrition and exercise. A balanced diet can lower the risk of elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and dysplasia, as well as Von Willebrand's disease. Avoid feeding your German Shepherd animal bones or table food, as this could cause stomach upset.
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 must also be active, playful, and able to engage in activities that are appropriate for its age, such as playing and short bursts of exercise.
A healthy German shepherd should have a large appetite and continue to gain in weight. It should also have a firm stool that shows proper digestion and nutrient intake.
Watch how they interact with their littermates and other dogs as well as adults. reinrassiger deutscher schäferhund should be playful and curious but not aggressive or afraid. A reputable breeder should provide documentation of temperament tests for parents and puppies.
When you are watching the puppies, pay particular attention to their ears. They should stand erect when they aren't in use and be free of bleeding or bald patches. A reputable breeder ensures that their puppies are vaccinated, dewormed, and treated according to veterinary recommendations.
The large, double-coated dogs come in a variety of patterns and colors. They are usually black and tan or white and tan but could also be gray or liver. Their outer coats shed throughout the year and require regular brushing.
While German Shepherds are generally healthy, they may be prone to conditions like elbow or hip dysplasia, eye issues and autoimmune disease. A high-quality dog diet and regular exercise can decrease the chance of developing these ailments.
Additionally, make sure the puppies are appropriately socialized from a young age. This will help them to be more calm and confident with animals and people especially if they have grown up together. Introduce your pets slowly, especially if you have cats. If they are not properly introduced to other pets at a young stage, German Shepherds may become a bit bossy.
Talk to your veterinarian about recommendations
The veterinarians are a fantastic source of information on ethical breeders. Consult a few vets in your area to get recommendations, and also consider asking groomers, trainers, and other businesses that deal with dogs. It is recommended that you get to know German Shepherd owners and visit dog shows in your area to talk with people who are acquainted with the breed.
A puppy is a long-term commitment and should not be a decision made on a whim. You'll have to consider the cost of food and grooming along with training and veterinary costs. Before you start shopping for a puppy, be sure you have a set budget.
German Shepherds are active and require lots of exercise to keep them content. They may experience behavioral issues such as excessive barking and chewing on furniture. This can be a source of frustration for pet owners. Training for obedience, exercise and a regular schedule can aid in calming the energy of this intelligent dog.
German Shepherds, like other large breeds of dogs are prone to health issues like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. They are also susceptible to spinal diseases like hemangiosarcoma or degenerative myelopathy. Breeders who are responsible screen their pups for genetic diseases caused by inbreeding.
Before you take home a German Shepherd puppy, schedule the first visit to the vet to ensure that your new pet is healthy and is ready to be part of your family. You will also discuss the training program and how you can assist your puppy in becoming a well-adjusted dog.
Verify the Breeder's Reputation
You should find breeders who meet your top preferences when it comes to the breed of German Shepherd. You can ask for a recommendation even if they don't currently have a litter, or offer the kind of dog you're seeking.
Once you've found a breeder who meets your qualifications It's time to begin checking the breeder's reputation. Look for reviews on their website and social media from other families that have purchased their pups and feedback from trainers and veterinarians.
You should also verify if the parents have certificates from OFA or AKC. If they do not have a certificate this could indicate that the breeder does not take health seriously or is unprofessional.
You should also look at the breeding background of their parents and grandparents. This will allow you to determine if your puppy is likely to be affected by genetic diseases such as degenerative myelopathy which is a progressive paralization disorder of the hind legs.
Many breeders who are reputable are willing to share their records with potential buyers. They'll also have the breed history available for you to go over. Some breeders will require you to fill out a questionnaire that includes questions regarding your lifestyle as well as your home environment. This is to ensure that the puppy is happy in your care.
In general, German Shepherds can be very friendly with other dogs and even pets. However, they may become more territorial as they get older. It is essential to make sure that your German Shepherds are socialized at a young age. They can also bite when teething so be ready and know that this is not an sign of aggression. They are naturally protective of their family members and will bark to alert you when anyone is near the home.