Many pet stores offer German Shepherd puppies. If you're considering buying one, you should look for a reliable breeder.
Find a puppy with an the same temperament. Play with them and observe how they interact with other puppies and people.
Reputable breeders adhere to strict ethical breeding practices and prioritize health clearances for their pups. They will provide a litter's pedigree, as well as medical records.
Temperament
German Shepherds are confident powerful dogs with a natural sense of protection. They are a bit wary initially, but get comfortable quickly after being socialized. This confidence and courage in the face of danger can make them an ideal choice for police, military, and guard dog roles. They can protect individuals and their possessions.
The German Shepherd is an intelligent and strong-willed breed that can be used as an obedience competitor, or as a loving family pet. Their ability to learn and perform tasks is among the main reasons they're so well-known. They are quick to be close to their families and are active in the daily activities of their home. They're also a great option for children. They're active and happily play with children (and often other dogs). Of course, as with all breeds of dog they may be nippy with other pets and strangers. Early socialization and training will help to prevent aggression issues.
It is important to know if a breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices. You'll have to find a German Shepherd Breeder who follows the rules, including screening and testing for health, socialization and raising their pups indoors. You can generally determine the integrity of the breeder if you visit the facility to meet the parents and their children, and ask questions about genetics as well as health clearances.
The German Shepherd has a barrel chest, which can cause it to bloat. This can be fatal. To minimize the risk, make sure you give your puppy plenty of water, make sure you feed him frequently and use a bowl that is secure.
Like many herding dogs, German Shepherds can be nippy and will naturally bark to warn you of approaching strangers or intruders. However they can be trained to comfortably and confidently greet visitors. It's also a good idea to take your dog to puppy obedience classes or engage the services of an experienced dog trainer, particularly if you're not familiar with this breed of dog. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is properly trained and exercised to stop him from becoming destructive or attempting to escape. A microchip, along with a 24PetWatch subscription, can assist you in locating your pet in the event of him running away.
Health
The GSD is a very sturdy breed with a lot of strength. However, as with any other breed, it may be susceptible to certain hereditary conditions and diseases. Do your research and ensure you purchase from a reputable dog breeder who cares about the health of their dogs. Visit their facility, meet with the owners and ask for health clearances and socialization records before making a purchase.
Hip dysplasia, an illness that affects the joint, is a common problem in German Shepherds as is weak skeletal muscles, particularly in older dogs. These issues can be treated through an appropriate diet supplementation, exercise and physical therapy.
Epilepsy can also be passed down in GSDs. It's usually caused by a metabolic problem (low blood sugar organ failure, organ failure or toxin). It can also occur if there is no other cause, which is known as epilepsy that is primary or idiopathic. If your dog is diagnosed with this disorder it will require a lifetime medication to help control seizures.
Cancer is a different affliction that can affect GSDs, particularly hemangiosarcoma, which is an aggressive tumor that develops in blood-rich organs, such as the liver and spleen. Lethargy, swelling, as well as sudden collapse are all signs. The condition is extremely painful and there is no cure, so treatment focuses around managing the symptoms.
Allergies are a regular issue in GSDs. They can cause itchy skin, ear infections and digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. If your dog is allergic to something, you will have to conduct a complete medical workup including an exhaustive history and examination as well as tests for the ears and skin, labwork and fecal tests.
Degenerative myelopathy may affect GSDs and cause them to lose mobility. The disease typically manifests in the 20s and early 20s. The disease is caused by an genetic mutation and is identified by DNA testing. The symptoms of the disease progress and include difficulty in getting up and down, a refusal to jump or rise, a loss of thigh muscle mass and pain. There is no cure for the disease but it is treatable with physical therapy and medications.
Training
GSDs are renowned for their tenacity and dedication to work and benefit from advanced training in obedience, agility and protection. Their versatile skills also make them excellent service dogs, bomb and drug sniffers, as well as guides for blind people.
As a breed, German Shepherds are highly intelligent and eager to delight. They are easily bored and may develop obsessive behaviors without adequate physical or mental stimulation. They need a solid steady, consistent, and patient trainer to help them reach their full potential and to help them remain confident when faced with distractions.
If you're looking to buy a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to choose a reputable breeder who works with the dog's best interests in mind. They should go through a screening procedure to determine if the pups are a good fit for their family. They must also provide documentation on the puppy's pedigree and health clearances as well as suggestions for training and care.
Although every German Shepherd has a unique temperament, the breed standard indicates that these dogs should be athletic, active and alert, as well as protective and able to bond with family members. You may want ask the breeder questions about their breeding program, and you can take a look at some of their puppies to observe their physical characteristics and manner of conduct.
Many people misunderstand the traditional German Shepherd behavior of barking and lunging at motion as a sign of aggression. These are all natural responses that occur whenever dogs are activated when something is moving near. Some German Shepherds who bury their heads in the corner of the room or hide from strangers are born shy. This can be cured through socialization, but is not "cured."
While certain breeds shed a few hairs throughout the year, most dogs shed their hair only twice per year -- for three weeks in spring as they switch from a thicker winter coat to a lighter summer coat, and again in autumn as they prepare for the transition back to the thicker winter coat. This means you'll need to keep up with your daily walks, plenty of playtime and exercise, and a lot of lint rollers. Being well-trained and socialized German Shepherd in your life will mean a great deal of loyalty, love, and companionship for the years to be.
You can also read about how to care for yourself.
German Shepherds need to be trained consistently to prevent undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, excessive digging, and chewing. They are intelligent dogs that love to learn and have a goal. If left unattended for long periods, they can become bored and destructive. A large backyard or dog park is a must to help them channel their energy and give them a outlet for their high level of physical activity.
Breeders with a good reputation are able to provide you with pedigree papers and health clearances for the parents of the pups. You should also visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to confirm that the breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices.
GSDs, as a result of their genetic predisposition are more susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasias, bloats disease and skin problems. They may also be susceptible to skin conditions, ear infections, and ear infections. They are also more likely to develop hemangiosarcoma, which is a type of cancer that affects blood-rich organs including the liver and spleen.
The the peritoneum is a spongy, tough connective tissue that surrounds the spleen and the blood vessels which supply it. Inflammation of the peritoneum can cause pain and discomfort. Peritoneal swelling could lead to complications like kidney disease, liver disease, and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have double coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. The breed will go through a molting cycle every once or twice a year. You can employ a deshedding tool such as an undercoat rake or a slicker, to reduce the amount of hair shed.
GSDs could be suffering from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This happens when the jelly-like cushion that lies between two vertebrae ruptures or slips, causing it to press on the spinal cord. The symptoms include difficulty jumping, climbing stairs or moving around, being hesitant to move with a hunched back, and dragging of the back feet. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact a veterinarian immediately. The condition can rapidly develop and cause paralysis or even death. A doctor can reposition discs to lessen symptoms or eliminate them.
