How to Buy a German Shepherd Pup
German Shepherds require regular walks, playtime, and other activities. They should be socialised with other pets, household pets and children from an early age to avoid aggression or dominance problems later on in life.
Do your research about the breeder of your puppy and its lineage. Like all dogs, they may inherit genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia or the bloat (gastric torsion)..
Personality
German Shepherds are intelligent dogs who thrive on challenges. They are loyal and obedient however, they can also be wary of strangers. They may be extremely protective and may bark at cars, people, or other dogs when they believe their family members are in danger.
These dogs are highly trained and learn quickly. This makes them a preferred choice for military, police roles, and search-and-rescue missions. They are also excellent companions because they love the outdoors, are active and have a dignified sense stoicism that is rare in other breeds.
The intelligence and physical prowess of this herding breed makes them excellent athletes, and they do best in a setting w here they can make use of their energy. They excel in dog sports such as agility, obedience and tracking tests, Schutzhund, and obedience however, they're equally happy with a regular workout that includes long walks or playing games of fetch. The fact that they have a job gives them purpose and stimulates their minds and bodies.
German Shepherds are prone to excessively vocalizing when they are excited or bored due to their herding background. If not handled properly it can lead to unwanted behavior. It is important to socialize and stimulate your dog from an early age to keep them happy and active.
German Shepherds are very smart and obedient, which makes them easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement. They can be stubborn, though they need an obedient but firm hand with training to prevent them from becoming stressed or overwhelmed. It is recommended to hire an expert trainer to assist with your training.
German Shepherds are a loyal and loving breed that enjoys attention and playtime with their families. They're active and need lots of exercise and mental stimulation in order to stay happy and healthy. If you're planning to adopt a pet, you must be honest about how much time and attention you can devote to their requirements. If they are left alone too long, it can result in destructive behavior, anxiety, and depression. To avoid this, don't leave your German Shepherd alone for more than a few hours at a time, and start by building gradually to longer periods of time.
Health
German Shepherds are healthy dogs, especially when they're raised responsibly by responsible breeders. Breeders who screen their dogs for elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, as well as hemangiosarcoma and other breed-specific health conditions. This is why it's so important to only purchase from a trusted seller. A reputable breeder will offer their puppies regular check-ups on their health throughout their lives.
GSDs are herding dogs and require plenty of exercise and attention to stay happy. They should be exercising for at least two hours a day, including walks and time off-lead in a secure location. Adding in training on top will give them the best workout. Providing them with enough space to play and move around will also help reduce stress levels.
As they age, GSDs could develop arthritis. This can cause them to limp or exhibit a bunny hop gait. Talk to your vet to determine the most effective treatment plan. It could mean changes in diet or supplements, or even surgery depending on how severe the disease is.
Degenerative myelopathy is another common German Shepherd ailment, which can cause weakness in the hindlegs. Fortunately physical therapy can slow the progression of this condition.
Certain German Shepherds are born with hip dysplasia. This means their socket and ball joint isn't a good fit. This can result in discomfort, difficulty standing, and in more serious cases even paralysis. Your veterinarian will suggest that your dog modify his exercise routine and adopt a healthier diet to lessen the symptoms.
German Shepherds are also prone to cancer, specifically bone, lung and abdominal cancers. The signs of cancer may include weakening of the stomach, loss of appetite and weight loss, vomiting, and diarrhea.
German Shepherds could also suffer from an overactive thyroid that is a hormonal imbalance. This can cause them to urinate more often, have breathing issues, and become very tired. Your veterinarian will listen to your dog's stethoscope and/or perform an X-ray to identify this symptom. Your vet will prescribe medication to manage this condition if your dog suffers from it.
Training
German Shepherds are highly trainable and are well-suited to early training. They are quick to learn and love working with their owners. This makes them a popular breed for military, police, and protection work. They are also a popular pet for families with children. Like all dogs, they require plenty of exercise to help burn off their energy. You should have the time and the space to give your German Shepherd the daily physical and mental stimulation that it needs.
Before you purchase a German Shepherd, make sure the breeder you're dealing is reliable. Look for a responsible German Shepherd breeder who screens their parents in order to prevent the transmission of health problems such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. Also, inquire about the origins and the age of the puppies.
If you want a German Shepherd that can be trained to be a service dog, or participate in IPO competitions, then go for an IPO line. These dogs have been through obedience training, tracking, and security training. You can find breeders who are working line throughout North America and Europe. Breeders offer puppies and "started" dogs that have been extensively trained in obedience tracking, protection, and aggression. These dogs and puppies are expensive, up to $20,000.
Be sure you can afford a German Shepherd before purchasing one. You'll spend about $3,500 in the first year, which includes pet food and veterinary care. You could expect to spend between $500 and $1500 a year on your dog's maintenance and health. If you aren't able to purchase a German Shepherd dog, consider adopting one from shelters.
When choosing the right German shepherd, think about their size and strength. They aren't suitable for every family, and they may not get along well with smaller dogs. They must be kept active to avoid boredom which can lead to destructive behaviour. If you don't have the time or the space to give a German Shepherd the exercise it requires, consider another breed. The best German Shepherd will be a loyal, loving family member for many years to come.
Care
German Shepherds are a big, strong breed that requires plenty of exercise every day to exhaust their energy. It is important to ensure you have the time and space required for this breed before adopting. These dogs are also prone to separation anxiety, so it's crucial to begin socializing and training at a young age.
Due to their herding heritage, these dogs are very vocal and must be allowed to be vocal in a safe environment. To stop this from turning into an aggressive behaviour it is essential to sign up for dog obedience classes or hire a professional dog trainer for your German Shepherd from the beginning of their life.
You must be ready to make a long-term commitment whether you choose to learn to train your German Shepherd yourself or hire an experienced dog trainer. German Shepherds have an average lifespan of 10-12 years. You'll need to commit to making your new dog a part of your family.
These dogs are recommended to be fed commercial diet of top quality that is designed according to their size and age. The recommended serving size is stated on the packaging. However, it's a good idea to inquire from your veterinarian on how much your dog needs to eat every day. You should also avoid giving your German Shepherd any treats that are more than 10 percent of their daily calorie allowance.
Like any dog, German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues. Elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia degenerative myelopathy, epilepsy/seizures, and bleeding disorders are often observed in this breed. Breeders with good reputation will test their dogs to decrease the risk of passing on genetic diseases on to their puppies.
Lastly this breed is also at a greater risk of developing bloat than the other breeds. This is because they have a barrel chested breed. If not treated quickly the condition could become fatal. It is crucial to be aware of the signs of bloat and know when to take your German Shepherd into an emergency vet.