Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet stores offer German Shepherd puppies. If you're considering buying one, make sure you find 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 follow strict ethical breeding practices and will prioritize health clearances for their puppies. They will provide a litter's pedigree and medical documents.
Temperament
German Shepherds are a confident powerful dogs with a natural sense of protection. They are often wary of strangers, especially initially, but they tend to get comfortable quickly after being socialized. This confidence and fearlessness in the face of danger can make them a great choice for police, military and guard dog roles. They are able to guard individuals and their possessions.
The German Shepherd is an intelligent and strong-willed breed that can be employed as a service dog, obedience competitor, or as a loving pet for the family. One of the reasons they're so well-known is their ability to learn and perform various tasks. They are able to bond quickly with their families and are able to participate in all activities at home. They're also a great choice for children. They're energetic, and will happily play with children (and often other dogs). Of course, like all breeds of dog they are prone to nipping with other pets and strangers. Training and socialization early can aid in preventing aggression.
A breeder's commitment to ethical breeding practices is crucial. You'll want to choose a German Shepherd breeder that follows the guidelines for screening and testing for health socialization, as well as raising their puppies indoors. You can often determine a breeder's integrity by visiting the facility, meeting the parents and other siblings, and asking questions about the genetic background and health clearances.
Because the German Shepherd is a barrel-chested breed, it's susceptible to bloat. Entzückende Scäferhund Welpen can be life-threatening. To minimize the risk, be sure to provide your puppy with plenty of water, feed him frequently and ensure an appropriate food bowl.
Like many herding dogs, German Shepherds can be nippy. They will naturally bark to alert you of approaching strangers or intrusions. However they can be trained to calmly and confidently greet visitors. It is also recommended to take your dog to puppy classes or employ a dog trainer if you are not familiar with this powerful breed. This will ensure your German Shepherd receives the right training and exercise to prevent him from being destructive, or even attempting to escape. A microchip and 24PetWatch membership can also help to return your pet in the event that he runs away.
Health
The GSD is a very robust breed that is extremely robust. But, just like any other breed, it can be susceptible to certain hereditary ailments and diseases. It is essential to conduct your research to ensure that you buy from a reliable breeder who cares about the health and well-being of their dogs. Visit their premises, meet the owners and request health clearances and socialization records prior to making the purchase.
Hip dysplasia, a condition that affects the joint is common in German Shepherds as is skeletal muscle weakness, especially in older dogs. These issues can be treated with a balanced diet, exercise, supplements and physical therapy.
Epilepsy is also inherited in GSDs. It's usually caused by metabolic issues (low blood sugar organ failure, organ failure or toxin). It could also occur if there is no other reason for it, and is called Idiopathic or primary Epilepsy. If your dog is suffering from this condition, it will require lifelong medication to control seizures.
Cancer is another affliction that affects GSDs, particularly hemangiosarcoma, which is malignant tumor that grows in blood-rich organs, such as the spleen and liver. Lethargy, swelling, and sudden collapse are all signs. This condition is extremely painful and there is no cure. Treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms.
Allergies can be a problem for GSDs. They can trigger itchy skin, ear infection, and digestive problems like diarrhea, vomiting and weight loss. If you suspect your dog is allergic, you'll have to conduct a complete medical examination, which includes an extensive exam and history, diagnostic testing of the ears and skin as along with lab work and a fecal test.
Degenerative myelopathy is a condition that can affect GSDs and cause them to lose mobility, usually in their 20s or early 20s. The cause of this disease is through a genetic mutation which can be detected by DNA tests. Symptoms of the disease progress and include difficulty rising, a reluctance to leap or climb as well as a decrease in thigh muscle mass and discomfort. The disease is not curable, but can be managed with physical therapy and medication.
Training
GSDs are known for their dedication to work and their advanced training in agility, obedience and protection. Their versatility makes them excellent service dogs, drug and bomb sniffers, as well as guides for blind people.
As a breed German Shepherds are extremely intelligent and eager to delight. However, they can be bored and susceptible to a flurry of behaviors if they do not receive adequate physical or mental stimulation. They need a patient, consistent, and an experienced trainer to help them achieve their full potential.
If you're looking to buy a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to find a reputable breeder who works with the dog's best interest in mind. They must have a screening process to ensure that puppies are a good fit to their families. They should also provide you with proof of the puppy's pedigree, health clearances, as well as recommendations for training and care.
The breed standard states that while each German Shepherd is different, they must all be active, athletic and alert. They must be also cautious of their family members and be sociable. It is possible to ask the breeder about their breeding program, and then see some of the puppies in person so you can assess their demeanor and physical characteristics.
Many people confuse the classic German Shepherd behaviors of barking or lunging at movements with aggression, but they are normal reactions that happen when a dog is activated by something in the vicinity. Certain German Shepherds who place their heads in the corner of the room or hide from strangers have a genetic shyness that can be helped by socialization, but is not "cured."
While certain breeds shed hairs throughout the year, the majority of dogs only shed heavily twice a year -- for three weeks in spring, when they switch from an extra thick winter coat to a thinner summer one and then again in the fall when they are preparing for the transition back to an even thicker winter coat. That means you'll have to keep up with daily walks with plenty of playtime, exercise, and lots of lint rollers. A well-trained, well-socialized German shepherd will give you years of friendship, love, and loyalty.
Care
German Shepherds require a consistent training to avoid undesirable behaviors like digging, chewing and excessive barking. They are highly intelligent dogs that can be taught easily and enjoy having a purpose in life. They can be bored if they are left alone for a long time. It is important to provide them with a huge backyard or dog park to make use of their energy.
Breeders with a good reputation are able to provide you with pedigree documents and health clearances for the parents of the pups. You should also visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to verify that the breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices.
GSDs, due to their genetic predisposition are more susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasias, bloats and bloats, as well as heart diseases and skin issues. They may also be susceptible to skin conditions, ear infections and ear infections. They are more likely to develop cancers such as hemangiosarcoma which affects organs that are blood-rich, including the liver and spleen.
The the peritoneum is a spongy, tough connective tissue that surrounds the spleen as well as the blood vessels which supply it. Peritoneal inflammation can cause discomfort and pain. Peritoneal inflammation can cause other complications like liver disease, kidney infection and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have a double coat that require regular brushing to avoid matting and tangling. The breed has an annual molting process every year, either once or twice, and you can use a de-shedding tool, an undercoat rake, or slicker brush to keep the amount of shedding to an absolute minimum.
GSDs can suffer from a condition called intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This happens when the cushion of jelly that sits between two vertebrae breaks or becomes sloppy in a way that causes it to press on the spinal cord. The symptoms include difficulty jumping, climbing stairs or moving around, being hesitant to move, a hunched back and the dragging of the feet behind. If you observe these signs, seek veterinary attention immediately because the condition could develop quickly and cause paralysis and even death. A veterinarian can reposition the disc to lessen or eliminate the symptoms.