Where to Buy German Shepherd Puppies
A top option for police, military and other service dogs, German Shepherds are highly intelligent, protective and extremely loyal. They're also extremely active, and require plenty of exercise and stimulation.
Socialization and early training are crucial because their natural protection can manifest as aggression towards strangers. They can also exhibit compulsive actions such as tail-chasing.
Health
German Shepherds are generally healthy, however good breeding practices can lower the chance of developing certain health issues. Breeders with good reputation monitor parents to ensure that they do not pass on diseases that could be prevented, such as hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy to puppies.
All puppies, regardless of breeding history, should be thoroughly examined by a vet before they are taken to their new homes. This allows the veterinarian to determine and address any health issues as early as possible to avoid complications and improve outcomes.
When it concerns the health of your German Shepherd dog, regular vet visits are essential. Regular veterinary examinations, vaccinations, and other preventive measures will allow your pet to live a long and happy.
German Shepherds are at risk for autoimmune diseases, hemangiosarcoma, and seizures and epilepsy. They may also be prone to bleeding disorders. Many of these conditions are treatable or preventable by following a balanced diet by avoiding sweets and table foods, and starting preventive medications at the earliest possible time.
A common health issue that affects all dogs is digestive issues, such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. This could be caused by eating the wrong food, or food allergies or other medical conditions. High-quality commercial food, frequent urination, drinking water and limiting sweets can help with digestive issues.
German Shepherds have deep, narrow chests, which cause them to bloat, also known as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists around itself, severing blood flow and result in death within a couple of hours if untreated. Symptoms of GDV include retching or trying to heave but not swallowing, an increased abdomen, lethargy, restlessness and lying in a prayer position with the head lowered. Preventive surgery that tacks or sutures the stomach in place will lower the risk of this devastating illness.
Dental disease is another frequent issue that can affect all dogs, but in particular German Shepherds. In the absence of treatment, tartar can cause gum disease and infection at the roots of teeth. At Entzückende Scäferhund Welpen may lose her teeth or require a lengthy and costly treatment, which can be hard on your pet's emotional well and financially.
Training
German Shepherds are intelligent herding dogs that have been used extensively as protection, service and police dogs. They are athletic, active and highly trainable. They are ideal for those who are very active and have lots of time to training, exercise and removing hair that has fallen out. They are also a good fit for people who want an extremely reliable, trustworthy friend.
A trained German Shepherd is a reliable pet for all family members. This includes children as well as older adults. They are protective of their loved family members and can be shy with strangers. These dogs respond best to fair, consistent and firm training methods. They also need a lot of stimulation in their minds, so it is important to provide a variety of puzzles and training games.
Look for a German Shepherd breeder that cares about their puppies' quality and wants to develop an ongoing relationship with you. They should show you the litter and their mother, their health history, the environment that they were raised in, and answer your questions. They should also be able tell you how the puppies were socialized and how they compare to their siblings.
Be wary of puppies available from pet stores, as they are more likely to be from mills than reputable breeders. They are typically created to generate money and may be suffering from grave genetic issues. A reputable breeder checks their breeding stock in order to avoid hereditary diseases and other health issues from occurring in the pups.
Whatever way you decide to choose your puppy, it is important to begin training as early as possible. Learn the basics of commands such as sit down, stay and sit. Also train your dog on leash so your German Shepherd is calm when they are out and out and about. Early obedience training is important to stop them from chasing everything that moves. Recall exercises are an excellent way to stimulate their natural herding instincts too.
Make sure you spend a lot of time with your German Shepherd while they are young so that they can develop a love for being with you. This is particularly important as they experience a critical socialization phase from around 16 weeks old, following which they could be less open to new people, experiences and places.
Care
Whatever you buy your German Shepherd from, he'll require constant attention. This includes vaccinations, preventive medications and annual veterinary visits ($700 to $1200 annually). Additionally, you'll need to purchase grooming appointments as well as pet food and a year-long pet insurance policy ( $250-$300 annually). Consider the costs of dog walking and boarding, as well as professional obedience training. They can add up to several thousand dollars in the lifetime of your puppy.
Look for a breeder that adheres to high standards and good breeding practices. Ask the breeder to provide documentation of elbow and hip dysplasia screenings for the mother and father and temperament tests for the litter.
Consult with veterinarians, local German Shepherd owners, dog groomers and trainers for suggestions. These people are familiar with animals and know a great deal about breeders who are ethical.
Although a German shepherd's herding impulse may cause him to jump and chase people however, he will react to training and discipline. Introduce him to all the members of your family as you grow. German Shepherds are very close to their families and require plenty of interaction.
Dogs are prone to dental disease. It begins with tartar buildup before progressing to infection of the gums and the roots of teeth. It's a frequent problem that can lead to the loss of teeth and serious complications like liver, kidney and heart disease.
Cancer is a problem for dogs who are older. Hemangiosarcoma is a type of cancer that causes blood-rich tumors, which are typically found in the spleen and the heart. Other cancers include lung, bone and intestinal.
The option of rescuing a German Shepherd from a shelter is an option for those who can't afford the expense of buying a purebred puppy. The staff at the shelter can help you choose a dog that matches your lifestyle and has a good temperament. Adopting a pet can be less expensive than purchasing one, and adoption fees typically include initial medical exams as well as vaccinations, spaying or neutering. The staff at the shelter will provide advice on how to prepare your home for dogs. For example they will tell you what items you should stored away and where.
Exercise
German Shepherd puppies can be very active, so it's important to give them the opportunity to release their energy. If they don't get enough exercise it could result in them being bored and redirecting the energy into something that isn't desirable like digging up the yard or chewing on whatever is in reach.
You can also expose them to various types of people, places, and situations when they're young. This will help them realize that there is no danger to everyone. You can do this by taking them for walks or to the parks, engaging in play with their neighbors, or even taking them to places they've never been before.
It's a good idea, in addition to getting out and socializing to incorporate obedience-training during workouts. It could be as simple as teaching your dog to sit on his mat. It could be more complicated than doing heelwork or playing recall games.
Dog sports such as agility or flyball are excellent for your German Shepherd pup and can also help them improve their mental capabilities. Just be sure to begin slowly with these kinds of exercises to ensure you don't stress your dog. Avoid engaging your German Shepherd during extreme weather conditions. This could lead to illnesses related to heat in puppies.
You can also take your German Shepherd pup for daily walks. They need to be involved in active and to discover the world outside of their own home. It's essential to take them to different places so they can explore new sounds and surroundings.