Where to Buy German Shepherd Puppies
A favorite choice for military, police and other service dogs German Shepherds are intelligent, protective and extremely loyal. They are also extremely active and require plenty of exercise and stimulation.
Their natural instinct to protect themselves can manifest as aggression towards strangers, so early training and socialization are essential. They may also display compulsions, such as repetitive actions like tail-chasing.
Health
German Shepherds are generally healthy dogs However, good breeding practices can help to reduce the likelihood of certain diseases. Reputable breeders screen parents to prevent passing on diseases that could be prevented, such as hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy to puppies.
Regardless of their breeding history, all puppies should be carefully inspected by a vet before they leave for their new homes. This allows the vets to detect any health issues and treat them as early as they can to reduce the risk of complications and increase outcomes.
When it is about the health of your German Shepherd dog, regular vet visits are essential. Routine veterinary examinations as well as vaccinations and other preventive measures can help your pet live a long, healthy life.
Some health concerns specific to German Shepherds include Hemangiosarcoma, autoimmune disease, epilepsy/seizure disorders and bleeding conditions. These conditions can be controlled and prevented by choosing the correct diet, avoiding table foods and treats, and starting preventive treatment as soon as possible.
All dogs are susceptible to gastrointestinal issues, including vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. This could be caused by eating the wrong food, food allergies or other medical conditions. High-quality commercial foods, frequent urination, drinking water and limiting sweets can ease digestive problems.
German Shepherds have narrow, deep chests that can cause them to bloat, also known as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). This is a condition that occurs when the stomach is filled with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow and resulting in death within a matter of hours if not treated. GDV symptoms include heaving, retching but not swallowing. They also have an enlarged stomach, irritability and lethargy. Preventive surgery that tacks or sutures the stomach in place can reduce the risk of contracting this devastating illness.
Dental disease is another frequent issue that can affect all dogs, but especially German Shepherds. If left untreated tartar build-up could lead to gum disease and infections of the root of the teeth. Your German Shepherd may eventually lose her teeth, or require expensive and extensive treatment. This could be financially and emotionally difficult for your pet.
Training
German Shepherds are intelligent herding dogs that have been used extensively as service, protection and police dogs. They are athletic, active and extremely trained. They are an ideal fit for active people with plenty of time to exercise, training and cleaning up hair shed. They are also ideal for those who wish to have a reliable and highly skilled companion.
A well-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 ones and may be aloof with strangers. her comment is here are best trained by using fair, firm and regular methods of training. They also need a lot of stimulation mentally, so it is important to provide a variety puzzles and games for training.
Find a German Shepherd breeder that cares about their puppies' quality and wants to develop a relationship with you. They will be able to show you the mother, litter and their health history, the environment where they were raised and answer all your questions. They should also be able tell you how the pups were raised and how they compare with their siblings.
Beware of puppies sold at pet stores. They are more likely to come from mills rather than reputable breeders. They are typically created to generate money and may be suffering from serious genetic issues. A reputable breeder will check their breeding stock to stop hereditary illnesses and other health issues from arising in the puppies.
Whatever way you decide to choose your puppy, it is essential to start training early on. Introduce basic commands such as sit down, stay and sit. Also, work on leash training so your German Shepherd is calm when they are out and about. Training for obedience in the beginning is crucial to keep them from chasing everything that moves. You can also help them develop their natural instincts to herd by engaging them in recall exercises.
Spend lots of time with them when they're young, so that they can begin to appreciate you. This is especially important because they have a crucial socialization phase from around 16 weeks old, following which they might be less receptive to new people, experiences and places.
Care
No matter where 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 yearly pet insurance policy ( $250-$300 annually). Consider the additional costs of dog walker, boarding and professional obedience training, which could add up to thousands of dollars over the course of your puppy's life.
Look for a breeder that maintains high standards and follows good breeding practices. Ask the breeder to provide documentation of elbow dysplasia and hip screenings for the mother and father and for temperament testing of the litter.
Ask veterinarians, local German Shepherd owners and dog groomers and trainers for suggestions. These people are familiar with animals, and they are aware of an abundance of information about breeders who are ethical.
Although a German shepherd's herding instinct can cause him to leap and chase others however, he will react to training and discipline. Introduce your family members as the puppy grows. German Shepherds have strong bonds with their families and require lots of interaction.
Dogs are prone to dental disease, which begins with tartar build-up and develops into infection of the gums and the teeth's roots. This is a condition that is common and can lead to tooth loss and serious complications such as kidney, liver and heart disease.
Cancer is a problem for dogs that are old. Hemangiosarcoma is a form of cancer that develops blood-rich tumors that are usually found in the spleen and heart. Other types of cancer include lung, bone and intestinal.
The option of rescuing the German Shepherd from shelters is a viable alternative for those who are unable to afford to pay the cost of buying a purebred puppy. The shelter's staff can help you select a dog who has an excellent temperament and is compatible with your lifestyle. Adopting a pet can be less expensive than buying one, and adoption fees usually include medical examinations including vaccinations, spaying and neutering. The staff at the shelter can give you advice on preparing your home for a new dog by making sure the area is safe and putting away any items that could be chewed or eaten.
Exercise
German Shepherd puppies can be extremely active, and it is essential to provide them with a way to release their energy. If they don't get enough exercise it could result in them becoming restless and redirecting that energy into something undesirable like digging up the yard or chewing on whatever is within reach.
You can also expose them to a variety of individuals, places and situations when they are young. This will help them to understand that not everyone is a threat. This can be accomplished by walking in the street or in parks, getting to know neighbors during play sessions, and even taking them to places they haven't been before (as long as they are safe).
It's a good idea in addition to going out and socializing, to incorporate obedience training during workouts. This can be something as simple as teaching your dog to stay on his mat. It could be more complicated than working on heel or playing games of recall.
Dog sports such as flyball or agility can be an excellent exercise for your German Shepherd puppy and also improve their mental abilities as well. Begin slowly to ensure that you don't to overload the puppy. Avoid engaging your German Shepherd during extreme weather conditions. This can lead to diseases caused by heat in young dogs.
In addition to these activities, it's also a good idea just to take your German Shepherd puppy for daily walks. It is essential for them to get some physical exercise and also to experience the world outside of their home. It is important to take them to various places to experience new sounds and environments.