Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet stores sell German Shepherd puppies. If you're thinking about purchasing one, look for a reputable breeder.
Find a dog that has an even temperament. Play with them, and observe how they interact with other puppies and with other people.
Breeders who are reputable adhere to strict ethical breeding practices and give priority to health clearances for their puppies. They will give a litter's pedigree, as well as medical records.
Temperament
German Shepherds are a confident, powerful dogs with an instinctual sense of security. They may be apprehensive initially, but become more comfortable after being socialized. This confidence and fearlessness in the face of danger could make them a good choice for military, police and guard dog roles. Süßer Deutscher Schäferhund are able to guard the people they love and their belongings.
If you're in search of an obedience competition, service dog, or loyal family pet The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent breed. Their ability to learn and complete tasks is one of the main reasons they're so well-known. These dogs are quick to bond with their families and enjoy being involved in all the activities of their home. These dogs are also great with children. They're energetic and play with children and other dogs. Of course, like all breeds of dog they are prone to nipping with strangers and other pets. Training and socialization early can aid in preventing aggression issues.
It is essential to determine whether a breeder follows ethical breeding practices. You'll want to choose a German Shepherd breeder that follows the guidelines for screening and health testing socialization, as well as raising their puppies in a controlled environment. You can often assess a breeder's integrity by visiting the facility, meeting the parents and other siblings, and asking questions about genetic history and health clearances.
Since the German Shepherd is a barrel-chested breed, it's prone to bloat, which can be life-threatening. To avoid the risk, be sure to provide your puppy with plenty of water and feed him frequently and ensure an appropriate food bowl.
German Shepherds, like many herding breeds can be nippy. They can bark to alert their owners to strangers or intruders. However they can be taught to calmly and confidently greet visitors. It is also recommended to take your dog to puppy classes or hire an animal trainer if aren't familiar with this formidable breed. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is well-trained and exercised to prevent him from being destructive or attempting to escape. A microchip and a 24PetWatch membership can also help to return your pet if he ever runs away.
Health
The GSD is a sturdy breed, but like all dogs, they are prone to certain hereditary conditions and diseases. Do your research and make sure you purchase from a reliable breeder who cares about the health of their dogs. Before making a purchase make sure you visit the facility and meet the parents. Also, ask for health clearances as well as socialization documents.
Hip dysplasia, an illness that affects the joint, is common among German Shepherds, as is skeletal muscle weakness, especially in older dogs. These issues can be easily treated with healthy diet and exercise, as well as physical therapy and supplements.
Epilepsy is another hereditary disease that can be found in GSDs, and it's usually triggered by a metabolic issue (low blood sugar or organ failure) or an underlying toxin. It may also occur when no other cause is found and is referred to as primary or epilepsy idiopathic. If your dog suffers from this condition it will require a lifetime of medication in order to control seizures.
Cancer is another condition that can affect GSDs, especially hemangiosarcoma. It is a malignant tumor that develops in blood-rich organs like the liver and spleen. Swelling, lethargy, and sudden collapse are all signs. This condition is extremely painful and there is no cure. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms.
Allergies can also be a problem for GSDs. They can cause itchy skin, ear infection as well as digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. If your dog is allergic to something, you'll have to conduct a complete medical examination that includes a thorough history and exam as well as tests for the skin and ears as well as fecal and lab tests.
Degenerative myelopathy may affect GSDs, causing them to lose mobility. The disease typically manifests in the early 20s. The disease is caused by an genetic mutation and can be detected through DNA tests. The symptoms of the disease are progressive and include difficulty in getting up or down, a reluctance to climb or jump and a decrease in thigh muscle mass and discomfort. There is no cure for the condition, but it is treatable with physical therapy and medication.
Training
GSDs have an innate work ethic and benefit from advanced obedience agility, agility, and protection training. Their versatility makes them excellent service dogs, bomb and drug sniffers, and guides for the blind.
German Shepherds as a breed are smart and eager to please. They are easily bored and can develop obsessive behavior when they do not receive enough physical or mental stimulation. They need an attentive, consistent and well-trained trainer to help them achieve their full potential.
If you're planning to purchase a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to locate an accredited breeder who operates with the dog's best interests in mind. They should have a screening procedure to ensure that puppies are a good fit to their families. They should also provide you with documentation of the puppy's pedigree, health clearances, and suggestions for training and care.
Although each German Shepherd has a unique temperament The breed standard states that the dogs are active, athletic, alert, protective, and biddable with family members. You may want to ask the breeder about their breeding program and see some of the puppies in person so that you can observe their behavior and physical characteristics.
Many people misunderstand the traditional German Shepherd behavior of barking and lunging at motion as an indication of aggression. These are normal responses that occur whenever a dog is activated when something moves nearby. Certain German Shepherds who place their heads in the corner of the room or avoid strangers have genetic shyness that can be helped by socialization, but it is not "cured."
While some dogs shed hairs through all year long, the majority shed a lot only twice per year. They shed heavily for three weeks during spring, when they switch from an engorged coat in winter to a lighter coat during summer, and then again in autumn as they prepare to revert to a thicker coat in winter. That means you'll need keep up with regular walks as well as plenty of playtime and exercise, and plenty of lint rollers. A well-trained and socialized German Shepherd in your home will bring a lot of loyalty, love, and companionship for the years to come.
You can also learn how to take care of yourself.
German Shepherds need to be taught consistently to avoid undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, excessive digging, and chewing. They are intelligent dogs that love to learn and have a reason for being. They can become bored if they are left alone for long periods. It is essential to provide them with a large yard or dog park to channel their energy.
Breeders who are reputable can provide you with documents that prove the pedigree of the puppies and their parents health clearances. You should also meet the parents of the puppies in order to confirm that the breeder is ethical in their breeding practices.
Because of their genetic predisposition, GSDs are more prone to hip and elbow dysplasia Bloat and skin issues, heart disease and ear infections as well as a number of other conditions. They are more likely to develop cancers such as hemangiosarcoma which affects organs that are rich in blood including the liver as well as the spleen.
The spleen and blood vessels that supply it are protected by a tough, fibrous connective tissue called the peritoneum. Inflammation of the peritoneum can cause discomfort and pain. Peritoneal swelling can cause complications such as liver disease, kidney infection, and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have double coats that require regular brushing in order to avoid tangling and matting. The breed goes through an molting time at least once a year You can also use a de-shedding tool, undercoat rake or slicker brush to help reduce the amount of shed to a minimum.
GSDs could be suffering from intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). It occurs when the jelly-like cushion that lies between two vertebrae breaks or sags in a way that causes it to press on the spinal cord. The symptoms include difficulty moving, climbing stairs or jumping. They also may be tilted back and dragging the feet behind. If you notice any of these signs seek out a doctor immediately. The condition can rapidly advance and lead to paralysis or death. A veterinarian can reposition discs to ease symptoms or eliminate them completely.