How to Buy a German Shepherd Pup
German Shepherds require regular walks, playtime, and other activities. They should be socialized with other dogs, household pets and children from an early age to avoid aggression or dominance problems later in life.
Do your research on the breeder of your puppy and its lineage. Like all dogs, they can inherit genetic diseases like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia as well as Bloat (gastric torsion)..
Personality
German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs that thrive on challenges. They're loyal and respectful, but they are also cautious of strangers. They can be overly protective and may bark at people, cars or other dogs if they think they're being threatened by their family.
These dogs are highly trained and learn quickly. This makes them a popular selection for police work, military roles and search-and rescue missions. They are also good companions because they love being active in the outdoors and have a dignified sense stoicism that is rare in other breeds.
The physical and mental acuity of this herding breed makes them excellent athletes, and they do best in a setting where they can make use of their energy. They excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, tracking tests, Schutzhund, and obedience however, they're equally satisfied with a routine workout that includes long walks or playing fetch. A job gives them purpose and also stimulates their minds and bodies.
Due to their herding heritage German Shepherds possess an intense prey drive and are susceptible to over-vocalizing when excited or bored. If not managed properly this can result in unintentional behavior. It is essential to socialize and stimulate your dog at an early age to keep them occupied and active.
German Shepherds are very smart and obedient, so they're easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement. They can be stubborn, however, and need an obedient but firm hand with training to prevent them from becoming frustrated or overwhelmed. It is recommended that you hire an expert trainer to assist with training.
schäferhund beschützerinstinkt are loving and loyal dogs that thrive on the attention and playtime they receive from their families. They are active and require lots of mental stimulation and exercise to stay healthy and happy. If you're thinking of adopting one be honest with yourself about how much time you'll need to dedicate to meeting their needs and making sure they're not left unattended. If they're left on their own too long, it can result in destructive behavior, anxiety or depression. To avoid this, don't leave your German shepherd unattended for more than a few minutes at a time. Gradually increase the duration.
Health
German Shepherds are very healthy dogs, especially when they are breeding by responsible breeders. Breeders who screen their dogs for elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia as well as hemangiosarcoma, as well as other breed-specific health conditions. This is why it is crucial to purchase only from a trusted seller. A reputable breeder will offer their puppies regular health checks throughout their lives.
Due to their herding instinct GSDs require lots of exercise and attention to stay happy. They should get at minimum two hours of exercise per day which should include walks and off-lead time a secure area. Adding in training on top will give them the most intense workout. Being able to have enough space to play and roam around will also help reduce their stress levels.
As with other large breeds of dogs, GSDs are prone to arthritis as they grow older. This can cause them to stumble or develop a bunny-hop walk. Talk to your vet to determine the most effective treatment strategy. This could involve changing your diet supplements, surgery, or depending on how severe the illness is.
Degenerative myelopathy is yet another common German Shepherd ailment, which can cause weakness in the hindlegs. Fortunately, physical therapy can slow this disease's progression.
Hip dysplasia can be described as a condition in which the socket and ball joints of some German Shepherds do not fit together properly. This can result in discomfort, difficulty standing, or, in more severe cases it can lead to paralysis. If your dog suffers from this condition, your vet will recommend a new exercise regimen and a healthier diet to lessen the symptoms.
German Shepherds are also susceptible to cancer, specifically abdominal, lung and bone cancers. These cancers can lead to weakness and weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting and a decrease in appetite.
Lastly, German Shepherds can suffer from an overactive thyroid, which is a hormone imbalance. This could cause them to urinate more often, have breathing problems, and be very tired. Your veterinarian will listen to your dog's stethoscope and/or perform an X-ray to identify this symptom. If your dog is suffering from this condition, your doctor will prescribe medication to treat it.
Training
German Shepherds are highly trained 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, law enforcement, and protection work. Families with children also love them. As with all dogs, they require plenty of exercise to help burn off their energy. Make sure you have the space and time to provide your German Shepherd with the mental and physical stimulation it needs daily.
Be sure to check the reputation of the breeder before you purchase a German Shepherd. Find a responsible breeder that screens their parents to prevent passing on diseases that could be prevented, like elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy. Also, inquire about the ancestry and age of the puppies.
If you want a German Shepherd that can be trained to become an aid dog, or compete in IPO competitions, then you should choose the working line. They have been trained in obedience, tracking, and protection training. There are working line breeders throughout North America and Europe. They sell puppies and "started" dogs that have received extensive training in obedience, protection, tracking, and training for aggression. The puppies and dogs cost as much as $20,000 per dog.
Make sure you have the money to afford a German Shepherd before purchasing one. It will cost you nearly $3500 in the first year, including the cost of pet food and vet care. Then, you can expect to pay another $500-$1,500 each year to ensure your dog's health and maintenance. If you aren't able to purchase a German Shepherd dog, consider adopting one from an animal shelter.
When you are choosing the right German Shepherd, bear in mind their size and strength. They're not suitable for all families and could not be compatible with smaller pets. They also require a lot of exercise to avoid getting bored, which could cause destructive behavior. If you don't have the time or the space to give a German Shepherd the exercise it requires, think about a different breed. The best German shepherd will be a loyal family member for many years to be.
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German Shepherds are a large, strong breed that requires plenty of exercise every day to burn off their energy. It is important to ensure you have the space and time required for this breed before adopting. These dogs are also susceptible to separation anxieties, so it's essential to start socializing and training from an early age.
Due to their herding background, these dogs are very vocal dogs and need to be given the opportunity to communicate in a secure environment. It is essential to enroll your German Shepherd in dog obedience classes at the beginning of their lives.
Whether or not you decide to train your German Shepherd or enlist the assistance of an experienced dog trainer, you should be prepared for a lengthy commitment. German Shepherds have an average lifespan of 10-12 years. You'll have to commit to making your new dog a member of your family.
They are recommended to be fed commercial dog food of a high-quality that is formulated according to their size and age. The recommended serving size will be on the label, but it is also advisable to talk with your veterinarian regarding the amount your dog needs to eat each day. It is not recommended to give your German Shepherd any treats that are more than 10% of their daily allowance.
German Shepherds, like all breeds of dog are prone to certain health issues. Elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia degenerative myelopathy, epilepsy/seizures, and bleeding disorders are all commonly seen in this breed. Breeders with a good reputation will test their dogs to minimize the risk of passing genetic diseases on to their puppies.
This breed is also at a higher-than-average risk of bloat. This is because they have an elongated chest. If not treated promptly the condition could be fatal. It is important to know the signs of bloat and know when to take your German Shepherd into an emergency vet.