Buying a German Shepherd is a big commitment, both financially and emotionally. Doing your research in advance can save you from costly errors.
Ask your veterinarian in the area about ethical breeders. Also, make sure you and your family members are dedicated to daily walks, playtime, and other physical activities. German Shepherds require exercise to prevent boredom and frustration, which can lead to chewing of furniture and shoes.
Find a trusted breeder
You'll want a breeder that is competent and accountable. They'll be open about their breeding practices and willing to share pedigrees. They'll also take care not to breed puppies that carry genetic diseases.
Ask your veterinarian for recommendations, or look through the websites of dog clubs or performance events. Breeders will often have a facility in which they raise their dogs, and offer training classes for a fee. This is a great way to get your puppy socialized and begin basic obedience training.
Find a breeder who breeds for health and temperament rather than coat color. A trustworthy breeder will adhere to strict standards for breeding and screen for genetic diseases that are common to the German Shepherd Dog. They also verify the health of their puppies through DNA and orthopedic testing.
The red flags are breeders who refuse to provide preventive care, like vaccines and deworming, or who insist that their supplements are superior to those given by your vet. Be wary of breeders who require you to sign contracts that include conditions you don't like.
Breeders who are able to raise puppies as a profession are a lot of responsibility. They have many people who depend on them to deliver high-quality puppies. Breeders who do not follow high-quality standards can have a negative impact on the entire breed.
If you select a breeder who is a backyard breeder, you could end up getting one with a sluggish and unstable behavior. They are often on message boards or online forums seeking help for the many health and temperament issues that they have. A poor breeder or one who is breeding in their backyards has no understanding of what makes the German Shepherd Dog special. They're usually seeking to make money and not create healthy pups. A reputable breeder will work their dogs in meaningful venues apart from basic obedience. They will train and certify their dog for Schutzhund or any other competition.
Consult with local veterinarians
German Shepherds are smart, active dogs that have a strong bond with their owners. They are herding dogs that often serve as service dogs for the police or military, but they are wonderful pets for families. They are prone to boredom and require lots of stimulation. They thrive in homes that have plenty of space and time to play.
Before you purchase a German Shepherd, talk to local veterinarians for recommendations regarding ethical breeders. Veterinarians are in close contact with a variety of pet care providers, including shelters and private owners, so they'll have a an idea of the most reputable breeders in your area. Ask them about any genetic conditions that are common to the breed. You should ask about genetic diseases that are common to the breed.
In New York there are several top-of-the-line hospitals with staff members who are trained to work with German Shepherds. They include Veterinary Medical Center on Long Island, West Islip, and BluePearl Pet Hospital, Queens. These facilities are equipped with state-of-the art equipment and their staff is trained to treat a variety and conditions that are common in the German Shepherd breed.
You can also consider getting in touch with local German Shepherd breed clubs. They usually have lists of reputable breeders and can point you in the right direction. You can also determine whether the breeder been tested by their parents for common genetic diseases.
Hip dysplasia is a common issue in German Shepherds. The hip joint is not fitting perfectly. This can lead later in life to painful arthritis. Breeders should x-ray dogs and only use dogs with healthy hips for breeding. Heart disease is another problem that plagues the breed. A good breeder will check both parents for dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM), Valvular Heart Disease, and heart murmurs.
You should never buy a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder that can't provide evidence of health testing for both parents. This is a sign the breeder may not be following strict breeding procedures. It's also not a good idea to ship puppies across long distances. This can create stress and can lead to respiratory issues.
Find a breeder with specialized Expertise
German Shepherds are famous for their herding instincts and love of training which makes them excellent work dogs. They are also excellent guard dogs and are known for their loyalty to family members. This protectiveness can turn aggressive in dogs that are not well-socialized and properly trained in its first years of. The breed can be very active and requires plenty of exercise to keep them from getting bored, which can cause behavioural issues such as chewing on furniture or barking. It is crucial to select the dog that is appropriate to your lifestyle and surroundings.
Ask your veterinarians in your area about ethical breeders if looking for an German Shepherd pup. Veterinarians collaborate with a range of animal care providers, such as shelters, breeders, and individual owners, so they are often in the best position to offer advice on where to find quality German Shepherds.
Find a breeder who has good relations with their breeding stock, and is willing to communicate with potential buyers. A responsible breeder will be able to answer any questions regarding health testing, early socialization and the environment in which their puppies are raised.
A reputable breeder will provide you with health certificates for each puppy they sell, which will detail the dog's genetic background. This includes hereditary diseases prevalent in the breed like degenerative myelopathy megaesophagus, as well as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. You will also be given the recommended vaccines and medications that you must adhere to in order to reduce the chance of contracting disease.
Like all dogs, it is crucial to schedule regular veterinary examinations for your German Shepherd. This will help your veterinarian identify any potential issues before they become serious and prevent problems such as skin issues, bloat and heart disease. Because the breed is predisposed to heart problems and heart disease, it is crucial to listen to the heart with a stethoscope as well as take an X-ray of the chest during routine exams.
German Shepherds can last up to 12 years with the right treatment. Make sure you have the money to purchase one and you have the time. Also, consider whether you have enough space to house a large dog, and be prepared for the additional cost of grooming, food, toys, equipment and crates.Training early requires time.
German Shepherds are dogs who work with an instinct for protection and a natural need to herd. They are also extremely fearless, which is why they are excellent military and police dogs. However, these traits can be problematic for the home of a dog. For example, they may be aggressive towards cars or even bark at people when they feel threatened. They may also bite.
Choosing a puppy with the right temperament can assist you in tackling these problems. But, even so you must devote time and energy to early training. This includes house training as well as dealing with food aggression (GSDs typically guard their food).
In order to be well trained to be well-trained, your German Shepherd needs to get plenty of exercise. This could include long hikes, joggs and runs and fetch games. Puzzle toys and games for nosework can help to stimulate their minds. They shed a lot and need to be groomed regularly.
The best place to start in your search for a breeder who is ethical is to speak with local veterinarians. They are familiar with a wide range of animals and can offer suggestions for ethical breeders as well as dog trainers. You can also inquire with pet store owners and other local German Shepherd owners.
If you are considering buying a GSD, make sure that the breeder has health guarantees. This will protect you from serious genetic disorders. These include hereditary eye conditions hip dysplasia, hip dysplasia, von Willebrand disease and EPI (Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency).If you are unable to find a reputable breeder There are other options to acquire a German Shepherd. Animal shelters and rescue centers often have German Shepherds. Breed-specific rescues might also be available on the internet. If you are going to adopt one of the GSD from a rescue center, be sure to learn as much as you can about the pup's background before you decide to take them home. This will allow you to determine whether they're suitable for your lifestyle. Also, make sure to ask about any behavioral or health issues your dog has faced. GSDs are intelligent dogs. They will respond well to training provided they've had adequate socialization in their early years.
