Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup

Many pet stores sell German Shepherd puppies. If you're thinking of buying one, make sure you find an accredited breeder.

Find a dog with an even temperament. Play with them, and watch how they interact with other puppies as well as with other people.

Breeders who are reputable adhere to ethical breeding practices, and give priority to health clearances of their pups. They will provide a pedigree and medical records for the litter.

Temperament

German Shepherds are a confident powerful dogs that have an instinctual sense of safety. They are a bit nervous around strangers, especially initially, but get comfortable quickly after being socialized. They are renowned for their confidence and fearlessness when confronted with danger. This makes them an ideal choice for military, police and guard dog roles. They also can be guardians of their belongings and family members.

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. One of the reasons they are so popular is their ability to learn and accomplish different tasks. These dogs are quick to bond with their families and love being engaged in all the activities at home. They're also an excellent choice for children. They're active and happily play with children (and often other dogs). Of course, like all breeds of dog, they can be nippy with strangers and pets. Training and socialization early can help prevent aggression issues.

A breeder's commitment to ethical breeding practices is essential. You'll need to find a German Shepherd Breeder who follows guidelines, including health screening and testing, socialization and raising their pups in a home. You can generally determine the breeder's integrity if you visit the facility and meet the parents and their children, and ask questions about genetics and health clearances.

The German Shepherd has a barrel chest, which makes it more prone to Bloat. This could be fatal. To minimize the risk, make sure to feed your puppy plenty of water, feed him at regular intervals and give him a secure food bowl.

German Shepherds, like other herding breeds, are very nippy. They will bark to alert their owners of strangers or intruders. They can be taught to be confident and calm when greeting visitors. You should also take your dog to puppy classes or hire an expert dog trainer if you are not familiar with this powerful breed. This will ensure your German Shepherd gets the proper training and exercise that will prevent him from becoming destructive or attempting to escape. A microchip, in conjunction with an online subscription to 24PetWatch, will help you find your dog in the event that he runs away.

Health

The GSD is an extremely robust breed with a lot of strength. But, just like any other breed, it could be susceptible to certain hereditary ailments and diseases. Do your research and ensure you are buying from a reputable dog breeder who is concerned about the health of their dogs. Visit their premises, meet the owners and request health clearances and socialization reports prior to making the purchase.

Hip dysplasia, an illness that affects joints, is common in German Shepherds, as is weak skeletal muscles, particularly in older dogs. her comment is here Links to an external site. can be treated by a balanced diet, exercise, supplements and physical therapy.


Epilepsy can also be passed down in GSDs. It's usually caused by metabolic issues (low blood sugar organ failure, toxin or organ failure). It can also occur if there is no other cause and is referred to as primary or idiopathic epilepsy. If your dog suffers from this condition it will require a lifetime of medication to manage seizures.

Cancer is another affliction that affects GSDs, particularly hemangiosarcoma. This is a malignant tumor that develops in blood-rich organs, such as the spleen and liver. Lethargy, swelling, as well as sudden collapse are the most common symptoms. The 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 trigger itchy skin, ear infections and digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. If your dog is allergic to something, you will need to do a complete medical workup including a thorough history and exam, examination of the skin and ears as well as fecal and lab tests.

Degenerative myelopathy can affect GSDs, causing them to lose mobility. This disease usually occurs in the 20s and early 20s. This disease is caused by an genetic mutation and can be identified through DNA testing. The symptoms of the disease are a gradual difficulty getting up, a decreased the ability to stand or jump with ease, pain, and loss of muscle mass in the thighs. There is no cure for the condition, but it can be managed through physical therapy and medication.

Training

GSDs are well-known for their tenacity and dedication to work and their advanced training in obedience, agility and protection. Their versatility makes them excellent service dogs, bomb and drug sniffers and guides for blind people.

German Shepherds are intelligent and eager to delight. They are easily bored and can develop obsessive behavior without adequate physical or mental stimulation. They need a patient, consistent, and an experienced trainer to help them achieve their maximum potential.

If you're planning to purchase a purebred German Shepherd dog, make sure to choose a breeder who is reliable and has the dog's wellbeing in mind. They must have a screening process to ensure that puppies are a good fit to their families. They should also offer documentation of the puppy's pedigree, health clearances and recommendations for training and care.

Although each German Shepherd has a unique temperament The breed standard states that they should be active, athletic, alert, protective, and able to bond with family members. You may want to ask the breeder about their breeding program and see some of the puppies in person so you can evaluate their temperament and physical characteristics.

Many people misunderstand the traditional German Shepherd behavior of barking and lunging at movements as a sign of aggression. These are just natural responses that occur whenever the dog is triggered when something is moving near. Some German Shepherds who bury their heads or hide from strangers are genetically shy. This can be "cured" through socialization but not completely cured.

While certain breeds shed hairs throughout the year, most dogs shed their hair only twice a year -- for three weeks in spring, when they switch from an icy winter coat to a thinner summer coat and then in the fall when they are preparing for the transition back to a thicker winter coat. That means you'll have to keep up with regular walks, plenty of playtime and exercise, and plenty of lint rollers. A well-trained, properly socialized German shepherd will bring you years of friendship, love, and loyalty.

Care

German Shepherds require constant training to avoid undesirable behaviors like chewing, digging and excessive barking. They are highly intelligent dogs that can be taught easily and enjoy having an objective in life. If left alone for long periods they could become bored and destructive. It is important to provide them with a large backyard or dog park to make use of their energy.

Breeders with a good reputation are able to provide you with pedigree documents and health clearances for the parents of the puppies. You should visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to confirm that the breeder follows ethical breeding practices.

GSDs, because of their genetic predisposition, are more prone to elbow and hip dysplasias, bloats diseases and skin issues. They are also prone for skin problems, ear infections, and ear infections. They are also more likely to develop hemangiosarcoma which is a type of cancer that affects blood-rich organs, including the liver and spleen.

The spleen as well as the blood vessels that supply it are enclosed by a fibrous, tough connective tissue known as the peritoneum. Inflammation of the peritoneum can cause pain and discomfort. Peritoneal swelling can lead to complications like kidney disease, liver disease and pancreatitis.

German Shepherds have a double coat that require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. The breed experiences an annual molting process at least once a year, and you can use an undercoat de-shedding tool, rake or slicker brush to keep the amount of shedding to the minimum.

GSDs could be suffering from intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). This happens when the cushion of jelly that sits between two vertebrae breaks or becomes sloppy in a way that causes it to press on the spinal cord. Symptoms include difficulty getting up stairs, moving around, or jumping. They also may be tilted back and dragging the back foot. If you notice any of these signs you should consult a physician immediately. The condition could quickly progress and cause paralysis or even death. A veterinarian can reposition discs to ease symptoms or eliminate them.