A German Shepherd puppy purchase is a big commitment. Before you purchase a puppy, it's important to do some research about reputable breeders.
Check to see if parents of the litter have been certified as free of degenerative myelopathy, megaesophagus, exocrine dysfunction and Von Willebrand's Disease.
Ask about the breeder’s return policy. A reputable breeder will be able to take their dogs back if they don't fit in with your lifestyle.
Find a Reputable breeder
The last thing you'd want to do is buy a German Shepherd dog from a breeder who isn't reliable. It is a large breed dog that requires a large living space as well as a lot of exercise, training, and adventure to be happy and healthy.
Find a breeder that has transparent practices, and lets you see the conditions in which the puppies are raised. Most reputable breeders have websites and social media pages or live webcams that allow you observe the living conditions. Be sure to look for clean bedding, sanitary areas and absorbent footing so that the puppies don't wander around or lay in their own poop.
A good breeder will also be able to explain the genetic diseases that are common to this type of dog and how they are screened for. This includes hip dysplasia elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy Von Willebrand Disease, and more. The breeder must identify which genetic diseases they test for and how often.
A reputable breeder won't sell their puppies in pet shops or markets. They will only sell to responsible owners who are able to take care of the puppy. If you see a breeder selling their puppies in these places be cautious. It is illegal in many states to do this. It also shows that the breeder doesn't take their responsibility seriously or has little interest in improving the genetics of the breed. This could be devastating for the breed and its future progeny. This is a waste of money. The puppies you are purchasing will have a higher risk of developing health issues and might not have the temperament or skill set that you want in your new dog.
Visit the Litter
German Shepherds are intelligent pack dogs who love to be active. They make great family pets and are committed to their owners. They are often cautious of strangers and exhibit aggressive behavior if they believe that their owner is threatened or in danger. Early obedience training can help to ensure your dog doesn't act inappropriately.
As with all breeds, some health conditions are more common in German Shepherds with certain characteristics than others. Responsible breeders should conduct appropriate health tests to stop the spread of these diseases. Breeders should be transparent with the results of these tests and be able answer any questions about the health of the puppies.
Some of the more common health issues that affect German Shepherds include elbow and hip dysplasia degenerative myelopathy, as well as spinal stenosis. These ailments were caused by inbreeding when the breed was in its early years however, today responsible breeders are working to decrease the incidence of these diseases.
Another issue that can occur with German Shepherds is hemangiosarcoma, which is a type of cancer that affects the blood vessels in the lungs and other organs. It is usually found in the heart and spleen and can trigger several symptoms like anemia, bleeding, weight loss and breathing problems.
Like all breeds, deutsche schäferhunde kaufen - why not look here - it is crucial to provide your German Shepherd the right nutrition and exercise. A balanced diet can help reduce the chance of elbow and hip dysplasia, degenerative spine stenosis and Von Willebrand disease. Avoid feeding your German Shepherd animal bones or table food, as it can cause stomach upset.
Examine the health of your dog
A German Shepherd puppy must have a healthy coat and eyes as well as an body that is proportionate. It should be playful, active and engaged in activities that are appropriate for its age, like play and short intervals of exercise.
A healthy German Shepherd should be able to eat well and maintain a steady weight gain. It should also have a strong stool that shows an adequate digestion and intake of nutrients.
Be aware of how they interact with other dogs and their littermates, including adults. They should be curious and playful but not overly scared or aggressive. A reputable breeder should offer the documentation of temperament tests for parents and puppies.
Pay close attention to the ears of puppies when you are watching them. They should stand erect when they are not in a position to be active and should be free of hair loss or hairy patches. A reputable breeder will ensure that their puppies have been vaccinated, dewormed, and treated in accordance with veterinary guidelines.
The large, double-coated dogs come in many patterns and colors. They usually come in black and tan or white and tan but may also be gray or liver. Their outer coats shed throughout the year and require regular brushing.
Although German Shepherds are generally healthy, they may be prone to conditions like elbow or hip dysplasia, eye issues and autoimmune diseases. A good quality dog diet and regular exercise can lower the risk of developing these diseases.
Also ensure that your puppies are properly socialised from an early age. This will help them be more calm and confident around people and animals particularly if they have grown up together. If you have pets of your own, such as cats, make sure to introduce them slowly. German Shepherds can become bossy with other pets If they haven't been properly introduced at an early age.
Consult the Veterinarian's recommendations
Veterinarians are an excellent source of information on ethical breeders. Ask your veterinarians for suggestions in your area. Also, inquire about pet groomers, dog trainers and other dog-related businesses. It is recommended that you become acquainted with German Shepherd owners and visit dog shows in your area to meet and speak with people who are familiar with the breed.
A puppy is an investment that shouldn't be rushed into. You'll have to consider the costs of grooming and food along with the cost of training and veterinary care. Make sure you have a budget in place before you start shopping around for the right pup.
German Shepherds are lively and need a lot to keep them content. They can develop behavioral issues like excessive barking or chewing on furniture. This can be frustrating for owners. Exercise, obedience training, and a regular schedule can help calm the energy level of this intelligent breed.
Like many large breed dogs German Shepherds are susceptible to health issues such as elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, and shoulder dysplasia. They are also at risk for spinal diseases, such as hemangiosarcoma and degenerative myelopathy. Fortunately, responsible breeders test their puppies for these and other diseases, and have made great progress in removing genetic diseases that result from inbreeding.
It is important to make an appointment with your veterinarian prior to when you bring home the German Shepherd pup to ensure that your new puppy will be healthy and ready to become a member of your family. You will also talk about a training program and how to assist your puppy in becoming an empathetic dog.
Verify the reputation of the breeder
It is best to find a breeder who shares your top criteria for a German Shepherd. You can ask for a recommendation in the event that they don't have a litter, or offer the kind of dog you are seeking.
Once you've found a breeder that matches your criteria The next step is looking into the reputation of the breeder. Check out reviews on their website and on social media from other families that have purchased their puppies and reviews from trainers and veterinarians.
Find out if the parents are certified by AKC or OFA. If they don't have certifications this could be a sign that the breeder isn't ethical, or doesn't put health first.
You should also consider the breeding history of their parents as well as grandparents. This will assist you in determining the likelihood that your puppy will develop genetic disorders like degenerative myelopathy. It is a progressive paralysis of the hind legs.
Many reputable breeders are open to sharing these records with potential buyers and will have the breed's history on hand for you to review. Some breeders will require you to fill out an online questionnaire that asks you questions regarding your lifestyle and your home environment. This is to ensure that your puppy will be content under your supervision.As a general rule, German Shepherds are very friendly with pets and other dogs, but they can be territorial as they age so it's important to socialise them at an early age. Additionally, they are known to bite when they're teething so be aware of this and be aware that it's not a sign of aggression. They are naturally protective of their family and will bark to alert you if someone comes near the house.
