Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet stores offer German Shepherd puppies. If you're considering buying one, find a reputable breeder.
Find a dog that has an even temperament. Play with them and observe how they interact with other puppies and people.
Breeders who are reputable adhere to strict ethical breeding practices, and prioritize health clearances of their puppies. They will provide the litter's pedigree as well as medical documents.
Temperament
German Shepherds possess a strong confidence level and are powerful dogs. They also have a natural need for security. They can be nervous around strangers, especially initially, but they tend to warm up quickly once well-socialized. The confidence and apprehension in the face of danger can make them a good choice for military, police and guard dog positions. They can also be a protector of their people and possessions.
The German Shepherd is an intelligent and strong-willed breed that can be employed as an obedience competitor or loyal family pet. Their ability to learn and complete tasks is one of the reasons they're so popular. They quickly bond with their families and love being engaged in all the activities at home. They are also great with children. They're active and happily play with children (and often other dogs). Like all breeds of dogs they can also be a bit aggressive with other dogs and strangers. Early socialization and training will aid in preventing aggression.
A breeder's commitment to ethical breeding practices is important. You'll have to find a German Shepherd Breeder who follows standards, such as health screening and testing, socialization and raising their puppies indoors. 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 susceptible to bloat. This can be life-threatening. To reduce the risk, feed your puppy plenty of water. Also, be sure you feed him frequently and use a bowl with a secure seal.
German Shepherds, as with many herding breeds, are nippy. They will bark to warn their owners to strangers or intruders. They can be taught how to calmly and confidently greet people. It's recommended to take your dog to puppy obedience classes or employ the help of a seasoned dog trainer, particularly when you're unfamiliar with this breed of dog. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is well-trained and exercised to keep him from being destructive or attempting to escape. A microchip, as well as a 24PetWatch subscription, can help you find your pet in the event of him running away.
Health
The GSD is a very robust breed with a lot of strength. However, like any other breed, it may be susceptible to certain hereditary ailments and diseases. Do your research and ensure you purchase from a trusted breeder who is concerned about the health of their dogs. Before making a purchase, visit the facility and meet the parents. Also, ask for health certificates as well as socialization records.
Hip dysplasia, an illness that affects the joint is common in German Shepherds as is weak skeletal muscles, particularly in older dogs. These problems can be managed with a balanced diet supplementation, exercise and physical therapy.
Epilepsy can also be inherited in GSDs. It's usually caused by metabolic issues (low blood sugar, organ failure or toxin). It can also occur if there is no other reason for it, and is called Idiopathic or primary Epilepsy. If your dog is diagnosed with this disorder the dog will require lifelong medication to manage seizures.
GSDs can also be affected by cancer. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that develops on blood-rich organs like the liver and spleen. Symptoms include lethargy, swelling and sudden collapse. The condition is extremely painful and there is no cure. Treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms.
Allergies are also a common issue in GSDs. They can cause itchy skin, ear infections and digestive issues including vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. If your dog is allergic to something, you'll need to do a complete medical workup including a thorough history and exam and examination of the skin and ears, labwork and fecal tests.
blaue schäferhunde can affect GSDs and cause them to lose mobility. This disease usually occurs in the early 20s. The disease is caused by a genetic mutation and is identified by DNA testing. Symptoms of the disease progress and include difficulty in getting up, a reluctance to climb or jump, a loss of the muscle mass of the thigh and pain. There is no cure for the condition however it is treatable with physical therapy and medication.
Training
GSDs have a strong work ethic and benefit from advanced obedience agility, agility, and training in protection. Their versatile skills also make them excellent service dogs, bomb and drug sniffers, and guides for blind people.
German Shepherds as a breed are smart and eager to delight. However, they are easily bored and prone to obsessive behavior if they don't get enough stimulation in their minds or bodies. They require a reliable constant, patient, and consistent trainer to help them reach their full potential and help them remain confident when faced with distractions.
If you're considering buying a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to find a reliable breeder who is working with the best interests of the dog in mind. They should have a screening procedure to ensure that puppies will be good fits to their families. They should also offer documentation of the puppy's pedigree, health certificates, and suggestions regarding care and training.
The breed standard says that although every German Shepherd is different, they must all be active, athletic and alert. They must be also secure around their family members and sociable. You may want ask the breeder questions about their breeding program, and you can also see some of their puppies to observe their physical characteristics and demeanor.
Many people mistake the traditional German Shepherd behaviors of barking or lunging at movements with aggression, but these are simply natural responses that occur when a dog is triggered by something moving nearby. Some German Shepherds who cover their heads or hide from strangers are genetically shy. This can be "cured" through socialization but not cured.
While certain breeds shed hairs throughout the year. Most dogs only shed heavily twice per year -- for three weeks in spring, when they switch from a thicker winter coat to a thinner summer one and then again in fall as they prepare for the transition back to an even thicker winter coat. It is essential to take daily walks, playtime, exercise, and lots of lint-rollers. Being well-trained and socialized German Shepherd in your life will mean a great deal of love, loyalty, and companionship for years to be.
Care
German Shepherds must be trained regularly to avoid undesirable behavior such as excessive barking, excessive digging, and chewing. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to learn and have a purpose. If left to their own devices for long periods of time, they can become bored and destructive. 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 as well as their parents health certificates. You should also meet the parents of the puppies in order to confirm that the breeder is ethical in their breeding practices.
Due to their genetic predisposition, GSDs are susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia, bloat, skin problems, 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 blood-rich including the liver as well as the spleen.
The Peritoneum is a fibrous and tough connective tissue that covers the spleen, as well as the blood vessels that supply it. When the peritoneum gets inflamed, it can cause discomfort and pain. Peritoneal swelling could lead to complications such as liver disease, kidney infection and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have a double coat that require regular brushing in order to avoid matting and tangling. The breed goes through a molting period at least once a year, and you can use a de-shedding tool, an undercoat rake or slicker brush to help reduce the amount of shed to the minimum.
GSDs can be affected by intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). This occurs when the jelly-like pad that sits between the vertebrae breaks and presses on the spinal cord. The symptoms include difficulty jumping, climbing stairs or moving around, a reluctance to move in a hunched posture and the dragging of the feet behind. If you notice any of these signs you should consult a physician immediately. The condition could quickly develop and cause paralysis or even death. A doctor can move the disc in order to lessen or eliminate the symptoms.