Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet stores sell German Shepherd puppies. If you're thinking of buying one, make sure you choose a reputable breeder.
Find a dog that has an even temperament. Play with them and observe how they interact with other puppies and with other people.
Reputable breeders adhere to strict ethical breeding practices and will prioritize health clearances for their pups. They will provide a litter's pedigree and medical documents.
Temperament
German Shepherds possess a strong sense of security and are strong dogs. They also have a natural instinct for protection. They can be wary of strangers, especially at first but tend to get comfortable quickly after being socialized. The confidence and apprehension in the face of danger could make them a good choice for police, military and guard dog positions. They also can be guardians of their belongings and family members.
If you're in search of an obedience competitor or service dog, or a loyal family pet, the German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent breed. One of the reasons they're so popular is their ability to learn and complete different tasks. These dogs are quick to bond with their families and enjoy being active in the daily activities in their homes. These dogs are also excellent for children. They're active and play with children and other dogs. Of course, as with all breeds of dog, they can be nippy with other pets and strangers. Socialization and training early will assist in preventing aggression.
It is important to know whether a breeder is a follower of ethical breeding practices. You should look for a German Shepherd breeder that follows standards such as screening and testing for health socialization, as well as raising their puppies indoors. You can generally determine the credibility of the breeder when you visit the facility, meet the parents and siblings and ask questions about genetics as well as health clearances.
Because the German Shepherd is a barrel-chested breed, it is prone to bloat. This can be life-threatening. To reduce the risk, be sure to provide your puppy with plenty of water and feed him regularly, and provide a safe food bowl.
German Shepherds, like other herding breeds, are nippy. They bark to alert their owners of strangers or intruders. However they can be trained to be calm and confident in greeting visitors. You should also take your dog to puppy classes or engage an expert dog trainer if you are unfamiliar with this powerful breed. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is properly trained and exercised to prevent him from becoming destructive or trying to escape. A microchip and 24PetWatch membership will also assist in locating your pet in the event that he does escape.
Health
The GSD is an extremely robust breed with a lot of strength. But, just like any other breed, it may be susceptible to certain genetic conditions and diseases. Do your research and ensure you purchase from a reputable dog breeder that prioritizes the health of their dogs. Visit their premises, meet the owners and ask for health clearances and socialization records before making an purchase.
Hip dysplasia, a condition that affects the joint, is common among German Shepherds and weak skeletal muscles, particularly in older dogs. These issues can be treated by healthy diet as well as exercise, supplements, and physical therapy.
Epilepsy is another hereditary disease that is found in GSDs, and it's typically caused by an issue with metabolism (low blood sugar or organ failure) or an underlying toxin. It can also happen in the absence of any other reason, which is classified as epilepsy that is primary or idiopathic. If your dog has this condition it will require ongoing medication to control seizures.
GSDs can also be affected by cancer. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that develops on blood-rich organs such as the spleen and liver. The symptoms include fatigue, swelling and sudden collapse. The condition is extremely painful and there is no cure. Treatment is focused on managing the symptoms.
Allergies are also a frequent problem for GSDs and can cause itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. If you suspect that your dog is allergic, you'll need to conduct a complete medical workup, including an extensive examination and history, diagnostic testing on the skin and ears as along with lab work and a fecal test.
Degenerative myelopathy is a condition that affects GSDs and causes them to lose mobility, usually in their early 20s. The disease is caused by a genetic mutation and is identified by DNA tests. Symptoms of the disease progress and include difficulty rising and down, a refusal to leap or climb, a loss of the muscle mass in the thigh and pain. The condition is not curable, but it is managed with physical therapy and medication.
Training
GSDs have an innate work ethic and benefit from advanced obedience agility, agility, as well as training in protection. Their versatility makes them great service and bomb sniffing dogs, as well as guides for blind people.
German Shepherds as a breed are intelligent and eager to please. However, they can be bored and prone to obsessive behavior if they don't get enough physical or mental stimulation. They require a reliable constant, patient, and consistent trainer to help them reach their full potential and assist them to remain calm even in the face of distractions.
If you're looking to buy a purebred German Shepherd dog, make sure you choose a breeder who is reliable and has the dog's well-being in mind. They should conduct an assessment process to determine if the pups are an appropriate fit for their family. They must also provide documentation of the puppy's pedigree, health clearances, as and recommendations for training and care.
The breed standard states that while every German Shepherd is different, they must all be active, athletic and alert. They should also be protective of their family members and sociable. You might want to ask the breeder questions regarding their breeding program, and you can also look at their puppies to observe their physical characteristics and manner of conduct.
Many people confuse the classic German Shepherd behaviors of barking or lunging at movement with aggression, but these are normal reactions that occur when a dog is activated by something that is moving around. Certain German Shepherds who place their heads in the corner of the room or hide from strangers have genetic shyness that can be cured through socialization, but is not "cured."
While certain dogs shed hairs throughout all year long, the majority shed heavily only twice a year. They shed heavily for three weeks in spring, when they switch from an engorged coat in winter to a lighter coat during summer, and then again in autumn when they prepare to revert to a thicker coat during winter. That means you'll need keep up with regular walks as well as plenty of playtime and exercise, and a lot of lint rollers. A well-trained, properly socialized German shepherd will provide you with years of love, loyalty and companionship.
Care
German Shepherds require a consistent training to prevent undesirable behavior like chewing, digging and excessive barking. They are intelligent dogs who are eager to learn and have a goal. If left unattended for long periods they could become bored and destructive. A large dog or backyard park is the best way to help them channel their energy and provide them with a place to go for their intense physical activity.
Breeders who are reputable are able to provide you with pedigree papers and health clearances for the parents of the puppies. You should also visit and meet the parents of the puppies to ensure the breeder follows ethical breeding practices.
Because of their genetic predisposition, GSDs are susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia and bloat, skin problems, heart disease as well as ear infections, and a number of other conditions. They are more likely to develop cancers, such as hemangiosarcoma which affects organs rich in blood including the liver as well as the spleen.
The peritoneum is a fibrous, tough connective tissue that covers the spleen and the blood vessels which supply it. When the peritoneum gets inflamed, it can cause pain and discomfort. Peritoneal inflammation can cause other complications including kidney disease, liver disease and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have a double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. The breed goes through an annual molting process every year, either once or twice and you can utilize an undercoat de-shedding tool, rake, or slicker brush to help keep the amount of shedding to a minimum.
GSDs can be affected by a condition called intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This occurs when the jelly-like pad that lies between the vertebrae breaks and presses on the spinal chord. schäferhund kaufen include difficulty jumping up and down stairs, or moving around, a reluctance to move in a hunched posture and the dragging of the feet behind. If you observe these signs, seek veterinary attention immediately as the condition can progress quickly and lead to paralysis and death. A doctor can reposition discs to lessen symptoms or eliminate them completely.