Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet stores offer German Shepherd puppies. If you're thinking about buying one, make sure you find an accredited breeder.
Find a puppy that has an the same temperament. Play with them, and observe how they interact with other puppies as well as with other people.
Breeders with good reputations 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 confident powerful dogs with a natural sense of protection. They are a bit wary at first, but warm up quickly after being socialized. This confidence and courage in the face of danger could make them a great option for police, military and guard dog positions. They can also be protective of their people and possessions.
If you're looking for an obedience competition, service dog, or a loyal family pet The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and extremely intelligent breed. Their ability to learn and perform tasks is among the reasons they're so popular. They are able to have a strong bond with their family members and enjoy taking part in all activities at home. They're also an excellent choice for children. They're lively, and happily play with children (and often other dogs). Of course, like all breeds of dog they may be nippy with other pets and strangers. Socialization and training early will assist in preventing aggression.
It is important to know if a breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices. You'll need to locate a German Shepherd Breeder who follows standards, such as health screening and testing, socialization and raising their pups in a home. You can usually determine the breeder's integrity if you visit the facility and meet the parents and their children and ask questions about genetics as well as health clearances.
The German Shepherd has a barrel chest, which can cause it to bloat. This can be fatal. To reduce the risk, feed your puppy plenty of water. Also, be sure to feed him regularly, and use a bowl that is secure.
Like many herding dogs German Shepherds can be very nippy and naturally bark to alert you of approaching intruders or strangers. However they can be trained to be calm and confident in greeting visitors. It's recommended to take your dog to puppy obedience classes and/or employ the help of a seasoned dog trainer, especially in case you're not a fan of this breed of dog. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is well-trained and exercised to stop him from becoming destructive or trying to escape. A microchip and 24PetWatch membership can help you return your pet in the event that he does run away.
Health
The GSD is a sturdy breed, but like any other dog, they are susceptible to certain hereditary illnesses and conditions. It is crucial to conduct your research to ensure that you buy from a reputable breeder who is concerned about the health and wellbeing of their dogs. Before you purchase, visit the facility and meet the owners. Also, ask for health clearances 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 easily be managed by healthy diet and exercise and supplements and physical therapy.
Epilepsy is another hereditary disease that can be found in GSDs, and it's typically caused by an issue with metabolism (low blood sugar or organ failure) or a toxin. It may also occur when there is no other cause, which is called primary or epilepsy that is idiopathic. If your pet is diagnosed with this condition the dog will require lifelong medication to manage seizures.
Cancer can also affect GSDs. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that grows on blood-rich organs, such as the spleen and liver. Symptoms include lethargy and swelling. It can also cause sudden collapse. This condition is extremely painful and there is no cure. Treatment is focused on managing the symptoms.
Allergies are also a frequent issue in GSDs. They can lead to itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. If your dog is allergic to something, you'll need to do a complete medical examination that includes an extensive history and examination, examination of the skin and ears as well as labwork and fecal tests.
Degenerative myelopathy may affect GSDs which causes them to lose mobility. This condition usually manifests in the early 20s. The disease is caused by an inherited mutation that can be detected through DNA testing. The symptoms of the disease progress and include difficulty in getting up or down, a reluctance to climb or jump, a loss of the muscle mass in the thigh and pain. There is no cure for the disease, but it is treatable with physical therapy and medications.
Training
GSDs are known for their strong work ethic and their advanced training in obedience, agility and protection. Their versatility makes them great service dogs and bomb sniffing dogs and guides for blind people.
German Shepherds as a breed are smart and eager to please. They are easily bored and may develop obsessive behaviors without enough mental or physical stimulation. They require a patient, consistent and solid trainer to help them achieve their maximum potential.
If you're considering buying a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to find a reputable breeder who works with the dog's best interests in mind. They should use a screening procedure to determine if the puppies are suitable to their family. They must also provide documentation of the puppy's pedigree, health clearances as and recommendations for training and care.
Although every German Shepherd has a unique temperament the breed standard says that the dogs should be active, athletic and alert, as well as protective and biddable with family members. You might want to inquire with the breeder about their breeding program, and then see some of the puppies in person to can observe their behavior and physical characteristics.
Many people confuse the classic German Shepherd behaviors of barking or lunging at movement with aggression, but these are just normal responses that happen when a dog is activated by something that is moving around. Some German Shepherds that bury their heads or hide from strangers are genetically shy. This can be "cured" by socialization, but not necessarily cured.
While certain dogs shed hairs throughout the year, the majority shed heavily just twice a year. They shed a lot for three weeks in spring, when they transition from an extra thick coat in winter to a lighter one in summer. They then shed again in autumn when they prepare to return to a thicker coat in winter. You'll need to keep up with regular walks, playtime, exercise, and lots of lint-rollers. A well-trained and socialized German Shepherd in your home will mean a great deal of love, loyalty, and companionship for many years to be.
Care
German Shepherds need to be trained regularly to avoid undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, excessive digging, and chewing. They are intelligent dogs who are eager to learn and have a goal. If left schäferhund welpe kaufen for long periods they could become bored and destructive. It is important to provide them with a large backyard or dog park in order to channel their energy.
Breeders who are reputable can provide you with documents proving the pedigree of the puppies as well as their parents health clearances. You should also visit and 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 prone to hip and elbow dysplasia and bloat, skin problems, heart disease, ear infections and a number of other conditions. They are more likely to develop cancers, such as hemangiosarcoma that affect organs that are rich in blood, including the liver and spleen.
The Peritoneum is a fibrous and tough connective tissue that covers the spleen, as well as the blood vessels that supply it. Inflammation of the peritoneum can cause discomfort and pain. Peritoneal inflammation can cause other complications like liver disease, kidney infection and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have a double coat that require regular brushing in order to avoid tangling and matting. The breed goes through a molting cycle every once or twice a years. You can employ a deshedding tool, an undercoat rake, or a slicker to keep the amount shedding down.
GSDs can suffer from a condition known as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). It occurs when the jelly-like cushion that lies between two vertebrae ruptures or slips, causing it to press on the spinal cord. Signs include difficulty moving, climbing stairs or jumping. They also may be slumped-back posture and dragging the back feet. If you notice these signs take immediate action to see a veterinary doctor because the condition could accelerate and eventually cause paralysis and even death. A doctor can reposition a disc to reduce symptoms or eliminate them altogether.