Where to Buy German Shepherd Puppies
A popular option for police, military and other service dogs German Shepherds are intelligent, protective and extremely loyal. They are also very active and require lots of stimulation and exercise.
Their natural protectiveness can manifest as aggression toward strangers, which is why early training and socialization are crucial. They may also exhibit the signs of compulsions, like repetitive behavior, like tail chases.
Health
German Shepherds are generally healthy, however good breeding practices can lower the risk of developing certain health issues. Breeders who are reputable monitor parents to ensure that they do not pass on preventable issues, such as hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy puppies.
Regardless of their breeding history, all puppies must be thoroughly examined by a vet before they go to their new homes. This helps the veterinarian detect and address any health issues as soon as possible to minimize complications and improve the outcome.
Regular visits to the veterinarian are vital to ensure the health of your German Shepherd. Regular veterinary examinations, vaccinations, and other preventive measures will allow your pet to live a an extended, healthy life.
Some health concerns specific to German Shepherds include Hemangiosarcoma, autoimmune disease, seizures and epilepsy disorders, as well as bleeding conditions. Many of these conditions can be controlled or prevented by implementing a healthy diet avoidance of sweets and table foods and introducing preventive medication at the earliest possible time.
A common health problem that affects all dogs is gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. This is often caused by eating the wrong type of food, food allergies and the underlying medical condition. A commercial food that is of high quality frequent urination, regular the consumption of water and limiting sweets can often help in addressing digestive issues.
German Shepherds have narrow, deep chests that can cause them to bloat and gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). This condition is caused by the stomach filling with gas and then twists on itself, preventing blood flow, and possibly resulting in death within a few hours if untreated. GDV symptoms include retching, heaving, but not swallowing. They can also be characterized by an overly large stomach, restlessness and a lack of energy. A preventive procedure to suture or tack the stomach to lower the risk of contracting this deadly illness.
German Shepherds aren't immune to dental disease. In the absence of treatment, tartar can cause gum disease and infection at the roots of teeth. Your German Shepherd may eventually lose her teeth or require expensive and extensive treatment. This can be emotionally and financially difficult for your pet.
Training
German Shepherds are widely used as police, service and protection dogs. They are intelligent herding breeds. They are athletic, energetic and highly capable of training. They are ideal for those who have plenty of time to train and exercise, as well as cleaning the shed fur. deutsche schäferhunde kaufen are also great for people who want to have a loyal, highly capable friend.
A trained German Shepherd is a reliable companion for all family members. This includes children as well as older adults. schäferhund beschützerinstinkt can be protective of their family members and remain aloof towards strangers. They are best trained by using fair, firm and regular methods of training. They also need a lot of stimulation in their minds, so it is important to provide a variety of puzzles and games for training.
Find an German Shepherd breeder that cares about their puppies' quality and wants to build an ongoing relationship with you. They should be able to show you their mother and litter, their health history, the environment that they were raised in, and answer your questions. They can inform you about the socialization of the pups and how they are compared to their siblings.
Be wary of puppies available at pet stores, since they are more likely to be from mills rather than breeders that are reputable. They are typically bred to make profit and may have serious genetic issues. A reputable breeder will test their breeding stock to avoid hereditary illnesses and other health issues from arising in the puppies.
Regardless of how you select your puppy, it is essential to start training early on. Learn the basics of commands such as sit down, stay and sit. Also do some leash training so your German Shepherd is calm when out and about. Training in obedience early is essential to stop them from chasing everything that moves. Recall exercises are a great way to engage their natural herding instincts, as well.
Make sure you spend a lot of time with your German Shepherd while they are young so that they learn to love being with you. This is important because the period of socialization lasts until they are 16 weeks old. After that, they may become less open to new people as well as new places, experiences, and environments.
Care
No matter where you buy your German Shepherd, he will require a lifetime of care. This includes annual visits to the vet and vaccinations, as well as preventive medications ($700-$1200 annually). You'll also need to purchase grooming appointments along with pet food and a year-long pet insurance policy ( $250-$300 annually). Think about the additional costs associated with dog walker, boarding, and professional obedience training. This can add up to a few thousand dollars over the course of your puppy's lifespan.
Look for a breeder who maintains high standards, and has good breeding methods. Ask the breeder to provide evidence of hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia testing for the father and mother, as well as temperament testing for the litter.
Ask your veterinarians, local German Shepherd owners and dog trainers and groomers for recommendations. These individuals are familiar with animals, and they are aware of an abundance of information about breeders who are ethical.
Although a German shepherd's herding impulse may cause him to jump and chase people but he will be able to respond to discipline and training. Introduce your family members as you grow. German Shepherds are very attached to their family members and require a lot of socialization.
Dogs are at risk of developing dental disease. It begins with tartar buildup and progresses into gum inflammation and the roots of teeth. It's a condition that's widespread and can lead tooth loss and serious complications such as liver, kidney, and heart disease.
Cancer is another issue particularly in older dogs. Hemangiosarcoma is a form of cancer that causes blood-rich tumors, usually in the spleen or heart. Other cancers include lung bone and intestinal.
If you're unable to afford the expense of a purebred German Shepherd puppy, you might be able to get one from shelters. The staff at the shelter can assist you choose a dog that has a good temperament and that will fit with your lifestyle. Adopting a pet can be less expensive than buying one. The adoption fees typically include initial medical exams and vaccines, as well as spaying or neutering. The staff at the shelter can offer advice on how to prepare your home for a new puppy for example, making sure that the space is safe and clearing away any items that can be chewed or eaten.
Exercise
German Shepherd puppies are incredibly active and need to have a outlet for their energy. If they don't get enough physical exercise, it could lead to them becoming restless and putting their energy to undesirable activities, such as digging up the yard or chewing on things that are in their reach.
You can also expose them to various individuals, places and situations while they are young. This will help them understand that not everyone is a threat. This can be done by taking walks on the street or in parks, engaging with neighbors during playtime and even taking them to places they've never been before (as long as they are secure).
It's a good idea, in addition to getting out and socializing, to incorporate obedience training during exercise sessions. It could be as easy as teaching them to sit and stay on their mats, however it could be as complicated as doing heelwork with them or playing games of recall.
Dog sports such as agility or flyball are great for your German Shepherd pup and can also aid in improving their mental abilities. Just be sure to begin slow with these types of activities so you don't overexert your pup. Avoid engaging your German Shepherd during extreme weather conditions. This can lead to illnesses related to heat in puppies.
Aside from these kinds of activities, it's a good idea just to take your German Shepherd puppy for daily walks. It's important to allow them to engage in physical activity and to discover the world outside their home. It's important to take them to different places to experience new sounds and environments.