Buy a German Shepherd Puppy From a Reputable Breeder
A German Shepherd puppy purchase is a big commitment. Before you purchase a puppy it is important to conduct some research about reputable breeders.
Find out whether the parents of the litter have been deemed free of degenerative myelopathy megaesophagus and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and also enlarged hearts and Von Willebrand disease.
Ask about the breeder’s return policy. Breeders with good reputations are willing to return their dogs if they don't match your lifestyle.
Find a Reputable Breeder
The last thing you would prefer to do is purchase an 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 who has transparent practices and lets you see where the puppies are kept. Most reliable breeders have websites or social media pages or live webcams that allow you view the conditions of their homes. Be sure to look for clean bedding, a spongy footing that doesn't permit the puppies to walk or lay in their own poop, and clean areas.
A good breeder will be able to explain the genetic diseases that are common to this type of dog and how they are tested for. This includes hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy Von Willebrand Disease, and many more. The breeder should be able explain what genetic testing they are performing and how often.
A reputable breeder won't offer their puppies to pet shops or markets. They will only offer them to a responsible owner that can care for the puppy properly. If you see breeders selling their puppies through these outlets, be very wary. It is illegal in most states to sell their puppies. deutscher schäferhund kaufen österreich indicates that the breeder doesn't consider their responsibility seriously or has little interest in improving the genetics of the breed. This can be devastating for the breed and their future progeny. It is also a waste of money. The puppies you buy will be more likely to be sick and might not have the temperament you would like in your new dog.
Visit the Litter
German Shepherds are intelligent pack animals who are very active. They are great family dogs, and they are extremely loyal to their owners. They can be very preoccupied with strangers and may display aggression when they believe they are in danger. It is essential to begin obedience training early to ensure that your dog doesn't act inappropriately.
Certain health conditions are more common among German Shepherds with certain health issues. Responsible breeders should perform the appropriate health tests to prevent the spread of these diseases. Breeders must also be honest about the results of these tests. They should also be capable of answering any questions you have about the health of the puppies.
German Shepherds are at risk of elbow and hip dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy and spinal stenosis. Inbreeding is the main cause of these issues in the beginning of the breed, however responsible breeders now work hard to reduce their frequency.
Another issue that can occur in German Shepherds is hemangiosarcoma, which is a cancer of the blood vessels in the lungs and other organs. It is often found in the spleen and the heart, and can cause a variety symptoms, such as bleeding, weakness, trouble breathing, weight loss and anemia.
Finally, as with all breeds, it's crucial to provide your German Shepherd with the right nutrition and exercise. A balanced diet can lower the risk of hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative spine stenosis and Von Willebrand disease. Also, it is best to avoid feeding your German Shepherd table food or bones from animals, which could lead to stomach upset and pancreatitis.
Verify the health of the dogs
A German Shepherd puppy should have a well-proportioned body, dense coat, and healthy eyes. It should be active and playful and capable of engaging in appropriate activities for its age like play and short bursts of exercise.
A healthy German shepherd should have a satiating appetite and be able to maintain a steady increase in weight. It should also have a strong stool that shows proper digestion and nutrient intake.
Watch how they interact with their littermates and with other dogs as well as adults. They should be curious and playful but not aggressive or fearful. A reputable breeder should provide the documentation of temperament tests for parents and puppies.
Pay close attention to the ears of the puppies when observing them. They should be able to stand upright when they aren't in use and should be free of hair loss or bald patches. A reputable breeder makes sure that their puppies have been vaccinated, dewormed and treated in accordance with veterinary guidelines.
These large dogs with double coats are available in many colors and patterns. They typically come in black and tan, all-black or white and tan but they can also be liver, gray, or blue. Their outer coats shed all year round and require regular brushing.
Although German Shepherds are known to be healthy, they are susceptible to certain ailments like knee or hip dysplasia eye issues, hip or knee dysplasia, and autoimmune diseases. A high-quality dog food and ensuring proper exercise can help lower the risk of these conditions.
Also ensure that your puppies are properly socialised from an early age. This will help them become calm and confident around other animals and people, especially if they have spent time with each other. Introduce your pets slowly, especially when you have cats. German Shepherds can become bossy when they are around other pets, especially if they have not been properly introduced at an early age.
Consult your veterinarian for suggestions
The veterinarians are a fantastic source of information on ethical breeders. Talk to a couple of veterinarians in your region for recommendations, and consider asking groomers, trainers, and other dog-related businesses. You should also talk to German Shepherd owners in your neighborhood and go to dog shows to talk to people who have experience with the breed.
The purchase of a puppy is a long-term commitment, and should not be a decision made on a whim. You'll have to think about the costs of food, grooming, and training, in addition to the possibility of costs for veterinary care and other unexpected costs. Make sure you have a budget in place before you begin shopping for the right pup.
Due to their herding nature, German Shepherds are full of energy and need plenty of activities to keep them happy and occupied. They can develop behavioral issues such as excessive barking and chewing on furniture. This can be very frustrating for pet owners. Exercise, obedience training, and a routine for the day will 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 susceptible to spinal diseases such as hemangiosarcoma or degenerative myelopathy. Fortunately, responsible breeders test their pups for these and other ailments, and have made great progress in eliminating genetic diseases due to inbreeding.
It is recommended to make an appointment with your veterinarian before you bring home the German Shepherd pup to ensure that your new pet will be healthy and ready to join your family. You should also discuss a training program and how you can help your puppy grow into an adult dog that is well-adjusted.
Check the reputation of the breeder
It is best to locate a breeder who has the same top qualities as you for the perfect German Shepherd. Ask for a referral in the event that they don't have a litter or don't provide the type of dog you're seeking.
You can look up the reputation of a breeder once you have found one who meets your requirements. Look for reviews on their website and on social media from other families that have purchased their puppies and reviews from trainers and veterinarians.
Check if the parents are certified by AKC or OFA. If they do not have certification it could be an indication that the breeder does not take health seriously or is unprofessional.
Check out a history of breeding of grandparents and parents as well. This will help you determine whether your puppy is likely to develop genetic diseases such as degenerative myelopathy which is a progressive paralization disorder of the hind legs.
Many reputable breeders will be happy to share their information with prospective buyers. They will also have the breed history available for you to go over. Some breeders will ask you to complete a questionnaire that includes questions regarding your lifestyle as well as your home environment. This is to ensure that your puppy will be happy under your supervision.
In general German Shepherds are very friendly with other dogs and pets. However, they can become more territorial as they age. It is crucial to make sure that your German Shepherds are socialized from an early age. Additionally, they are known to bite when they're trying to teeth so you should be prepared and know that it's not an indication of aggression. They are naturally protective of their family members and will bark to alert you if someone comes near the home.