How to Buy a German Shepherd Pup
German Shepherds require daily walks as well as playtime and other activities. They should also be socialised at an early age with other dogs and household pets to prevent aggression or dominance issues later in life.
Do your research about the breeder of your puppy as well as its lineage. Like all dogs, they could inherit genetic diseases such as elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia (or bloat).
Personality
German Shepherds are intelligent, curious dogs who thrive on challenges. They're loyal and obedient but they are also cautious of strangers. They may be extremely protective and may bark at people, cars or other dogs if they think they're being threatened by their family.
These powerful dogs are highly trainable and learn quickly they are a popular choice for military, police roles, search-and-rescue mission and service jobs. They are also good companions as they love the outdoors, are active and possess a refined sense of stoicism that is rare in other breeds.
This breed excels in dog-related sports like agility, obedience, tracking tests, Schutzhund and obedience. But they're equally happy with a regular workout that includes long walks or playing fetch. They excel in dog sports such as obedience, agility, tracking tests, Schutzhund, and obedience however they're equally satisfied with a routine workout that includes long walks or playing games of fetch. A job provides them with a purpose and helps stimulate their minds and bodies.
Because of their herding heritage German Shepherds have an intense prey drive and are prone to a loud voice when they're bored. This can lead to undesirable behavior if they are not properly controlled and it's crucial to get your dog socialized at an early age and give them mental stimulation to keep them engaged and content.
German Shepherds are smart and obedient. They are responsive to positive reinforcement and are easy to train. They can be stubborn, though, and need a firm, but gentle touch with training to prevent them from becoming frustrated or overwhelmed. It's recommended that you get an expert trainer to assist with training.
German Shepherds are a very loyal and loving breed that enjoys playing and attention from their families. They are active and require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy. If you're considering adopting a pet, you must be honest about how much time and attention you can devote to their requirements. If left alone for too long, they could easily become destructive or develop depression and anxiety. To avoid this, don't leave your German Shepherd alone for more than a few hours at a stretch, and then gradually build up to longer periods of time.
Health
German Shepherds are extremely healthy, especially when they're produced by breeders who are responsible. Breeders who screen their dogs for hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia as well as hemangiosarcoma and other breed-specific health issues. It's for this reason that it's crucial to purchase only from a trusted seller. A reputable breeder will give their puppies regular health checks throughout their lives.
GSDs are herding dogs. They require plenty of exercise and attention to be happy. They need at least two hours of exercise per day, which should include walks and off-lead times in an area that is safe. Training on top will provide them with the best workout. The space they have to play and roam will also help reduce the stress levels.
As they age, GSDs may develop arthritis. This may cause them to walk with a limp or a bunny-hop gait. If this happens, talk to your veterinarian to determine an appropriate treatment strategy. This may involve a change in diet or supplements, or even surgery depending on how severe the illness is.
Another common ailment that affects German Shepherds is degenerative myelopathy, which causes weakness in the hind legs. Fortunately physical therapy can help slow this disease's progression.
Hip dysplasia is a condition where the socket and ball joints of German Shepherds are not fitting together properly. This can result in pain, difficulty in standing and in more severe cases the condition can cause paralysis. Your vet may suggest that your dog change its exercise routine and adopt a healthier diet in order to reduce the symptoms.
German Shepherds are also prone to cancer, particularly lung, bone and abdominal cancers. website can lead to weakness as well as weight loss, diarrhea, vomiting and loss of appetite.
Lastly, German Shepherds can have an overactive thyroid which is a hormone imbalance. This could cause them to urinate more often, have breathing problems, and be exhausted. Your vet will examine your dog's stethoscope, or take an X-ray to identify this symptom. If your dog is suffering from this condition, your doctor will prescribe medications to treat it.
Training
German Shepherds are highly trained and adapt well to training in the beginning. They are quick to learn and enjoy working with their owners. This makes them a preferred breed for law enforcement, and protection work. Families with children also adore them. Like all dogs, they have to be exercised regularly to get rid of the energy. Make sure you have the space and time to give your German Shepherd with the mental and physical stimulation that it requires daily.
Be sure to investigate the reputation of the breeder prior to you purchase a German Shepherd. Choose a responsible breeder who checks their parents in order to prevent the transmission of health problems such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Also, inquire about the origins and the age of the puppies.
If you are looking for a German Shepherd that can be trained to be a service dog or compete in IPO competitions, then go for a working line. These dogs have received obedience tracking, protection, and obedience training. There are working line breeders across North America and Europe. They sell pups and "started" dogs that have had extensive training in obedience training, protection, tracking and training for aggression. These puppies and dogs can be expensive, up to $20,000.
Before you purchase a German Shepherd, make sure you have the money to purchase it. You'll spend about $3,500 in the first year, including the cost of pet food and vet care. You will spend between $500 and $1500 a year on maintaining your dog's health. If you're unable to afford a German Shepherd, consider adopting from a shelter or rescue organization.
When choosing a German Shepherd, bear in mind their size and strength. They aren't suitable for all families and they might not be a good fit with smaller dogs. They also need a lot of exercise to avoid getting bored, which can result in destructive behaviors. If you don't have the time or the space to give a German Shepherd the exercise it requires, think about a different breed. The right German Shepherd will be a loyal, loving family member for a long time to come.
Care
German Shepherds are huge strong dogs that require daily exercise to exhaust all their energy. This is why it's important to ensure you have enough time and space for this dog prior to making the decision to adopt it. They are also susceptible to separation anxiety, so it's important to start socializing and training them from a young ages.
Due to their herding background they are vocal and must be allowed to be vocal in a safe environment. It is important to enroll your German Shepherd in obedience classes at the beginning of their life.
Whether or not you decide to train your German Shepherd or enlist the assistance of a professional dog trainer, you should be prepared for a long commitment. German Shepherds live an average of 10-12 years. You'll need to be committed to making your new dog a part of your family.
These dogs need to be fed a high-quality commercial dog food designed to suit their size and age. The recommended serving size will be on the package, however it is also advisable to talk to your veterinarian regarding the amount your dog can eat per day. It is not recommended to give your German Shepherd treats that exceed 10 percent of their daily allowance.
Like any dog German Shepherds are also susceptible to certain health conditions. This breed is particularly susceptible to elbow dysplasias and hip dysplasias, degenerative myelopathy, and epilepsy/seizures. Breeders who are reputable will test their dogs to decrease the risk of passing genetic diseases to their puppies.
In addition the breed is at a greater risk for bloat than other breeds. Because they're a barrel-chested breed they are more likely to develop this condition, which can be fatal if not treated quickly. It's important to be familiar with the symptoms of bloat to know when it's time for you to take your German Shepherd to the emergency vet.