Where to Buy German Shepherd Puppies
A top choice for military, police and other service dogs, German Shepherds are highly intelligent, protective and loyal. They're also incredibly active, and require lots of exercise and stimulation.
Their natural instinct to protect themselves can manifest as aggression towards strangers, which is why early training and socialization is essential. They may also display compulsions, such as repetitive behaviors like tail-chasing.
Health
German Shepherds are generally healthy, but good breeding practices may reduce the risk of certain health conditions. Breeders with a good reputation check their parents' health to prevent passing on issues that could be prevented to puppies, including hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy.
All puppies, no matter what their breeding history, should be thoroughly examined by a vet prior to when they are taken to their new homes. This allows the vets to determine any health issues and treat them as quickly as possible to reduce the risk of complications and increase results.
Regular veterinary visits are essential to ensure the health of your German Shepherd. Routine veterinary examinations, vaccinations, and other preventive measures can help your dog live a long and healthy life.
Some health concerns specifically for German Shepherds are the autoimmune disease, hemangiosarcoma seizures, epilepsy and other bleeding disorders. These conditions can be controlled and prevented by following the right diet, avoiding table foods and treats, and implementing preventive medications as soon as possible.
schäferhund welpen österreich kaufen suffer from digestive issues, including vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. This could be caused by eating the wrong food, food allergies or the underlying medical condition. A commercial food that is of high quality, frequent urination and water consumption and limiting treats are often helpful with digestive issues.
German Shepherds are more prone to bloat (also known as gastric volvulus or GDV) due to their narrow, deep chests. This condition occurs when gas is absorbed by the stomach and then twists around itself, cutting off the blood supply and eventually resulting in death if not treated. Signs of GDV include the tendency to retch or try to heave but not swallowing, a swollen abdomen, lethargy, restlessness and sitting in a prayer posture with the head down. A preventive procedure that tacks or sutures the stomach in place will reduce the risk of contracting this deadly illness.
Dental disease is another frequent problem that affects all dogs, but in particular German Shepherds. If left untreated tartar build-up could lead to gum disease and infection of the roots of the teeth. In the end, your German Shepherd may lose her teeth or require a lengthy and costly treatment, which could be difficult on your pet emotionally as well as financially.
Training
German Shepherds are intelligent herding dogs which have been extensively used as service, protection and police dogs. They are athletic, active and extremely capable of training. They are great for people who have plenty of time to devote to training, exercise and cleaning up shed fur. They are also ideal for those who wish to have a loyal, highly capable friend.
A trained German Shepherd is a reliable companion for all family members. This includes children and older adults. They are protective of their loved family members and can be shy with strangers. These dogs do best by using fair, firm and consistent training methods. They also require plenty of stimulation mentally, which is why it is important to offer a variety of puzzles and games for training.
Find a German Shepherd breeder that cares about the quality of their puppies and wants to build a relationship with you. They should be able to show you the mother and litter, their health history, the environment that they were raised in and be able to answer your questions. They will also be able tell you how the puppies were socialized and how they are compared to their siblings.
Be wary of puppies that are sold in pet stores. They are more likely from mills than breeders with a good reputation. They are typically bred to make the sake of profit and could have serious genetic issues. A reputable breeder will screen their breeding stock to avoid hereditary diseases and other health issues from developing in the pups.
Whatever way you decide to choose your puppy, it is important to start training early on. Introduce basic commands such as sit down, stay and sit. Learn to leash-train so that your German Shepherd will remain calm when you are out and about. They are curious, so early obedience training is essential to stop them from running after anything that moves. Recall exercises are an excellent way to stimulate their natural herding instincts as well.
Spend a lot of time with them when they're young to help them begin to appreciate you. This is especially important because they go through a crucial socialization window until about 16 weeks old, after which they could be less open to new people, experiences and places.
You can also read about how to take care of yourself.
No matter where you buy the German Shepherd, he will require care for the rest of his life. This includes annual visits to the vet as well as vaccinations and preventive medication ($700-$1200 annually). Additionally, you'll need to purchase grooming appointments, pet food and a yearly 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 several thousand dollars over the course of your puppy's lifespan.
Look for a breeder that maintains high standards and follows good breeding practices. Ask the breeder for evidence of hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia testing for the mother and the father as well as temperament testing for the litter.
Ask your veterinarians, local German Shepherd owners and dog groomers and trainers for suggestions. These individuals are familiar with animals and know the basics about breeders who are ethical.
Although a German shepherd's herding impulse could cause him to jump and chase others, he will respond to training and discipline. Introduce him to all members of your family as you grow. German Shepherds bond strongly with their families and need plenty of interaction.
Dogs are at risk of developing dental disease. It begins with tartar buildup, and then progresses to infection of the gums, and roots of teeth. This is a condition that is common and can lead to tooth loss and other serious complications such as kidney, liver, and heart disease.
Cancer is a problem for older dogs. Hemangiosarcoma is a form of cancer that develops blood-rich tumors, usually in the spleen or heart. Other cancers include lung, bone and intestinal.
If you are unable to afford the expense of a purebred German Shepherd puppy, you might be able to save one from shelters. The shelter's staff can help you select a dog with an excellent temperament and is compatible with your lifestyle. Adopting a dog can also be less expensive than purchasing one, and adoption costs typically include medical exams as well as vaccinations, spaying or neutering. The staff at the shelter will give advice on how you can prepare your home to accommodate a dog. For example they will tell you what items you should stored away and where.
Exercise
German Shepherd puppies can be very active, so it's essential to provide them with an opportunity to let their energy go. If they don't have enough physical activity it could result in them becoming restless and redirecting their energy to something unintentional like digging up the yard or chewing on anything that is within reach.
It's an excellent idea to expose them to a range of people, places and situations when they are young, as it will help them realize that there isn't always a threat. This can be done by taking walks on the street and in parks, engaging with the neighbors during playtimes or even taking them to places they haven't been before (as long as they are safe).
It's a good idea in addition to getting out and socializing to incorporate obedience training during exercise sessions. This can be something as simple as teaching your dog to sit on his mat. It can be more complicated than working on heel or playing recall games.
Dog sports such as flyball or agility are a great workout for your German Shepherd puppy and also work on their mental skills as well. Just be sure to start slow with these types of activities to ensure that you don't overload your pup. Avoid exercising your German Shepherd during extreme weather conditions. This could lead to heat-related illnesses in young dogs.
Apart from these activities, it's a good idea just to take your German Shepherd puppy for daily walks. It's important to give them physical exercise and to explore the world outside their home. It's important to take them to different places so they can discover new sounds and experiences.