Where to Buy German Shepherd Puppies
A popular choice for military, police and other service dogs, German Shepherds are highly intelligent, protective and extremely loyal. They're also incredibly active, requiring plenty of exercise and stimulation.
Their natural instinct to protect themselves can manifest itself as aggression towards strangers, which is why early training and socialization is essential. They can also exhibit compulsive actions like tail-chasing.
Health
German Shepherds generally have good health, though good breeding practices can help lower the risk of certain diseases. Breeders with a good reputation check their parents' health to prevent passing on issues that could be prevented to puppies, such as hip dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy.
All puppies, no matter what their breeding history, should be examined by a vet before they are sent to their new homes. This helps the veterinarian determine and address any health issues as soon as possible to minimize complications and improve the outcomes.
Regular veterinary visits are essential to ensure the health of your German Shepherd. Regular veterinary examinations as well as vaccinations and other preventive steps can help your pet lead a long and happy life.
German Shepherds are prone to autoimmune disease, hemangiosarcoma and seizures/epilepsy. They may also be susceptible to bleeding disorders. These ailments can be treated and prevented by following the correct diet, avoiding table foods and treats, and beginning preventive medications as soon as is possible.
All dogs can suffer from digestive issues, such as diarrhea, vomiting and weight loss. This could be due to eating the wrong food, food allergies, or other medical conditions. High-quality commercial food, frequent urination, drinking plenty of water and avoiding sweets can help ease digestive problems.
German Shepherds have narrow, deep chests that can make them susceptible to bloat which is also known as gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). This condition occurs when gas fills the stomach and twists around itself, severing the blood supply, resulting in death if not treated. Symptoms of GDV include rectching or attempting to breathe but not swallowing, a swollen abdomen, restlessness, lethargy and lying in a prayer position with the head lowered. A preventive procedure to tack or suture the stomach in place may lower the risk of contracting this deadly illness.
Dental disease is another common problem that affects all dogs, but particularly German Shepherds. Untreated tartar can lead to gum disease and infections at the root of teeth. Your German Shepherd may eventually lose her teeth, or require costly and lengthy treatment. This could be emotionally and financially difficult for your pet.
Training
German Shepherds are intelligent herding dogs that have been used extensively as service, protection and police dogs. They are active, athletic and highly trainable. They are ideal for those who have a lot of time to train or exercising, as well as cleaning up shed fur. They are also great for those who wish to have a loyal, highly capable friend.
A well-trained German Shepherd dog is a very reliable pet and the ideal choice for a variety of family members including children as well as older adults. They can be protective of their family members and aloof towards strangers. They are best trained with fair, firm and regular training methods. They also require a lot of mental stimulation, which is why an array of training games and puzzles is important to keep them interested.
When shopping for a German Shepherd puppy, look for a breeder that cares about the quality of their puppies and wants to communicate with you. They should show you the mother and litter and their health history, the environment where they were raised and be able to answer your questions. They will be able tell you about the socialization of their pups and how they compare to their siblings.
Be wary of puppies at pet stores, since they tend to come from mills rather than breeders that are reputable. They are typically bred to make money, and could have serious issues genetically. A reputable breeder will check their breeding stock to stop hereditary diseases and other health problems from arising in the puppies.
Regardless of how you select your puppy, it's important to begin training your puppy early. Teach basic commands such as sit down, stay, and sit. Also, work on leash training so your German Shepherd is calm when out and out and about. They are curious, so early obedience training is essential to stop them from chasing after everything that moves. You can also help them develop their natural instincts to herd by doing some recall exercises.
Make sure you spend a lot of time with your German Shepherd when they are young, so that they can develop a love for being with you. This is particularly important as they experience a critical socialization window until about 16 weeks of age, after which they may be less receptive to new experiences, people and places.
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Regardless of where you buy your German Shepherd, he will require ongoing care. This includes vaccinations, preventive medications and annual vet visits ($700 to $1200 annually). You'll also have to pay for grooming appointments as well as pet food, and a yearly pet insurance policy ( $250-$300 annually). Consider the costs of dog walking or boarding as well as professional obedience training. These costs can be several thousand dollars in the lifetime of your puppy.
Find a breeder that maintains high standards, and uses good breeding practices. Ask the breeder to provide documentation of elbow and hip dysplasia screenings for the mother and father and temperament tests for the litter.
Ask your veterinarians, local German Shepherd owners and dog groomers and trainers for recommendations. These people regularly interact with animals and know the importance of ethical breeders.
Although a German shepherd's instinct to herd may cause him to jump and chase people however, he will react to training and discipline. Introduce him to every member of your family as he grows. German Shepherds are extremely attached to their family members and require a lot of socialization.
Dogs are susceptible to dental diseases, which starts with tartar build-up, and then progresses to gum disease and the teeth's roots. This is a condition that is frequent and can lead to tooth loss and serious complications like liver, kidney and heart disease.
Cancer is a concern for older dogs. Hemangiosarcoma is a kind of cancer that develops blood-rich tumors that are usually found in the spleen or heart. Other cancers include lung bone, and intestinal.
Retrieving an German Shepherd from a shelter is an alternative for those who are unable to afford to pay the cost of purchasing a purebred puppy. deutscher schäferhund kaufen can help you choose a dog that matches your lifestyle and has a positive temperament. Adopting a pet can be less expensive than purchasing one, and adoption costs typically include initial medical exams, vaccines and spaying or neutering. The staff at the shelter may offer advice on how to prepare your home for dogs. For instance they will tell you what items you should stored away and where.
Exercise
German Shepherd puppies can be extremely active, and it is important to give them the opportunity to release their energy. If they don't have enough physical activity, it can result in them becoming restless and redirecting that energy into something undesirable such as digging up the yard or chewing at whatever is within reach.
deutschen schäferhund kaufen can also expose them to different individuals, places and situations when they're young. This will help them realize that not everyone is a threat. This can be accomplished by taking walks on the street and in parks, engaging with the neighbors during playtimes or even taking their children to places that they've never been before (as as they're secure).
It's a good idea in addition to getting out and socializing, to incorporate obedience training during workouts. It could be as easy as teaching them to sit and remain on their mats, however it can be as advanced as doing heelwork with them or playing recall games.
Dog sports such as agility or flyball are excellent for your German Shepherd pup and can also aid in improving their mental capabilities. Begin slowly to ensure that you don't to overexert the puppy. Avoid engaging your German Shepherd during extreme weather conditions. This could 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 is essential for them to get some physical exercise and to explore the world outside their home. It's important to take them to different places to discover new sounds and experiences.