Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet stores sell German Shepherd puppies. If you are considering purchasing one, make sure you choose an accredited breeder.
Look for a dog with an even temperament. Play with them, and observe how they interact with other puppies as well as with other people.
Breeders with good reputations adhere to strict ethical breeding practices, and prioritize health clearances of their pups. They will provide the litter's pedigree, as well as medical records.
Temperament
German Shepherds possess a strong confidence level and are powerful dogs. They also have a natural instinct for security. They may be apprehensive initially, but become more comfortable after being socialized. This confidence and fearlessness in the face of danger could make them an ideal option for police, military and guard dog positions. They can protect individuals and their possessions.
If you're in search of an obedience competition or service dog, or loyal family pet, the German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent breed. One of the reasons why they're so popular is their ability to learn and perform different tasks. They quickly be close to their families and are active in the daily activities in their homes. They're also an excellent choice for children. They're active and happily play with children (and often other dogs). Like all dog breeds, they can also be a bit aggressive with strangers and other pets. Socialization and training early will aid in preventing aggression issues.
A breeder's commitment to ethical breeding practices is crucial. You'll need to find a German Shepherd Breeder who follows guidelines, including screening for health and testing as well as socialization and raising their pups in a home. You can often determine a breeder's integrity by visiting the facility, talking to the parents and other siblings, and asking questions about genetic history and health clearances.
The German Shepherd has a barrel chest, which makes it more prone to get bloated. This can be fatal. To reduce schäferhund welpe kaufen , give your puppy lots of water, make sure you feed him frequently and use a bowl that is secure.
German Shepherds, as with many herding breeds, can be sensitive. They can bark to warn their owners to the presence of strangers or intruders. However they can be trained to comfortably and confidently greet visitors. It is also recommended to take your dog to puppy classes or employ an expert dog trainer if you are not familiar with this powerful breed. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is well-trained and exercised to prevent him from being destructive or attempting to escape. A microchip, along with an online subscription to 24PetWatch, will help you find your dog in the event that he gets away.
Health
The GSD is a very sturdy breed that is extremely robust. But, just like any other breed, it can be susceptible to certain hereditary conditions and diseases. Do your research and make sure you purchase from a reputable dog breeder that prioritizes the health of their dogs. Visit their premises, meet the owners and request health clearances and socialization reports prior to making an purchase.
German Shepherds are susceptible to hip dysplasia (a condition that affects joints) as well as weakness of the skeletal muscle. This is particularly true for older dogs. These issues can be addressed by an appropriate diet supplementation, exercise and physical therapy.
Epilepsy is another hereditary disease that is found in GSDs. It's typically caused by an issue with metabolism (low blood sugar or organ failure) or a toxin. It can also occur if no other cause is found this is known as primary or epilepsy idiopathic. If your dog is suffering from this condition it will require a lifetime of medication in order to control seizures.
Cancer can also affect GSDs. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that grows on blood-rich organs like the liver and spleen. The symptoms include fatigue and swelling. It can also cause sudden collapse. The condition is extremely painful, and there is no cure, so treatment revolves around controlling the symptoms.
Allergies can be a problem for dogs with GSD. They can cause itchy skin, ear infection as well as digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. If you suspect your dog is allergic, it's best to perform a full medical workup, including an exhaustive exam and history, tests for the ears and skin as well as a labwork and fecal test.
Degenerative myelopathy is a disease that can affect GSDs and causes them to lose their mobility, typically in their early 20s. The cause of this disease is a genetic mutation and is identified by DNA testing. The symptoms of the disease are a increasing difficulty getting up, a decreased the ability to stand or jump, pain, and a loss of muscle mass in the thighs. There is no cure for the disease but it can be controlled with physical therapy and medication.
Training
GSDs have an innate work ethic and benefit from advanced obedience, agility, and protection training. Their diverse skills make them excellent service dogs sniffers, bomb and drug sniffers as well as guides for blind people.
German Shepherds are smart and eager to please. However, they are easily bored and prone to obsessive behavior if they don't get enough stimulation in their minds or bodies. They require a strong steady, consistent, and patient trainer to help them reach their full potential and to help them remain calm in the face of distractions.
If you're considering buying a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to find an accredited breeder who operates with the dog's best interests in mind. They should go through screening procedures to determine if the puppies are an appropriate fit to their family. They should also provide documentation on the puppy's pedigree, health clearances, as well as recommendations for training and care.
While each German Shepherd has a unique temperament the breed standard says that the dogs should be athletic, active, alert, protective, and able to bond with family members. You may want ask the breeder questions about their breeding program, and also see some of their puppies to evaluate their physical characteristics and demeanor.
Many people confuse the classic German Shepherd behaviors of barking or lunging at movements with aggression, but these are simply natural responses that happen when a dog is triggered by something in the vicinity. Some German Shepherds who cover their heads or avoid strangers are genetically shy. This can be "cured" through socialization, but not cured.
While certain breeds shed hairs throughout the year. Most dogs only shed heavily every year for three weeks in spring, when they transition from a thicker winter coat to a thinner summer coat, and again in the fall when they are preparing to transition back to an even thicker winter coat. You'll need to keep up with regular walks, playtime, exercise, and plenty of lint-rollers. A well-trained and socialized German Shepherd in your home will mean a great deal of love, loyalty and companionship for the years to be.
Care
German Shepherds should be trained consistently to prevent undesirable behaviors such as excessive barking, excessive digging and chewing. They are extremely intelligent dogs that can be taught easily and enjoy having some purpose in their lives. They can become bored when left to themselves for a long time. It is essential to provide them with a huge backyard or dog park in order to channel their energy.
Breeders with a good reputation will be able to provide you with pedigree documents and health clearances for the parents of the pups. You should visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to verify that the breeder follows ethical breeding practices.
GSDs, as a result of their genetic predisposition, are more susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasias, bloats and bloats, as well as heart disease and skin problems. They may also be prone for skin problems, ear infections, and ear infections. They are also more likely to develop hemangiosarcoma a form of cancer that affects blood-rich organs like the spleen and liver.

The the peritoneum is a spongy, tough connective tissue that covers the spleen and the blood vessels which supply it. Inflammation of the peritoneum can cause discomfort and pain. Peritoneal inflammation could lead to other complications, including kidney infection, liver disease and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have double coats that require regular brushing to avoid matting and tangling. The breed will go through a molting cycle once or twice per year. You can employ a deshedding tool, an undercoat rake, or a slicker, to reduce the amount of shed.
GSDs may suffer from a condition known as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This happens when the jelly-like padding that is between the vertebrae ruptures and presses on the spinal cord. schäferhund welpe kaufen include difficulty moving, climbing stairs, or jumping. They also include a tilted back and dragging the feet behind. If you notice these signs you should seek medical attention immediately since the condition may progress quickly and result in paralysis and even death. A veterinary doctor can move a disc to reduce symptoms or eliminate them completely.