Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet shops sell German Shepherd puppies. If Related Home Page of buying one, you should look for a reliable breeder.
Look for a puppy with even temperament. Play with them, and observe how they interact with other puppies as well as with people.
Reputable breeders adhere to strict ethical breeding practices, and give priority to health clearances of their pups. They will provide the litter's pedigree and medical documents.
Temperament
German Shepherds are a confident powerful dogs that have an instinctual sense of 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 choice for military, police and guard dog positions. They can also be protective of their belongings and family members.
If you're in search of an obedience competition or service dog, or a loyal family pet, the German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent breed. One of the reasons why they are so popular is their ability to learn and complete different tasks. These dogs are quick to be close to their families and enjoy being engaged in all the activities at home. They are also excellent for children. They're lively, and happily play with children (and often other dogs). Of course, like all breeds of dogs they are prone to nipping with strangers and other pets. Training and socialization early can aid in preventing aggression.
It is crucial to determine if a breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices. You should look for a German Shepherd breeder that follows standards such as screening and testing for health socialization, as well as raising their puppies in a controlled environment. You can usually determine the integrity of a breeder by visiting the facility, talking to the parents and other siblings and asking questions about genetic history and health clearances.
Since the German Shepherd is a barrel-chested breed, it is prone to bloat, which could be life-threatening. To lessen the risk, make sure you give your puppy plenty of water, and make sure that you feed him regularly and use a bowl that is secure.
German Shepherds, like many herding breeds, are sensitive. They can bark to alert their owners to the presence of strangers or intrusions. They can be taught to be confident and calm when greeting visitors. It is also recommended to take your dog to puppy classes or hire a dog trainer if you aren't familiar with this formidable breed. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is properly supervised and exercised to prevent him from becoming destructive or trying to escape. A microchip, in conjunction with an online subscription to 24PetWatch, will help you find your pet in the event that he gets away.
Health
The GSD is a strong breed, but just like any other dog, they are susceptible to certain hereditary diseases and conditions. Do your research and make sure you purchase from a reliable breeder that prioritizes the health of their dogs. Visit their premises, meet the owners and ask for health clearances and socialization reports prior to making the purchase.
German Shepherds are susceptible to hip dysplasia (a condition that affects joints), as well as weak skeletal muscles. This is particularly true for dogs who are older. These problems can be easily treated with healthy diet and exercise, as well as supplements and physical therapy.
reinrassiger schäferhund is another hereditary condition that is found in GSDs. It's usually triggered by a metabolic issue (low blood sugar or organ failure) or a toxin. It can also occur if there is no other cause and is referred to as primary epilepsy or idiopathic epilepsy. If your dog is diagnosed with this condition the dog will require lifelong medication to manage seizures.
Cancer can also affect GSDs. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that grows on blood-rich organs, such as the liver and spleen. Symptoms include lethargy and swelling, as well as sudden collapse. This condition is extremely painful, and there is no cure, so treatment focuses around controlling the symptoms.
Allergies can be a problem for dogs with GSD. They can cause itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive problems like vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. If your dog is allergic to something, you will have to conduct a complete medical check-up that includes an extensive history and examination and diagnostic testing of the ears and skin, labwork and fecal tests.
Degenerative myelopathy can affect GSDs, causing them to lose mobility. This condition usually manifests in the early 20s. This disease is caused an inherited mutation that can be detected by DNA tests. The signs of the disease include gradual 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 however it is treatable with physical therapy and medication.
Training
GSDs are well-known for their dedication to work, and they benefit from advanced training in obedience, agility, and protection. Their versatile skills also make them excellent service dogs, bomb and drug sniffers and guides for the blind.
German Shepherds as a breed are smart and eager to delight. However, they can be bored and susceptible to obsessive behaviors without adequate stimulation, either mental or physical. They require a strong steady, consistent, and patient trainer to help them reach their full potential and to help them remain focused when faced with distractions.
If you are looking to buy an purebred German Shepherd dog, make sure you choose a breeder who is reliable and has your dog's well-being in mind. They must have a screening process to ensure that the puppies will be good fits for their families and offer documents of the dog's pedigree, health clearances, as well as recommendations for care and training.
While every German Shepherd has a unique temperament, the breed standard indicates that these dogs should be athletic, active and alert, as well as protective and able to bond with family members. You might want to inquire with the breeder about their breeding program, and then see some of the puppies in person so you can assess their demeanor and physical traits.
Many people confuse the classic German Shepherd behavior of barking and lunging at motion as aggression. These are normal behaviors that occur when dogs are activated whenever something happens close to them. Some German Shepherds who put their heads in the corner of the room or hide from strangers have genetic shyness that can be cured through socialization, but not "cured."
While some breeds shed a few hairs throughout the year. Most dogs shed only twice per year -- for three weeks in spring as they transition from an extra thick winter coat to a thinner summer coat and then in the fall when they are preparing to switch back to a thicker winter coat. You'll need to keep up with regular walks, playtime, exercise, and plenty of lint-rollers. A well-trained, properly socialized German shepherd will bring you years of friendship, love, and loyalty.
You can also read about how to take care of yourself.
German Shepherds require a consistent training to avoid undesirable behaviors such as digging, chewing, and excessive barking. They are intelligent dogs who are eager to learn and have a purpose. They can become bored when left to themselves for long periods. It is essential to provide them with a large backyard or dog park to harness their energy.
Reputable breeders will provide you with documents that prove the pedigree of the puppies and their parents health certificates. You should also visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to ensure that the breeder follows ethical breeding practices.
Because of their genetic predisposition, GSDs are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia Bloat and heart disease, skin problems and ear infections as well as many other ailments. They are also more likely to develop hemangiosarcoma a form of cancer that affects blood-rich organs like the liver and spleen.
The spleen and the blood vessels that supply it are surrounded by a fibrous, tough connective tissue called the peritoneum. When the peritoneum gets inflamed it can cause pain and discomfort. Peritoneal swelling could lead to complications such as kidney disease, liver disease and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have two coats that require regular brushing in order to prevent matting and tangling. The breed will go through a molting cycle every once or twice a years. 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 disk disease (IVDD). This happens when the cushion of jelly that sits between two vertebrae breaks or becomes sloppy and presses on the spinal cord. The symptoms include difficulty jumping on stairs, climbing up or moving around, being hesitant to move with a hunched back, and dragging of the back feet. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact a veterinarian immediately. The condition can quickly progress and cause paralysis or death. A doctor can reposition discs to ease symptoms or eliminate them completely.