Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet stores sell German Shepherd puppies. If you are considering purchasing one, look for a reputable breeder.
Find a dog that has an even temperament. Play with them and observe how they interact with other puppies as well as with people.
Reputable breeders follow strict ethical breeding methods and prioritize health clearances for their pups. They will provide pedigrees and medical records for the litter.
Temperament
German Shepherds are a confident powerful dogs with a natural sense of protection. They can be wary initially, but they become more comfortable after being socialized. This confidence and courage in the face of danger could make them an ideal choice for police, military, and guard dog roles. They can be protective of the people they love and their belongings.
If you're in search of an obedience competitor or service dog, or loyal family pet, the German Shepherd is a strong-willed and extremely intelligent breed. One of the reasons they're so popular is their ability to learn and accomplish different tasks. They are quick to be close to their families and enjoy being engaged in all the activities in their homes. These dogs are also excellent for children. They're energetic and play with children as well as other dogs. Of course, like all breeds of dogs they are prone to nipping with strangers and pets. Early training and socialization will assist in preventing aggression.
It is essential to determine whether a breeder is a follower of ethical breeding practices. You'll want to choose a German Shepherd breeder that follows the guidelines for health testing and screening, socialization, and raising their puppies indoors. You can often assess a breeder's integrity by visiting the facility, meeting the parents and other siblings, and asking questions about genetic background and health clearances.
The German Shepherd has a barrel chest, which makes it more prone to bloat. This can be fatal. To lessen the risk, give your puppy plenty of water, and make sure to feed him regularly and use a bowl that is secure.
Like many herding dogs German Shepherds can be nippy. They will naturally bark to alert you to approaching strangers or intrusions. However they can be taught to comfortably and confidently greet visitors. It's recommended to take your dog to puppy obedience classes and/or engage the help of a knowledgeable dog trainer, particularly in case you're not a fan of this breed of dog. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is properly trained and exercised to keep him from being destructive or trying to escape. A microchip and 24PetWatch membership can also help to return your pet's owner if he does run away.
Health
The GSD is a very robust breed. But, just like any other breed, it could be susceptible to certain hereditary conditions and diseases. 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 request health clearances and socialization reports prior to making a purchase.
Hip dysplasia, a condition that affects joints, is common in German Shepherds as is weak skeletal muscles, particularly in older dogs. These issues can be easily treated with an exercise program and a balanced diet as well as supplements and physical therapy.
Epilepsy can also be inherited in GSDs. It's usually caused by an issue with metabolism (low blood sugar organ failure, organ failure or toxin). It can also occur when there is no other reason, which is called Idiopathic or primary Epilepsy. If your dog is diagnosed with this condition the dog will require lifelong medication to manage seizures.
GSDs can also be affected by cancer. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumour that develops on blood-rich organs, such as the liver and spleen. Symptoms include lethargy and swelling. It can also cause sudden collapse. This condition is incredibly painful and there isn't a cure, so treatment focuses around managing the symptoms.
Allergies are a regular issue in GSDs. They can result in itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. If your dog is allergic to something, you'll need to do a complete medical workup including a thorough history and exam as well as tests for the ears and skin, labwork and fecal tests.
Degenerative myelopathy is a disease that can affect GSDs and causes them to lose their mobility, generally in their 20s or early 20s. The cause of this disease is an inherited mutation that can be detected by DNA testing. The signs of the disease include a increasing difficulty getting up, a lack of ability to stand or jump, pain, and a loss of muscle mass in the thighs. The condition is not curable, but it is managed through physical therapy and medications.
Training
GSDs have an innate work ethic and benefit from advanced obedience agility, agility, as well as training in protection. Their versatility makes them excellent service dogs as bomb and drug sniffers, as well as guides for blind people.
German Shepherds are intelligent and eager to please. They can easily become bored, and can develop obsessive behavior without enough mental or physical stimulation. They need a patient, consistent, and well-trained trainer to help them achieve their full potential.
If you're looking to purchase a purebred German Shepherd dog, make sure you select a breeder that is reputable and has your dog's well-being in mind. They should use a screening procedure to determine if the pups are a good fit to their family. They should also provide documentation on the puppy's pedigree and health clearances, as and recommendations for training and care.
The breed standard states that although each German Shepherd is different, they should all be athletic, active and alert. They must also be cautious of their family members and social. You can ask the breeder questions about their breeding program, and you can 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 a movement as aggression, but these are normal reactions that happen when a dog is activated by something in the vicinity. 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 it is not "cured."
While belgischer schäferhund welpen kaufen österreich shed a few hairs throughout the year, most dogs only shed heavily twice per year -- for three weeks in spring when they switch from an icy winter coat to a softer summer coat and then in fall as they prepare to transition back to an even thicker winter coat. It is essential to take daily walks, playtime exercise, and plenty of lint-rollers. A well-trained, well-socialized German shepherd will provide you with years of love, loyalty and companionship.
Care
German Shepherds must be trained consistently to prevent undesirable behavior such as excessive barking, excessive digging, and chewing. They are intelligent dogs that are awestruck by learning and have a purpose. They can become bored when left to themselves for long periods. A large backyard or dog park is essential to let them run loose and give them a outlet for their high levels of physical activity.
Breeders who are reputable can provide you with pedigree papers and health clearances for the parents of the pups. You should also visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to confirm that the breeder is committed to ethical breeding practices.
Due to their genetic predisposition, GSDs are susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasia and bloat and skin problems, heart disease and ear infections as well as a number of other conditions. They are more likely to develop cancers, such as hemangiosarcoma which affects organs that are blood-rich, including the liver and spleen.
The peritoneum is a fibrous, tough connective tissue that surrounds the spleen as well as the blood vessels that supply it. Inflammation of the peritoneum can cause pain and discomfort. Peritoneal swelling can lead to complications like liver disease, kidney infection, and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have double coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. The breed has an annual molting process once or twice a year You can also use an undercoat de-shedding tool, rake, or slicker brush to help reduce the amount of shed to a minimum.
GSDs can be affected by a condition known as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This occurs when the cushion of jelly that sits between two vertebrae breaks or sags, causing it to press on the spinal cord. The symptoms include difficulty jumping, climbing stairs or moving around, being reluctant to move in a hunched posture and the dragging of the feet behind. If you notice any of these symptoms seek out a doctor immediately. The condition could quickly progress and cause paralysis or even death. A veterinary doctor can move discs to lessen symptoms or eliminate them altogether.