Where to Buy German Shepherd Puppies
A popular choice for military, police and other service dogs German Shepherds are intelligent, protective and loyal. They are also extremely active and require lots of stimulation and exercise.
Socialization and early training are crucial because their natural protection can manifest as aggression towards strangers. They may also display compulsive actions like tail-chasing.
deutscher schäferhund welpen kaufen are generally healthy, but good breeding practices can lower the risk of developing certain health issues. Breeders who are reputable monitor their parents to prevent passing preventable issues to puppies, including hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy.
Whatever their breeding history, all puppies should be examined by a veterinarian before they leave for their new homes. This allows the vet to determine and treat any health issues as soon as possible to avoid complications and improve outcomes.
When it concerns the health of your German Shepherd dog, regular vet visits are essential. Regular veterinary examinations as well as vaccinations and other preventive measures can help your dog lead a long and happy life.
Some health concerns that are specific to German Shepherds include autoimmune disease, hemangiosarcoma, seizures, epilepsy and other bleeding disorders. These conditions can be managed and prevented by following the correct diet, avoiding table foods and treats, and starting preventive medication as early as is possible.
A common health issue that can affect all dogs is gastrointestinal problems, such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. This could be caused by eating the wrong food, food allergies or underlying medical conditions. High-quality commercial foods and frequent urination, as well as drinking plenty of water and avoiding sweets can help with digestive problems.
German Shepherds have deep, narrow chests, which can make them susceptible to bloat and gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV). This condition is caused by gas that fills the stomach and twists around itself, severing the blood supply and resulting in death if left untreated. GDV symptoms include heaving, retching, but not swallowing. They also have an overly large stomach, restlessness, and a lack of energy. A preventive procedure to suture or tack the stomach may reduce the chance of contracting this deadly disease.
Dental disease is another frequent problem that affects all dogs, but in particular German Shepherds. If not treated tartar build-up could lead to gum disease and infection of the roots of the teeth. Your German Shepherd may eventually lose her teeth, or require expensive and extensive treatment. This could be emotionally and financially difficult for your pet.
Training
German Shepherds are intelligent herding dogs that have been extensively used as protection, service and police dogs. They are active, athletic and extremely trainable. They are an ideal fit for people who are active and have lots of time to training, exercise and removing hair that has fallen out. They are also ideal for people who want to have a trustworthy, highly capable friend.
A well-trained German Shepherd is a reliable pet for all family members. This includes children as well as older adults. They can be protective of their family members, and are aloof towards strangers. These dogs are most effective with fair, firm and consistent methods of training. They also require a lot of mental stimulation, which is why a good variety of games and puzzles for training is vital to keep them focused.
Look for an German Shepherd breeder that cares about the quality of their puppies and wants to develop a relationship with you. They should show you the litter and their mother, their health history, the environment that they were raised in and be able to answer your questions. They should be able to inform you how the pups were socialized and how they compare with their siblings.
Be wary of puppies that are sold in pet stores. They are more likely from mills than reputable breeders. They are typically created to generate money, and could have serious issues genetically. A reputable breeder will screen their breeding stock in order to avoid hereditary diseases and other health issues from arising in the pups.
No matter how you choose your puppy, it is essential to start training early on. Learn the basics of commands, such as sit down, stay, and sit. Also, work on leash training so your German Shepherd is at peace when you are out and about. Training in obedience early is essential to keep them from chasing everything that moves. You can also stimulate their natural instinct to herd by performing some recall exercises.
Spend time with them while they're young to help them be taught to love you. This is crucial because they go through a crucial socialization phase from around 16 weeks old, after which they could be less receptive to new experiences, people and places.
Care
Whatever you buy your German Shepherd from, he'll need a lifetime of attention. This includes annual veterinary visits and vaccinations, as well as preventive medications ($700-$1200 annually). You'll be required to pay for pet food, grooming appointments and an annual pet insurance policy. $250-$300 annually). Think about the additional costs associated with dog walker, boarding, and professional obedience training, which could add up to a few thousand dollars over the course of your puppy's life.
Look for a breeder that adheres to high standards and good breeding practices. Ask the breeder to provide documentation of hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia testing for both the mother and the father and temperament tests for the litter.
Ask local veterinarians, German Shepherd owners, dog groomers and trainers for suggestions. These people are familiar with animals, and they are aware of a great deal about breeders who are ethical.
Although a German shepherd's herding instinct can cause him to leap and chase others, he will respond to training and discipline. Introduce him to all the members of your family as you grow. German Shepherds are extremely attached to their families and require lots of socialization.
Dogs are susceptible to dental diseases. It begins with tartar buildup and progresses into gum inflammation and the teeth's roots. It's a common issue that can lead to loss of teeth as well as serious complications like kidney, liver and heart disease.
Cancer is another issue, especially in 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 the intestinal.
If you can't afford the cost of a purebred German Shepherd puppy, you might be able to rescue one from an animal shelter. The staff at the shelter can assist you choose a dog that has a an excellent temperament and is compatible with your lifestyle. Adopting a dog may be less expensive than purchasing one, and adoption costs typically include medical exams, vaccines and spaying or neutering. The shelter's staff can also offer advice on how to prepare your home for a dog, such as making sure the area is secure and removing anything that could be chewed or eaten.
Exercise
German Shepherd puppies are incredibly active and need to have an outlet for their energy. If they don't have enough exercise, it can result in them being restless and redirected the energy into something that isn't desirable such as digging through the yard or chewing on whatever is within reach.
It's an excellent idea to expose them to a variety of different people, locations, and situations while they're young, as it will help them realize that there isn't always a threat. This can be done by going on walks in the street and in parks, getting to know neighbors during play sessions or even taking them to places they haven't been before (as as they're safe).
It's a good idea aside from getting out and socializing, to incorporate obedience training during workouts. This can be as simple as teaching them to sit and stay on their mats, but it could be as complex as doing heelwork with them or playing recall games.
Dog sports like agility and flyball are great for your German Shepherd pup and can also aid in improving their mental skills. Be sure to start off slowly with these kinds of exercises to ensure you don't stress your dog. Avoid engaging your German Shepherd during extreme weather conditions. This could lead to diseases caused by heat in young dogs.
Apart from these activities, it's also recommended to take your German Shepherd puppy for daily walks. They require this to engage in physical activity and to explore the world outside of their home. It is a good idea to vary where you go on your walks to ensure that they experience new surroundings and are exposed to the sounds in this wonderful world that they live in.