How to Buy a German Shepherd Pup
German Shepherds require regular walks as well as playtime and other activities. They should be socialized with other pets, household pets and children from an early age to prevent aggression or dominance issues later in life.
Do your research on the breeder of your puppy and its lineage. Like all dogs, they may inherit genetic diseases such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia as well as bloat (gastric torsion)..
Personality
German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs that thrive when faced with challenges. They're loyal and obedient but they are also cautious of strangers. They may be extremely guarded and bark at other dogs, cars or other people if they feel that their family is in danger.
These dogs are highly trained and learn quickly. This makes them a preferred choice for police work, military roles, and search and rescue missions. They're also excellent companions because they love the outdoors, are energetic and have a regal sense of stoicism rarely found in other breeds.
The physical and mental acuity of this herding breed make them natural athletes and they thrive in an environment in which they can utilize their energy. They excel in dog-related sports such as agility, obedience and tests for tracking. They also enjoy obedience, Schutzhund and obedience. A job gives them purpose and also stimulates their minds and bodies.
German Shepherds are susceptible to excessive vocalization when they are bored or excited due to their herding background. If not handled properly, this can lead to undesirable behavior. It is crucial to interact with and engage your dog from an early age to keep them occupied and active.
German Shepherds are smart and obedient. They are responsive to positive reinforcement and are easy to train. Though they aren't always easy to train and require a firm, but gentle approach to training to avoid them becoming frustrated or overwhelmed, they are easy to train. It is recommended that you hire a professional trainer to help in your training.
German Shepherds are a loving and loyal breed that enjoys attention and playtime with their families. They are active and require lots of exercise and mental stimulation to remain happy and healthy. If you're considering adopting one Be honest with yourself about the amount of time you'll need to dedicate to their needs and ensure they're not left unattended. If left alone for long enough, they could easily become destructive or suffer from depression and anxiety. To avoid this, don't leave your German Shepherd unattended for more than a couple of hours at a time and then gradually build up to longer periods of time.
Health
German Shepherds are healthy dogs especially when they're raised responsibly by responsible breeders. Breeders who test their dogs for hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia along with hemangiosarcoma as well as other breed-specific health conditions. This is why it's so important to only purchase from a reputable seller. A good breeder will also offer their puppies regular health checks throughout their lives.
GSDs are herding animals and require lots of attention and exercise to be happy. They must be exercising at minimum two hours every day, which includes walks and time off-leads in a safe place. Training on top will give them the most intense exercise. Being able to have enough space to play and roam around will also help to reduce the stress levels.
Like many other large dogs GSDs are susceptible to arthritis as they get older. This can cause them to limp, or have a bunny hop gait. Talk to your vet to determine the best treatment plan. Depending on the severity of the issue it may be necessary to make a change in diet or supplements.
Another condition that is common to German Shepherds is degenerative myelopathy, which causes weakness in the hind legs. Fortunately physical therapy can help slow the progression of this condition.
A few German Shepherds are born with hip dysplasia, meaning their ball and socket joint doesn't fit together well. This can result in discomfort, difficulty standing, and in the more severe cases the condition can cause paralysis. If your dog is suffering from this condition, your veterinarian will suggest a different exercise regimen and a healthier diet to lessen the symptoms.
German Shepherds may also develop cancer, particularly bone, lung, and abdominal cancers. The signs of cancer may include weakness, loss of appetite as well as vomiting, weight loss and diarrhea.
German Shepherds may also have an overactive Thyroid, which is a hormonal imbalance. This can cause them to urinate more frequently, have trouble breathing, and become very tired. Your vet will examine your dog's stethoscope or perform an X-ray to check for this symptom. If your dog has this condition, your vet will prescribe medication to treat it.
Training
German Shepherds are highly trained and are well-suited to early training. They are quick to learn and enjoy working with their handlers. This makes them a popular breed for law enforcement, and protection work. They are also a favorite companion for families with children. Like all dogs, they have to be exercised regularly to burn off the energy. You must have the time and the space to give your German Shepherd the daily mental and physical stimulation it requires.
Be sure to check the reputation of the breeder prior to you purchase a German Shepherd. Look for a responsible breeder that checks their parents to avoid passing on health issues that are preventable, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy. You should also inquire about the background and age of the puppies.
If you are looking for a German Shepherd that can be trained to become a service dog, or compete in IPO competitions, then choose the working line. They have been trained in obedience, tracking, and protection training. Working-line breeders are available in North America and Europe. They offer puppies and "started" dogs, which have received extensive training in obedience training, protection, tracking and aggression training. These puppies and dogs can cost as much as $20,000 per dog.
Before purchasing a German Shepherd, make sure you have the money to purchase it. It will cost you nearly $3500 in the first year, including the cost of pet food and vet care. You can expect to spend between $500 and $1500 a year on your dog's maintenance and health. If you aren't able to buy a German Shepherd dog, consider adopting one from a shelter.
When you are choosing when choosing a German Shepherd, bear in mind their size and strength. They're not suited to all families and might not be compatible with smaller dogs. They also require a lot of exercise to avoid getting bored, which could result in destructive behaviors. If you don't have the time or space to give a German Shepherd with the exercise it needs, consider a different breed. The right German Shepherd will be a loyal, loving family member for many years to come.
Care
German Shepherds are a large, strong breed that requires regular exercise to get rid of their energy. was kostet ein reinrassiger schäferhund is why it's important to ensure you have enough time and space for this dog before adopting it. They are also susceptible to separation anxiety, which is why it's essential to start with them and socializing at a young age.
They are vocal because of their herding background and require the opportunity to be heard in a safe environment. To prevent this from escalating into an aggressive behavior it is essential to enroll in dog obedience classes or hire an experienced dog trainer for your German Shepherd from the beginning of their lives.
You should be prepared to commit for a long time, whether you decide to teach your German Shepherd yourself or hire an experienced dog trainer. The average life expectancy of a German Shepherd is 10-12 years, which means that you'll have to commit to making your new dog a part of your family for the duration of your life.
The dogs must be fed a high-quality commercial food designed for their size and age. The recommended serving size will be on the label, but it is also helpful to talk with your veterinarian on the amount your dog can eat per day. It is not recommended to give your German Shepherd any treats that are more than 10 percent of their daily allowance.
Like any dog, German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues. This breed is susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasias as well as degenerative myelopathy and epilepsy/seizures. Breeders with a good reputation will screen their dogs to decrease the risk of passing genetic illnesses their pups.
This breed also has a higher-than-average risk of bloat. This is because they have a chest-shaped breed. If not treated quickly the condition could become fatal. It is important to know the signs of bloat so that you be aware of the best time to bring your German Shepherd into an emergency vet.