Should You Buy a German Shepherd?
A German Shepherd is a costly and emotional purchase. You can avoid making mistakes that could cost you time and money by doing your research before you buy.
Talk to schäferhund welpe kaufen to get recommendations for ethical breeders. Make sure you and your family commit to daily walks or games as well as other physical activity. German Shepherds need exercise to avoid boredom and frustration that can result in chewed shoes and furniture.
Find schäferhunde kaufen trusted breeder
You'll want to find a breeder who is competent and accountable. They'll be honest about their breeding methods and willing to share pedigrees. They'll also take care not to breed puppies that carry genetic diseases.
You can locate reliable breeders by asking your veterinarian for recommendations or checking the websites of dog clubs as well as performance events. Breeders usually have a facility where they raise their dogs and offer classes for training at an additional fee. This is a good way to socialize your puppy and get started on basic obedience training.
Look for a breeder who breeds for temperament and health instead of looks or coat color. A reputable breeder adheres to strict breeding standards, and also screens for genetic disorders common to German Shepherd Dogs. They also verify the health of their puppies by orthopedic and DNA testing.
Be wary of breeders who do not offer preventive care, like deworming and vaccines, or who insist that their supplements are superior to those given by your vet. Be wary of a breeder who demands you to sign contracts that contain stipulations that you're not happy with.
It's crucial to realize that breeders who raise puppies for a living, have an enormous responsibility. Many people depend on them for quality puppies. If a breeder fails to meet the highest standards, it can have a negative impact on the entire breed.
If you choose a backyard breeder, you could end with a dog who is unhealthy and unstable in their behavior. These dogs are often found on message boards or in online forums, asking for assistance in resolving the numerous issues with their temperament and health they suffer from. A mediocre breeder or one who is breeding in their backyard has little knowledge of what makes a German Shepherd Dog special. They are usually only trying to make a profit and not produce healthy pups. A reputable breeder will work their dogs in meaningful settings apart from basic obedience. They will train and name their dog in Schutzhund or any other performance event.
Talk to local veterinarians
German Shepherds are intelligent active dogs who bond deeply with their owners. They are herding dogs, and often are used as service dogs for the police or military, but they make great pets for families. They are prone to boredom and require lots of stimulation. They thrive in homes that have plenty of space and time to play.
Before you get a German Shepherd, talk to local veterinarians for recommendations regarding ethical breeders. Veterinarians have a lot of contacts with pet care providers including shelters, as well as private owners. They will know the best breeders in your locality. Ask them about any genetic disorders that are common to the breed. This includes degenerative myelopathy megaesophagus and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, among other conditions.
In New York there are several top-of-the-line facilities with staff members who are trained to work with German Shepherds. They include Veterinary Medical Center on Long Island, West Islip, and BluePearl Pet Hospital, Queens. These hospitals are equipped with state-of-the art facilities and their staff is trained to treat a variety of ailments and conditions that are common in this breed.
It is also worth contact with local German Shepherd breed clubs. They usually have lists of reputable breeders and can direct you in the right direction. You can also find out if the breeder has been tested by their parents for the most common genetic diseases.
A common problem for German Shepherds is hip dysplasia. This occurs when the hip joint doesn't fit perfectly. This can cause painful arthritis later in the course of. Breeders should x-ray dogs and only use dogs who have healthy hips for breeding. Heart disease is a common issue for the breed, and a good breeder should have both parents tested for dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and heart valve disease and heart murmurs.
You should never buy a German Shepherd from a breeder who does not prove that they have passed health tests for both parents. This is a red flag that the breeder may not follow strict breeding practices. In addition, it's not healthy for puppies to travel far distances. This can cause respiratory problems and stress.
Find a breeder with specialized Knowledge
German Shepherds are renowned for their herding instinct and a love of training which makes them excellent working dogs. They are also excellent guard dogs and are well-known for their loyalty towards family members. However, this protectiveness can become aggressive in the event that the dog isn't properly trained and socialized in its earliest years. The breed is active and requires plenty of exercise in order to avoid becoming bored. This can lead to behaviour problems such as chewing furniture, or barking. This is why it is important to choose a dog that is appropriate to your lifestyle and environment.
Ask your veterinarians in your area about ethical breeders if interested in finding an German Shepherd pup. Veterinarians are in a superior position to offer guidance on where to buy quality German Shepherds because they work closely with many animal care providers, including breeders, shelters and private owners.
Choose a breeder that maintains a close relationship with their breeding stock and maintains open communication with potential buyers. A responsible breeder will answer questions regarding health testing, early socialization, and the environment in which their puppies are fostered.
A reputable breeder will provide you with health certificates for every puppy they sell, which will detail the genetic history of the puppy. This includes hereditary conditions that are common to the breed, like megaesophagus or exocrine-pancreatic insufficiency. They will also give you an overview of recommended vaccinations and medicines for puppies that you must follow exactly to help reduce the chance of contracting disease.
As with all dogs, it is essential to schedule regular veterinary exams for your German Shepherd. This will help your veterinarian identify any potential issues before they become serious and avoid issues such as bloat, skin disorders, and heart disease. Since the breed is predisposed to heart problems and heart disease, it is crucial to listen to the heart with a stethoscope as well as examine the X-rays of the chest during routine checks.
German Shepherds can live for up to 12 years if they receive the proper care. Make sure you have the funds to purchase one and you have the time. Also, consider whether you have the space needed to house a large dog, and be prepared for the extra cost of grooming, food, toys, equipment and crates.
Be prepared to dedicate time to Early Training
German Shepherds are dogs who work with the ability to protect themselves and a natural need to herd. They are also extremely fearless, which is why they make excellent military and police dogs. However, these traits could be problematic for a pet at home. If they feel threatened, they could lunge at cars and bark at people. They can also bite.
You can tackle these issues by choosing a puppy with the appropriate temperament. However you'll need to put in the time and effort for early training. This includes house-training and addressing food-related aggression (GSDs often protect their food).
Your German Shepherd should be active in order to ensure that they are well-trained. This can include long hikes, joggs and runs, as well as fetch games. Puzzle toys and nose-work games can help to stimulate their minds. They are also heavy shedders and must be groomed regularly.
The best place to begin in your search for a breeder who is ethical is talking to local veterinarians. They are familiar with a wide range of animals and offer recommendations for ethical breeders and dog trainers. You can also speak with pet store owners or other German Shepherd owners in your local area.
If you decide to purchase a GSD choose breeders that offer health assurances. This can protect you from serious genetic diseases. These include hereditary eye disorders, hip dysplasias von Willebrand disease, and EPI.
If you're unable to locate a reliable breeder There are other options to get a German Shepherd. Animal shelters and rescue centers often have German Shepherds and breed-specific rescues may be found online. If you plan to adopt a GSD through a rescue center be sure to learn as much about the pup's background as you can before you bring them home. This will help you determine if the dog will be a good fit in your life. Also, make sure to ask about any health or behavioral issues your dog has faced. GSDs are intelligent dogs who will be able to respond well to appropriate training if they've been properly socialized during their puppyhood.