Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet shops offer German Shepherd puppies. If you're thinking of purchasing one, look for a reliable breeder.
Find a dog with an even temperament. Play with them, and watch how they interact with other puppies and with people.
Breeders who are reputable adhere to ethical breeding practices and give priority to health clearances for their puppies. They will provide a litter's pedigree and medical documents.
Temperament
German Shepherds have a powerful confidence level and are powerful dogs. They also have a natural inclination to protect themselves. They may be apprehensive initially, but warm up quickly after being socialized. This confidence and courage in the face of danger can make them a great choice for police, military and guard dog positions. They also can be guardians of their people and possessions.
The German Shepherd is an intelligent and strong-willed breed that can be employed as an aid dog, obedience competitor or loyal family pet. One of the reasons why they're so popular is their ability to learn and complete different tasks. They quickly be close to their families and love being active in the daily activities in their homes. They are also great for children. They're energetic and play with children and other dogs. Of course, as with all breeds of dog they may be nippy with strangers and other pets. Socialization and training early will aid in preventing aggression.
A breeder's commitment to ethical breeding practices is important. You'll want to choose a German Shepherd breeder that follows standards such as screening and health testing, socialization, and raising their puppies indoors. You can often assess the integrity of a breeder by visiting the facility, talking to the parents and other siblings and asking questions about the genetic history and health clearances.
The German Shepherd has a barrel chest, making it prone to bloat. This could be fatal. To avoid the risk, make sure to feed your puppy plenty of water, feed him frequently, and provide an appropriate food bowl.
Like many herding dogs German Shepherds can be nippy. They will naturally bark to alert you of approaching intruders or strangers. However they can be trained to be calm and confident in greeting visitors. It's recommended to take your dog to puppy obedience classes or enlist the help of a seasoned dog trainer, particularly in case you're not a fan of this breed of dog. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is well-trained and exercised to prevent him from being destructive or attempting to escape. A microchip and a 24PetWatch membership can also help to return your pet if he ever does run away.
Health
The GSD is a strong breed, but like all dogs, they are susceptible to a variety of hereditary illnesses and conditions. Do your research and ensure you purchase from a reliable breeder who cares about the health of their dogs. Before you purchase, visit the facility and meet the owners. Also, request health clearances as well as socialization records.
German Shepherds are at risk of hip dysplasia (a condition that affects joints) and weakness of the skeletal muscle. This is especially the case for older dogs. These problems can easily be managed by a balanced diet and exercise and supplements and physical therapy.
Epilepsy is another hereditary condition that is found in GSDs. It's usually caused by an issue with metabolism (low blood sugar or organ failure) or a toxin. It can also occur if there is no other reason for it, and is called Idiopathic or primary Epilepsy. If your dog is suffering from this condition, it will require lifelong medication to manage seizures.
Cancer is another condition that can affect GSDs, particularly hemangiosarcoma, which is a malignant tumor that develops in blood-rich organs like the spleen and liver. The symptoms include fatigue, swelling and sudden collapse. This condition is extremely painful and there is no cure. Treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms.
Allergies are also a common problem for GSDs and can cause itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive issues including vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. If you suspect your dog is allergic, it's best to conduct a complete medical examination, which includes a thorough examination and history, as well as diagnostic testing of the ear and skin as along with lab work and a the fecal test.
Degenerative myelopathy can affect GSDs and cause them to lose mobility. schäferhund kaufen österreich occurs in the 20s and early 20s. This disease is caused by a genetic mutation and can be identified through DNA tests. The symptoms of the disease are a increasing difficulty getting up, a lack of willingness to jump or stand with ease, pain, and loss of muscle mass in the thighs. The condition is not cureable, but it can be treated with physical therapy and medications.
Training
GSDs have an impressive work ethic and benefit from advanced obedience agility, agility, and training in protection. Their versatility makes them ideal service and bomb sniffing dogs and guides for the blind.
As a breed German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent and eager to be pleasing. They are easily bored, and may develop obsessive behaviors without adequate physical or mental stimulation. They need a solid, consistent, and patient trainer to help them develop their full potential and to help them remain focused when faced with distractions.
If you're looking to buy a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to locate a reputable breeder who works with the best interests of the dog in mind. They should have a screening process to ensure that the puppies are a good fit to their families. They will also offer proof of the puppy's pedigree, health clearances and suggestions for training and care.
The breed standard says that although each German Shepherd is different, they must all be athletic, active and alert. They should also be protective of their family members and sociable. You may want to ask the breeder about their breeding program and see some of the puppies in person to can observe their behavior and physical characteristics.
Many people confuse the classic German Shepherd behavior of barking and lunging at movement as aggression. These are just natural responses that occur whenever dogs are activated when something is moving near. Some German Shepherds who cover their heads or shy away from strangers are genetically shy. This can be "cured" through socialization but not necessarily cured.
While certain breeds shed hairs throughout the year. Most dogs shed only every year for three weeks in spring when they transition from a thicker winter coat to a lighter summer coat and then in fall as they prepare to transition back to a thicker winter coat. That means you'll have to keep up with daily walks with plenty of playtime, exercise, and lots of lint rollers. A well-trained, well-socialized German shepherd will bring you years of friendship, love, and loyalty.
Care
German Shepherds need to be trained consistently to prevent undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, excessive digging and chewing. They are intelligent dogs that love to learn and have a goal. If left alone for a long time, they can become bored and destructive. A large dog or backyard park is a must to let them run loose and provide them with a place to go for their intense physical activity.
Reputable breeders can provide you with documentation proving the pedigree of the puppies as well as their parents' health certificates. You should also visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to confirm that the breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices.
GSDs, as a result of their genetic predisposition are more susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasias, bloats and bloats, as well as heart disease, and skin issues. They are also prone skin conditions, ear infections, and ear infections. They are more likely to develop cancers such as hemangiosarcoma which affects organs that are blood-rich including the liver as well as the spleen.
The spleen and the blood vessels that supply it are surrounded by a tough, fibrous connective tissue, known as the peritoneum. Peritoneal inflammation can cause pain and discomfort. Peritoneal swelling could lead to complications such as kidney disease, liver disease, and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have double coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. The breed goes through a molting cycle once or twice a year. You can employ a deshedding tool, an undercoat rake, or a slicker to reduce the amount of hair shed.
GSDs could be suffering from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This happens when the jelly-like cushion that lies between two vertebrae ruptures or slips and presses on the spinal cord. The symptoms include difficulty jumping on stairs, climbing up or moving around, a reluctance to move, a hunched back and dragging of the back feet. If you notice these signs, seek veterinary attention immediately since the condition may develop quickly and result in paralysis and even death. A veterinarian can reposition discs to lessen symptoms or eliminate them.