Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet shops offer German Shepherd puppies. If you're thinking of buying one, make sure you choose a reputable breeder.
Find a puppy that has an even temperament. Play with them, and observe how they interact with other puppies as well as with people.
schäferhunde suchen ein zuhause adhere to strict ethical breeding practices and prioritize health clearances for their puppies. They will provide a pedigree as well as medical records for the litter.
Temperament
German Shepherds are strong powerful dogs that have a natural sense of protection. They are a bit nervous around strangers, especially initially, but get comfortable quickly after being socialized. This confidence and courage in the face of danger can make them an ideal choice for police, military and guard dog positions. They can also be a protector of their possessions and people.
Whether you're looking for an obedience competition, service dog, or loyal family pet, the German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent breed. Their ability to learn and accomplish tasks is among the reasons they're so popular. These dogs have a strong bond with their family members and are able to participate in every activity at home. They are also great with children. They're energetic, and will happily play with children (and often other dogs). Like all dog breeds however, they can be agressive with other dogs and strangers. Training and socialization early can aid in preventing aggression issues.
A breeder's commitment to ethical breeding practices is crucial. You'll have to find a German Shepherd Breeder who follows the rules, including screening for health and testing, socialization and raising their pups in a home. You can often assess the integrity of a breeder by visiting the facility, chatting with the parents and other siblings and asking questions about the genetic background and health clearances.
The German Shepherd has a barrel chest, which makes it more prone to Bloat. This can be fatal. To reduce the risk, make sure to provide your puppy with plenty of water, feed him frequently and give him an appropriate food bowl.
Like many herding dogs German Shepherds can be very nippy and will naturally bark to alert you of approaching strangers or intruders. They can be taught to confidently and calmly greet people. It is also recommended to take your dog to puppy classes or engage an animal trainer if are not familiar with this powerful breed. This will ensure your German Shepherd is getting the right training and exercise that will prevent him from being destructive, or even attempting to escape. A microchip as well as a 24PetWatch subscription can help you return your pet in the event that he does run away.
Health
The GSD is a very robust breed that is extremely robust. However, like any other breed, it can be susceptible to certain hereditary conditions and diseases. It is essential to conduct your research to ensure that you buy from a trusted breeder who is concerned about the health and wellbeing of their dogs. Visit their premises, meet the owners and request health clearances and socialization records before making the purchase.
German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia (a condition that affects joints) as well as skeletal muscle weakness. This is especially true for dogs who are older. These problems can easily be treated with a balanced diet and exercise, as well as supplements and physical therapy.
Epilepsy is a different hereditary disorder that is found in GSDs. It's usually triggered by a metabolic issue (low blood sugar or organ failure) or a toxin. It could also occur if there is no other cause, which is classified as primary or idiopathic Epilepsy. If your dog has this condition it will require a lifetime of medication in order to control seizures.
Cancer is a different affliction that can affect GSDs particularly hemangiosarcoma, which is an aggressive tumor that develops in blood-rich organs like the spleen and liver. The symptoms include fatigue and swelling. It can also cause sudden collapse. This condition is extremely painful and there is no cure. Treatment focuses on managing the symptoms.
Allergies are a regular problem for GSDs and can cause itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and weight loss. If you suspect that your dog is allergic, you'll have to conduct a complete medical examination, which includes an exhaustive examination and history, as well as tests for the ear and skin as well as labwork and the fecal test.
Degenerative myelopathy may affect GSDs, causing them to lose mobility. This disease usually occurs in the 20s and early 20s. The disease is caused by a genetic mutation and is identified by DNA testing. Symptoms of the disease progress and include difficulty rising or down, a reluctance to jump or rise, a loss of thigh muscle mass and pain. There is no cure for the condition, but it can be controlled with physical therapy and medication.
Training
GSDs have an innate work ethic and benefit from advanced obedience, agility, and training in protection. Their versatility makes them excellent service dogs and bomb sniffing dogs and guides for blind.
As a breed, German Shepherds are highly intelligent and eager to delight. However, they can be bored and susceptible to obsessive behaviors without adequate stimulation in their minds or bodies. They require an attentive, consistent and well-trained trainer to help them reach their maximum potential.
If you're looking to buy a purebred German Shepherd dog, make sure to choose a breeder that is reputable and who has the dog's wellbeing in mind. They should use a screening procedure to determine if the pups are a good fit for their family. They must also provide documentation on the puppy's pedigree, health clearances, as well as suggestions for training and care.
The breed standard says that although every German Shepherd is different, they must all be athletic, active and alert. They should be also cautious of their family members and sociable. It is possible to ask the breeder about their breeding program and visit some of the puppies in person so you can observe their behavior and physical characteristics.
Many people mistake the traditional German Shepherd behaviors of barking or lunging at movements with aggression, but these are just normal responses that happen when a dog is triggered by something moving nearby. Some German Shepherds who cover their heads or avoid strangers are genetically shy. This can be "cured" through socialization but not necessarily cured.
While certain breeds shed a few hairs throughout the year, most dogs shed only twice per year -- for three weeks in spring when they switch from a thicker winter coat to a thinner summer one and then again in autumn as they prepare for the transition back to a thicker winter coat. That means you'll have to keep up with your daily walks as well as plenty of playtime and exercise, and lots of lint rollers. Being well-trained and socialized German Shepherd in your home will mean a great deal of love, loyalty, and companionship for the years to be.
You can also learn how to care for yourself.
German Shepherds require constant training to avoid unwanted behaviors such as digging, chewing and excessive barking. They are highly intelligent dogs that are able to learn and enjoy having a purpose in life. If left unattended for long periods of time they may become bored and destructive. A large yard or dog park is a must to help them channel their energy and provide them with a place to go for their intense physical activity.
Reputable breeders will be able to provide you with pedigree papers and health clearances for the parents of the puppies. You should visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to verify that the breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices.
Due to their genetic predisposition, GSDs are more prone to elbow and hip dysplasia and bloat and skin problems, heart disease as well as ear infections, and many other ailments. They are also more likely to develop hemangiosarcoma, a form of cancer that affects blood-rich organs, including the spleen and liver.
The Peritoneum is a fibrous and tough connective tissue that covers the spleen, as well as the blood vessels that supply it. Peritoneal inflammation can cause pain and discomfort. Peritoneal inflammation can cause other complications including kidney infection, liver disease and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have double coats that require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. The breed will go 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 shed.
GSDs can suffer from a condition called intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This happens when the jelly-like cushion between two vertebrae ruptures or slips and presses on the spinal cord. Symptoms include difficulty moving, climbing stairs, or jumping. They also include a hunched-back and dragging the feet behind. If you observe any of these symptoms you should consult a physician immediately. The condition can quickly develop and cause paralysis or death. A doctor can reposition a disc to reduce symptoms or eliminate them.