Buy a Purebred German Shepherd Pup
Many pet shops sell German Shepherd puppies. If you're considering buying one, you should look for an accredited breeder.
Find a puppy with an the same temperament. Play with them and observe how they interact with the other puppies and people.
Reputable breeders follow strict ethical breeding practices and prioritize health clearances for their pups. They will provide a pedigree as well as medical records for the litter.
Temperament
German Shepherds have a powerful sense of security and are strong dogs. They also have a natural instinct for security. They can be wary of strangers, especially at first but tend to become more comfortable once they have been socialized. The confidence and apprehension in the face of danger could make them a good option for police, military, and guard dog roles. They can also be protective of their belongings and family members.
The German Shepherd is an intelligent and strong-willed breed that can be used as an aid dog, obedience competitor or loyal pet for the family. One of the reasons they're so popular is their ability to learn and complete different tasks. These dogs are quick to bond with their families and love being engaged in all the activities of their home. schäferhund welpen österreich kaufen for children. They're active and happily play with children (and often other dogs). Of course, as with all breeds of dog they are prone to nipping with other pets and strangers. Socialization and training early will aid in preventing aggression.
It is important to know if a breeder adheres to ethical breeding practices. You'll want to find a German Shepherd breeder that follows guidelines like screening and health testing socialization, as well as raising their puppies in a controlled environment. You can usually determine the credibility of a breeder by going to the facility, chatting with 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 can be fatal. To reduce the risk, make sure you give your puppy plenty of water. Also, be schäferhund baby kaufen to feed him regularly and use a bowl with a secure seal.
Like many herding breeds, German Shepherds can be very nippy and will naturally bark to warn you of approaching intruders or strangers. However they can be trained to comfortably and confidently greet visitors. You should also take your dog to puppy classes or engage an expert dog trainer if you are not familiar with this powerful breed. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is getting the right training and exercise to prevent him from being destructive, or trying to escape. A microchip, in conjunction with 24PetWatch, can aid in finding your pet in the event that he gets away.
Health
The GSD is an extremely robust breed. But, just like any other breed, it can be susceptible to certain hereditary diseases and conditions. Do your research and ensure you purchase from a reliable breeder who is concerned about the health of their dogs. Before purchasing, visit the facility and meet the owners. Also, inquire about 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 true for older dogs. These issues can be easily controlled with an exercise program and a balanced diet as well as supplements and physical therapy.
Epilepsy is also inherited in GSDs. It's usually caused by an issue with metabolism (low blood sugar organ failure, toxin or organ failure). It can also happen if there is no other reason for it, and is known as Idiopathic or primary Epilepsy. If your pet is diagnosed with this disease the dog will require lifelong medication to help control seizures.
Cancer is another affliction that can affect GSDs especially hemangiosarcoma. It is a malignant tumor that develops in blood-rich organs such as the liver and spleen. Swelling, lethargy, and sudden collapse are the most common symptoms. This condition is incredibly painful, and there is no cure, so treatment focuses around managing the symptoms.
Allergies are also a common issue in GSDs. They can cause itchy skin, ear infections, and digestive issues including vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. If you suspect that your dog is allergic, you'll have to perform a full medical workup, including an extensive examination and history, tests for the ears and skin as well as labwork and the fecal test.
Degenerative myelopathy is a condition that affects GSDs and causes them to lose their mobility, typically in their early 20s. This disease is caused by an inherited mutation that can be identified through DNA tests. The symptoms of the disease include a gradual difficulty getting up, a lack of the ability to stand or jump with ease, pain, and loss of muscle mass in the thighs. There is no cure for the disease however it is treatable with physical therapy and medication.
Training
GSDs have an impressive work ethic and benefit from advanced obedience agility, agility, as well as training in protection. Their versatility makes them excellent service and bomb sniffing dogs as well as guides for blind people.
German Shepherds are intelligent and eager to delight. They can easily become bored, and can develop obsessive behavior when they do not receive enough physical or mental stimulation. They need a solid steady, consistent, and patient trainer to help them reach their full potential and to help them remain confident in the face of distractions.
If you're looking to buy a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to locate a reputable breeder who works with the dog's best interests in mind. They must have a screening process to ensure that the puppies will be a good fit to their families. They will also offer documentation of the puppy's pedigree, health certificates, and suggestions for care and training.
The breed standard says that although each German Shepherd is different, they should all be active, athletic and alert. They must be also secure around their family members and be sociable. You may want to ask the breeder about their breeding program and see some of the puppies in person so you can evaluate their temperament and physical traits.
Many people confuse the classic German Shepherd behaviors of barking or lunging at movements with aggression, but they are normal reactions that occur when a dog is activated by something that is moving around. Some German Shepherds who cover their heads or avoid strangers are genetically shy. This can be "cured" through socialization, but not cured.
While some breeds shed a few hairs throughout the year, the majority of dogs only shed heavily twice a year -- for three weeks in spring, when they switch from an extra thick winter coat to a lighter summer one and then again in fall as they prepare to transition back to a thicker winter coat. This means you'll need to keep up with your daily walks, plenty of playtime and 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 must be trained consistently to prevent undesirable behaviors like excessive barking, excessive digging and chewing. They are highly intelligent dogs that learn easily and love to have an objective in life. They can get bored when left to themselves for a long time. It is essential to provide them with a huge backyard or dog park to channel their energy.
Breeders who are reputable will be able to provide you with pedigree records and health clearances for the parents of the pups. You should also visit the breeding facility and meet the parents to ensure that the breeder follows ethical breeding practices.
GSDs, because of their genetic predisposition are more susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasias, bloats disease and skin problems. They can also be prone for skin problems, ear infections and ear infections. They are more likely to develop cancers, such as hemangiosarcoma which affects organs rich in blood including the liver and spleen.
The spleen and the blood vessels that supply it are enclosed by an extremely tough, fibrous connective tissue called the peritoneum. When the peritoneum becomes inflamed it can cause discomfort and pain. Peritoneal inflammation can lead to other complications, including kidney disease, liver disease and pancreatitis.
German Shepherds have a double coat that require regular brushing in order to avoid tangling and matting. The breed goes through a molting process once or twice a year. You can use a deshedding tool, an undercoat rake, or a slicker, to reduce the amount of shed.
GSDs may suffer from intervertebral disk diseases (IVDD). This happens when the jelly-like pad that sits between the vertebrae breaks and presses on the spinal chord. Signs include difficulty moving, climbing stairs or jumping. They may also be accompanied by a slumped-back posture and dragging the back feet. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek veterinary attention immediately as the condition can accelerate and eventually cause paralysis and even death. A doctor can move the disc in order to lessen or eliminate the symptoms.