Should You Buy a German Shepherd Baby?
German shepherds are a smart and confident breed that could make great companions. If you want one, expect to spend $200-$3000 on an animal from a breeder who has a good reputation.
Although backyard breeders may sell puppies at a lower cost but their puppies are more likely to be afflicted with serious health issues. Backyard breeding often results in hip dysplasia that is inherited and other genetic diseases.
Health
German Shepherd puppies can be very intelligent, but only if they're healthy. To keep their personalities and minds active, they require daily stimulation and handling. A healthy puppy also has a strong desire to learn and eagerly respond to training commands. This makes them excellent police dogs, service dogs, and even therapy dogs.
Responsible breeders screen their parents for health issues to avoid passing these diseases on to their puppies. You should inquire with the breeder about health history of the parents and genetic testing before you buy a German Shepherd puppy. Craigslist and other classified websites are a great source to find purebred puppies at a cheaper price. However, these puppies are often not bred from a healthy parent and may be suffering from hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia or degenerative myelopathy.
These inherited problems can also cause neurological problems that affect the spine, brain or muscles. For instance German Shepherds can suffer from exocrine pancreatic dysfunction as well as from Willebrand disease and heart problems, such as bloat. Many of these ailments are preventable with a proper diet, exercise, and regular vet checks.
A healthy puppy has a strong immune system and is less likely to suffer from hereditary conditions as they age. They must be physically well-balanced and mentally alert.
You can purchase a German Shepherd puppy from a reliable breeder or adopt one from a rescue center. Rescue centers typically offer many breeds of dogs, including German Shepherds and more details about the dogs.
No matter where you decide to get your German Shepherd puppy, it's an excellent idea to create a pet insurance. It's a recurring expense, but it helps pay for medical treatment and medications if your dog is sick or injured. It's generally best to begin this coverage right away prior to your puppy becoming injured or sick, so that you can select the best policy for your requirements. A quality commercially available, complete dog food should be fed to your German Shepherd puppy on a every day basis.
Training
If you are thinking of buying a German shepherd puppy, you should first be aware of your lifestyle and family's needs. GSDs are highly intelligent and extremely active dogs that require a large deal of physical exercise and stimulation for their minds. In addition, they need to be socialized early in their lives to overcome their fear of strangers. GSDs are highly trained and are responsive to positive reinforcement. Be prepared for a lot of time spent training your dog, and make sure to enroll in dog-training classes with a professional trainer or hire a seasoned trainer to help you learn the right techniques.
deutsche schäferhunde welpen kaufen österreich should also give your dog plenty of grooming and exercise. This breed sheds a lot and you'll have to vacuum frequently to get rid of hair from the floors and furniture. You will need to brush your long-haired German Shepherd regularly (especially on the face and legs) to keep its fur clean and tangle free. Making sure you invest in a shed tool and a furminator can help you reduce the amount of hair that you have to vacuum.
GSDs have a high level of intelligence and are very energetic. They require to be trained consistently in obedience to orders and good house manners. Socialization with strangers early on is also necessary to overcome their fear of strangers. GSDs can be overwhelming for novice owners, so it is generally best to consult an experienced trainer to ensure you are fully trained and ready to care for this beautiful and intelligent breed.
GSDs are a large and muscular breed that is at risk for certain health problems, including hip dysplasia, spinal cord diseases and genetic eye disorders. To avoid these health issues it is recommended that you purchase a German Shepherd puppy from an accredited dog breeder who does regular health screenings and provides vaccinations and veterinary care. Consider purchasing a health insurance policy, like the one offered by trupanion. This will cover veterinary emergency treatment for your dog if it develops a medical problem.
Exercise
German Shepherds are active throughout the day. They also tend to shed more than other breeds, which means they need regular brushing and bathing. Their physical size makes them ideal for houses with yards, rather than apartments or condos. The best way to ensure your German Shepherd is active is by playing with him daily and taking him out for walks or runs. Exercise him regularly to prevent weight problems and behavioral issues.
German Shepherd puppies, like other breeds of dog, are prone to certain health issues. This includes knee and hip dysplasias, degenerative myelopathy (a condition that affects the hind legs) and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. It is recommended to select a reliable German Shepherd breeder to protect your dog from the effects of these conditions. deutscher schäferhund lebenserwartung who are reputable will conduct a variety of health tests and provide the training and care the breed needs. They may charge more for screening than breeders who do not bother to spend the time.
As they get older, German Shepherds may develop other illnesses in addition to the genetic disorders. They are more prone to musculoskeletal issues, especially in the spine and knees. They may also be suffering from depression and anxiety. It is essential to seek out help for these disorders as quickly as possible.
You can buy a German Shepherd in pet stores or on the internet, however it is best to purchase from a trusted seller. Reputable breeders focus on raising puppies with excellent temperaments and ethical breeding practices. They will also have a history of winning competitions and working dogs in their pedigree. deutscher schäferhund lebenserwartung may be more expensive than breeders who focus on selling the most visually appealing puppies.
Care
German Shepherd puppies require a secured area to play and run off their energy. This will stop them from chewing or barking at things they shouldn't. You should also invest money into obedience training to keep your puppy from becoming a naughty dog. This will teach your German Shepherd commands like "sit", "down" and "come."
A yard that is fenced in will prevent your German Shepherd puppy being distracted by other animals or pets of your neighbors. You should also introduce your German Shepherd puppy to any other family pets as early as you can so that they are used to each other by the time they are adults. A well-bred German Shepherd should be fine around cats and smaller dogs, however they may be tempted to chase them.
A reputable breeder can ensure that the German Shepherd you purchase is healthy and has been through an extensive examination for the most common ailments. It will cost more than purchasing a German Shepherd from an unreliable source or a pet shop, but it's worth it in the long run to enjoy a healthy and happy dog.
Puppies require a lot of attention in the beginning and throughout their lives. They will require vaccinations, regular veterinary visits ( Routine grooming appointments (300-400 dollars) and premium food (700-$1200 per year). Other expenses include buying high-quality food, toys and collars and leashes ( $500-$800 per annum). Dog walkers and boarding services can add another $500-$1000 to the cost of owning a German Shepherd.
As they grow, puppies go through "gangly" periods where their muscles aren't fully developed and they appear to be a bit skeletal. This is completely normal and expected. Like an 18-year-old human, they will not look as full-figured as adults for a while.
In the effort to save money, backyard breeders often ignore important health screenings. This can cause a myriad of health problems, ranging from hip dysplasia, to autoimmune disorders. The purchase of your German Shepherd from a reputable breeder is the only way to guarantee that your new puppy is not suffering from these conditions. You will also save money in the end by not having to cover expensive veterinarian bills or treatments for your German Shepherd down the road.
