Buy German Shepherds
If properly trained and socialized from a young age, German Shepherds are well with children. They can be quite good with other dogs too.
Responsible breeders monitor their dogs for health issues to ensure that they don't pass on any health issues to their puppies. They also put lots of effort and time into bringing their litters up.
Temperament
German Shepherds are extremely intelligent dogs, making them highly adaptable and quick to pick up training. These loyal dogs are also extremely loyal and protective of their loved ones. These qualities make them excellent military or police canines as well as adored family companions.
The temperament of a German Shepherd is as varied as any other breed. The temperament of a pup is determined by three aspects: bloodlines and socialization. It is crucial to buy a puppy from a responsible breeder who has an outstanding temperament. A reputable breeder will provide you with the results of the dog's temperament testing from the American Temperament Test Society or the German Shepherd Dog Club of America both of which are well-known and respected organizations.
If you are looking for a German Shepherd puppy, select one with an inquisitive and outgoing personality. Avoid shy puppies, which are fearful and hiding. These puppies do not have the true German Shepherd character and may be difficult to train. It is crucial to expose your new German Shepherd pup to people as well as places and things as soon as you can to help him become accustomed to the sounds, sights, and smells.
German Shepherds require a lot of exercise. They must run and swim in order to let their energy out. If you do not have the space or time to devote to the German Shepherd then this breed may not be the right one for you. This is why it is important to ensure that these dogs are leashed at all times in public areas, since they can become easily distracted and may not be able to follow the normal commands.
German Shepherd males are larger and more muscular than females, however they have very similar personalities. In general, females tend to be more reserved than males.
German Shepherds have a thick double coat, which requires a little more maintenance than other breeds. You'll have to brush them frequently to remove dirt and tangles. You will also need to trim their nails and clean their teeth every couple of weeks.
Health
German Shepherds require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. If you live in an apartment or have a small space for your dog to run and play with, a professional obedience trainer may be necessary to teach you the basic commands and assist you in training your dog to behave.
German Shepherds, like any breed, are susceptible to a variety of health issues. One of the most prevalent is degenerative myelopathy (DM), an incurable neurological condition that causes weakness in the back legs, which eventually causes paralysis. DM is a genetic condition and it's recommended to purchase your German Shepherd puppy from a responsible breeder who screen parents for the disease and take care not to pass it on to their puppies.
Epilepsy is a second issue that could arise. Recommended Reading is an illness that causes the brain's electrical activity changes, causing seizures. If your German Shepherd has epilepsy, you'll need to take him on a daily basis to keep him from having seizures. Some veterinary specialists specialise in treating dogs with epilepsy and have a variety of medications to treat the condition.
In addition, German Shepherds may be susceptible to ear infections when the ears are exposed to too much humidity. Swimming, bathing or using ear cleansing liquid too often can cause the ears to become hydrated and lead to the growth of bacteria and infection. Make sure you keep your German Shepherd's ears dry and only clean them if they are visibly dirty or if you see visible debris.
If you decide to adopt a German Shepherd, make sure that the rescue centre has provided you with the dog's medical background. You should also think about getting your dog spayed or neutered and also consider a pet insurance policy that will help with unexpected vet expenses.
German Shepherds are usually great with children. However they must be supervised when around children, especially toddlers. They're usually fine with other pets too, but it's best to introduce them slowly and carefully. If your German shepherd was not raised with cats and other small animals, it's likely that he will have a natural urge for them.
Training
German Shepherds are herding breeds, which means they require lots of body and mind stimulation. If they don't receive enough stimulation, they can become destructive or act out. They're best suited to homes with yards, where they can play and run. They'll also be a great fit in apartments if you make sure they're getting enough exercise and attention every day.
It is recommended to purchase a German Shepherd from reputable breeders. This will allow you to avoid problems with health and behavior that are often the result of reckless breeding practices. Reputable breeders will screen both parents to prevent passing hereditary problems on to their pups. These include elbow and hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy the bloat (gastric dilation volvulus) and other ailments.
A good way to determine whether the German Shepherd breeder is reputable is to inquire if they are members of the American Kennel Club or have any other certifications. They should also be willing to answer any questions you may have about their breeds and breeding practices.
It is important to meet the breeder in person prior to making a purchase. You'll be able to get a better idea of the dog's personality and temperament. It's also a chance to gain knowledge about the breed and the best ways to care for it.
If you're considering for a German Shepherd puppy, be prepared to spend several thousand dollars on the puppy's first year. This includes grooming, vaccinations, food, and pet insurance. The cost will increase for each year you have the dog.
If you're buying a German Shepherd be sure to purchase all the necessary items you will need, such as a crate and collar. Select top-quality products that will withstand your dog's energy and powerful jaws. You'll also require a large, sturdy backyard fence to keep the dog secure when you're not at home. Also, be sure to keep the dog on a leash whenever you're in public places to avoid nippy behavior and dangerous encounters. This is crucial because German Shepherds are pack-animals and are likely to become upset and anxious if they are kept in a cage, or even outside for long periods.
Care
German Shepherds require a lot of exercise to shed excess energy and to avoid destructive or annoying behavior like chewing, barking and digging. They need daily physical activities to keep them physically and mentally engaged. They will do well in a home that provides them a great deal of space. They need lots of attention and interaction. This will stop them from becoming bored or frustrated and can result in misbehavior like chewing on shoes or the couch.
They shed frequently and require regular grooming sessions - 2-3 times every week - to get rid of hair that is loose. They are also prone to certain genetic diseases like pancreatic, intestinal, and food sensitivities as well as allergies. These can be managed through a healthy diet and avoiding table foods, snacks for people, and treats for dogs.
They can make excellent pets for families if they are properly trained. They are able to be trained for specialized jobs, such as helping people with disabilities or sniffing out drugs or even serving in the military. If you're planning to purchase a German Shepherd it is important to choose a trustworthy German Shepherd breeder. They will test parents for health issues and then socialize puppies from a young age so that they don't be frightened or aggressive with strangers.
German Shepherds, just like all dogs, need to be examined every year to ensure that they are healthy and that they are protected by all the necessary vaccines. They also have a tendency to a myriad of health conditions, including cancers. Hemangiosarcoma is one of the most common cancers of German Shepherds, which tends to develop in blood-rich organs like the spleen and liver. Other health issues include intestinal, lung and bone cancers. Contact your physician immediately in the event that you experience any of these symptoms.