Buy a German Shepherd Puppy
A German Shepherd puppy will thrive in a home that has plenty of space for exercise and training. You'll need to find a reputable dog breeder who offers health and temperament tests for each litter they sell.
Look for puppies who are curious and fearless of people. Avoid deutsche schäferhunde kaufen that exhibit territorial aggression. This could pose a risk to those who visit. Training in obedience and early socialization can reduce aggressive behavior.
Health
German Shepherds are healthier than other breeds, yet they are more prone to specific health problems. Breeders who are responsible screen their puppies for hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia (similar to Lou Gehrig's Disease), degenerative myelopathy and bloat, cancer, allergies and heart disease. A reputable vet will suggest routine veterinary checks in addition to a balanced and healthy diet, mental and physical exercise, and early intervention in the event of any health issues.
German Shepherds should not overwork themselves despite their athletic nature. This could lead to joint problems like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which can be painful. Losing weight, reducing activity and taking joint supplements and administering anti-inflammatory medications can ease symptoms such as the loss of mobility and limping.
Another health issue that is common among German Shepherds is pannus. It affects the cornea and could cause blindness if not addressed promptly. This condition occurs more often in dogs at higher altitudes, with high exposure to UV light, or in areas with high levels of air pollution. It is important to keep your German Shepherd inside during the sunniest times of the day, providing a shaded area, or trying wearing a pair of doggie glasses can help stop the condition.
German Shepherds may suffer from osteoarthritis in later life, just like many other large breeds. This can be painful. While any breed can suffer from this condition, the likelihood is higher for larger breeds. If you choose to purchase an adult German Shepherd from a reputable breeder and providing them with plenty of exercise in a well-fenced yard can help reduce the effects of this disease.
Training
German Shepherd puppies have a large amount of energy and require lots of activity to burn it off. They thrive in a home with large open spaces and regular walks.
It's a good idea to start with basic obedience training for your new puppy. They are smart and will respond well to training. A good place to start is with simple commands such as'sit down','sit' and'stay'. Once your dog has learned the basics, you can move to more complex obedience exercises such as "come on command" as well as 'leave'.
It is important to get your German Shepherd puppy used to other dogs and people can help prevent fearfulness in adulthood. It's important to introduce them to other animals and people in a controlled setting such as a dog-friendly cafe or park. Treats can aid your German shepherd learn to focus on you and other people so that they don't get overwhelmed by strangers.
Keep in mind that your German shepherd is still a puppy. They can play and chew on anything. It's a good idea to begin training them before they are old enough so that they don't slam into people or other pets.
The first year of your German Shepherd puppy's life is an important time to get them familiar with different sights and sounds as well as smells. The Fear Period is a time where they are unable to comprehend things we consider safe (such as children or loud noises). During this period, it's crucial to expose your German Shepherd to lots of different things so that they don't develop fears later on in their lives.
It's also a good idea to get your German Shepherd puppy into some socialisation and obedience training classes especially in the case of other family members who might be able to help out. It is easier to see the progress you are making if there is someone else who can reinforce the good behaviors that you are attempting to improve with your German shepherd. This will also provide your German Shepard some structure, so they don't get overwhelmed by too many things at once.
Exercise
German Shepherds require regular exercise due to their active dogs. This exercise is beneficial to both the dog and its owner. It assists the dog maintain a healthy weight and keep its muscles strong and supple. It also helps to prevent health problems like hip dysplasia. Regular exercise can help keep the dog's brain sharp and lower the chance of having issues with their behavior.
Regular exercise is particularly crucial for German Shepherds working line that are bred to perform in police and military work. It can help avoid destructive behaviors, like excessive digging or chewing. It can also assist in increase obedience training and improve the bond between dog and its owner.
Puppies will need more exercise than adult dogs since they have boundless energy. It is important to limit your dog's exercise as this can damage their joints and bones. This is particularly relevant if your dog is still growing. It can happen up until 12 months.
Exercise can help puppies develop healthy habits that will last a lifetime. Taking them for regular walks can help to promote cardiovascular health, control their weight, and lower stress levels. Through exposing them to other people and animals It can help them develop their social abilities. This will help them to adapt to new environments and cope with stress-inducing events in the near future.
A good rule of thumb for determining how much exercise a German Shepherd puppy needs is to do five minutes of formal exercise (walking the dog at a moderate pace) per month of age. This can include training and play, but it should always be controlled. If your dog is exhausted it's best to let him lay down.
Certain activities that provide an abundance of mental and physical stimulation for German Shepherds are playing fetch and tracking, agility exercises such as obedience training, and games like hide and seek. This is a great opportunity for your puppy to develop its natural hunting instincts, and also to stop boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors like digging or chewing.
Care
German Shepherds are intelligent dogs that respond well to early training. They are also large dogs with a lot of energy and require space to get rid of their energy. They can be extremely destructive if they don't get enough exercise. Their natural protectiveness can also become aggressive if they are not properly socialized or trained from puppyhood.
If you are looking to purchase a German Shepherd, choose a breeder who is honest about his breeding policy and has the required AKC papers for each puppy. He is also expected to tell you about each of the puppies' personalities and how they interact with their littermates. The breeder should let you to play with the puppies and their mother and the stud dog (if in residence).
Ask the breeder for references from previous customers. Check with local veterinarians or animal shelters in order to get a list of reputable breeders.
A responsible breeder will not sell a puppy that is not socialized or healthy. He will also be able explain how he has planned the breeding program to highlight certain qualities in the puppies. He may also be able offer you a replacement puppy in the event that the one you choose isn't working out.
Look for a healthy-looking, robust German Shepherd puppy. Puppies should be alert active, and curious but not excessively active or anxious. A dog that is slow or aggressive should be avoided.
Be aware of the way a German Shepherd puppy acts around his companions and other pets. He should be curious and unafraid of interacting with other dogs. He should also demand attention from people with confidence. It's important to remember that if he decides to concentrate on a puppy in the litter more than the other puppies, this behavior may continue into adulthood.
Visit your vet and make sure that the puppy is up-to current on all vaccinations. They must also be microchipped. It is also a good idea to introduce him to the rest of your family members while they're still an infant and you can begin teaching him the basics of behaviour and household rules.