|
Are you looking for an intelligent, energetic dog
that will be protective of you and your family? If
you are, then the German Shepherd may be just the
right breed for you. Just keep in mind that this is
a large dog, one needing plenty of exercise and room
to run. In addition, the German Shepherd was bred to
be a working dog so it would be happiest when
exercised, played with, and even trained.
The most important factor in getting a healthy,
trainable puppy is to work with a reputable breeder.
We recommend visiting at least three top breeders,
asking many questions to clear up any doubts or
misunderstandings you may have about German
Shepherds. Good breeders would be open to all
questions, as well as showing you where the puppies
live and how they are treated. It is best to ask to
see both parents of the litter, which would provide
you with a better idea about the health and
temperament of the puppies.
You could purchase your German Shepherd from a
retail store, but the problem with this is you may
miss important information about the bloodlines of
the puppy and the treatment received while being
raised. Additionally, German Shepherd puppies could
be purchased from a private party, such as a
“backyard” breeder but again you take a risk of
buying a dog with poor bloodline, one that was not
properly socialized, and perhaps even one with
behavioral or health problems that might not show up
for months.
When you visit a breeder, take your time with them,
ask questions and ask to get any certification
documents and other papers for the puppy you choose.
Many experienced German Shepherd owners will tell
you that it is not always best to take the first
cute puppy that shows an interest in you since some
of the less assertive and calmer pups might miss
consideration. In fact, the ones that are not overly
assertive often make the best dogs. Therefore, look
closely at the conditions in which the puppies live,
and then watch carefully to see how they act
together and with people.
A good breeder would not allow puppies to leave the
nest until at least eight weeks of age, with ten
weeks being better. This provides the breeder
adequate time to socialize the puppies properly so
that they are comfortable with other dogs and with
humans. In addition, since the German Shepherd is a
large breed, you want to ask about hip dysplasia and
other joint conditions. These genetic problems can
be tested for while puppies, allowing you the chance
to know if you are buying one with or without
potential risk. Additionally, many early detection
tests for other diseases are now available,
something the breeder should handle.
You also want to be made aware of any disease common
to German Shepherd. With this, you would have
information on what symptoms to watch for, as well
as the proper steps to take if something arises. A
final point to keep in mind when buying a German
Shepherd – ask what would happen if something goes
wrong and you need to return the puppy to the
breeder. Most reputable breeders offer buyers some
type of guarantee, which might mean money back or
the exchange of another puppy. If the puppy were to
become seriously ill, would you be able to get a
replacement or, if the young dog should die within a
certain timeframe, would you be offered a
replacement or get your money back? We recommend
asking for a written contract that states these
conditions clearly, something a reputable breeder
should have no problem in providing.
Sitemap |
Web Feeds |
