Buy a German Shepherd Puppy
A German Shepherd puppy will thrive best in an environment with plenty of room to exercise and train. You'll have to find a reputable breeder who provides health and temperament tests for every litter they sell.
Look for puppies who are curious and fearless of humans. Avoid those that exhibit territorial aggression, which could be dangerous for visitors. Early socialization and obedience training can decrease aggressive behavior.
Health
German Shepherds are healthier than other breeds, yet they are more prone to specific health problems. Responsible breeders check their puppies for hip and elbow dysplasia as well as degenerative myelopathy (similar to Lou Gehrig's Disease) and bloat, cancer, allergies, and heart disease. A reputable veterinarian will recommend regular veterinary examinations as well as a balanced diet and exercise for the mind and body and early intervention if any health issues occur.
German Shepherds should not exert too much themselves despite their athletic characteristics. This can cause joint problems like hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia, which can be painful. A weight loss program and reducing their activities, taking joint-protection supplements, and supplying them with anti-inflammatory medicines can ease symptoms such as limping and decreased range of motion.
A common health problem in German Shepherds, pannus is a condition that affects the cornea. If not treated quickly, it can lead to blindness. This condition is more common for dogs who live at high altitudes, or in areas with severe pollution. Preventing this condition can be done by keeping your German Shepherd inside during the hottest parts of the day. You can also offer a shaded area or even a pair of doggie sunglasses.
Like a lot of large breeds, German Shepherds are prone to osteoarthritis in the later years of their lives and can cause pain for the dog. While any breed can be affected by 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 secure yard, can help lessen the impact of this condition.
Training
German Shepherd puppies have a high amount of energy and require plenty of exercise to burn it off. They are a great fit in a home that has large open spaces and regular walks.
They are highly sensitive and will respond well to training and therefore it's a good idea to begin basic obedience training with your new puppy. Begin with basic commands like "sit down', "down" and "stay". Once your dog has learned the basics, you can move to more challenging obedience exercises such as 'come on command' and 'leave'.
It also helps to prevent adult fear by the exposure of your German Shepherd puppy to other dogs and people. It is important to introduce them to other animals and people in a controlled setting such as the dog-friendly park or cafe. Using treats as rewards can aid your German Shepherd to become more aware in their presence to ensure they're not overwhelmed by strangers and become afraid.
Keep in mind that your German shepherd is still an infant. german shepherd kaufen 'll chew and play with everything. It's a good idea for you to start training them early so they don't get sucked into other pets or people.
The first year of your German Shepherd puppy's life is an important time to get familiar with various sights and sounds as well as smells. They will go through a time period called the Fear Period, which means that they may have difficulty understanding certain things that appear safe to us (such as children, loud noises, or unfamiliar surfaces). During this period, it's crucial to expose your German Shepherd to lots of diverse things to ensure that they don't become scared later in life.
It is also advisable to enroll your German Shepherd puppy in socialisation and obedience classes, particularly when other family members are able to help. A person who can reinforce the positive behaviors you're working on with your German Shepherd will help you see your progress more quickly and will also give your German dog some consistency to ensure that they do not feel overwhelmed by too many new experiences at one time.
Exercise
German Shepherds require a daily workout because they are very active dogs. This activity is beneficial for both the dog and its owner. It assists the dog to maintain a healthy weight and keep its muscles supple and strong. It also helps combat health issues like hip dysplasia. Regular exercise can help to keep the dog's mind sharp and reduce the risk of behavioral issues.
Working line German Shepherds are bred for police and military work, so regular exercise is crucial. It can help in avoiding destructive behavior, such as excessive digging or chewing. It can also assist in increase obedience training and improve the bond between dog and owner.
Puppy dogs require more exercise than adult dogs due to the fact that they have boundless energy. However, it is important not to over-exert themselves because it can cause damage to the dog's joints and bones. This is especially relevant if your puppy is still growing, which can happen until 12 months of age.
Exercise for puppies can aid in developing healthy habits for the remainder of their lives. Taking them for regular walks can aid in improving cardiovascular health, control their weight, and lower stress levels. It can also help them develop socialization abilities by exposing them to strangers and animals. This can help them adapt to new situations, and handle difficult situations in the future.
A good guideline for determining the amount of exercise a German Shepherd puppy needs is to do five minutes of formal exercise (walking the dog at a moderate pace) each month. The exercise could include training and play, but it should always be controlled. If the dog is tired, it's a good idea for him to lay down.
A few activities that offer an abundance of mental and physical stimulation for German Shepherds are playing fetch, tracking, agility exercises as well as obedience training games like hide and seek. This is a great way to help your puppy exercise its hunting instincts and also to stop boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging.
Care
German Shepherds are intelligent dogs that respond well to early guidance. They are big dogs that have a lot of power and need space to burn it off. They can be very destructive in the absence of adequate exercise. Their natural protectiveness can also become aggressive when they aren't properly socialized or trained from the beginning of puppyhood.
If you are looking to purchase a German Shepherd, choose a breeder who is open about his breeding policy and also provides the necessary AKC papers for every puppy. He will also be able 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 as well as their mother and stud dog (if in residence).
Be sure to ask the breeder for references from previous buyers. Consult local veterinarians or animal shelters to get a list of reputable breeders.
A responsible breeder won't offer a puppy that is unsocialized or unhealthy. He will also be able explain the way he has planned the breeding to emphasize particular qualities in the puppies. He may also be able to offer you a replacement puppy in the event that the one you pick does not meet your expectations.
You should look for a healthy and robust German Shepherd puppy. Puppies should be alert, curious and active, but not overly anxious or hyperactive. A dog that is slow or aggressive should be avoided.
Be aware of the German Shepherd puppy's behavior around his other dogs or littermates. He should be inquisitive and not be afraid to interact with other dogs, and is expected to attract the attention of other people with confidence. It's important to remember that if he chooses to focus on a particular puppy from the litter over the others, this behaviour may persist into adulthood.
Visit your vet and make sure that your puppy is up to current on all vaccinations. They must also be microchipped. Introduce your family members to him when he is still a puppy to begin teaching him the basics of house rules and obedience.