Buy a German Shepherd Puppy
A German Shepherd puppy will thrive best in an environment 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 that are curious and fearless of people. Avoid those who show territorial aggression. This could be dangerous to those who visit. Obedience training and early socialization can help mitigate aggressive behaviors.
Health
German Shepherds live longer than most other breeds, but they are prone to some particular health issues. Breeders who are responsible for screening their puppies for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia (similar to Lou Gehrig’s Disease), degenerative myelopathy, bloat cancer, allergies and heart disease. A reputable vet will suggest regular veterinary check-ups in addition to an appropriate and balanced diet, physical and mental exercise, and early intervention in the case of any health concerns.
German Shepherds should not overwork themselves despite their athletic nature. This can cause joint issues like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia that can be painful. Losing weight, reducing exercise as well as taking joint supplements and administering anti-inflammatory medication can ease symptoms like limping and reduced mobility.
Another health issue that is common among German Shepherds is pannus. This affects the cornea and could cause blindness if not treated quickly. This condition is more common in dogs who live at high altitudes, or in areas with severe pollution. Keep your German Shepherd inside during the hottest times of the day, and providing shaded areas or even a pair of doggie sunglasses can help keep the condition from happening.
Like many large breeds German Shepherds are susceptible to osteoarthritis in the later years of their lives which can be painful for the dog. This is a condition that can affect any breed, but the risk is greater for larger dogs. 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 disease.
Training
German Shepherd puppies are energetic and require to be kept active. They are a great fit in a home that has large open spaces and regular walks.
They are extremely sensitive and will respond well to training, so it's a good idea to start with some basic obedience training with your new puppy. The best place to start is with simple commands such as'sit down','sit', and'stay'. Once your dog has mastered the basics, you can move to more challenging obedience exercises like "come on command" as well as 'leave'.
Getting your German Shepherd puppy used to other dogs and people can help prevent fearfulness in adulthood. Introduce them to people and other animals in a controlled environment like a dog-friendly park or cafe. Treats as rewards can aid your German Shepherd to become more aware on their surroundings to ensure they're not intimidated by strangers or scared.
It's important to keep in mind that your German Shepherd is a puppy, so they will do things like chew and play with everything. It's also a good idea to teach them early to not jump up on other pets and people to ensure that they're comfortable around all members of your family.
It is essential to introduce your German Shepherd puppy with new sights and smells, as well as sounds throughout the first year of their existence. They will go through a time period called the Fear Period, which means that they will have difficulty interpreting certain things that may seem safe to us (such as children, loud noises or unfamiliar surfaces). During this period, it's crucial to expose your German Shepherd to a variety of diverse things to ensure that they don't become scared later on in their lives.
It is also advisable to enroll your German Shepherd puppy in socialisation and obedience classes, particularly if other family members can assist. The presence of a person who can help reinforce the good behaviors you're working on with your German Shepherd will help you to see progress faster and also provide your German dog some consistency to ensure that they do not feel overwhelmed by all the new experiences at once.
Exercise
German Shepherds are very active dogs that require lots of daily exercise. This activity is beneficial for both the dog and the owner. It helps the dog maintain a healthy weight and keeps the muscles strong and flexible. It can also help to avoid health issues such as hip dysplasia. Regular exercise can also help to keep a dog's mind sharp and lower the risk of behavioral issues.
Proper daily exercise is especially important for working line German Shepherds, which are bred to perform in military and police work. It can help avoid destructive behaviors, like excessive chewing or digging. It can also assist in increase obedience training and improve the relationship between dog and owner.
Puppies have a lot of energy and require more exercise. However, it is crucial not to over-exert themselves because it can cause damage to the dog's joints and bones. This is especially the case if your puppy is still growing. It can happen up until 12 months.
Exercise can help puppies develop healthy habits that will last for a lifetime. Regular walks can boost cardiovascular health, assist in reducing their weight and ease stress. It can also aid in developing socialization skills by exposing them to strangers and animals. This will help them adapt to new situations and cope with difficult situations in the future.
For a good rule of thumb to figure out the amount of exercise your German Shepherd puppy requires, you can walk the dog for five minutes per month. This can include play and training however it must be supervised. If your dog is exhausted it's best to let him rest.
A few activities that offer a great deal of mental and physical stimulation for German Shepherds are playing fetch as well as agility exercises, tracking such as obedience training, and games like hide and seek. This can be the perfect way to teach your puppy to engage in its natural hunting instincts and prevent boredom, which could result in negative behavior such as destructive chewing or digging.
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German Shepherds are intelligent dogs who respond well to early training. They are also large dogs with lots of energy and require space to burn off that energy. If they don't get enough exercise, they can turn destructive. Their natural instinct to protect themselves can be a source of aggression in the event that they aren't socialized or trained from puppyhood.
Select a breeder who is honest about his breeding practices and offers AKC papers to every puppy. He is also expected to explain each of the puppies' personalities and how they interact with their littermates. The breeder should allow you to play with the puppies and their mother and stud dog (if living in the same residence).
Be sure to ask the breeder for references from previous buyers. Contact local vets or animal shelters to get a list of reputable breeders.
A responsible breeder won't sell a puppy that is not well-socialized or unhealthy. He can explain how he planned the breeding in order to emphasize certain traits in the puppies. He may also be able to give you a replacement puppy should the one you choose doesn't work out.
You should look for a sturdy healthy and attractive German Shepherd puppy. Puppy should be alert, curious and active, but not hyperactive or anxious. A sluggish, unfocused, or aggressive puppy is an indicator of trouble and should be avoided.
Observe the German Shepherd puppy's behavior around his littermates or other pets. He should be inquisitive and affluent enough to approach other dogs, and should demand attention from other people with confidence. If he singles out one of the puppies in the litter it is important to keep in mind that this behavior could continue throughout his life and make him difficult to live with.
Visit deutscher schäferhund welpen kaufen and ensure that the puppy is up-to current on all vaccinations. They should also be microchipped. Introduce your family to him while you are still a puppy so you can start teaching him basic house rules and obedience.