Buy a German Shepherd Puppy
A German Shepherd puppy will thrive in a home that has plenty of space for training and exercise. You'll want to look for a reliable breeder that provides the ability to test for temperament and health each litter of puppies they sell.
Find puppies who are curious and unafraid to be around humans. Avoid those that exhibit territorial aggression, which can be dangerous for people who visit. Early socialization and training in obedience can reduce aggressive behavior.
Health
German Shepherds live longer than most other breeds, yet they are susceptible to specific health problems. Breeders who are responsible for their breedings screen 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, a balanced diet, fitness for mind and body, and early intervention when any health issues arise.
German Shepherds should not overwork themselves despite their athletic characteristics. This can cause joint problems like elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia that can be painful. A weight loss program, reducing their level of exercise, taking joint protection supplements, and giving them anti-inflammatory medicines can ease symptoms such as limping and a reduced range of motion.
Another common health issue for German Shepherds is pannus. It affects the cornea and could cause blindness if not treated quickly. This condition is more prevalent in dogs at higher elevations, those who have excessive exposure to UV light, or those who live in areas with high levels of air pollution. Keeping your German Shepherd inside during the sunniest parts of the day, and providing an area shaded or putting on 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. It can be painful. This condition can be a problem for any breed, but the risk is higher for larger dogs. Choosing an adult German Shepherd from a reputable breeder, and providing them with plenty of exercise in a well-fenced yard, can help lessen the impact of this disease.
Training
German Shepherd puppies have a high amount of energy and require lots of activity to burn it off. They thrive in a home that has access to large open spaces, or can be regularly taken for long walks.
They are extremely sensitive and will respond well to training, so it's a good idea to begin basic obedience training with your puppy. Start with simple commands such as'sit and stay', "down" and "stay". Once you've learned the basics, you can move on to more complex obedience work such as 'come when called and leaving it.
Getting your German Shepherd puppy used to other animals and people will aid in preventing fearful behavior later on. 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 help your German shepherd focus on you and other people so that they don't get overwhelmed by the presence of strangers.
It is important to remember that your German Shepherd is a puppy, and as such, they will do things like chew and play with everything. It's also a good idea to train them in the beginning to avoid jumping up on people and other pets, so that they are at ease with everyone in your family.
It is crucial to familiarize your German Shepherd puppy with new sights, sounds and smells during the first year of their lives. reinrassiger deutscher schäferhund is a time when they have difficulty interpreting things that we may find safe (such as children or loud noises). During this time, it is important to expose your German Shepherd to a variety of different things so that they don't develop fears later on in life.
It's also an excellent idea to enroll your German Shepherd puppy into some classes for socialisation and obedience, especially in the case of other family members who might be able to assist them out. It will be easier to track the progress you are making if there is someone else who can reinforce the good behaviors that you are working on with your German shepherd. This will also give your German Shepard some consistency to ensure that they don't become overwhelmed by too many things all at once.
Exercise
German Shepherds are very active dogs that require a lot of exercise. This activity is beneficial for both the dog and the owner. It assists the dog maintain a healthy body weight and keeps its muscles flexible and strong. It also helps prevent health issues like hip dysplasia. Regular exercise can also help to keep a dog's brain sharp and reduce the risk of developing behavioral issues.
Regular exercise is particularly important for working line German Shepherds that are bred to perform in military and police work. It can help to avoid destructive behaviors, such as excessive chewing or digging. It can also improve obedience training and strengthen the bond between dog and pet owner.
Puppy dogs have lots of energy and require more exercise. It is important to not over-exercise your dog as this can damage their joints and bones. This is especially relevant if your puppy is still growing, which can happen at any time up to 12 months age.
Training for puppies can help them build healthy habits that will last for the rest of their lives. Taking them for regular walks can help improve cardiovascular health, control their weight, and lower stress levels. By exposing them to different animals and people and animals, they can develop their social abilities. This can make it easier for them to adapt to new environments and cope with difficult situations in the future.
A good rule of thumb for determining the amount of exercise a German Shepherd puppy needs is to do five minutes of exercise (walking the dog at a moderate pace) every month. This exercise may include play and training but it must always be controlled. It is also recommended to let your dog rest when it is tired.
German Shepherds can benefit from a variety of activities, including fetch and tracking, agility training such as obedience, games, and such as hide and seek. This can be the perfect way to teach your puppy to use its natural hunting instincts, and also prevent boredom, which can cause negative behaviors such as destructive chewing or digging.
You can also learn how to take care of yourself.
German Shepherds are incredibly smart dogs and respond well to early training. However, they are large dogs with lots of energy, and they require plenty of space to burn off that energy. If they don't get enough exercise, they can turn destructive. Also, their natural protectiveness can turn into aggression if not properly socialized and trained as puppies.
Select a breeder who is open about his breeding practices and provides AKC papers to 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 stud dog (if living in the same residence).
Be sure to ask the breeder for references from buyers who have purchased before. Check with local veterinarians or animal shelters to get a list of credible breeders.
A responsible breeder will not sell a puppy that is unsocialized or unhealthy. He will also be able explain how he has planned the breeding program to highlight certain qualities in the puppies. He may even be able to offer you an alternative puppy in the event that the one you pick doesn't work out.
You should look for a sturdy, healthy-looking German Shepherd puppy. Puppy should be alert, active, and curious, but not too anxious or hyperactive. A sluggish, unfocused or aggressive puppy is an indication of danger and should be avoided.
Take note of the German Shepherd puppy's behavior around his pet's littermates or other animals. He should be inquisitive and affluent enough to approach other dogs, and should demand attention from others with confidence. If he singles out one of the other puppies in the litter, it's important to note that this behaviour could persist throughout his life and make him difficult to live with.
Bring the puppy to see your veterinarian to ensure that they are up-to-date on all vaccinations and have been microchipped. Introduce your family members to him when you are still a puppy, so that you can begin teaching him basic house rules and obedience.