Choosing a Purebred German Shepherd Breeder
At an exhibition of dogs in 1899, Von Stephanitz saw a dog named Hektor Linksrhein that perfectly matched his vision for the breed. He bought him and named the dog Horand von Grafrath.
The breed standard stipulates that hind angulation should match front angulation and avoid over-angulation. This has led to a sloped-back conformation in many show-strains' dogs.
Reputable Breeders
It is essential to select a reliable breeder when purchasing purebred German Shepherds. A reputable breeder can provide you with comprehensive pedigrees and health certificates that can help you make a more informed choice about the German Shepherd you want for your home. They can also provide you with valuable information about the German Shepherd breed, and will be able to answer any questions you may have.
Reputable German Shepherd Breeders are committed to breeding litters of top quality that have sound grandparents and parents. They'll also be able to guarantee the genetic soundness of their dogs by screening for common diseases and diseases, like hip dysplasia. This helps to prevent the spread of this painful and debilitating condition to their breeding stock, while ensuring that the puppies they sell live healthy, happy lives with their new owners.
Breeders usually specialize in specific areas of the breed, such as Schutzhund for service work or Schutzhund for sport. This allows them to recruit the most competent parents and give their pups an ideal genetic background to serve the specific role. This ensures that each puppy in a litter will have the temperament, drive, and physical traits required to succeed in the desired role.
Another thing to look for in a trustworthy German Shepherd breeder is the amount of time they invest in training their dogs. A reputable breeder should be capable of demonstrating the abilities of their dogs and discuss how they use them to safeguard and serve their families and communities. A reputable German Shepherd Breeder will have certified dog trainers as well as trained staff.
The last trait to look for is a breeder's dedication to the advancement and conservation of the breed. This is evident by their dedication to the breeding and training of their dogs, and their participation in shows and trials. These activities enable them to evaluate their dogs objectively and select breeding stock and they also aid in the welfare of their dogs by giving seminars and writing articles.
The reputation of a breeder's business is built on the ability to produce dogs of the highest quality that are up to or exceeding the standards established by the German Shepherd Club of America. If a breeder does not adhere to this standard, in the end, it will affect their reputation.
Health Clearances
Responsible breeders will conduct health screenings of both parents prior to breeding to lower the risk of inheritable diseases. Ask the breeder if results of the tests are certified. A reputable breeder should have their dog's pedigrees readily available.

German Shepherds are at risk of elbow and hip dysplasia as well as degenerative myelopathy. Responsible breeders will check their puppies for these and other conditions as well as provide exercise and nutrition and offer ongoing guidance and support to ensure their well-being.
Hemolytic anemia is a condition that causes red blood cells break down faster than they should, is common in German Shepherds as well as other large breed dogs. This can cause weakness, fatigue, dizziness as well as lightheadedness and low energy level. It can also trigger fever, nausea, and vomiting. Hemolytic anemia is treatable by prescription medications and other therapies.
Cancer is a different common inherited disease that can affect German Shepherds. It can manifest as tumors in the skin or inside organs and is usually treated by chemotherapy, radiation or surgery.
Inflammatory bowel disease is another common condition that occurs in German Shepherds. It can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
German Shepherds also be afflicted by degenerative joint disease. The wear and tear of the joints can cause discomfort or even arthritis. Treatment for joint issues usually involves weight reduction, exercise restrictions and joint protection supplements and other medications.
Degenerative myelopathy, a degenerative spinal disease caused by a genetic disorder can affect any breed of dog including German Shepherds. The disease is more prevalent in white dogs and can be caused by two "carriers" that are breeding together. This disease is still under research, so a DM is not required to receive an CHIC through OFA.
Socialization
German Shepherds have a protective nature, something that owners admire. If the GSD hasn't been properly socialized with people and other dogs, its natural instincts can be an issue. This can result in excessive protection, which may include barking and biting. The best way to avoid this issue is to make sure that your puppy has had ample exposure to different animals, people, and experiences during the crucial period of socialization, which is between 3 and 14 weeks.
Breeders with a good reputation will ensure that their pups are exposed to a variety of experiences, which includes people and animals. This is essential for a well-adjusted and happy adult dog. This is important for breeds that work and herd, which can be naturally cautious of strangers.
Exposing a puppy to new experiences should be handled with care, starting with less intimidating situations and gradually progressing to more crowded environments. Positive reinforcement, treats and play should be used to encourage the puppy to engage with new experiences.
It is an excellent idea to expose the dog to different environments, sounds and smells. This will help the dog feel at home in various environments and aid them in becoming more calm and relaxed.
As a responsible dog-owner you must be prepared to spend time exposing your German Shepherd puppy to a variety of new experiences as they grow older. deutscher schäferhund kaufen österreich will help them grow up to be happy, well-adjusted individuals.
German Shepherds are a smart and adaptable breed that is versatile and intelligent. They can be used as family pets and police dogs, herding or police dogs or even service dogs. While genetics plays a large influence on a dog's development and temperament, early neurological stimulation and socialization could significantly reduce the risk of future behavioral problems. If you're in the market for a purebred German Shepherd puppy, make sure you choose breeders who are dedicated to providing the puppies with the right environment and training. A well-adjusted German shepherd is a pleasure to have and will give you years of companionship. They are a great option for families with active children who require a loyal and affectionate dog.
Training
German Shepherds are smart, versatile dogs that thrive on being active. The German Shepherd is sought-after for its herding ability, but it excels in many other facets. They are adamant and unflinching in their pursuit of duties and are a favorite among security experts from local police departments for K-9s to all branches of the military throughout the world.
This is why these dogs require a lot of mental and physical stimulation to avoid developing problems such as separation anxiety and hyperactivity. If you're interested in getting a German Shepherd, you should take a class in obedience with a professional trainer that is trained specifically for this breed. The trainer will be able to assist you and your dog develop into a well trained, confident and well-behaved couple.
The German Shepherd has a long tradition of being bred for certain physical and temperament traits, as well as to have high working aptitude. These are the goals of a reputable German Shepherd breeder, which should be the foundation of any discussion with the breeder prior to making the decision to buy a puppy. Unfortunately, a lot of breeders fail to see these goals and focus more on breeding dogs that look in a certain way or to have certain performance qualities. For instance breeders may concentrate on breeding dogs with beautiful ears so they can win awards at competitions. There's nothing wrong with this however it's essential to select a breeder that also focuses on the health of the dog.
This includes elbow and hip certifications and a willingness to answer questions from potential buyers. This is a different method to differentiate between reputable breeders and unethical ones. Unscrupulous breeders aren't likely to spend the time or cost to answer an inquiry which is why they simply dismiss it or cover up the answer.
The best German Shepherd breeder can offer a puppy that is the perfect mix of herding instincts, intelligence, and flexibility. By interviewing potential breeders, reviewing health clearances, and locating a training specialist you can set yourself up for a long-lasting relationship with your new German Shepherd.