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 want to search for an established breeder who offers tests for temperament and health for each litter of puppies they sell.
Look for puppies who are curious and tolerant of humans. Avoid those who show territorial aggression. This can be dangerous to visitors. Obedience training and early socialization can help reduce aggressive behaviors.
Health
German Shepherds live longer than other breeds, but they are more prone to specific health problems. Breeders who are responsible for screening their puppies for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia (similar to Lou Gehrig's Disease), degenerative myelopathy, bloat, allergies, cancer and heart disease. A reputable vet will recommend regular veterinary check-ups in addition to a balanced and healthy diet, physical and mental exercise, and prompt intervention in the case of any health concerns.
German Shepherds shouldn't overwork themselves despite their athletic nature. This can cause joint issues such as elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia, which can be painful. Weight loss, reducing activity, taking joint supplements, and administering anti-inflammatory medications can ease symptoms such as the loss of mobility and limping.
Another common health issue for German Shepherds is pannus. It can affect the cornea and cause blindness if not addressed promptly. This condition is more prevalent in dogs at higher altitudes, those with an excessive exposure to UV light, or in areas with high levels of air pollution. Keeping your German Shepherd indoors during the hottest times of the day, ensuring an area shaded, or trying a pair of doggie sunglasses can help to keep the condition from happening.
German Shepherds are susceptible to osteoarthritis later in their lives as do other large breeds. This can be painful. This is a condition that can be a problem for any breed, but the risk is greater for larger breeds. If you opt for an adult German Shepherd, make sure to choose a reputable breeder and give plenty of exercise in an enclosed yard. This will reduce the impact of this condition.
Training
German Shepherd puppies are energetic and need to be kept active. They will do best in a home where they have access to large open spaces, or can be regularly taken on long walks.
It's a great idea to begin with basic obedience training for your new puppy. They are intelligent and respond well to training. A good place to begin is with basic commands such as'sit down','sit', and'stay'. Once your dog has learned the basics, you can move to more advanced obedience training like "come on command" and 'leave'.
It is important to get your German Shepherd puppy used to other dogs and people can help to prevent fear in later life. Introduce them to people and other animals in a controlled environment such as a dog-friendly park or cafe. Treats can aid in helping your German shepherd focus on you and others, so they don't become overwhelmed by strangers.
Keep in mind that your German shepherd is still a puppy. They will 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 comfortable around everyone in your family.
The first year of your German Shepherd puppy's life is an important time to get familiar with various sights, sounds, and smells. The Fear Period is a time when they struggle to understand things that we may find safe (such as children or loud noises). During this time, it is important to expose your German Shepherd to many diverse things to ensure that they don't become scared later in life.
You should also take your German Shepherd puppy in socialisation and obedience classes, particularly in the event that other family members could help. It will be easier to monitor the progress you are making if there is someone else to reinforce the good behaviors that you are attempting to improve with your German shepherd. This will also give your German Shepard some consistency, so they don't get overwhelmed by too many things all at once.
Exercise
German Shepherds require a daily workout due to their active dogs. This activity is beneficial to the dog as well as its owner. It assists the dog to keep a healthy weight and keeps its muscles flexible and strong. It also helps to combat health issues like hip dysplasia. Regular exercise can keep the dog's brain sharp and lower the risk for behavioral issues.
Regular exercise is particularly crucial for working line German Shepherds, which are bred to be used in military and police work. It can help avoid destructive behaviors, such as excessive chewing or digging. It can also help to increase obedience training and improve the bond between dog and its owner.
Puppies will need more exercise than adult dogs because they have an unending energy. It is essential to not over-exercise your dog as this can damage their joints and bones. This is especially applicable if the puppy is still growing, which can happen up to 12 months of age.
Exercise for puppies can aid in developing healthy habits that will last for the duration of their lives. Regular walks can promote cardiovascular health, help manage their weight and reduce stress. Through exposing them to other animals and people and animals, they can develop their social abilities. This will help them to adapt to new situations and cope with stressful events in the future.
As a rule of thumb to determine the amount of exercise your German Shepherd puppy requires, you can take the dog for a walk for five minutes every month. This can include playing and training but it must always be supervised. It is also a good idea to let the dog take a break when it is tired.
Certain activities that provide an abundance of physical and mental stimulation for German Shepherds are playing fetch, tracking, agility exercises, obedience training, and games like hide and seek. This is a great opportunity for your puppy to develop its natural hunting instincts, and also to stop boredom, which could lead to destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging.
Care
German Shepherds are extremely intelligent dogs and respond well to early training. They are large dogs who have a lot of power and need space to burn it off. If they don't get enough exercise, they can be destructive. Their natural protective nature can be a source of aggression if they are not properly socialized or trained from the beginning of puppyhood.
When you are buying a German Shepherd, choose a breeder who is open about his breeding policies and also provides the necessary AKC papers for every puppy. He is also expected to tell you about each puppy's personalities and how they interact with their littermates. The breeder should allow you to play with the puppies along with their mother and stud (if they are in residence).
Ask the breeder to provide references from previous customers. Contact local vets or animal shelters to find credible breeders.
A responsible breeder won't 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 be able to provide you with a replacement puppy if the one you chose doesn't work out.
Find a healthy, robust German Shepherd puppy. Puppies must be alert, curious and active, but not excessively active or anxious. A sluggish or aggressive puppy should be avoided.
Watch the way a German Shepherd puppy acts around his family members and other pets. He should be curious and unafraid of interacting with other dogs. He should also demand attention from people with confidence. If he picks one of the other puppies in the litter It is important to remember that this behavior could continue throughout his life and make him difficult to live with.
Make sure that your puppy goes to visit your vet to make sure they're current on all vaccinations and are microchipped. Introduce him to your family when he is still a puppy to begin teaching him the basics of house rules and basic obedience.