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Many pet stores offer German Shepherd puppies. If you're considering purchasing one, look for a reliable breeder.

Look for a puppy with the same temperament. Play with them and observe how they interact with other puppies and the people.

Reputable breeders adhere to ethical breeding practices, and prioritize health clearances of their pups. They will provide a litter's pedigree and medical records.

Temperament

German Shepherds are confident powerful dogs with a natural sense of protection. They may be apprehensive initially, but they warm up quickly after being well-socialized. The confidence and apprehension in the face of danger can make them a good choice for police, military and guard dog positions. They can also be a protector of their belongings and family members.

The German Shepherd is an intelligent and strong-willed breed that can be used as an obedience competitor, or as a loving family pet. Their ability to learn and complete tasks is one of the reasons why they're so popular. They quickly connect with their families and love being engaged in all the activities in their homes. These dogs are also excellent for children. They're energetic and play with children and other dogs. Of course, as with all breeds of dogs, they can be nippy with strangers and pets. Early training and socialization will assist in preventing aggression.

A breeder's commitment to ethical breeding practices is crucial. You'll have to find a German Shepherd Breeder who follows guidelines, including screening and testing for health, socialization and raising their puppies indoors. You can often determine the credibility of a breeder by going to the facility, talking to the parents and other siblings and asking questions about the genetic background and health clearances.

Since the German Shepherd is a barrel-chested breed, it is prone to bloat, which could be life-threatening. To reduce the risk, give your puppy plenty of water, make sure to feed him regularly and use a bowl with a secure seal.

German Shepherds, as with many herding breeds can be very nippy. They bark to warn their owners of strangers or intruders. They can be taught to be confident and calm when greeting people. It's recommended to take your dog to puppy obedience classes and/or enlist the help of a seasoned dog trainer, particularly if you're not familiar with this breed of dog. This will ensure that your German Shepherd is well-trained and exercised to stop him from causing harm or attempting to escape. A microchip, along with 24PetWatch, can help you find your dog in the event that he runs away.

Health

The GSD is a very robust breed with a lot of strength. However, like any other breed, it could be susceptible to certain genetic diseases and conditions. Do your research and ensure you purchase from a trusted breeder who is concerned about the health of their dogs. Before making a purchase go to the place and meet the parents. Also, ask for health certificates and socialization records.

German Shepherds are susceptible to hip dysplasia (a condition that affects joints), as well as weakness of the skeletal muscle. This is especially the case for dogs who are older. These issues can be addressed by healthy diet as well as exercise, supplements, and physical therapy.

Epilepsy is a different hereditary disorder that can be seen in GSDs. It's usually triggered by a metabolic issue (low blood sugar or organ failure) or a toxin. It can also happen if no other cause is found and is referred to as primary or epilepsy that is idiopathic. If your pet is diagnosed with this disorder it will require a lifetime medication to manage seizures.

Cancer is another condition that can affect GSDs, particularly hemangiosarcoma, which is an aggressive tumor that develops in blood-rich organs, such as the liver and spleen. Symptoms include lethargy and swelling. It can also cause sudden collapse. The condition is extremely painful and there is no cure. Treatment focuses on reducing the symptoms.

Allergies can also be a concern for dogs with GSD. They can cause itchy skin, ear infection as well as digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea and weight loss. If your dog is allergic to something, you will have to conduct a complete medical check-up that includes an extensive history and examination, diagnostic testing of the ears and skin as well as fecal and lab tests.

Degenerative myelopathy can affect people with GSDs and cause them to lose mobility. This disease usually occurs in the 20s and early 20s. The disease is caused by an inherited mutation that can be detected through DNA tests. The signs of the disease include increasing difficulty getting up, a decreased the ability to stand or jump, pain, and a loss of muscle mass in the thighs. There is no cure for the condition, but it is treatable with physical therapy and medication.

Training

GSDs are known for their strong work ethic, and they benefit from advanced training in obedience, agility and protection. Their versatility makes them excellent service dogs sniffers, drug and bomb sniffers, as well as guides for blind people.

As a breed German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent and eager to be pleasing. They can easily become bored, and can develop obsessive behavior without enough mental or physical stimulation. They need a patient, consistent, and well-trained trainer to help them achieve their full potential.

If you're planning to purchase an purebred German Shepherd dog, make sure you select an breeder with a good reputation and who has the dog's wellbeing in mind. They should have a screening process to ensure that puppies will be a good fit to their families. They should also provide you with proof of the puppy's pedigree, health clearances and recommendations regarding care and training.

The breed standard states that although every German Shepherd is different, they must all be athletic, active and alert. They must also be secure around their family members and sociable. You can ask the breeder questions regarding their breeding program, and you can also look at their puppies to evaluate their physical characteristics and manner of conduct.

Many people confuse the classic German Shepherd behaviors of barking or lunging at a movement as aggression, but these are just normal responses that happen when a dog is activated by something in the vicinity. Certain German Shepherds who place their heads in the corner of the room or hide from strangers have a genetic shyness that can be cured through socialization, but not "cured."

While certain breeds shed a few hairs throughout the year. Most dogs shed only every year for three weeks in spring when they switch from an icy winter coat to a softer summer one and then again in fall as they prepare to transition back to the thicker winter coat. You'll need to keep up with regular walks, playtime, exercise, and plenty of lint-rollers. A well-trained and socialized German shepherd will bring you years of friendship, love, and loyalty.

Care

German Shepherds must be trained consistently to prevent undesirable behavior such as excessive barking, excessive digging and chewing. They are intelligent dogs who are awestruck by learning and have a purpose. If left alone for long periods of time they may become bored and destructive. It is crucial to provide them with a large yard or dogpark in order to make use of their energy.

Breeders who are reputable will be able to provide you with pedigree records and health clearances for the parents of the pups. You should also visit and meet the parents of the puppies to ensure the breeder has ethical breeding practices.

GSDs, as a result of their genetic predisposition are more susceptible to elbow and hip dysplasias, bloats and bloats, as well as heart disease, and skin issues. They are also prone for skin problems, ear infections and ear infections. They are more likely to develop cancers, such as hemangiosarcoma that affect organs rich in blood including the liver as well as the spleen.

The peritoneum is a fibrous, tough connective tissue that surrounds the spleen as well as the blood vessels which supply it. When the peritoneum becomes inflamed it can cause pain and discomfort. Peritoneal swelling can cause complications like liver disease, kidney infection and pancreatitis.

German Shepherds have a double coat that requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling. The breed goes through a molting cycle once or twice a year. You can use a deshedding tool, an undercoat rake, or a slicker, to reduce the amount of hair shed.

GSDs can be affected by a condition known as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). This happens when the jelly-like padding that is between the vertebrae tears and presses on the spinal chord. Signs include difficulty moving, climbing stairs or jumping. They also include a tilted back and dragging the back feet. If you observe any of these symptoms seek out a doctor immediately. The condition could quickly develop and cause paralysis or even death. A doctor can move the disc to lessen or eliminate the symptoms.