Choosing a Purebred German Shepherd Breeder
At the 1899 dog show, Von Stephanitz saw a dog named Hektor Linksrhein that perfectly matched his ideals for the breed. He bought him and renamed Horand von Grafrath.
The breed standard states that the hind angulation has to match the front angulation, in order to avoid over-angulation. This has resulted in an unnatural sloped back in numerous breeds of show-strains.
Reputable Breeders
It is crucial to choose a reputable breeder when purchasing purebred German Shepherds. Breeders who are reputable can provide you with detailed pedigrees and health clearances that will aid you in making an informed decision on the German Shepherd you want for your home. They will provide you with useful information about the German Shepherd breed and can answer any questions you may have.
Reputable German Shepherd Breeders are committed to bringing out litters of the highest quality, with sound grandparents and parents. They are also capable of ensuring the genetic soundness of their dogs by screening for common illnesses and diseases, like hip dysplasia. This will stop 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.
Many breeders specialize in specific area of the breed, like service work or sport Schutzhund. This allows them to find the most competent parents and provide their pups with an ideal genetic background to serve the specific role. This ensures that each puppy from a particular litter will have the right personality, drive and physical qualities to perform in the desired role.
Another aspect to look for in a trustworthy German Shepherd breeder is the amount of time they invest in training their dogs. A good breeder will be able to demonstrate the skills of their dogs and talk about how they use them to safeguard and serve their families and communities. A reputable German Shepherd breeder will also have certified, trained dog trainers on staff.
The final quality to look for is a breeder's dedication to the advancement and preservation of the breed. This is demonstrated by their commitment to breeding training, care, and maintenance of their dogs, as well as their participation in events like shows and trials. These activities allow them to make an objective selection of breeding stock and promote the welfare of dogs through conducting 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 set by the German Shepherd Club of America. If a breeder does not meet this standard and standards, it could affect their reputation.
Health Clearances
Responsible breeders will conduct health screenings on both parents prior to breeding to lower the risk of hereditary disease. Ask the breeder about the results of these screenings and whether or not they are certified. A reputable breeder should have their dog's pedigrees readily available.
German Shepherds are susceptible to hereditary health conditions, like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia as well as degenerative myelopathy. Responsible breeders will test for these and other diseases as well as provide the adequate nutrition and exercise, and offer ongoing support and guidance to ensure the well-being of their puppies.
Hemolytic anemia, a condition in which red blood cells breakdown faster than they normally and is common in German Shepherds and other large breed dogs. Entzückende Schäferhund Welpen can cause weakness dizziness, fatigue lightheadedness, and lack of energy. It can also trigger nausea, vomiting and fever. Hemolytic anemia can be treated by prescription medications and other therapies.
German Shepherds are also affected by cancer, a common inherited condition. It can manifest as skin tumors or inside organs, and is typically treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
German Shepherds can also suffer from inflammatory bowel diseases. It's a condition that causes diarrhea and abdominal pain along with weight loss and other signs.
Degenerative joint disease is another common musculoskeletal problem that can affect German Shepherds. The wear and tear on joints can cause pain or even arthritis. Treatment for joint problems typically includes weight loss, exercise restrictions and joint protection supplements and other medication.
Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive spinal condition caused by a genetic disorder can be a problem for any breed of dog including German Shepherds. This disease is more common in white dogs and may be caused by two "carriers" who are crossed. However, the cause of this disease is not yet fully understood, and so the DM test is not required to receive a CHIC identification number through OFA.
Socialization
German Shepherds are naturally protective, a trait owners often admire. However, if the GSD is not properly socialized to people and other dogs, this instinctual response can become a problem for the dog. It can lead to excessive protection, which could include barking and biting. It is important to make sure that your puppy has had exposure to a variety of people or dogs, and situations and situations during its crucial period of socialization between 3-14 weeks.
Most reputable breeders make sure that their puppies are exposed to a variety of animals, people and experiences from the beginning. This is crucial for a well-adjusted dog as an adult. This is crucial for working and herding breeds, which can be naturally suspicious of strangers.
Exposing a puppy to new experiences should be handled cautiously, starting with less stressful situations and gradually building up to more crowded environments. Positive reinforcement, treats and play should be used to encourage the puppy to take part in new experiences.
Exposing your dog to different scents, sounds and environments is also a great idea. This will make your dog feel comfortable in a variety of settings and will help them to be more calm and relaxed.
As a responsible dog owner you should be prepared to spend lots of time exploring your German Shepherd pup to new experiences as it grows. This will allow them to be happy and well-adjusted as adults.
German Shepherds are an intelligent and adaptable breed that is extremely versatile and intelligent. They can be family pets, service dogs and even police or herding dogs. Socialization and stimulation for the brain in the early years can help prevent future behavioral issues. While genetics play a major influence on a dog's development and temperament but they also have a significant effect on the dog's growth. If you're looking for a purebred German Shepherd, be sure to find a reputable breeder who is dedicated to providing their puppies with the proper environment and training. A well-adjusted German shepherd is a joy to have and will provide you with years of companionship. They are a great option for families that want an affectionate and loyal dog.
Training
German Shepherds are intelligent and adaptable dogs that thrive when they're active. The breed is sought-after for their ability to herd, but they also excel in many other tasks. They are fearless and confident in their pursuit of duties. This makes them very popular with security experts, from local K-9 departments to all branches of the military.
This is why these dogs require plenty of physical and mental stimulation to avoid developing problems like separation anxiety and hyperactivity. If you're thinking of getting a German Shepherd, you should consider taking an obedience class with a professional trainer that specializes in this breed. The trainer will be able to assist you and your dog become confident, well-trained and well-behaved pair.
The German Shepherd has a long history of being bred to achieve certain physical and temperament traits and to be able to work well. These are the main goals of a reputable German Shepherd breeder, which should be the foundation of any discussion with the breeder before you buy puppies. Unfortunately, a lot of breeders of German Shepherds do not consider these goals and focus on breeding dogs for an appearance or performance. For example a breeder might concentrate on breeding dogs with beautiful ears so they can win awards in competitions. While there's nothing wrong with this, it's important to find a breeder that also emphasizes soundness in the dogs they produce.
This includes hip and arm certifications and a willingness to respond to questions from potential buyers. This is a different way to distinguish legitimate breeders from those that aren't. Breeders who aren't ethical do not have the time to answer questions or invest the money required to do so. They either do not bother to answer the question or lie about the answer.
The ideal German Shepherd breeder can offer a puppy that is the perfect blend of herding instincts, intelligence, and flexibility. By interviewing potential breeders, reviewing health clearances, and locating a training specialist and a trainer, you can be set for a successful relationship with your new German Shepherd.