Monday, June 16, 2008

Selecting A German Shepherd Puppy

For both the individual and family owner the German Shepherd puppy is an excellent pet since they are athletic, energetic and bonding. The breed is also trained for search and rescue roles as well as police dogs. When you are choosing between German Shepherd puppies for sale you should consider the health and breed standards. Set up an initial meeting with your puppy once you know which one you are considering buying. Carefully observe how the puppy reacts to your voice and touch, make sure they are eager to make friends and affectionate.

It is important to train your puppy early in life or at the very least find one with a good temperament since they can become aggressive later in life. Any methods the former owners have used in socializing are important to the early socializing of the dog. You want to start the puppy out early with interacting with other dogs and humans.
If you are buying from a breeder you next want to ask to see both of the parents of the puppy you are considering. You will want to carefully observe how the parents react to you as a stranger, as they shouldn't have any signs of unwanted aggression. The temperament of the parents will be present in the litter. You also want to make sure the parents move easily and unencumbered for health reasons. Ask to see the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals certification for the puppy's parents.

Hip dysphasia is common in German Shepherds and it is a genetic condition so it can be passed on to the litters. When you are considering German Shepherd puppies for sale it is always important to consider the rating that the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals gives to all registered canines as a result of X-rays showing the dogs bone structure. Dogs who are prone to hip dysphasia shouldn't be bred and if the owners can't give you Orthopedic Foundation for Animals certification for their dogs you should consider purchasing your puppies from someone else.
Next carefully look over the puppy you are considering. The eyes should be clear and alert and the gums should be pink and healthy. There should be no foreign matter in the ears. Without being overly energetic the puppy should be playful. When considering German Shepherd puppies for sale you should carefully consider the puppy's lineage. An American Kennel Club puppy from a breeder will have family charts that show not only the puppy's parents but also the ancestors of the puppy for several generations on both sides of the family. A good breeder will be happy to show you this detailed family tree and even provide you a copy for your records.

After you have chosen and purchased you German Shepherd puppy you should have it evaluated by a veterinarian right away, they will need to be de-wormed and get all their shots. To socialize your puppy with other dogs and human beings you should take them on walks, set up play dates with dogs or friends and take them with you into pet stores when you shop if it is allowed.

When you are looking forGerman Shepherd puppies you want to take several steps in order to find the right one. After getting a new puppy it is important to know proper German Shepherd puppy care.

No comments:

German Shepherd