Getting a German Shepherd puppy can be an exciting and rewarding experience for you and the dog. Doing your research is the key to ensuring that you choose the right breeder.
Look for reputable breeders who focus on producing puppies with sound temperaments and health clearances. It is also important to ask the breeder questions and follow your gut instinct.
Do Your Research
When shopping for German shepherd puppies imported from Germany, it is important to do your research. Responsible breeders will not sell their puppies through pet stores or other intermediaries. They will advertise their litter online through kennel clubs and obedience or Schutzhund clubs. They may also be listed by veterinarians, groomers, trainers and other dog-related businesses. Look for ads that could be better worded or misspelled, as well as prices that are significantly lower or higher than what you expect to spend.
Reputable breeders will spend top dollar on premium food, medical care and overall maintenance of their breeding pairs and pups. They will also socialize with their dogs from a young age. These factors separate reputable German shepherd breeders from backyard and puppy mill breeders. In addition, reputable breeders will have a health guarantee and contracts. This will provide you with peace of mind when purchasing a puppy. They will also certify their puppies for hip and elbow dysplasia and eye and heart problems.
Look for a Reputable Breeder
A reputable breeder will put their puppies’ health, well-being, and socialization above all else. They will also know much about the breed and only breed for the right reasons.
For example, they will only breed a litter with parents who have passed their OFA (Old Foundation for Animals) certification and are free of genetic diseases such as DM (degenerative myelopathy). They will also be aware of common issues in the breed, like bloat and elbow and hip dysplasia.
A reputable German Shepherd breeder will also let you see their facilities and meet their dogs in person. You should complete the adult dogs, too, and pay attention to how they look and behave. Don’t take your business elsewhere if the dogs seem aggressive or scared. Depending on their location, they may have recommendations for dog obedience classes in your area. They will also be able to tell you what type of puppy will be best for your lifestyle and needs.
Ask Questions
Adding a German Shepherd to your family can be an exciting and rewarding experience. However, it’s also a serious commitment in terms of time, money, and energy. Finding a reputable breeder who is passionate about the breed and cares about providing healthy, well-rounded puppies is important.
Ask the breeder questions about their breeding practices and what they look for in a puppy. A responsible breeder will happily answer your questions and is interested in learning about you and your expectations for a dog.
You should also find out more about the parents and their history. Determine whether the parents have passed genetic testing for common hip and elbow dysplasia disorders. A reputable German shepherd breeder should be able to tell you if the parents have a history of genetic diseases in their lineage. Suppose they don’t consider finding a new breeder. Ideally, the breeder will offer a health guarantee. This should include coverage for hereditary conditions, hip and elbow dysplasia, and other congenital disabilities.
Make the Right Decision
Choosing the right breeder is one of your most important decisions as a pet owner. Look for a breeder who puts the health and well-being of their German Shepherd dogs before all other concerns. They will focus on producing puppies with a balanced temperament suitable for family companionship and working roles. They’ll also be concerned with the confirmation of their pups and should try to make puppies that align with breed standards.
Ask a veterinarian for recommendations of ethical breeders in your area. Many of them deal with dogs regularly and can give you insight into how breeders conduct their business. Please inquire about the breeder’s facility and ask to meet their adult dogs and puppies. Reputable breeders will welcome you and be open about their practices. They’ll share pedigrees with you and be proud of their dogs’ accomplishments. They’ll also be careful not to breed dogs with genetic diseases.