Choosing a Purebred German Shepherd Breeder
Von Stephanitz saw at a dog show in 1899, a dog called Hektor Linksrhein who matched perfectly his vision of the breed. He purchased him and renamed him Horand von Grafrath.

The breed standard states that hind angulation should be in line with the front angulation and should be avoided by over-angulation. This has unfortunately led to an unnatural sloped back in many show-strains' dogs.
Reputable Breeders
When it comes to purchasing purebred German Shepherds, it's crucial to select a reputable breeder. Breeders with a good reputation will be able to provide you with thorough pedigrees and health clearances that will allow you to make an informed decision about the best German Shepherd for your home. They'll also provide you with valuable information about the breed as well as answer any questions you might have.
Reputable German Shepherd Breeders are committed to producing litters of high quality, with sound parents and grandparent. They are also able to guarantee the genetic soundness of their dogs through screening for common diseases and conditions, such as hip dysplasia. This prevents the spread of this debilitating and painful condition among their breeding stock, and also ensures that the puppies they offer will enjoy a healthy, enjoyable life with their new owners.
Breeders usually specialize in specific areas of the breed, such as Schutzhund for service work or Schutzhund for sports. This allows them to bring in the best parents and provide their pups with the ideal genetic background for this specific task. This ensures that every puppy in a litter will have the drive, temperament, and physical characteristics required for success in the desired job.
Another thing to look for in a reputable German Shepherd breeder is the amount of time they devote to training their dogs. A reputable breeder will be capable of demonstrating the abilities of their dogs as well as discuss how they can be used to protect and serve their families and communities. A trustworthy German Shepherd breeder will also have certified, trained dog trainers on staff.
The final trait to look for in a reliable German shepherd breeder is dedication to the preservation and advancement of the breed. This is evident in their commitment to the breeding, care, and training of their dogs, as along with their participation in activities such as trials and shows. These activities enable them to select breeders with a fair view of dogs and improve the welfare of dogs by conducting seminars and writing articles.
The reputation of a breeder is ultimately dependent on their ability to breed dogs of superior quality that are up to or exceeding the standards set by the German Shepherd Club of America. If a breeder fails to meet this standard, it will eventually affect their reputation.
Health Clearances
A responsible breeder should conduct health screenings on both parents prior breeding to mitigate the risk of inheritable diseases. Ask the breeder if results of the screenings have been verified. A reputable breeder will also have the pedigrees of their dogs readily accessible for inspection.
German Shepherds are susceptible of hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as degenerative myelopathy. Responsible breeders will test their puppies for these and other conditions offer nutrition and exercise and offer continuous guidance and assistance to ensure their well-being.
German Shepherds, as well as other large breeds of dogs are at risk of hemolytic anemia. This is a condition that occurs when red blood cells break up more quickly than normal. This condition can cause weakness, fatigue dizziness, lightheadedness and dizziness. It can also cause nausea, vomiting, and fever. Fortunately hemolytic anemia can be treated by prescription medication and other treatments.
Cancer is a common disease that can affect German Shepherds. It can appear as skin tumors or in internal organs and is typically treated with chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery.
German Shepherds also suffer from an inflammatory bowel disease. It can trigger abdominal pain, diarrhea and weight loss.
German Shepherds may also suffer from degenerative joint disease. It's the result of wear and tear of joints over time, which can result in discomfort or even arthritis. Weight loss, exercise restriction and joint protection supplements are common treatment options for joint issues.
Degenerative myelopathy, a degenerative spinal disease caused by a genetic disorder can affect any breed of dog, including German Shepherds. This condition is more common in white dogs and may be caused by two "carriers" that are crossed. However, this disease is still being studied and a DM test is not necessary for a dog to be issued a CHIC number through OFA.
Socialization
German Shepherds are naturally protective, which owners often admire. However when a GSD isn't socialized with other dogs, this instinctual response could be a problem for the dog. This can lead to excessive protection, which can include barking and biting. It is important to make sure that your puppy has been exposed to a variety of different people or dogs, and situations and experiences during its critical period of socialization, which is between 3 and 14 weeks.
Most breeders who are reputable ensure that their puppies are exposed to a range of animals, people and experiences early on. This is essential to a well-adjusted adult dog. This is essential for breeds that work and herd that are suspicious of strangers.
The introduction of a puppy to new experiences should be handled cautiously, starting with less stressful environments and gradually progressing to more crowded environments. Positive reinforcement, play, and treats are the best ways to motivate the puppy to engage with new experiences.
Exposing the dog to various scents, sounds and environments is also a good idea. This will make your dog feel comfortable in a variety settings, and also make them more calm and relaxed.
As a responsible dog owner you should be prepared to spend many hours exploring your German Shepherd pup to new experiences as it develops. This will allow them to grow up to be happy, well-adjusted and comfortable people.
German Shepherds are a highly intelligent and adaptable breed with a wide range of uses. Entzückende Scäferhund Welpen can be used as pets for families as well as police or herding dogs, or even service dogs. Socialization and stimulation of the brain early can reduce future behavior issues. While genetics play a major role in a dogs development and temperament however, they also have a significant impact on the dog's development. If you're looking for an purebred German Shepherd, be sure to choose a reliable breeder that is committed to providing their puppies with the right environment and training. A well-adjusted German shepherd is a delight to have and will provide you with years of love and companionship. They are an excellent option for families with active children who require a loyal and affectionate dog.
Training
German Shepherds are intelligent and versatile dogs who thrive when they are active. The German Shepherd is highly sought-after for its ability to herd, but it excels in many other capacities. They are adamant and unflinching in their pursuit of responsibilities, making them popular with security experts from local K-9 police departments to all branches of the military around the globe.
These dogs need a lot of physical and mental stimulation to avoid issues like separation anxiety and hyperactivity. If you are interested in purchasing a German Shepherd you should take an obedience class with a professional trainer who specializes in this breed. The trainer will have the knowledge and skills needed to help you and your dog become an experienced, confident, and well-behaved couple.
The German Shepherd has a long history of being bred for certain physical and temperamental traits and to have high working aptitude. These are the main goals of an experienced German Shepherd breeder, which should be the foundation of any discussion you have with the breeder prior to deciding to purchase puppies. Unfortunately, many breeders lose sight of these goals and concentrate more on breeding dogs that look like a certain way or have certain characteristics of performance. For instance breeders may concentrate on breeding dogs with beautiful ears in order that they can win awards in competitions. While there's nothing wrong with that but it's essential to choose a breeder that also focuses on the soundness of the dogs they produce.
This includes hip and elbow certifications and the willingness to answer questions from prospective buyers. This is another factor that separates reputable breeders from the unethical ones. Unscrupulous breeders aren't likely to take the time or money to answer a question and so they either dismiss it or lie about the answer.
The right German Shepherd breeder will offer an animal that has the perfect mix of herding instincts and intelligence. By interviewing potential breeders, reviewing health clearances, and locating a training specialist and a trainer, you can prepare yourself for a long-lasting relationship with your new German Shepherd.