How to Choose a German Shepherd Breeder.
What you should know and learn about first.
Choosing the right breeder for picking out your German shepherd puppy, is one of the most important decisions you will make over your future pet’s lifetime. Purchasing your puppy from a responsible breeder can often mean the difference between a lifetime of happiness and a lifetime of heartache.
If you are looking to add a GSD to your family, make sure that you are buying your puppy from the best breeder possible: One that you can keep in touch with, so if you have any questions, you will always be able to contact them. Most good dog breeders will have no problem with this if they care about their puppies and clients.
I recommend that if you are thinking about buying a puppy from a breeder, that you contact them and ask questions. Find out if their policies. Ask if they mind if you contact them with any questions after you buy the puppy. Reputable breeders want their pups to go to good homes. They also welcome the chance to talk to you. It gives them a chance to find out what your expectations are.
They want a good fit and don’t want their dogs to be re-homed. So, if after doing this, you don’t feel comfortable with them, and they seem to expect you to take the puppy home and disappear, then do not buy a puppy from them. That’s a red light if you ask me.. Below is more information on how to chose a German Shepherd Puppy.
How to Choose a German Shepherd Puppy
If you’re ready to bring a German shepherd dog into your life, choosing the right puppy for your family will be one of the most important decisions that you make. If you choose the right puppy, you’ll have ten years or more of joy and happiness with your GSD. If you choose the wrong puppy, you’ll be left wondering why you’re having so many problems. Additionally, choosing the wrong puppy can set both you and the dog up for a world of heartache. Before you start searching for the perfect German Shepherd, there are some things that you need to know:
1.Responsible Breeders
The first step to finding a great puppy is to find a great breeder. When meeting with breeders, look for people who are passionate, knowledgeable, and who ask you questions. A great breeder won’t let you choose from an entire litter, but will take the time to get to know you and match you with one or two of their puppies. While you obviously aren’t required to purchase the puppy that is suggested to you, it would be wise for you to follow the breeder’s advice, especially if you are new the breed.
2.Finding a Healthy Puppy
When looking at puppies, make sure that the litter you are choosing from looks healthy and cared for. Avoid purchasing a puppy with weeping eyes, a runny nose, congested chest or spots of missing fur coupled with scaling skin. Additionally, make sure that the breeder has had the sire and dam certified against hip and elbow defects; common problems within the German Shepherd breed. While it’s not unusual for puppies to get sick now and then, a responsible breeder generally will not show a litter of sick pups.
3.Temperament is Key
Any knowledgeable trainer will tell you that temperament within the GSD breed is of incredible importance. German shepherds can be strong-willed and easily outsmart and out-muscle their inexperienced new owners. Look for a puppy that approaches you willingly, is alert and curious about you and your family. Unless you are an experienced GSD owner, you should avoid the puppy that runs away or sits in the corner of the room, afraid to approach you. This puppy will often grow into a nervous, anxious dog in the hands of the wrong owner.
4.Your Lifestyle
Expect the breeder to ask you questions about your lifestyle. A responsible breeder will want to know who lives in your home, your work or school schedule, and why you want a puppy. The German Shepherd can be an excellent companion for an active, social family who is interested in making their new puppy a part of their daily lives. Because GSDs need extensive socialization and training, the breed is not the right choice for families who prefer to spend their leisure time camped out in front of the television.
5.History of the Line
When looking at a litter of GSDs, be sure to ask the owner about the bloodline of the puppies. Look for several generations of show or obedience champions within the litter’s lineage. Though having a strong lineage isn’t a requirement, it can mean the difference between a puppy that will grow into a confident dog that exceeds the breed standard and one that is unsociable, timid, and a poor representation of the breed.
Unfortunately, many people choose a puppy based on gender or appearance instead of mental and physical soundness. Gender and looks should never be a deciding factor when choosing a dog that will live in your family for the next 12 years or more. By doing your research, finding a responsible breeder and considering the five points above, you’re sure to choose a puppy that not only fits perfectly with your family now, but will fit perfectly with your family years from now. One breeder I would recommend is Kraftwerk K9. They have working line K9 German Shepherds puppies for sale in the United States. I know people that have been very happy with their services.