Get as much background information about the Sire and b itch (Dad & Mom) as possible, temperment , age, health , etc. Also do some checking into the breeders reputation. As far as the pup itself, the breed stands on it's own merits as a quality animal, but you need to have a Vet check him out for known genetic diseases such as, displacia, epilepsy, glaucoma, allergies and so on. The best Pup to get is a pup with a healthy start. If you pick one that will need to be medicated and constantly hospitalized during it's life,...you both will be miserable during your whole friendship. Money, pain, money, pain. Research, chose wisely and hopefully it will be....Love, fun, love fun, for many years.
2007-03-11 07:14:43
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answer #1
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answered by twostories 4
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Well first make sure the parents have at least OFA certified hips and elbows. Ask for the OFA number or a copy of the certificates as some people will unfortunately lie about it.
What are your goals with the puppy? Do you have experience with shepherds? I can't help much without that as everyone has different goals, preferences, and abilities when it comes to THEIR dogs. I LOVE a dominant, headstrong, can-you-make-me-do-it personality but most people do not want that or cannot handle it. What do YOU want?
When looking at a litter, look for a puppy that is bright eyed, alert, and playful. If it is hiding in the corner or shies away from you, don't take it. If you don't want a dominant dog and the litter hasn't been temperment tested, avoid the one that runs to you first. That's usually the alpha puppy and it MAY grow into an dominant dog. Personally, I recommend finding a breeder who temperment tests (see link below for information on that) and just asking him/her to pick one out for you. We humans have a bit of a downfall. We just cannot resist picking on the 'cute' factor. We see a cute puppy and that is the one we want. We forget to think about what this pup's temperment will likely be like as an adult. The breeder has spent 8+ weeks with these babies and knows them best. S/he should be able to tell you that "Yes, this puppy is good for you" or "No, you cannot/do not want that puppy". You should also look for a breeder who offers a contract/guarantee, preferably longer than two years (most problems will show up AFTER two years). Preferably the pups would be raised in the house with lots of socialization. I can recommend some good breeders if you'd like but I would need to know your goals first. If you're looking for a family companion, I do know of a very nice litter that was just born out of titled, health tested parents. I do not know how many are still available so you'd have to ask the breeder yourself. stary_eyed_angel@yahoo.com
2007-03-11 14:05:14
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answer #2
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answered by Erica Lynn 6
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I can give you two advices here. One go to www.akc.org and read about the breed standards..Get every book you can on the German Shepherd , read about them, know the question to ask the breeder.. Know what to look for. There is no better teacher than yourself. My second love of a dog is the German Shepherd. They are the most beautiful loyal dog I ever had when it comes to big dogs. And please make sure you don't buy a puppy without the AKC litter papers of the dog. Plus all the testing that needs to be done on Shepherd.
2007-03-11 14:03:32
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answer #3
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answered by china 4
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contact a reputable breeder,,, they will know the temperament of their pups,, after a few interviews with you,, they will get to know your temperament and they will correctly match up the two.... for instance,, a layed back, quiet , gentle ***** would be good for granny etc ............ do lots of research and get the best breeder possible,, there are tons and tons of bad GSD breeders out there - you will want proof of OFA on both parents, both sets of grandparents and all of the great grandparents..... etc.
2007-03-11 14:09:49
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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i am not sure where you live. if in the USA i would look for GSD with german breeding behind it. they have a better rear end and less trouble with Hip problems.
2007-03-11 14:33:40
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answer #5
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answered by Skyhoss 4
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Make sure that the pup is registered and his hips are guaranteed due to Hip Displasia. Very common in German Shepards and larger breeds. My cousin bought a registered GSP and had to put him down when he was a year old due to Hip Displasia.
2007-03-11 14:00:01
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answer #6
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answered by uuummk 5
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See if they look healthy and strong and they have to look happy.
2007-03-11 13:58:47
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answer #7
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answered by Whatz up 2
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just make sure it is healthy because your not breeding it.
2007-03-11 14:06:07
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answer #8
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answered by douglas R 3
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