Tuesday, September 25, 2012

When Searching For German Shepherds For Sale A Registered Breeder Will Be Able To Help

By Casandra Newton


If you find German Shepherds for sale, you need to ascertain their background. If they have come from a registered breeder, you are more likely to acquire a healthy dog with a stable temperament. The old movies starring Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart resulted in the German Shepherd breed becoming very popular as a family pet. Well-bred animals exhibit the intelligence, loyalty and bravery that the stars of the films exhibit.

Unscrupulous breeders have been responsible for the perpetration of a number of genetic disorders. Most of these can be avoided if potential stud dogs are screened. A genuine breeder will want to breed and sell only those dogs which are free of inherited problems.

Hip and elbow dysplasia are two disorders that affect a number of German Shepherds. Chronic eczema and epilepsy are others. With careful management, bloat and digestive disorders can be controlled or avoided. Veterinary records of potential pets should be available. A trustworthy breeder will ensure his breeding stock is as healthy as possible.

The breed is not particularly active indoors and will need regular exercise and preferably a large yard. It will not appreciate being left alone for long periods. It will also need regular grooming. Once a relationship is established, the breed is good with children and is a popular family pet. Originally the dog was used for herding. It is a very intelligent breed and is used for a number of occupations. It is often cited as the leading breed for guard, military and police work.

Some become guide dogs for the blind, search and rescue animals, or guard dogs. The military and police use German Shepherds for a number of tasks including tracking intruders, drug and gas leak detection. They are popular as show dogs and excel at a number of canine activities such as flyball, tracking, obedience and agility. These dogs are best when they are mentally stimulated and have a task to do. When bored and under-exercised they can be restless and destructive.

The dogs are longer than they are tall. Maximum heights are around 26 inches and the heaviest weigh about 85 pounds. Males are slightly taller and heavier than females. They are strong and muscular with a long, free stride. The tail is bushy and carried in a sickle shape. The ears may droop slightly in puppies but are erect in adult dogs.

The breed sheds heavily each season but also sheds year round. While they should be brushed regularly, frequent bathing is not recommended. Bathing removes oil from the coat. This sometimes leads to skin irritations.

The breed bonds strongly to its owner which is why buying a puppy rather than an adult dog is a good idea. It should be well socialized when young. They will not tolerate harsh treatment and are often wary of strangers. It is important that they are not allowed to become dominant in the family hierarchy but are treated firmly but kindly.

The dog has an air of self-possession and may seem aloof with strangers. If wanting to buy a puppy, ask to see the parents as their characters are likely to be passed on to some degree to the offspring. If you find German Shepherds for sale, be sure they come from a reputable registered breeder.




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