Probably everyone that starts on the path of bringing a new puppy into his or her life thinks: "Maybe a German Shepard puppy." German Shepards are trained and used to performing a wide variety of tasks such as a family pet; the noble, trusted, police dog; guard dogs for search and rescue; and in the bomb and drug detection department. They can also herd cattle and sheep, go hunting, win in obedience training, bring home ribbons from the show ring, and every facet in between. That German Shepard puppy you are considering can also grow to be an excellent companion, family member and friend for life.
When looking for your new friend you might want to decide first on whether you are more inclined to the American bloodlines, or the German lines. There is some difference; American bloodlines produce longer leaner and sometimes taller versions of the dog - revealing an elegant, graceful, flowing, and noble look. The German bloodlines are stockier, more muscular, with greater agility, energy and atypical intensity. The bloodlines from Germany are required to pass the minimum standards for confirmation and working ability. This is an intelligent, loving dog with a deep desire to please. The German Shepard Club of America or The German Shepard Club of Germany would be able to help you with any questions and direct you to a concerned breeder. Any breeder you speak with should be sensitive to the fact that if you are not happy with your choice, the puppy won't be happy either. This should be a concern of any breeder you meet, talk to, or write to.
The German Shepard puppy grows to be between 24-26 inches at the shoulder in males, with the females growing from between 22-24 inches. The pups will reach their adult height between 10-18 months of age. The average period of longevity is between 10-13 years. Both the males and female love human companionship, and are quick to respond to human needs.
When you have done your research and found that the German Shepard puppy is the dog of your dreams, make sure you buy from a reputable, caring breeder. Never buy from a puppy mill. These dogs live in deplorable situations and the chances of getting a healthy pup are rare. Since German Shepards are prone to hip dysphasia you should plan on giving your pup a hip X-ray at about the age of 6 months. Make sure your German Shepard puppy, as with any puppy, gets his/her proper shots and immunization program continued. Send your puppy to obedience school, or to play school to ensure proper socializing and to prevent shyness. This is not a dog that is afraid of anyone, but a dog that loves to play. Talk to your vet and discuss your puppy's needs, always giving nutritional, high quality food, lots of love, attention, and exercise. Realize that when well-taken care of, this puppy will grow into a friend that is extremely attentive to your moods, and you will be blessed with German Shepard puppy love that lasts a lifetime.
