Pet buyers have many options today. Those in the market for a purebred German Shepherd need to research the specifics before buying. This article will cover the history of the German Shepherd, characteristics, where to buy, and how to avoid illicit breeders and sellers. Additionally, buyers should know how to care for a purebred German Shepherd and be prepared for this well in advance of making a purchase.
The history of the German Shepherd dog begins fairly recently compared to other breeds. Though various sheep dogs existed in Germany, the first was classified as such in 1899. A German cavalry captain, Max von Stephanitz, noticed a fine example of a sheep dog at a dog show. That dog, Hektor, was renamed Horand von Grafath, and he was the first German Shepherd. Stephanitz founded The German Shepherd Dog Club of Germany and became the first German Shepherd breeder in history.
The German Shepherd dog has a relatively short history. The first German Shepherd breeder, Max von Stephanitz, registered the breed in Germany in 1899. The American Kennel Club registered the breed in 1911. German Shepherds are sheep herding dogs and are still used in some countries for that purpose today but they are more likely to be used in the workforce for a variety of purposes including police work and as aides to the visually impaired.
German Shepherds, closely followed by Labradors, are one of the easiest breeds to train due to their high intelligence, trainability and physical and mental endurance. This breed is also known to be loyal, courageous and protective. Because of these inherent traits, it is very important that they begin life in an environment in which they receive stimulation, attention, discipline and training. Reputable breeders take great care in providing a foundation upon which German Shepherds can grow to be smart and socialized working dogs.
A bad German Shepherd breeder only breeds dogs for cold hard cash and nothing more. They see the puppies and the parents as merchandise, not as living creatures. The term puppy mill or backyard breeder is the name given to these illicit breeders. The females are bred each and every season leading to shorter life spans and ill health. They are confined to very small cages and have no socialization of any kind. The puppies are kept in the same kind of conditions, which can lead to physically and emotionally unhealthy litters. These are the kind of puppies found at pet stores.
The best advice is to find a reputable German Sherperd breeder that really cares about the puppies they produce. This kind of breeder will ask questions of potential buyers to ensure the well being of the puppy in it's new home. They will have all the appropriate paperwork such as American Kennel Club registration and veterinarian health reports as well as plenty of care information to pass on to the new family.
Jan Ryan has written hundreds of articles on all things canine, including dozens about German Shepherd Dogs. The German Shepherd has a great personality, which is better than most humans. New dog owners should know basic German Shepherd information before bringing home a German Shepherd rescue dog.