So you have an idea of getting a German Shepherd puppy! These lovely pups love learning, bonding with their family, playing all day, and being affectionate.
Initially, German Shepherds were bred to protect flocks and herd the sheep, but they were more than working dogs.
German Shepherd puppies are well known for strength, wolf-like appearance, noble disposition, and loyalty.
German Shepherd Puppies Facts
Before finding the best German Shepherd puppies for sale, here are some facts you need to know about the puppies.
- Size: The female German Shepherd puppy weighs between 50 and 70 pounds, while the male weighs between 65 and 90 pounds. Also, they are 22-26” tall from the shoulders.
- Temperamental: The German Shepherd puppies can play all day, are fast learners, loyal to humans, and are very intelligent. Not to mention their nature of being protective.
- Breed characteristics: The German Shepherd puppies are well known for their iconic muscular status. The puppies have a thick and dual coated medium-length fur which is a blend of dark brown to light.
- Healthy and grooming needs: The German Shepherd puppies have a life-threatening bloating problem, although they are known to be a healthy breed. So it is essential to check on their elbows and hips as they approach old age.
German Shepherd puppies usually shed more principal amounts once or twice a year, so they need occasional brushing and baths.
- Life span: The German Shepherd dogs live an average age of 7 to 10 years
- Energy levels: The German Shepherd puppies are energetic, and they love running and doing activities that require a lot of energy.
- Training: German Shepherd puppies are always ready for puppy training sessions. Moreover, they are fast learners and thus can learn more impressive skills quickly.
Cost of a German Shepherd
If you are ready to welcome a German Shepherd puppy to your home, it is crucial to know their cost.
According to Rover’s cost of pet parenthood, 37 percent of the German Shepherd’s parents usually expect to spend between 250- 500 dollars on the upfront cost. In comparison, 75 percent are satisfied with the upfront’s actual cost since it matches their budget.
Overall, 71 percent of the German Shepherd parents use 50- 149 dollars per month.
5 Reliable Ways for Finding the Best German Shepherd Puppies for Sale
1. German Shepherd Dog Breeders
Getting a reputable breeder can be a bit challenging. Some organizations, such as the American Kennel Club, feature a searching tool for finding a reputable German Shepherd around you.
If you cannot reach any breeder of your interest, many online breeders are to consider. Please be aware of puppy mills and online scams that may give you an unhealthy puppy or without a puppy.
Discuss the genetic tests you may want to take, like the von Willebrand test. Besides, ask any prospective breeders you visit about the health problems of the puppy’s bloodline.
If necessary, meet the parents of the puppy to ensure that they have your desired temperament.
2. Dog Shows
Reputable breeders breed premium quality dogs. Most of these breeders love featuring their dogs in shows.
Visiting the dog shows is a good idea for meeting breeders. You will have a chance to see the dogs in action and even watch how the breeders treat and work with their dogs.
Through the dog show, you will learn the dog’s temperaments. And a great temperament is crucial in each German Shepherd puppy.
3. Reference from Family and Friends
Family and friends are good at pointing you in the perfect direction of finding reputable breeders.
If your family or friend already has a German Shepherd dog from a particular breeder, they will know whether the reputable breeder is worth reaching out to.
4. German Shepherd Dog Rescues
Forty-six percent of the pet parents adopted their German Shepherd puppy from the rescues and shelters.
The German Shepherd dogs from rescues usually come neutered and spayed with their shots.
The independent owners give in a considerable number of German Shepherd dogs to rescue; thus, they are already aware of the basic commands and are also social.
5. Ask a Vet
Vets are close to reputable breeders since they work together at all times. These vets are aware of breeders who regularly take their German Shepherd pups and dogs for health checkups and vet visits.
It is crucial to ask a vet you know since some vets are not trustworthy. Meaning you should first know the relationship you have with your vet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much would a German Shepherd puppy cost?
The German Shepherds are not cheap dogs. Getting a puppy from responsible breeders can cost you about 1,500 dollars per puppy.
Which one is better, Rottweiler or German Shepherd?
The German Shepherd and Rottweiler are both powerful dogs. The Rottweiler has an extra muscular, heavy construction, and they are well constructed for pulling and carrying weight. But when it comes to sturdiness, the Rottweiler has a slight pro over the German Shepherd.
Why do police use German Shepherds instead of rottweilers?
While sturdiness is an admirable character for a police dog, it is essential to lower destruction during apprehension. With that said, German Shepherds qualify to be more extra suitable dogs for suspect apprehension.
What is the best German Shepherd breed?
The Saddle coat German Shepherd is the most commonly recognized German Shepherd dog type.
Is a boy or girl a German Shepherd better?
According to research, boy German Shepherd dogs are more hostile than girl German Shepherd dogs. Meaning that a family should highly consider getting a German girl Shepherd for companionship over a boy German Shepherd dog.
Bottom Line
Finding a German Shepherd puppy is easy, although it is essential to research before buying one due to internet scams and puppy mills. Moreover, ask for reputable breeders, pay them a visit before making any puppy payment.
Suppose you opt to purchase a German Shepherd. In that case, you will need to spend a lot of time discouraging it from barking, biting, socializing with people and other pets, and even teaching it essential skills such as sleeping and going to the outside bathrooms.