Expect to pay between $500-$1200 and up for a quality German Shepherd puppy from a breeder. You will spend some money up front, but more money invested will save you in vet and other bills in the end. Buying a quality puppy ensures the support of a reputable breeder. For more information on the pricing range in the USA, visit the German Shepherd Dog Club of America website. [3] X Research source
The breed is a great fit for owners who are looking for a lot of engagement and interaction with their pet. If this is too much responsibility for you, you may want to look into other breeds.
Males can sometimes be more territorial than females. Scent marking can be controlled with proper training. [7] X Research source Females may be more protective of their “pack” or family, though this may result in jealousy of other pets.
The working dogs are selected for traits like intelligence, ease of training, athletic ability and natural herding and working skills. You can find wonderful German Shepherds of all types at agility, obedience, Schutzhund and tracking tests (and many other different types of competitions). Contact The German Shepherd Club or AKC for a list of events where you can see and meet German Shepherds. [10] X Research source [11] X Trustworthy Source American Kennel Club The American Kennel Club (AKC) is a purebred dog pedigree registry in the United States. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source
Never buy a dog from a classified ad or website without first visiting the location and getting a sense for the owner. Don’t agree to meet the puppy off-site — you want to see the breeder’s premises. Never buy a dog from a pet store. Pet stores often get puppies from puppy mills who breed without regard for the health or quality of the dogs. Dogs often live in poor conditions and are unhealthy. Do not support these practices with your money. You might see puppies being sold on the side of the street. If they’re not affiliated with an adoption agency, you should never buy puppies off the street. These are usually irresponsible breeders, and buying these puppies only encourages more irresponsible practices.
Also consider speaking to other German Shepherd owners, dog groomers, or dog trainers. If you visit a breed show, talk to owners and trainers about who they’ve had good or bad experiences with.
Make sure the puppies spend at least some time in the breeders’ home with them. The more time they spend with humans, the more you can trust the breeder.
Puppies should never be sold or separated from their mothers before 8 weeks of age. Before that, it’s unsafe to wean them from their mothers.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), on the other hand, is interested in orthopedic and genetic health. [14] X Research source German Shepherds commonly have hip and elbow dysplasia. While experts recommend against breeding animals with known genetic problems, an OFA certification will give you proof. Be aware, though, that there’s no guarantee of health in any animal. There’s always a chance that two dogs free of known genetic diseases can still produce a puppy with genetic problems.
You might also ask the breeder for references so you can contact other families who have dogs from previous litters.
Be patient and don’t get discouraged. With enough patience and legwork, you’ll find the right puppy. Don’t lie to a breeder just to get a puppy, though. Trust the breeder’s decision-making process. You don’t want to end up with a dog who doesn’t fit your needs.
Make sure the dogs are not crowded into cages. They should have plenty of room to stumble around and explore their surroundings. Part of the time, puppies should be kept in the home to expose them to household environments. There should be adequate food and water for all animals on the premises. Kennels should be cleaned daily. Although it may be that a dog had an accident just before you arrived, be suspicious of a kennel that looks like it hasn’t been cleaned recently.
Also find out what kind of documentation you would get with your puppy. Would you get registration papers and pedigree papers?
Does the contract require you to take the puppy for a vet visit within a set time? Does it cover hereditary issues for life? For only a certain period of time? What kind of documentation will you need to provide to “prove” your case? What does the breeder agree to offer? 100% money back? Trade for another puppy when one is available? Are there restrictions on the activities you can do with your dog that will invalidate the contract or guarantee? Are you purchasing a show prospect puppy or a pet quality animal? Does the breeder have strong feelings (or even bans) about the vaccinations, foods or supplements for your puppy? Are these opinions based on solid science?
Don’t forget about talking to German Shepherd owners or visiting breed shows to meet more owners.
While this may seem excessive, the rescue group just wants to place the dog with a family in a home that’s prepared to handle the responsibility.
Also assess the puppy’s social health. Puppies should be curious and well-socialized, playful and friendly.
Walk around to see if the puppy follows you. A puppy that follows humans is well-socialized to them and enjoys their company. Kneel and call the puppy to you. It should show interest in you and come when called. Lift the puppy in the air to see how well it deals with being carried. Gently restrain the puppy with its belly up. Though a little bit of struggle is okay, you don’t want a puppy who fights you when you try to handle it. Look for a puppy that isn’t afraid —note if his tail is between his legs. In all interactions, look for signs of fear or mistrust. These puppies may not adjust well to your home.
If you decide to take on a “project” with behavioral concerns, make sure you have a behaviorist or trainer you trust lined up first. Beware that having a “reactive” dog will add to the potential liability of ownership.
If you want a puppy that lives far away, be willing to travel for it.
