Ten Questions to Ask to Prevent Getting Scammed When Looking for a German Shepherd Puppy for Sale
Acquiring a German Shepherd puppy is an exciting endeavor, but the process requires due diligence to avoid falling prey to scams. The popularity of German Shepherds has unfortunately attracted unscrupulous breeders and scammers who exploit prospective puppy owners. By asking the right questions, you can safeguard your investment and ensure the puppy you bring home comes from a reputable source. Here are ten essential questions to ask when looking for a German Shepherd puppy for sale.
1. Are the breeding stock IGP titled?
One of the first questions to ask is whether the breeder is whether their breeding stock are IGP titled. Ideally, both parents would be titled. This would not be necessary if parents are both from IGP titled bloodlines. When possible, buying a puppy from a litter where the father is IGP 3 titled will be idea. Titled parents are different than merely winning an AKC championship. AKC showdogs are primarily judged on conformation and temperament. But no testing is done on their ability to make GSDs what these dogs were bred to accomplish— that is, tracking and protection dogs. Testing of breeding stock and titled breeding stock ensures that breeding dogs have retained biddable temperament and demonstrate the ability to both track and provide protection. Simply buying an AKC show dogs means about all you are getting is what we at www.czechworkingline.com call a “do I look pretty dog?” Make sure that at least one of the parents of the litter are IGP titled, and preferably, a vast majority of parentage in a five-generation pedigree should also be IGP titled. Finding a German Shepher puppy for sale from this kind of breeding will put you on the right foot.
2. Find breeders that won’t mind showing you the parents to the litter.
Seeing the parent dogs can offer significant insights into the quality and temperament of the puppies. Reputable breeders will be eager to show off their breeding stock and allow you to observe interactions with both the mother and father, if available. Pay attention to the parents’ health, behavior, and living conditions. This can give you a good indication of the environment in which the puppies are raised and the breeder’s commitment to good practices. Beware of breeders who provide excuses for why the parents are unavailable for viewing.
3. Can I Visit Your home and see the puppy when I pick it up.?
A crucial question to ask is whether you can visit the breeder’s home. Legitimate breeders will usually welcome prospective buyers to their homes or kennels. You will be able to see the parents personally. Ask to see what kind of training have been done. Are the parents obedient. Don’t settle for dogs where parents and grandparents have never done more than win in a showring. Look for breeders that are doing the work to actually work their dogs and prove capacity for tracking and protection. This is the kind of breeder that gets a gold star in our books.
4. What Health Screenings Have Been Done?
German Shepherds are prone to certain genetic conditions like hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy. Ask the breeder about the health screenings they’ve conducted on both the parents and the puppies. Reputable breeders will provide health clearances and documentation proving that the breeding stock and puppies have been tested for common hereditary issues. This ensures you are getting a puppy with a reduced risk of genetic health problems. If a breeder hesitates or cannot provide documentation, it’s a potential warning sign.
5. Do You Provide Health Guarantees?
Another important question is about health guarantees. A reputable breeder will typically offer a written health guarantee that covers specific conditions for a certain period after purchase. This shows their confidence in the health and quality of their puppies and provides you with recourse if any serious health issues arise shortly after bringing the puppy home. Be wary of breeders who do not offer any form of health guarantee as this may indicate a lack of confidence in their breeding practices.
6. Do You Have References from Previous Buyers?
References can be a valuable resource for assessing a breeder’s reputation. Ask the breeder for contact information of previous buyers who can share their experiences. Genuine breeders will have satisfied clients who are happy to vouch for them. Take the time to reach out to these references. Ask about their experiences, the health and temperament of their dogs, and their overall satisfaction. An inability or reluctance to provide references is a concerning sign.
7. Can You Provide Pedigree Information and Are the Parents from True Working Lines?
Understanding the pedigree of the puppy is crucial, especially with a breed as distinctive as the German Shepherd. Ask the breeder for pedigree information to ensure that the puppies are purebred and come from a lineage of healthy dogs. Authentic breeders usually align with recognized kennel clubs and can provide proof of lineage, often extending several generations back. This documentation helps verify the breed’s lineage and the breeder’s commitment to maintaining breed standards. Part of the pedigree question ought to be whether the parents are from true working line German Shepherds? Are their parents, grandparents and great grandparents titled dogs that have been proven to demonstrate an innate ability to respond to obedience training (biddable), tracking and protection work. Do the pedigrees show a demonstrated ability to perform as German Shepherds were bred to perform. Or, are these dogs primarily show dogs. What do the pedigrees demonstrate?
8. What Is Your Breeding Philosophy and Socialization Process?
A breeder’s philosophy and approach to socialization are critical factors. Ask about their breeding goals, how they choose their breeding pairs, and their process for socializing puppies. Reputable breeders will have a clear and thoughtful approach to ensuring that their puppies are well-rounded and ready for various environments. Socialization is key in the early weeks; reputable breeders expose their puppies to different stimuli, people, and other animals to develop balanced behaviors. Understanding their commitment to responsible breeding and socialization practices can provide assurance about the quality of the puppy you are purchasing.
9. Does the breeder offer any kind of health guarantee?
A sales contract protects both the buyer and the breeder by clearly outlining the agreement’s terms. Ask if the breeder provides a sales contract and review it carefully. This contract should detail the responsibilities of both parties, including health guarantees, spay/neuter requirements, and return policies. Reputable breeders will have no issue providing and discussing a detailed sales contract because it signifies professionalism and transparency. Avoid breeders who operate on verbal agreements alone, as this can lead to complications down the line.
10. Is the breeder affiliated with the AKC?
Affiliations with recognized kennel clubs or breed organizations indicate adherence to specific standards of breeding and care. Ask the breeder which organizations they are members of, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA). Membership in these organizations often requires breeders to meet certain ethical and operational standards. Verification of these affiliations can provide additional assurance of the breeder’s legitimacy and commitment to the breed’s welfare.
Conclusion
Purchasing a German Shepherd puppy is a significant investment, both emotionally and financially. To avoid getting scammed, it is crucial to conduct thorough due diligence. By asking these ten important questions, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering an unscrupulous breeder and increase your chances of bringing home a healthy, well-bred puppy. Remember, reputable breeders will appreciate your diligence and be more than willing to provide the information and transparency you need. Taking these steps ensures that your new canine companion is a joy and a healthy addition to your family for years to come.
