Time to Read: 8-9 minutes
Introduction
When it comes to searching for a German Shepherd puppy, finding a reputable breeder is paramount. The right breeder not only provides you with a healthy and well-socialized German Shepherd puppy but also offers ongoing support and guidance. In this guide, we’ll explore essential factors to consider when searching for a responsible German Shepherd Dog breeder for your new companion.
Understanding the Importance of a Responsible German Shepherd Dog Breeder
A responsible German Shepherd dog breeder is more than just someone who breeds dogs. They are dedicated to upholding the breed standard, prioritizing the health and well-being of their dogs. While this is important for all breeds, one could argue holding to a high health standard could be doubly important for working line, protection dogs. With a job to work and protect, it is paramount that each breeding is the result of thoughtful care. Here at Czech Working Line, we start with the highest quality IGP titled studs. We only use Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) Clear— no copies whatsoever (N/N). With the advent of affordable genetic testing, responsible breeders arguably ought to test for DM. Why would a person not do so? With the high incidence of this preventable genetic disease, it only makes sense to test. Starting with these males that have demonstrated unusual responsiveness and capacity to achieve high testing scores in obedience, tracking and protection training, we pair these dogs with similar pedigreed females. Committed to producing the world’s highest quality working line dogs, we NEVER mix show lines into our dogs. It is our opinion that the tendency towards excessive roach backs lead to physiology risk that compromise joint health. Yes, there are show dogs that test great on their elbows and hips. But from an “engineering” perspective, its a risk that we don’t want to take. We only make use of true working line pedigrees. We only use dogs that come from a long line of pedigreed parents with demonstrated biddability through the generations. When you choose a responsible German Shepherd dog breeder, having done your homework as you have searched for that perfect German Shepherd puppy for sale– you’re entering into a relationship built on trust and mutual respect.
Researching Where to Find Your Next Puppy
Start your search for by conducting thorough research. More important than finding a breeder in your backyard, is finding a breeder committed to producing a German Shepherd puppy consistent with the health and temperament that will meet goals you have established. Too often, the dog next door is just that, the dog next door. With the ability to quickly cross the country, choose a responsible breeder over closeness. In our situation, plenty of our pups do find homes in close proximity, but a good portion are also spread out across the continental United States. An ethical breeder won’t mind some extra effort in connecting with an out of state owner. Finding the right home for their puppies out to be as important on their end as it is for the new owner to find the right puppy.
Visiting When Possible
Once you’ve compiled a list of potential German Shepherd dog breeders, take the opportunity to visit with the family raising your new furry companion. A reputable German Shepherd dog breeder will welcome the opportunity to meet face to face. Consider offering to take them out to coffee or even a nice meal. Sitting down with an experienced breeder can be a golden opportunity to gather tips and tricks that could make training your new companion move along more smoothly. Having chosen an experienced breeder, they will be familiar with common mistakes new puppy owners might make and can answer questions that might make the transition go more smoothly.
Ask Questions
During your visit, don’t hesitate to ask the German Shepherd breeder questions about their breeding practices, health testing protocols. One question to ask would be whether they make use of early neurological stimulation. Many breeders won’t be familiar with this topic. But for working dogs, any breeder worth his salt ought to be actively introducing their litters to a variety of stimuli from an early age. With research showing such stimulation has lifelong effects on developing both the immune system as well as permanently affecting temperament, finding a breeder properly employing state of the art breeding techniques ought to be a must. In addition to early neurological stimulation, find a breeder who understands the implications of the effects of epigenetics in a long term breeding program. Discover why a commitment to optimizing environmental factors can literally alter the genome for the better (or worse). You can click on the following link to read more on how the science of epigenetics play a critical role in further our bloodline. Other questions to ask will have to do with pedigree and training on parents, health questions and training. Good breeders will be happy to help new puppy owners find the perfect fit.
Be Sure to Ask About Health Testing
Ensure that the German Shepherd dog breeder screens for hereditary conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and degenerative myelopathy. While such testing ought to be a given, many breeders don’t test. A dirty little secret in the breeding world is if you don’t test, the breeder can honestly say he has no knowledge of “that” problem in his bloodline. Further, if the goal is to improve their dogs, they ought to be rigorously testing so as to be selecting the right dogs without your ever asking. This is one of the reasons why we at Czech Working Line only use DM clear studs. By so doing, it means that no puppy we ever produce will be DM affected.
Ongoing Support
A reputable German Shepherd breeder doesn’t just disappear once you’ve brought your German Shepherd puppy home. They are committed to providing ongoing support and guidance throughout your German Shepherd’s life. Look for German Shepherd breeders who offer resources, such as training tips, nutrition advice, and recommendations for veterinary care. For many homes, especially those who have previously owned a GSD, this might not be necessary, but for first time dog owners, it can be a great encouragement to have someone able to answer questions.
Conclusion
Finding the right breeder for your is a crucial step in ensuring a lifetime of happiness and companionship with your canine companion. By conducting thorough research, visiting prospective programs, asking questions, and seeking recommendations, you can find a reputable German Shepherd breeder who shares your passion for the breed and prioritizes the health and well-being of their GSDs. Remember, investing time and effort in finding the right German Shepherd dog breeder will ultimately result in a rewarding and fulfilling relationship with that right four legged companion that can bring you joy for years to come.
