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So....I'm planning to get a puppy in a few months?
(Inspired by the Breeders: Have you ever been called a snob? question)
I've thought about this a lot, and researched the breed a lot, as well as other breeds. I've also researched the various genetic defects that come with it, many different methods of training, good dog food brands, etc. etc, and come to the conclusion that I want a german shepherd dog.
To all those who think I should adopt from a shelter, I would, if I were to get a mutt. But with GSDs, I don't want a mix, or one that I don't know the parents. I wouldn't know what, if any health certifications they had, any temperament testing, any titles, etc. I've also looked at rescues, but the one near me rarely has dogs (and they don't know the pedigrees either), and the next closest is in Ontario, and they've got a limit as to how far away they'll adopt out (I'm in Manitoba).
The thing is, I do not want one from american lines, nor the german show lines. I want one from working lines. However, I'm not a policewoman, or patrol or anything. I am interested in doing S&R (not sure though, besides which I don't currently have a vehicle to go to the training sessions), or at least training for tracking (when the puppy is old enough). I'm also interested in possibly doing shutzhund. I'm rather curious about the herding, but I doubt it would be a practical thing to get into, as I have no plans to ever be a sheep farmer :p. Agility, pulling are some other things I'm interested in, but I don't plan to get into every sport out there - it's just to give an idea of some of the things I'm looking for - A puppy with solid nerves, good temperament, healthy, with a pretty good drive.
To that point, I'd researched Kennels a few years ago, and chose one (I've been planning for a few years.....) but after some more recent research, I'm not so sure. It is so hard to weed out all the american and german show line shepherd kennels. I'm also not sure what dogs to look for in the pedigrees, and which ones I'd do well to avoid. I also don't know various kennels' reputations, as I'm not hooked into the breeding world. So, does anyone have any kennels they suggest? or places that I could look that would list those types kennels (I'm willing to buy in USA or Canada)? And information on pedigrees?
And yes, I'm continuing my own search, and yes, I know this is yahoo answers, but I am So curious as to what kind of answers I'm going to get. :p
3 Answers
- 1 decade agoFavorite Answer
Hi, This is my opinion, and mine only. After reading your question, it was obvious that you are unsure of exactly what activity you would like this pup to engage in. The first thing you need to do is to decide on one area that you are the most interested in and stick to that, such as rescue, tracking, agility or obedience training, ect. You are in no position to even look for your pup, until you decide what purpose you are intending for this pup. After you decide that, you can begin your search for the breed of your choice. You mentioned that you wanted a German Shepard, if so, you need to train this dog in an activity that is suited to that particular breed. An example being, Labs make good therapy dogs because of their desposition, dobermans have been used as guard dogs, they are very protective, territorial, and loyal. The doberman also has a look of intimidation, and physically is capable of inflicting serious damage. After you have decided on the one activity you want this pup to engage in, you can start looking for your companian. Definitely go with a reputable breeder, and you can research that yourself. A good breeder will guarentee the qualities you are looking for, so have your priorities set. A list of the qualities you are looking for is the way to go. An example, in my choosing of a Dobe: most important to least important, temperment, health, conformation, etc. You will need to spend some money to get the best of breeders. Do a thorough research of breeders for your particular breed. Absolutely meet the parents, ask for reference, etc. I am sure you know the procedure. Good luck on your search, I hope all works out well.
Sonny
Source(s): Buying purebreed dogs. - Stephen ALv 51 decade ago
From the very first day your puppy comes home the clock is ticking. All aspects of puppy training and behavior modification will only get harder as time goes by, so don’t wait, start training today!
The first item on the agenda is errorless housetraining and chewtoy-training. You can’t expect your new pup to magically know where to pee and poop, what to chew, or when to bark. Instead, you need to teach her. Additionally, you will need to teach your pup that these rules still apply when she is home alone, and that there’s no need to be anxious in your absence. All of this is easy with a doggy den and puppy playpen: short- and long-term confinement areas for your puppy that will help her learn to have free reign of the house.
Read more important tips, http://nauco.notlong.com/
- durdenslabsLv 51 decade ago
Working lines come from either American or German GSD's. Find a good breeder with health clearances, working titles, and knowledge of the breed and you'll be set.