How Much Is a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are intelligent breeds that thrive in family environments, serving as reliable protectors who enjoy building strong bonds with their human families.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are among the many issues dogs can be susceptible to, making an early vet checkup essential.
Poodles are energetic dogs who need regular physical activity to expend some of their excess energy. Otherwise, they could become destructive.
Initial Buying/Adoption Costs
German Shepherds are highly intelligent and energetic dogs that require regular training to become balanced canine citizens. Without training or socialization during puppyhood and adulthood, their intelligence can lead to destructive behavior such as aggression or possessiveness that leads to negative consequences later.
Foster care can be costly for German Shepherds living at shelters and rescue groups, with costs such as food, veterinary expenses, toys and equipment (leashes, collars, crates and beds) adding up quickly over time.
Adopting a German Shepherd from one of the organizations on this list begins by submitting an adoption application. After reviewing, your application will be evaluated and an interview will be scheduled with an adoption counselor over the phone.
As part of your phone interview, you will be asked questions about your lifestyle, home environment and experience with German Shepherds to determine whether it is the ideal companion. At this time, if approved for adoption, an in-home visit to meet the puppy will be scheduled.
Vaccinations
German Shepherd puppies require multiple vaccinations throughout their puppyhood development to safeguard them against diseases like parvovirus, distemper and rabies. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association’s recommendation, vaccinations should be given annually or on an as-needed basis depending on where you live and your dog’s lifestyle.
Though these vaccinations are very safe, there is an ongoing push-back against over-vaccination by both dog lovers and veterinarians alike. They argue that an emphasis on annual vaccinations only serves to pad veterinarians’ pockets while possibly leading to short-term shock, vomiting, lethargy or seizures due to overdosing – in addition to long-term effects such as autoimmune diseases, digestive issues allergies or thyroid conditions.
Studies have confirmed that vaccination of puppies at 12 weeks with a combination vaccine against parvo and distemper has the highest seroconversion rate possible – just one shot is needed for life! In a challenge study involving distemper infected/diseased dogs, all 12 week-old puppies receiving this combination shot seroconverted successfully to immunity.
Diet
German Shepherds are working dogs bred for herding, police/military work and possess strong hunting and prey drives; therefore they require a healthy diet in order to channel their energy and intelligence in an efficient way.
This large breed requires a diet to promote bone and joint health as they grow into their magnificent size. They have an extended growth period so their nutrition must accommodate this.
Royal Canin offers a tailored formula tailored specifically for German Shepherds that meets their individual nutritional needs. This food includes L.I.P proteins and soluble fibers designed to aid digestive health while simultaneously supporting skin and coat health, moderate energy content for this working dog breed, added glucosamine/chondroitin to support joint health, antioxidants/probiotics/EPA/DHA supplementation to strengthen immunity, as well as specially-designed kibble shapes/textures designed specifically to fit long strong teeth/mouths for easy chewing/muzzle/muzzle/muzzle/muzzle-muzzle/muzzle-muzzle/muzzle-muzzle/muzzle!
Healthcare
German Shepherds are intelligent and energetic canines who need their energy channeled properly or it can manifest as destructive behavior such as chewing and barking. To ensure a positive experience for all involved parties, these pups require strong leadership as well as early socialization to introduce them to all that the world offers them.
German Shepherds were designed as versatile working dogs, making them highly productive when given a task. German Shepherds can be trained for many roles such as police work and military duty as well as search and rescue, bomb and drug detection, cadaver location and criminal tracking/apprehension.
Due to their advanced intelligence, German Shepherds are quick learners and quick responders, making them ideal guard dogs that also make loving pets. Ideal for active households and experienced pet parents with enough time and patience for training, exercise, play and mental stimulation; Vital Essentials Raw ($40 on Chewy) offers the optimal nutritional requirements of German Shepherds across their lifetimes.
Grooming
German shepherds are heavy shedders and require regular brushing to control the amount of hair around the home. Bathing may also be necessary during their shedding periods – usually twice per year. Nail trimming and ear cleaning services should also be performed regularly to maintain optimal health in these beloved companions.
These dogs are highly intelligent and quickly learn new tricks or behaviors, making them great family pets. However, their working instinct means they need an outlet to channel their energy and intelligence – that’s why it is essential to do your research when adopting or purchasing one of these breeds.
Budget for food, grooming and veterinary costs when planning for your German Shepherd. As these expenses can add up quickly, be sure to conduct the appropriate research so you can afford their care. Also include toys and accessories when planning; active breeds require plenty of mental stimulation in order to prevent behavioral issues.
