Buying a German Shepherd – Taking Responsibility – Am I Ready for a German Shepherd?
Before buying a German Shepherd, you should ensure that you are ready for such a family addition.
After all, this decision is important because, with the purchase, you naturally assume responsibility for the life of your new dog.
It is best first to clarify your plans with the other family members and discuss their reservations and fears with them. Then, since they will also be responsible for the dog and may have to walk it, everyone should pull together.
Especially in connection with the immediate family, there are more questions to ask before you buy a German Shepherd.
Important questions before buying a German shepherd for the family:
- Is everyone in favor of buying a German Shepherd?
- Is everyone ready to take care of the German shepherd equally?
- Are phobias present?
- Are there dog allergies in the family and how severe are they?
A German shepherd for the children?
Children still have no idea what kind of responsibility a four-legged friend entails in the house and what costs such a dog causes. In addition, they are often fired up about an idea, a hobby or an animal, but this quickly dies after the initial euphoria.
That’s why giving in to begging for a puppy is not a good idea. The adults are solely responsible and can only transfer this to the offspring. For example, children can fill the bowl, brush the German Shepherd or play with the four-legged friend.
The four-legged friend must be trained well, which takes time. The shepherd dog sometimes gets very big and strong, so children and young people may be unable to keep the animal on a leash if the four-legged friend starts running or playing with the Leash Rambo. In addition, it should be clear to your offspring that a puppy will be fully grown in just a few months and will no longer be so cute.
Only give in to the desire for a four-legged friend if you are enthusiastic about the idea and aware of the time and financial burden. Also, consider that your children may have left home long ago, but the German Shepherd is still part of your life. German shepherds live to be over ten years old on average.
If you want a German Shepherd yourself and a four-legged friend to fit into your life, then child and dog can grow up together and become a close-knit community. This is how very close friendships are often formed.
Do I have enough time for my new German Shepherd?
Of course, the question of time is also a decisive criterion if you want to buy a German Shepherd. Since the German Shepherd is a social creature, such a long separation from human society can quickly lead to problems.
So you should be aware that your new German Shepherd wants to be out in the fresh air regularly and needs closeness and activity to be happy and balanced.
However, if you have enough time for your new German Shepherd and can integrate it well into everyday life, nothing stands in the way of a long friendship.
Does a German Shepherd have to be so expensive?
Of course, the price of the German Shepherd is also an important criterion. Often one finds in the various classifieds the offers “German Shepherd for sale” and the like.
If you now take the prices from the breeder as a comparison, you will be amazed. While some practically give away their German shepherd dog, a German shepherd dog costs a not inconsiderable amount of money from the breeder.
Tip: A good German Shepherd from a professional breeder like Khanguard GSD is always worth the money.
However, a good breeder will do a lot to give their puppies the best possible start in life. This also includes not inconsiderable financial expenses:
- Use only healthy dogs that have been found suitable for breeding
- Stud fee for a top stud dog
- All vaccinations of the breeding animals are up to date
- High-quality feed during and after pregnancy
- Possibly bottle rearing (time-consuming and costly)
- Regular vet visits, Vaccinations, deworming and microchipping for the puppies.
- Club costs are starting fees for exams, exhibitions, and shows.
How much does a German Shepherd cost?
If you want to buy a German Shepherd, you should consider the acquisition costs and include the running costs in your calculation.
Cost factors when keeping a German Shepherd:
- Food and care products
- Insurances
- Dog tax
- Vet visits
- Equipment for the apartment and the trip ( dog box )
- Dog School
What was the deciding factor for you to buy a German Shepherd? Why did you choose the German Shepherd? Please leave a comment!