New addition to the family!
Discussion
)...and yours is a belter. 
My parents have always had GSD's - fantastic dogs when trained properly. They are a very strong willed dog and need to have lots of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy.
GSDs do have some issues as a breed though - quite often sensitive stomachs; but more importantly bad hips and elbow displasure. It is essential you see that the parents have been hip scored and that they are good before you pay over the money for the dog. Also check the breeding line as there are some lines to avoid.
Almost all GSDs get bad back legs eventually ; sometimes as young as 12months sometime's 12 years; try to dissuade from jumping up and don't let a GSD climb stairs - it is really really bad for them and can bring on problems much earlier than they should arise.
Most importantly though enjoy! Beautiful dogs that are a great family dog - only reason we don't have one is because my wife runs a big veterinary op theatre and says they have too many ailments and can be temperamental in a stressed environment.
Ps find out from your vet if there are any puppy socialising events you can go to - absolutely critical if you want the dog to have a good start in life!
GSDs do have some issues as a breed though - quite often sensitive stomachs; but more importantly bad hips and elbow displasure. It is essential you see that the parents have been hip scored and that they are good before you pay over the money for the dog. Also check the breeding line as there are some lines to avoid.
Almost all GSDs get bad back legs eventually ; sometimes as young as 12months sometime's 12 years; try to dissuade from jumping up and don't let a GSD climb stairs - it is really really bad for them and can bring on problems much earlier than they should arise.
Most importantly though enjoy! Beautiful dogs that are a great family dog - only reason we don't have one is because my wife runs a big veterinary op theatre and says they have too many ailments and can be temperamental in a stressed environment.
Ps find out from your vet if there are any puppy socialising events you can go to - absolutely critical if you want the dog to have a good start in life!
Edited by W12GT on Tuesday 10th March 14:30
Good advice W12 and yes advice that we have adhered to. We specifically wanted a GSD with a straight back and have all the KC ligneage and associated hip scores checked out.
We already have a mad as a hatter 3 legged Boxer and a stubborn old lady Staffordshire so he will be getting somewhat a baptism of fire!!
The better half is a dog groomer and ultimately hopes to do obedience with him.
We already have a mad as a hatter 3 legged Boxer and a stubborn old lady Staffordshire so he will be getting somewhat a baptism of fire!!
The better half is a dog groomer and ultimately hopes to do obedience with him.
Uncle John said:
Thanks Clark! I'll keep his progress updated on this thread.
Oh and his name is "Bear", taking inspiration from moorx's and Simpo's reply earlier on in this thread!
I have only just seen this and am stupidly chuffed that you have named him Bear as a result of my post Oh and his name is "Bear", taking inspiration from moorx's and Simpo's reply earlier on in this thread!
Welcome home Bear; I look forward to seeing you grow up
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