Bringing a German Shepherd puppy into your home is a big decision. These intelligent and loyal dogs require a responsible breeder who prioritizes their health, temperament, and well-being. Asking the right questions helps ensure you’re getting a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a reputable source.
Finding the right breeder isn’t just about picking a puppy; it’s about making sure you bring home a well-bred companion. A responsible breeder will be transparent and willing to answer all your concerns. Here are 10 good questions to ask dog breeders before making a commitment.
Can I Meet The Puppy’s Parents?
Meeting the puppy’s parents gives you insight into what your dog may be like when they grow up. Their temperament, size, and overall health can indicate what to expect from your puppy.
A responsible breeder should have no problem introducing you to the parents. Look for confident and friendly behavior, a well-maintained coat, and no signs of aggression or anxiety. If a breeder hesitates or refuses to let you meet them, consider it a red flag.
What Health Testing Has Been Done On The Parents?
German Shepherds can be prone to genetic conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia. A trustworthy breeder will test their breeding dogs for these issues to ensure they aren’t passing on hereditary health concerns.
Ask to see health clearances, such as OFA or PennHIP certifications. DNA testing for common genetic disorders is also a good sign. A breeder who prioritizes health testing is committed to producing strong, healthy puppies.
How Are The Puppies Socialized?
The early weeks of a puppy’s life are critical for social development. They should be exposed to various people, sounds, and environments to help them grow into well-adjusted dogs.
A good breeder introduces puppies to different experiences, including household noises, handling by different people, and even exposure to other pets. This helps prevent fearfulness and promotes confidence in new situations.
What Vaccinations & Vet Care Have Been Provided?
Puppies need vaccinations and regular deworming to stay healthy. A breeder should provide a detailed record of medical care, including vaccines, deworming schedules, and any health checkups they’ve had.
Ask for veterinary records and ensure that the puppy has received proper care. If a breeder doesn’t keep track of vaccinations or avoids answering questions about health care, it could be a warning sign.
What Is The Puppy’s Diet?
Proper nutrition is essential for a growing puppy. A responsible breeder will have a set feeding schedule and high-quality food to support their development.
Ask what brand of food the puppy is currently eating and whether they recommend any dietary supplements. Changing a puppy’s diet too quickly can cause stomach issues, so it’s best to follow the breeder’s recommendations before gradually transitioning to a new food.
Do You Offer A Health Guarantee?
A reputable breeder stands behind their puppies with a health guarantee. This usually covers genetic conditions and gives new owners peace of mind that they’re bringing home a healthy dog.
Find out how long the health guarantee lasts and what conditions it covers. Some breeders offer replacements or refunds if a puppy is diagnosed with a serious hereditary issue. A clear, written health guarantee reflects a breeder’s confidence in their breeding program.
Can I Visit Your Facility?
Seeing where the puppies are raised provides valuable insight into their care. A clean, spacious, and well-maintained environment indicates responsible breeding practices.
When visiting, check for happy, well-socialized puppies and healthy adult dogs. The facility should be free from strong odors, overcrowding, or signs of neglect. If a breeder refuses visits, this could be a cause for concern.
What Is Your Experience With German Shepherds?
A breeder’s experience and knowledge can make a big difference in the quality of their puppies. Long-time German Shepherd breeders understand the breed’s temperament, training needs, and common health issues.
Ask how many years they have been breeding German Shepherds and what their approach is to raising and training puppies. A good breeder is passionate and knowledgeable, offering valuable guidance to new owners.
What Support Do You Offer New Owners?
Bringing home a new puppy comes with challenges, and ongoing support from the breeder can be incredibly helpful. Many responsible breeders provide advice on training, behavior, diet, and general care even after the puppy goes home.
Find out if they offer follow-up support or resources for new owners. Some breeders have networks of past buyers or online groups where owners can share experiences and get guidance.
Are Your Puppies Registered?
Purebred German Shepherds should come with official registration papers. This verifies their lineage and ensures that they meet breed standards.
Ask if the puppies are registered with a reputable kennel club, such as the AKC. A responsible breeder should be able to provide pedigree information and explain any breeding rights or restrictions that come with the puppy.
Choosing the right German Shepherd breeder is as important as selecting the right puppy. Asking these good questions to ask dog breeders ensures you bring home a happy, healthy dog from a responsible source.
At Mittelwest German Shepherds, we take pride in raising AKC GSD puppies for sale that meet the highest standards of health, structure, and temperament. Our commitment to responsible breeding helps ensure that every puppy finds the perfect home.
