Owning a working line German Shepherd is incredible, but a companion and partner that gives itself over to you so completely requires a significant amount of dedication and commitment. If you’re considering a Grothaus K9 working German Shepherd, or any other working line puppy, we ask that you seriously (and honestly) consider these questions as part of your deliberation.
- Do you have a fenced yard?
- Are you able to devote at least 30 minutes per day to focused training?
- Are you able to devote at least 90 minutes per day to structured exercising your dog?
- Will your puppy be raised inside of your home as a part of your family?
- Do you have small children, infants or other animals in your home currently and if not, do you plan to in the future?
- Do you plan to crate and/or kennel train your puppy in addition to housebreaking?
- Are you prepared to feed a high quality food to your dog such as a grain-free or holistic food as a regular diet throughout its lifetime?
- Do you know the difference between the temperaments and character of a Working Line German Shepherd Dog over a Show Line or an American bred German Shepherd?
- Have you already consulted with a private trainer or know of obedience classes that are offered in your area that may be more specific to working dogs over an average Pet Store style all breed pet training class?
- Do you understand the commitment required to adequately socialize your puppy so that he/she will grow up to be a well mannered, well trained dog?
- Are you looking for a dog or puppy that you will specifically train as a personal companion, property/personal protection, Law Enforcement, Schutzhund, Detection, Search and Rescue, Obedience, Agility, Nose Work, or other specific intended purpose?
- Are you prepared and committed to the annual expense required for quality veterinary care to include such things as annual health examinations, vaccinations, monthly parasite/flea preventatives and heartworm prevention?
- Do you plan to spay or neuter your puppy when he or she is old enough?
- Are you prepared to confine and/or prevent harmful pregnancies?
- Are you financially prepared to provide care for your dog and seek veterinary care in the event of an emergency that may require hospitalization of your dog?
- If you are planning on breeding, do you have at least 5 years minimum experience as a Breeder? Are you educated in canine reproduction and development, have the basic knowledge and understanding of genetics as well as proper care for newborn pups, neonatal intensive care and experience in identifying reproductive complications or emergencies should they arise?