Before making a purchasing decision on a German shepherd puppy you should decide whether you want a male or a female. A male or female German shepherd puppy will have a different disposition, and there are noticeable differences between the sexes that a potential owner should be aware of.
Julie Martinez Mittelwest German Shepherds recommends considering the following facts:
When choosing a puppy from a litter, observe their inter-relationships with each other, how they play, how they interact. German shepherd puppies should be well balanced, with a good temperament. Qualities of inquisitiveness, social openness, curiosity towards everything around him should be natural.
Do not be alarmed if you see a puppy is singled out in the litter. This is not an indication of defectiveness. You can take him out of the litter and expect him to assert himself away from his littermates.
Julie Martinez Mittlewest German Shepherds also warns not to select a shy puppy. A German shepherd puppy should not shy away from contract, hide or be afraid of you. These qualities are not an indication of a true German shepherd character.
You can also choose a color of the puppy, and this is mainly your preference. As long as a color pigment is good, you can chose up to your liking. Expect to take ownership of a puppy after 8 weeks.
Julie Martinez Mittelwest German Shepherds recommends considering the following facts:
- German shepherd males are larger, heavier in weight and size, and will vary between 24 to 26 inches at the highest point of the shoulders, and could weight from 60 to 90 lbs.
- German shepherd females will be smaller and lighter and should be expected to be 22-24 inches in height at the top of the shoulders and around 50 to 70lbs on average.
- You should also notice the pronounced masculine features vs. more delicate features that a female will possess.
- Be aware that females will also be in season twice a year; if you chose a female and do not expect to have puppies, you will need to have your puppy spayed.
When choosing a puppy from a litter, observe their inter-relationships with each other, how they play, how they interact. German shepherd puppies should be well balanced, with a good temperament. Qualities of inquisitiveness, social openness, curiosity towards everything around him should be natural.
Do not be alarmed if you see a puppy is singled out in the litter. This is not an indication of defectiveness. You can take him out of the litter and expect him to assert himself away from his littermates.
Julie Martinez Mittlewest German Shepherds also warns not to select a shy puppy. A German shepherd puppy should not shy away from contract, hide or be afraid of you. These qualities are not an indication of a true German shepherd character.
You can also choose a color of the puppy, and this is mainly your preference. As long as a color pigment is good, you can chose up to your liking. Expect to take ownership of a puppy after 8 weeks.