Hi this is Jasper the German Shepherd Dog!
I am supposed to talk about choosing a German Shepherd puppy. I remember being a puppy very fondly. My mother’s name was Mia and I had 8 brothers and sisters! I, of course, was the pick of the litter, or at least that’s what Mom says. Maybe I was just her pick of the litter. Whatever. I am the most handsome, see.
Table of Contents
Lifestyle
Anyway, when it comes to picking out a puppy, the most important factor is your lifestyle. Different breeds can require different levels of exercise and grooming, so you need to find one that fits with your daily routine. If you work long hours or don’t have a lot of time for walks and activities, then a more low-energy dog may be best for you. That would definitely not be me or most likely any of my kin! On the other hand, if you are an active person who loves to go on long hikes and adventures, then a more energetic pup may be perfect for you.
Living Situation
Another factor to consider is your living situation. If you live in an apartment or have limited space, then larger breeds may not be the best fit for you. Be sure to think about how much space you have and how much your new family member will need to be comfortable.
All Breeders are not Equal
Once you’ve narrowed down which breed is best for you, the next step is choosing a puppy from that breed. When it comes to German Shepherds, I suggest talking to different breeders and asking a lot of questions about the parents before making any decisions. My breeder Addy with Atlas Shepherds( I call her Granny) is excellent. She has been available to answer any questions Mom has had. Even now that I am a year old she still answers Mom’s question.
When Problems Pop Up
I’m in school with Addy right now for dog reactivity.
I don’t know what that is exactly but apparently, it’s not a good thing to have. So far I have met a cat who smelled really funny but I was a good boy and kept my down even though I sort of wanted to chase that cat. We also went on an outing to a fair where I saw a dog. I heard Addy say to Mom I lost my (bad word) mind! Now I’m worried. Where did I lose it at? Will we find it again? Do I need a mind? So many questions.
Anyway, I am having a great time even if I did lose my mind and Addy seems to feel sure we will find it again…somewhere.
One other thing about problems. Be very careful who you go to for help. Mom took me one lady trainer and she hit me. With her shoe. My lip bled. She was not nice. We left there and called Addy. That trainer said I lost my (bad word) mind too. I bet that’s where it’s at! I’ll tell Mom to go get my mind back!!
Choosing a Puppy
The main thing you need to know about choosing a puppy is be sure you plan to keep it even if it keeps you up the first month. I did that. I had to pee you see and of course I told Mom that. Loudly. Every two hours. I didn’t cry even though I was lonely, because Mom slept right beside my kennel and put her finger in my kennel if I stirred so I could smell she was close. That helped the lonely. The good thing is I was over all that in about a month but Mom says it was a long month!
All puppies are cute. Of course, none are quite as cute as I was, but Mom says I am extraordinary! The thing is, we grow up pretty fast and we become testy teens. You need to be ready for that when you are looking at those cute little puppies.
Conclusion
Picking a puppy is serious business and it’s important to do your research and be ready for any surprises. But with patience, understanding, and lots of love you can find the right pup for your family! I’m so glad Mom made the choice she did to bring me home, because there’s no one else like me! I wouldn’t want anyone else to take my place. I’m Jasper and this is my story.
Thanks for listening, everyone! Now let’s go play fetch, Granny! barks Woof woof!
Resources: https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/german-shepherd-dog/
If you want read more of Jasper’s takes, which you should as where else will you get it from the “dogs mouth” check here.
To read Moms article on choosing a German Shepherd puppy click here.
