West German Show Line
The West German Show Line is bred strictly according to the German Shepherd Breed Standard. There are certain measurement minimums for their hips and elbows. This results in a stunning, very specific, and uniform appearance. These dogs have a very strong, pronounced build with a black and tan saddle, and solid back.
They make good house protectors and need a lot of exercise and to be trained frequently. These dogs are very social. So they are perfect for families with kids.
Price Range: A West German Show Line puppy may cost $5,000 to $8,000.
Pedigree Of Black German Shepherds:
The entire race of German shepherds originated in Germany and thus the name. Back German shepherds are not a distinctive breed, rather a different colored subset of German shepherds.
All Back German shepherds originally come from a line of herding dogs like Berger Picard in Germany. They arrived in the USA in the 1990s and became a popular choice among people.
However, after the Second World War, their popularity suffered a setback as German carried negative connotations. As a result, German shepherds have renamed shepherd dogs or American Abstain.
All Black German shepherds are excellent guard dogs, service dogs, and companions their plethora of skills as a canine made their re-acceptance among people an easier task.
Black German shepherds do well in hot and cold climates, as long as they have their standard stock coat. They are an adaptable breed that, once acclimated, can tolerate any temperature.
Hip Dysplasia Nd Lbow Dysplasia
When it comes to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, there is a big variety of treatment options depending on your desires, finances, and the dogs condition itself.
The cheapest alternative is simply giving your dog pain medicine and physical therapy. This can cost you anywhere between $500 and $2,500 per year.
However, if you want a more durable solution that could truly help the condition of your pup, then you should attempt to get a total hip replacement for your pup but this procedure can cost you thousands.
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Pro Tip: Use Play As Training
This is a big reason why play is so powerful and engaging for you and your puppy.
Just like humans you want to make sure the influences in your dogs life add value, not make your life more difficult. Because if this is the case, its important to consider whether or not those activities are worth the time investment.
Concluding Remarks On Costs Of Purebred German Shepherds
Potential owners of purebred German Shepherds may expect to pay anywhere from free to good home to over $5,000.
Adding a German Shepherd Puppy to your family is exciting they are so cute! Watch this YouTube video.
While they make wonderful additions to families with or without children, German Shepherds are an active and intelligent breed of dogs, making owning them a significant responsibility.
They need a family who enjoys playing with them, exercising them, and training them.
Before adding a German Shepherd to your family, be sure that you can afford a dog, that you can fulfill their exercise needs, and that you can provide the dog with a good home.
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Dont Skip Annual Check
Early detection is the best way to save money on medical bills. Not to mention that its the best way to keep your pup alive and healthy without long-term consequences.
Prevention is always a better option than expensive medication. Annual check-ups are important to help you detect the early stages of plenty of health conditions, which is the key to keeping your pooch healthy.
Working Lines Vs Show Lines
The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails.
Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot!
Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal.
If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. Some of them sell so-called started dogs, which means dogs that have already received some obedience, protection and tracking training. Started dogs can be as pricey as $5,000-$7,000.
Working German Shepherds that have been fully trained can be extremely expensive, up to $20,000. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience.
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How Much Does A Black German Shepherd Cost
Like the Czech German Shepherds, Black German Shepherd puppies are used widely by the military and police force. In case you didnt know, German Shepherds are born either:
- White
- Grey
- Black
However, black and grey-born German Shepherds can change colors as they reach adulthood. German Shepherd puppies born black retain their black color, which will eventually fade. If you want to adopt a black-colored German Shepherd, wed advise you to get an adult because youll know thats the color itll stick with and are less likely to change colors.
As you probably figured, the black German Shepherd will cost you a little more than any other color German Shepherd dog. If you have a budget between $700 to $2,000, then youll likely be able to bring home a black German Shepherd. Keep in mind that black German Shepherds are much harder to find, and youll have to keep your name on a waiting list if youre in search of one.
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Factors To Consider Before Purchasing A German Shepherd
Bringing home a German Shepherd is a life-changing decision. Besides being prepared to love and care for them, there are profound cost implications and additional responsibilities. These responsibilities include:
- Feeding
- Maintain its health and well being
- Providing it with a shelter
Your German Shepherds health and lifespan depend on many of these factors. Youll also need to get your companion vaccinated, and that can boost up the cost of raising one quite a bit.
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What Is A Reasonable Price For A Purebred German Shepherd Puppy
Reputable breeders, when pricing their German Shepherd puppies, must factor in the expenses involved in breeding, feeding, raising, and caring for the pups as well as their mother.
A reasonable price for a purebred German Shepherd puppy should be around $1000, depending on your location and the litter size.
If you have ever asked the question: Why are GSD puppies so expensive?, you should understand the very basic cost for the breeders. Below are the estimated costs for your reference:
Cost for a puppy:
- Genetic health testing: $250 to $750
- Vaccinations: $100 to $500
- AKC registration: $30
Minimum cost per puppy: $580
Cost for the parent :
- Stud services: $500 to $1000
- C-sections and birthing complications : $2,000 $7,000
- Dog food, vitamins, supplements: $100 to $200
- Veterinary check-ups: $125
The minimum cost for maternity care, with no complications: $725
Thus, it may not even be reasonable for you to buy a puppy for less than $580, with the consideration of the cost a breeder has to bear at the minimum for the puppy as well as the mother.
That said, when you are looking to purchase a puppy, do not be tempted to go to a low-cost pet store or search for the cheapest puppies online. These puppies are often bred in very poor conditions and are prone to health issues.
They often come from puppy mills who are more concerned with making a profit than providing you with a healthy pup. Thus, a bargain may eventually cost you a fortune with their medical bills in the long run.
Puppy German Shepherd Price
After going through over 2,000 ads across numerous sources that include the American Kennel Club and PuppyFind websites, we have found the cost of a German Shepherd puppy to range from $450 to $1,900.
Over 80% of the puppies for sale under six months of age fall within this range, which puts the average cost at $800. However, the most expensive purebred German Shepherds with documents are sold for over $10,000.
On the other hand, adopting a dog of this breed is a much less expensive ordeal, with rehoming fees usually ranging from $50 to $500. If you are actively searching for a German Shepherd, we strongly recommend doing some research and finding the most reputable shelters and/or breeders possible. This will make a huge difference in terms of your furry friends health and wellbeing.
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What Is The Size Of A Full
An adult male German Shepherd is typically 24 to 26 inches tall, while adult female German Shepherds are 22 to 24 inches tall, according to the American Kennel Club German Shepherd Standard.
The estimated full-size varies significantly between sexes. In terms of weight, an adult male German Shepherd weighs anywhere from 75 to 90 pounds. A female German Shepherd weighs notably less at 55 to 70 pounds.
Please keep in mind that these numbers are only estimates to give you an idea of how much bigger a German Shepherd puppy may get. Some dogs will be both smaller and larger than these weight ranges when fully grown due to a variety of genetic and environmental factors.
How Much Do German Shepherd Puppies Cost
The cost of a German Shepherd tends to rise the younger the puppy is. This is because the younger the pup is, the more chances that the future owner has to mold the dog according to its preferences.
Around 80% of puppies no older than six months can be found at the price range weve listed, which is between $450 and $1900. However, puppies as young as six to eight weeks tend to be on the higher end of the scale.
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Cost Of German Shepherds
If you intend to buy an eight-week-old German Shepherd, you can expect to pay between $1,200 to $1,500. Of course, the actual price differs from location to location and between different breeders. In this article, well share the average price breeders usually charge, which includes vaccinations and a German Shepherds health bill. You can get older German Shepherds thatll cost less than eight-week-old puppies.
The only difference between older versus younger German Shepherds is that theyll already have habits developed. The main reason for the price difference is because many people prefer raising puppies. If youre looking for a cheaper option, you can get a GSD puppy from a shelter. Thankfully, there are numerous shelters with gooey-eyed German Shepherds in search of a loving home.
Work Ethic Unique To The German Shepherd Dog
From the very beginning, a keen emphasis was placed on the unique character, trainability, and protective instincts found in these herding dogs. Their dependability and their special herding traits became legendary. Over time the breed began to be used for many other services. When blind Morris Frank returned from Switzerland in 1929 with his German Shepherd Dog Buddy, he opened the door for German Shepherd Dogs to be used as guide dogs for the blind. In a very short period of time, the breed would be associated with programs for the blind and for services involving many other disabilities. Their intelligence, trainability, and desire to work put German Shepherd Dog at the top of all lists. Some breeders began their own lines for temperament as opposed to conformation and physical appearance. It was not long before breeding programs throughout America began to selectively breed for service dog programs as their ultimate goal.
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At The End Of The Day Is A German Shepherd Dog Right For You
History and 100 years of experience proved that the German Shepherd Dog is a hard worker that also makes it a loyal family pet and guardian.
German Shepherd Dog owners should be prepared for an energetic dog that needs a job. Even if your GSD will be a pet, they were bred to work and will need an outlet for their energy and drive. Keep in mind that you will need to provide your dog with extensive physical and mental exercise every day. Do you have the time and energy to properly socialize and train your GSD? Do you have a steady income if any health issues arise? Do you have enough space for this large breed to flourish? Ask yourself these questions before getting a German Shepherd Dog.
The German Shepherd Dogs high profile in law enforcement, dog sports, media, and service work has shaped the love and attitude that has developed about this versatile breed. If you are ready to own a GSD, first find a responsible breeder. Your breeder should ask you questions about your lifestyle and answer your questions about the breed. If both you and the breeder are sure the German Shepherd Dog is right for you, enjoy an action-packed life with your new best friend!
Puppy Prices & Breeders
The cost of German Shepherd puppy is, on average, between $1,000 and $1,500. Generally, you can expect to pay towards the higher end of the scale for White German Shepherd puppies as they are rarer. These uniquely colored pups cost upwards of $1000. This is relatively cheap for a purebred dog, however, this is down to this specific bloodline being relatively new.
Despite the controversy, if you are considering getting one of these white fluffy pups, you have the choice between a traditional German Shepherd breeder who may focus solely on the color white, or you can source your pup from a German Shepherd specific lineage enthusiast.
The best way to ensure the health of your pup is to buy him from a reputable breeder. Regardless of their allegiance to the classic White German Shepherd, or specific lineage view of the White Shepherd, a good breeder will always introduce and show you to the parents, as well as provide you with health certificates.
If the specific shepherd lineage has piqued your interest then the American White Shepherd Association lists reputable breeders by state and should be your first port of call when looking into finding a pup of your own.
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Changes To Your Lifestyle
Vacationing
As shown in the table above, one potential cost associated with German Shepherd puppy ownership is boarding the puppy if you were to go on vacation.
Vacationing is a highly individual thing some people do it often and others not so much. However, if you fall into the category of those who need a few extended vacations per year, then perhaps you should look at how this may affect your GSD puppy.
Most German Shepherds do not do very well at all when separated from their owner. Separation may cause separation anxiety, which can be a very traumatic experience for a German Shepherd.
For a complete exploration of this topic, take a look at this article we have written for you all about German Shepherd separation anxiety.
We urge you to take your vacationing habits into consideration before deciding to purchase a GSD puppy. The odd vacation here and there will likely present few issues, but if you vacation frequently, then perhaps you should take a closer look at whether or not your lifestyle aligns with German Shepherd puppy ownership.
Personally, I have never taken a vacation during which I did not bring my GSD or GSDs along with me. Thus, I do not fly, and I drive wherever I go. I do not board my dogs, as I prefer them to enjoy the same experiences that I do.
However, everyone is different, and it is important that you take your particular lifestyle into account when considering owning a German Shepherd puppy.
Daily Exercise
Factors Affecting The Price Of Puppies And Why Prices Vary For The Same Breed
Purebred or mixed. Usually, mixed-breeds are sold at a lower price than purebred dogs.
Bloodline and breeders reputation. If the parents are purebred show quality dogs from a reputable breeder, the price will be substantially higher. These breeders also tend to invest more money than others to take care of their breeding dogs and puppies.
Registration papers/pedigree. Some breeders are members of kennel clubs, the most famous being the American Kennel Club . They can also have their breeding dogs and puppies registered which would also add to their fees.
Health screenings and medical expenses. Serious breeders will have their breeding dogs and/or puppies evaluated/tested for different medical conditions. Moreover, some will take their puppies to the vet for an exam, deworming, vaccines, and/or microchip implantation prior to selling them. This drives the price higher but also reduces the risk to get an unhealthy dog.
Training and socialization. Some breeders sell their dogs after they are trained and socialized. It will increase the puppys price but generate savings as you most probably wont have to invest in more training and also gives a better chance to get a well-behaved dog.
Age. As most people want to get their puppy as young as possible, prices tend to be lower when the dog gets older. For example, on average a 6-month-old pup is likely to be less expensive than an 8-week-old one.
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Where Should I Look For My Next Purebred German Shepherd
The sources available to you to find a German Shepherd are nearly endless, thanks to the internet:
- The American Kennel Club Market Place is an excellent place to find purebred German Shepherd puppies bred by reputable breeders.
- Social media can also be a great resource for finding your next German Shepherd. Many breeders post pictures of their litters, or you can find a puppy or adult who needs a home from a German Shepherd Rescue or a private individual.
- If the German Shepherds military heritage appeals to you, one of the most wonderful ways to obtain a purebred German Shepherd is to adopt a former military dog from Mission K9. To thank these four-legged heroes for their service, they help retired working military dogs find homes to live out the rest of their lives happily in peace.
- If you are looking to rescue a German Shepherd, Shenandoah Shepherd Rescue has many wonderful dogs waiting for loving homes.
- Mid-Atlantic German Shepherd Rescue has many German Shepherds waiting to be adopted and loved.
- If you live in Virginia and want to rescue a German Shepherd, browse the adoptable shepherds waiting for loving homes with the Virginia German Shepherd Rescue.
- Pet Quality breeders often list their German Shepherd puppies on Craiglist. Private individuals also list their puppies or dogs on Craigslist in an attempt to re-home them.