How To Get A German Shepherd Service Dog
This page contains affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post through our independently chosen links, which earn us a commission. Learn More
Dogs can do a lot more than fetch sticks and roll in the mud. In fact, there are some dogs that are put to work. They help their owner with a wide variety of tasks, significantly improving life for them. Theyre known as service dogs.
German Shepherds are one of the most popular choices as service dogs for the blind, physically handicapped, and those in need of a medical alert dog.
Keep reading to find out more about German Shepherd service dogs, how to train them, and how to get one if you need one.
Contents & Quick Navigation
German Shepherd Puppies For Sale
We Offer German Shepherds for Sale If You Are Looking For:
- Black shepherd puppy
- Long haired German shepherd puppies
- Short coat German shepherd
- German shepherd dogs for sale
- All black German shepherd
- Puppy German shepherds for sale
- Trained German shepherd for sale
- Black male German Shepherd
- Red and black German Shepherd
- Baby German Shepherd for sale
- Black female German Shepherd
- Purebred German Shepherd puppies for sale
- Solid black German Shepherd
- Black and Tan German Shepherd
FAQ About German Shepherd Puppies
Reviews From Customers Based In Fl
We like to think we’ve made a lot of people in the Sunshine State happy over the years that we’ve been in business. Take a look below at some of the feedback we’ve received to date. You can find more reviews of ours here too.
“Our Dog is the most wonderful 3 yr old with the most amazing temperament, We got her at 12 weeks and am working with Cindy now on adding another one to the household. These are not your average GSD. Their temperament is incredible.”
Ken, Jacksonville, Florida
Don’t Miss: German Shepherd Husky Mix Training
Atlanta Dog Training At Its Best
If you’re looking for dog training in Atlanta our approach and methods have made both our customers and their dogs happy. Dogs want to please by their nature. It’s our job at Full Contact K9 to show you how to be a leader that your dog can trust and respect, so they will in turn be willing to obey commands.
From puppy development training toadvanced dog obedience training, your dog will gain confidence and demonstrate a willingness to follow commands under the guidance of our experienced trainers. We love dogs! And we’re good at what we do. Give your dog private lessons today!
List Of German Shepherd Service Dog Breeders
Here, weve gathered a list of some breeders you can start within your search for a great German Shepherd puppy that can be trained as a service dog.
These breeders focus on working dogs and have had some of their puppies end up as service dogs already:
Each of these organizations has different qualifications you must meet if youre going to get a service dog from them. Be sure to read through their information carefully and contact them with questions before filling out an application.
Because there are so many people in need of service dogs and not enough dogs to meet the demand, there may be a long wait before youre able to get your own one.
You May Like: How To Tell If Your German Shepherd Has Hip Dysplasia
A Lot Of People Say German Shepherds Are The Best Service Dogs
However, the point of this website is you dont need a German Shepherd. I can train other breeds just as well.
For example, a Chihuahua can be trained to be just as fabulously off-leash obedient as any German Shepherd, or just as aggressive.
Chihuahuas are very protective and can be trained to bite intruders too. Not that many people are afraid of Chihuahuas though.
Both Pit Bulls and Tibetan Mastiffs like Belle and Mister Puppy, on the left, can be very protective too, but with a German Shepherd it is easier to go from being aggressive to not aggressive.
For example, a German Shepherd police dog can drag a suspect out of an attic, then an hour later go to an elementary school for a show-and-tell. On the contrary, a Pit Bull once made aggressive generally will be aggressive to most everyone except close family members or friends.
A Tibetan Mastiff owner would not want to take their aggressive dog to an elementary school in a million years.
A lot of people hire me because they wanted a dog that was protective, but they failed to train their dog and instead their dog is aggressive to everyone, including friends, family members and neighbors.
The problem is that most peoples friends, family members and neighbors are not the ones robbing their house. That, and aggressive dogs are not fun to be around.
A lot of my clients friends quit coming over to their houses a long time ago because their dogs make people worry that they are going to get bit.
White Swiss Shepherd Dog
The White Swiss Shepherd Dog is a variety of the German Shepherd bred in Switzerland. It descends from the American White Shepherds the first stud dog of what was to become the breed was an American dog born in 1966 and imported to Switzerland. The variety was recognised by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale as a separate breed in 2003, and it is now recognised by a number of national kennel clubs.
Read Also: Where Can You Get A German Shepherd
German Shepherds Are One Of My Favorite Service Dogs But They Are Not For Everyone Though
Maybe buying a German Shepherd Service Dog will be the best investment you ever make, but you need to be realistic about the temperament of the breed.
A lot of people make the mistake of thinking that since German Shepherds are very smart and a lot of police use them that smart means easy to train and good with disturbances and distractions. It is important to remember that all dogs exhibit certain behaviors, but that just some breeds exhibit them a lot more. For example, all dogs bark, but Chihuahuas bark a lot more than most other breeds.
There is not an one trait that would rule out using a German Shepherd as a service dog, just that German Shepherds have a lot more instinct and genetics that can make them a handful unless you are an experienced large breed dog handler.
If you want a service dog that does not shed much, then you probably do not want to own a German Shepherd.
Of course, you could always brush and groom your German Shepherd to reduce the amount of shedding hair, but that would require a few minutes of work.
It may seem silly to you thinking of brushing your dog as work, but some people who own dogs do not want to do any work.
A lot of German Shepherds like to chase cats.
A Step Above Young Trained Family Companions
Young Trained German shepherds, Young Trained Adult German Shepherds, Positive Reinforcement Training German Shepherds, Clicker Trained German Shepherds For Sale, Obedience Trained Family Companion German Shepherd dogs For Sale, Natural Protection German Shepherd Dogs For Sale, Agility Trained German Shepherds For Sale, Diabetic Alert Service dogs trained German Shepherds For Sale, Best Trained German Shepherd , World Class German Shepherds, Public Access Trained German Shepherds, Natural Family Protection German Shepherds, Trained Working Line German Shepherds, Trained Czech German Shepherds, Extreme intelligence German Shepherds, intelligent Trained German Shepherds
A shepherd riding on a bus while working in the socialization program. We do not stop socialization at the puppy level. We continue to advance a dog for as long as he/she is with us. This pup will make a well rounded family companion or she may be selected for service work.
The puppies we choose for our “step-above puppies” and young trained adults must have a low to medium energy/drive. Watch the Leerberg video on YOUTUBE…So You Think You Want a High Drive Puppy.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXqNl5bTCMU
Steve Zawistowski PhD, CAAB mentioned during a lecture he gave at the 2015 Society For The Promotion Of Applied Research In Canine Science : If we want to keep dogs out of shelters some breeders could do a better job of breeding for companion dog traits in our working dogs.
You May Like: A Rottweiler Mixed With A German Shepherd
Your Partner For Life
Mike Sindelar Sr. has been a German Shepherd service dog handler and breeder for over thirty five years.
Tuffa Teuyfel WC727011 was his first German Shepherd Service dog, who was whelped on 8/20/1973.
Tuffa Teuyfel WC 727011 was the son of Sire Rommel Von Kinch WA918967 and Dam Von Rommels Nixie WC 192818. He was the great grandson of CH Yoncallas Mike WA450539 who was whelped in October of 1966.
Fernbrook German Shepherds LLC serves to produce and provide Your Partner for Life. Our puppies are from select Sires and Dams, of which you are central in the planned litter event, just by signing up for the Sire and Dam of your choice.
Fernbrook German Shepherds LLC has produced and provided all kinds of German Shepherd Service dogs to agencies and persons in need. Many are currently in service at this time, and many are in service dog training for future implementation.
Quality Veterinary Care is a key component in raising, caring for, and breeding our German Shepherd Service dogs.
Here at Fernbrook German Shepherds LLC, we openly discuss expected veterinary care and vaccination, Heartworm Prevention, proper nutrition, enhancing immunity, general care, training and maintenance of GSDs with our buyers.
We want the best possible outcome for our Fernbrook German Shepherds and those who receive them.
Why Choose A German Shepherd As A Service Dog
A German Shepherd is a hard-working breed that loves pleasing their owner and is so smart they can problem-solve on their own. These qualities and more make them outstanding service dogs for anyone that may need some extra assistance to lead a normal life.
Whether you want one for yourself or your child, or simply looking for a way to make a difference in the world by training service dogs, the German Shepherd wont disappoint.
Recommended Reading: How Does A German Shepherd Puppy Look Like
Different Types Of German Shepherd Puppies Near Me
A German shepherd can illustrate several goals of different groups for the breed. After its beginning in 1899, thanks to Max Stephanitz of Germany, the German shepherd developed into seven major lines. Stephanitz placed heavy emphasis on the GSD as the ideal working dog while the breed that shipped to America developed into a proficient show champion where looks and conformation were top priorities.
- American pet Ancestors are American show lines
- West German show
- East German working DDS line
Experts agree that show dogs make better pets than working pedigrees. Working dogs are more intense than show animals and need considerably more exercise. However, when considering the breed, all German Shepherds need a considerable time commitment to exercise and mental stimulation. Pets usually get along better with children and other dogs than working dogs.
What Is A Service Dog Vest And How Do I Get One
A certified service dog has gone through proper training and can, therefore, wear a vest that identifies them as such. This vest allows them to have access to nearly anywhere their human can go, even places like restaurants or plain cabin where animals are not normally allowed.
However, some people, who dont own a service dog, want to take their pet dog with them everywhere, too. So, they purchase a service dog vest for them and take them wherever they want. This is illegal and can cause some huge problems.
First and foremost, a dog that is not legitimately trained as a service dog could be a danger to other people or animals. Secondly, when a fake service dog misbehaves badly, it can cause store owners to ban all animals from their businesses, including legitimate service dogs.
Source: www.af.mil
As important as it is to not put a vest on a dog that isnt a service dog, you also need to identify a service dog as such. Putting your dogs vest on signals to them its time to work and lets others know the dog is working.
A working dog needs to stay focused. When your dog is wearing their vest, avoid:
- Allowing other people to pet, hug, or otherwise touch the dog
- Dogs or other animals interacting with the dog
- Encouraging the dog to play
It may be difficult, but youll need to be prepared to ask other people to not distract your dog while theyre wearing their vest. This will allow your service dog to do their job, and could even save your life.
Also Check: Is A German Shepherd A Hypoallergenic Dog
Mobility Support Service Dogs
People with cerebral palsy and other similar mobility disorders may need some extra help getting around. Service dogs help provide a counterbalance for them. They also perform tasks like opening and closing doors.
A 55-pound German Shepherd is tall and strong enough to provide this service to people up to 130 pounds. For anyone larger than that, youll need to find a heavier German Shepherd or choose a larger breed such as a Newfoundland or a St. Bernard.
Its also important that these dogs not have any hip dysplasia or other problems that would prevent them from doing their job. Mobility support dogs dont typically begin working until at least 2 years of age to ensure that their bones and joints have finished forming properly.
Most Asked German Shepherd Questions
How much does a German Shepherd cost?
A German Shepherd for sale costs between $500 and $2000 approximately.
Fully-trained German Shepherds for sale are known to cost upwards of $10,000. This price can vary depending on the dogs health, bloodlines and form of training given.
Do German Shepherd make good townhouse dogs?
They can, but only if you can give them plenty of exercise every day.
Are they a good fit for first-time dog owners?
German shepherds are people-oriented. But, they are best suited for people who are already familiar with their specific needs.
What about prey drive?
With adequate training, these dogs can learn not to chase after smaller animals like cats.
This is general information and should not be relied on as adoption or purchasing advice.
Read Also: What To Know When Getting A German Shepherd Puppy
A Lot Of People Tell Me Be Careful Dave He Is A Cat Killer But Actually Most Are Cat Chasers Not Cat Killers
Someone forgot to tell my cats that they are supposed to be afraid of dogs and they do not run away, so dogs do not chase them.
You should not allow your dog to fixate and obsess on cats, or other small animals. Allowing this behavior just makes them crazy and promotes not listening and being crazy.
Allergy Alert Service Dogs
Like bomb- and drug-sniffing dogs, allergy alert service dogs are trained to alert their owner when they detect the scent of a certain allergen. They may also wear a special vest containing medication for their owner.
As German Shepherds have a good sense of smell, it makes them great allergy alert service dogs.
Read Also: Do German Shepherds Do Better In Pairs
German Shepherd Breeders In Florida
There are a number of great German Shepherd breeders in Florida, from Miami to Orlando, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy?
Whilst we arent known locally amongst the residents of Florida, were not that sure it matters weve sold our pups throughout the US, such is the demand for the pedigree of dogs we produce.
And when you think about buying a dog its a pretty big investment, and not something you do on a regular basis so why not go for one of the greatest dogs youre ever going to own!
At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. Our puppies are ideal for Schutzhund or IPO training, and are famously known for being protection you can hug.
German Shepherd Breeders In Texas
There are a number of great German Shepherd breeders in Texas, from Houston to Dallas, but have you considered looking further afield for the perfect puppy?
Whilst we arent known locally amongst the residents of TX, were not that sure it matters weve sold our pups throughout the US, such is the demand for the pedigree of dogs we produce.
And when you think about buying a dog its a pretty big investment, and not something you do on a regular basis so why not go for one of the greatest dogs youre ever going to own!
At Regis Regal German Shepherds we produce a select number of puppies at any one time, and take the utmost care when raising and training them ready for ownership. Our puppies are ideal for Schutzhund or IPO training, and are famously known for being protection you can hug.
Read Also: How Much Food For 8 Week Old German Shepherd Puppy
Qualities Of A Good Breeder
Finding a good breeder can be difficult, but its not impossible.
Just keep your eye out for these traits and youll soon be on your way to pick out a high-quality service dog to train:
- Require applications. This means that the breeder cares about their dogs enough to want to know exactly what type of home theyre getting. It can also signify theyre in high demand because of the high quality of their dogs.
- Knows the breed. They should know everything about the needs and temperament of the breed and be able to answer all of your questions about German Shepherds.
- Invites you into their home. You should be more than welcome to see where they house their dogs, the condition of their animals, and how theyre raised. A good breeder has nothing to hide.
- Is highly specialized. They offer only one or two dog breeds and know them well. Someone who owns too many dog breeds cant possibly focus on building up each one well and could very well be running a puppy mill.
A good breeder will also give you a written contract with requirements and a health guarantee. Theyre willing to put the time into certifying their puppies as healthy and having written information on all of their animals because they genuinely care about each one.