Each and every one of us is drawn to other people based on a sometimes subconscious preference for looks and personality. As your personal relationships deepen, and you commit to a long-term form of friendship, or choose a life-long mate, you often start to come to the realization that it’s a persons personality that far outweighs any other quality. No matter what your chosen companion(s) may look like, its far less important in the long run than their dependability or sense of humor.

The same is equally true when deciding on the German Shepherd that you want to make part of your family. While every dog buyer (and breeder) may have a certain set of preferences regarding physical appearance, the number one concern that should be on your mind is finding a dog that is compatible and will make a happy and well-adjusted long-term companion.

Truly “good’ breeders (i.e. non-profit) spend loads of time with their puppies. During these extended socialization periods, the savvy breeder will note certain personality traits such as dominance, amiability, and determination (not to mention gait, topline, and angulation). If it some down to it, you would be much better off giving up on the “perfect” appearance in order to have a dog that is compatible with you and your lifestyle. If you breeder is a knowledgeable German Shepherd handler, they’ll be able to help you find a perfect “match”, as they realize that when an owner is happy, so is the dog.

Word to the wise, however. A German Shepherd Dog is most definitely NOT for everybody. If you’re looking for a lazy, dull, listless breed that is absolutely submissive and will always obey every single command, don’t bother with the German Shepherd. If you work 12 hour days and are too tired to spend an hour or so a night playing with your furry friend – don’t buy a Shepherd. If you plan to chain your dog in the backyard and commit him to a life with little or no human interaction – don’t buy a Shepherd. German Shepherds are the appitimy of “mans best friend”. They want and need a social life, and will suffer greatly, both emotionally and physically without one. Treat them as you would a best friend, and they’ll bring more joy into your life than you can imagine!

Decision Time : Puppy or Adult?

If you’re like 99% of the dog buying public, you initial response is “a puppy, of course”. Just as in the world of human adoptions, the vast majority of people want to start their relationship with their new family member at the start of their life.

However, don’t overlook the advantages of an adult dog. When you adopt an adult German Shepherd, many times you forego the early ‘trials and tribulations” that new dog owners must ‘suffer’ through (housebreaking, etc.), not to mention the “chewing’ stage that a teething puppy will invariably go through. If you’re gone most of the day, and have already experienced the ‘delights’ of owning a new puppy , then an adult dog may be right for you (check your local shelter or rescue agency, many times they have a “diamond in the rough” just waiting from someone like you!)

Male or Female?

Both genders have their pros and cons. There is a slight size difference (with males averaging two inches or so taller, and about 20 pounds heavier than females) in that males sometimes appear to have a greater “stature” than females (not always true, of course). Females, of course, have a heat cycle, which can be a pit of a pain until you have them spayed (always recommended).

Having said that, a German Shepherd’s personality characteristics are determined much more by heredity and environment than by gender. As with any dog breed, a loving home with concerned and caring owners does wonders in raising a dog that is happy, fun-loving, and a joy to all that meet them.

When you take your dog for veterinarian appointment, it’s important that you give any information to the vet that would be helpful in determining any problems your pet may be having. Too bad your dog can’t tell you when he’s feeling bad. But as you are the owner, you’ll be most able to notice any changes in your dog’s behavior, eating patterns or general health. Share any pertinent information with the vet.

The following are all of the common areas of the dog that your vet will look into during a full examination:

1. Nose: Your dog’s healthy nose is very critical to its senses. Your vet will be looking for any discharge and/or physical changes in the appearance of the nose. Dogs typically have cold and wet noses; however, the vet will not be too concerned if your dog's nose is hot or dry.

2. Nails: The vet will take a look at your dog's nails and also the nail bed. If your dog licks them a lot, or is showing any lameness, the nail bed will be examined for damage. Some dogs have uneven wear on their nails, which means that the dog has been favoring one leg and may have an injury. If the vet finds that the nails are flaky he or she could determine a possible metabolic disorder that requires further steps.

3. Eyes: Many dogs inherently have unfortunate eye diseases, based on their breed. However, it’s important to note that sudden changes in the eyes of your dog may indicate a more complicated disease elsewhere in his body. A thorough examination of your dog’s eyes will help give the vet clues about where else he may need to look for problems.

4. Mouth: The mouth also tells a lot about your dog’s overall health. First of all the vet will check the mouth area for gum inflammation and tooth decay. Did you know that examining the dog's mouth will also give the vet a chance to check his blood pressure? This is done by pressing his finger up against the gums, feeling his pulse. The vet pays special attention to the color of your dog’s gums: if your dog has pale gums, then it could be a sign of anemia. If there is a yellowish color on the gums, this is possibly a liver problem.

5. Skin & Coat: By looking at the health of your dog’s coat and skin, your vet can see what the overall health condition of your dog is. For example, if the coat is dull in color, then this may be an indication of parasites or a minor infection that may exist anywhere else in the body; whereas a shiny coat tells you your dog is vibrant and healthy.

6. Genitals: Your dog, male or female, will be checked for disorders by looking at their genitals. A female dog’s vulva will be checked for discharge or inflammation. Either of these two could represent a disorder of the urinary system or the reproductive system. Likewise, a male dog's testicles and penis are examined to see if there is any inflammation or swelling.