First time dog & GSD owner HELP!!!!

[pshah0002]

i am new to this website and first time dog owner. i always wanted to get GSD, and i finally found one nearby for $200 CKC registered. what i need to beawre of GSD and they're needs? i know they're lovable dog and will protect you if you train them right. i am going to use him as guard dog for my business because we already had break in twice in year. i dont want him to be aggresive to others because i have retail business means lot of customers coming and going all day. i am just affraid that since he's a big dog, i might not be able to control him if he become really aggresive. we also live on same premises so we'll always gonna be there to keep an eye on him. i have paid $50 deposit for this dog, and i went to check on him yesterday and the breeder told me his 5 weeks old and weighs about 8 pounds. Any comments, feedback are really really appreciated about anything that would help me.

ps: i am getting him when he's 7 weeks old.

[Zoeys mom]

Ummmmm, okay so your new and are trying to learn here which is awesome- kuddos!! Now beware that a $200 GSD is NOT from a reputable breeder and temperament flaws are more often found in poorly bred dogs. GSD's need tons of exercise and socialization to start with and will not do well cooped up in a store all day or all night- they need to be with their families. Poor breedings and/or poor socialization when the pups are young account for a lot of the fear aggression and other forms of aggression you obviously want to avoid. I also want to warn you though for $200 you run the risk of getting what you paid for GSD's are not alarm systems meant to live in people's stores- get surveillance, a gun, or security

[sagelfn]

Originally Posted by pshah0002

i am new to this website and first time dog owner. i always wanted to get GSD, and i finally found one nearby for $200 CKC registered. what i need to beawre of GSD and they're needs? i know they're lovable dog and will protect you if you train them right. i am going to use him as guard dog for my business because we already had break in twice in year. i dont want him to be aggresive to others because i have retail business means lot of customers coming and going all day. i am just affraid that since he's a big dog, i might not be able to control him if he become really aggresive. we also live on same premises so we'll always gonna be there to keep an eye on him. i have paid $50 deposit for this dog, and i went to check on him yesterday and the breeder told me his 5 weeks old and weighs about 8 pounds. Any comments, feedback are really really appreciated about anything that would help me.

ps: i am getting him when he's 7 weeks old.

Since you haven't gotten him yet, back out of the deal now.

For this price you are not getting a dog from a reputable breeder. If you want a solid nerved dog capable of doing protection and being safe in your business then you need to invest in a well bred GSD. Spend a day on the site and you'll know enough to know this dog is not what you really want no matter how cute he/she is.

If you post your general location we can help you find reputable breeders near you.

Also, GSDs are not mature until 2-3yrs of age. So if you are expecting a puppy to "protect" you you will be disappointed.

**ETA**
GSDs protecting you does not depend on training. It comes from genetics. Sadly many GSDs do not have correct temperament. Another reason why it is important to find a reputable breeder who knows their dog's lines and what they produce, who works their dogs to prove their dogs are what a GSD should be.

[pshah0002]

well breeder told me hes in this business for 8 years. and of course i am planning to get some time out for his excersice after we clsoe.

[pshah0002]

i live near galax, VA

[sagelfn]

Here is a good thread for you to read Things to look for in a 'Responsible' Breeder

8 years doesn't mean much if he's been doing it badly for 8yrs you know

[Zoeys mom]

Crappy breeders can stay in business for as long as they have a breedable bitch unfortunately GSD's need lots of exercise...not a once a day walk and will not do well cooped up in a store as I already mentioned. They chew and become rather destructive when bored which is what your setting this dog up for anyway. They also need a lot of training, patience, and understanding of the breed which you need to consider. Sounds like you want a deterrent from thieves not a dog

[carmspack]

I am wondering how you live near Galax VA but have a CKC reg nearby??

Carmen
Carmspack Working German Shepherd Dogs

[sagelfn]

CKC probably continital kennel club not the reputable Canadian Kennel Club

Continintal Kennel Club is another sign you are not buying from a reputable breeder

[sagelfn]

Originally Posted by pshah0002

i live near galax, VA

Maybe these threads will help you, not sure how far you are willing to travel.
Breeder Recommendations in the VA/MD/NC area

Looking for breeder in WV, Va, Pa, Md area

Thought the breeder was good but...*sigh* VA breeders?

Choosing a breeder near Northern Virginia