Newbie from SC

[RinTin12]

Hello Everyone,

My name is Alicia and I am new to the site but have had a GSD in the past that sadly was lost to old age a few years back. Hubby and I have been wanting another GSD for quite some time now but wanted to wait for the perfect time and also find a reputable breeder here which unfortunately is harder than I thought. We have been researching some in the area and though at first glance they all look and sound great I realized I'm not experienced enough to know exactly what to look for in different breed types (working, czech, etc) if it matters, what kind of stipulations should be expected, what type of guarantees should be given, and of course what to beware of? I should add that we are not looking to show or compete but instead as just a family pet to get lots of love, attention, training, and playtime.

Here are the few that I have come across so far and thought maybe I could get some peoples input on them if they are familiar. Thank you all in advance and I am sorry for such a long first post but thought I would get it all in a once. Feel free to ask me any questions.

T&T Canine Shepherds - sitemap.xml

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~*~Home of VA 3

German Shepherd Puppies For Sale, German Shepherd Puppy

[robk]

Some one else on here just acquired a pup from the kennel in your second link. I think they are pleased with it but I really can't comment because I do not know them. Some of these links are to show lines and some are too working lines. How far are you willing to travel?

[RinTin12]

Originally Posted by robk

Some one else on here just acquired a pup from the kennel in your second link. I think they are pleased with it but I really can't comment because I do not know them. Some of these links are to show lines and some are too working lines. How far are you willing to travel?

Thank you for the reply. As far as traveling 50-60 miles but if right one is found through right person possibly further.

[MaggieRoseLee]

Before you start honing in on a breeder and making calls, make sure you've spent alot of time on (click this --> Welcome to the GSD/FAQ's for the first time owner - German Shepherd Dog Forums )

And more specifically How to find a puppy! <--click that.

Seems like there are tons of puppies/GSD's everywhere, but there are many pitfalls and traps that most of us fall into the first time we get a new dog.......... and then learn the hard way how to best get a new dog in the future.

PLUS, the more you know about the breed (by reading those posts above) the more seriously a good breeder will consider you and give them one of their better puppies.

[Castlemaid]

Welcome! Hope you and your family find the perfect dog!

A reminder to all that negative comments about breeders are not allowed on the board. Negative comments are to be sent via PM. Recommendations for breeders that people know and have had experience with are always welcome.

To the OP, here is some info to start off, read carefully and take it to heart:
Things to look for in a 'Responsible' Breeder

Compare the above information to the links of the breeders/importers/brokers you have posted above.

Which brings me to the next comment:

Finding a puppy from a good breeder will be a lot of work. Most of what you find on the internet are very sleek, fancy and professional looking websites for puppy mills and brokers. It is a real challenge to wade through all that to find the rare gems.

It will also help if you can narrow down the 'type' of shepherd you are looking for. The links you have found and posted have all different types: American showline, West German Showline, and Working lines. A good active and sound companion can be found in all lines, but there is a definite difference in looks and characteristics and temperament in each line - so if you have a certain look in mind, or have specific plans or expectations and training goals in mind, one line may be more appropriate for you than another.

Edited to add: Someone else posted as I was typing, same info!
Sorry for the repeat.

[jocoyn]

Welcome, I live in the upstate of SC and I know this state is puppy-mill central with a mixture of some good breeders too. There are plenty of good options to you within driving distance. As others said - some good ones don't even have web pages.

I drove 10 hours to get my current puppy because he was exactly what I was looking for and was bred by an acquaintance but he is for a working dog.

There are a LOT of GSDs being dumped in shelters here too, It seems like Gaffney is always showing up as is Gastonia (NC but on the state line with SC).

But yes, welcome, and follow those links and TAKE YOUR TIME figuring out what you want out of the dog first and what its life will be like because you are most likely to have a long and succesful life with a dog if you select the dog that will meet your lifestyle.

[RinTin12]

Thank you all for such great and helpful information. I never really realized that different lines not only meant a different look but also temperment. I will definitely be doing lots of research before deciding because I want our new addition to be the best possible fit for our family.