| Zentac_75 |
| quote: | Originally posted by jeeper_095
I've started my research on how expensive does it run to have a shepherd + things to look out for before getting a pup.
I've had one back home but the expenses were not nearly as expensive as I hear people talking and whinin' of how the shepherd is a great dog but a pain in the ass towards their last years of life...what dog isn't..com'on now, same applies to humans..
my plan is to get a 2 week pup, pure breeed, even if it's expensive as hell, I don't want to see the dog suffering of hip/bone problems towards the end of his/her life.
I hear there is a blindness syndrome with some breeds, is it true?
People say that they spend an average of ~$1100/year. that's ok, I suppose vaccines run for $20-30, get 4 shots in the first year, how many vaccines required per year afterwards?
and on the top of things, I'll pay for a good training.
So, shepherd owners here, share your opinion on how expensive is it to own a shepherd.
what paper work do I need to inquire? like bloodline origin, hip certification (I guess that's the paper saying that the breed is not known for hip problems)..what else? |
Shepherds, though costly and time consuming, are phenominal animals. Smart, Strong, Protective. Their species is prone to certain problems, including hip porblems, blindness, megaeasaphogus (this one is still rare though).
If you can purchase the biggest/strongest looking dog in the litter. He will obviously be the healthiest.
I picked the runt because I'm a sucker for em. He is the only one of the litter who has medical problems. :(
Since you already had a shepherd you are aware of how much of a responsibliity they can be. Don't get one unless you know you can commit to it for 10 years.
Proper training is essential. Don't know where you live but in Burlington/Hamilton area a little north of the 403 off of HWY 6 there is a wonderful facility called "McCann's Kennels". Google it. They train world champions. About &275 per grade (4 grades) but its money well spent, and they really love their dogs.
Mine only finished grade 1 because I pulled him not knowing what his ailement was until just recently. We are going back in the fall.
If you purchase one from good breeders, and register, neuter, train, etc...expect to spend $5000. Honestly. Mine eats well over $750 a year(I purchase the expensive food for easy digestion), Not including toys (mine destroys every toy he gets in days), treats,medical visits.
Good Luck and enjoy all the unconditional, sometimes annoying, love and attention you get from your new dog. Post some pics if/when you finally get him. |
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