Are you a fan of the German Shepherd dog breed? If you desire to own a pure German Shepherd, one of the things you would keep in mind is how much you will pay for it.
If you can afford a GSD, you may want to consider your lifestyle, space, and the breed you want. This post shows you the cost of buying and raising a purebred German Shepherd dog. You will also find out the cost of owning a German Shepherd puppy and the best places to find German Shepherd dogs.
Page Contents
- What are German Shepherds?
- What Is the Difference Between Working Line and Show-line German Shepherd?
- How Much Can I Get A Purebred German Shepherd?
- Is it Expensive to Own a Purebred German Shepherd?
- Why are German Shepherds Expensive?
- What Is The Most Expensive Type of German Shepherd?
- What Are The Factors Affecting The Cost of a German Shepherd Puppy?
- 1. Size
- 2. Coat Color
- 3. Bloodline
- 4. Breeder’s Reputation
- 5. Training Received
- 6. Registration Papers
- What Is The Cost of Adopting a German Shepherd Puppy From a Rescue?
- What Is The Initial Cost of Owning a German Shepherd?
- 1. Food and Treats
- 2. Food and Water Bowls
- 3. Crate
- 4. Bed
- 5. Growing Essentials
- 6. Toys
- 7. Leashes and Collars
- 8. Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications
- 9. Vet Visits
- 10. Initial Vaccine Shots
- 11. Microchip
- 12. Neutering or Spraying
- 13. Dog License
- 14. Miscellaneous Supplies
- Effective Money-Saving Tips for German Shepherd Owners
- Where To Find Cheap German Shepherd Dogs?
- Is Craigslist Safe To Buy a Dog?
- Where To Find German Shepherd Puppies For Adoption?
- Tips for Recognizing A Good Breeder
- Tips For Getting a Purebred German Shepherd
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Where Can I Cheap Ways to Find Purebred German Shepherds for Lower Prices?
- Can I Get A Purebred German Shepherd Puppy From An Animal Shelter?
- What’s The Cost of Owning a German Shepherd?
- How Much Does a German shepherd Cost Per Year?
- How Long Can German Shepherds Live?
- Should I Buy A German Shepherd?
- German Shepherds Vs. Golden Retrievers: Which is Better?
- Conclusion
What are German Shepherds?
Without much argument, German Shepherds, also known as Alsatians, are one of the most popular dog breeds in the World. The breed was developed in Germany in 1899 and was designed to herd and protect sheep because they are capable and intelligent working dogs. They are unsurpassed in their devotion and bravery. They are also incredibly versatile.
There are five different types of German Shepherds. We have the Saddle coat, which is the most common. The Sable, Black, Panda, and White German Shepherd dogs are other types but are rare breeds.
German Shepherds are one of the 400+ different breeds of dogs. Since they are a popular breed, you might ask what makes them unique. The German Shepherd is a huge, agile, muscular dog with a noble spirit and superior intelligence. It is generally regarded as the best all-purpose worker in the dog species.
They are excellent in almost everything they are taught, including herding, competitive obedience, helping the disabled, and being a loyal friend.
German shepherds have one of the best noses of any breed compared to other dogs. They naturally make excellent police and detection dogs, so it makes sense. GSDs are well-known for their work in search and rescue, tracking, and detecting bombs and drugs, among many other occupations.
What Is the Difference Between Working Line and Show-line German Shepherd?
Working line German Shepherds are incredibly energetic and resilient, with a strong desire to serve and guard their owners. On the other hand, show-line German Shepherds are a derivative breed that is more attractive. They have relatively low energy, making them easier to keep but having more complicated health issues.
Working line GSDs are bred and trained for work, typically in the military or law enforcement. They are consequently put through training procedures that adhere to the work norms of these organizations. Training improves their pain tolerance, survival rate, and labor efficiency in addition to their endurance.
Show line German Shepherds are bred and raised specifically for show rings. They are taught to meet the requirements of dog shows, not to possess the same skills as a working line Shepherd. They focus on being neatly organized and visually appealing, which is different from what working bloodlines are about.
How Much Can I Get A Purebred German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are wonderful dogs. They’re a breed every family will want to own. We’ve gathered all the crucial information regarding German Shepherd prices and upkeep costs to assist you in determining your budget for your GSD puppy.
You can get a purebred German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder from $1,500 to $4,000.
Show-line German Shepherd puppies cost between $3,000, and adults cost between $5,000 and $10,000. Working line German shepherd puppies cost between $1,000 and $2,000, while the adults cost between $2,000 and $2,500.
The costs involved in owning a German Shepherd can be significantly decreased if you choose to adopt your dog from a shelter or rescue group. Numerous groups are eager to offer dogs at discounted prices, occasionally even for free, because they have dogs that need homes immediately.
Puppies typically cost between $400 and $1000, depending on the breeder and the kind of puppy available at the purchase time.
Is it Expensive to Own a Purebred German Shepherd?
German Shepherd puppies can be quite expensive to breed. They grow up to be big dogs. Show line German shepherds are bred to meet AKC’s standards; hence they are expensive to own. German Shepherds used as pets are less expensive than show line dogs.
In addition to paying more for larger prescription dosages, you’ll also spend more for their food. A relatively modest sum of money may be used to start. The money will eventually mount up to a few hundred dollars more per year, though, as time goes on.
It could cost you up to $1,500 or more to rear a German Shepherd in your first year of ownership. Some dog owners spend up to $2,000 on their dogs in their first year, depending on the breed. These prices are mostly due to where or how they got their dogs. It is possible to get a German shepherd for as low as $600.
The price, however, is less high when compared to other breeds of dogs.
Why are German Shepherds Expensive?
Breeding a German Shepherd is not as simple as you think it is. Breeding German Shepherd dogs is beyond raising two puppies of the same breed and selling them. Good breeders put a lot of time and effort into raising their dogs; they take them to dog shows, feed them, take them on a visit to the vet to treat any health problem, help them socialize with other dogs, and help them find the right mate.
Most health problems affecting German Shepherds cannot be diagnosed with quick test tools at the veterinarian’s lab. Rather, they require diagnostic tools like X-Rays to check for hip dysplasia or genetic testing.
Also, the breeder may perform other dog-related tests such as:
- Canine opthomolagist exam.
- Thyroid tests.
- Cardiac tests.
- Elbow x-rays.
- Hip x-rays.
All these tests are not cheap, so they will likely be included in the price of the German Shepherd puppy. A responsible breeder will perform these tests as the American Kennel Club recommends them for all German Shepherd breedings. If a breeder says his puppies are healthy because their parents had no history of health issues, do not believe what he tells you.
All the tests mentioned above are required by the American Kennel Club (AKC) for German Shepherds. Also, the tests should be done with the right procedure. For instance, it is impossible to make a diagnosis without radiographs.
What Is The Most Expensive Type of German Shepherd?
Similar to other dog breeds, some rare German Shepherd colors are more costly than the typical patterns and colors. Special colorings like the Black German Shepherd, Panda Shepherd, Isabella German Shepherd, German Shepherd with one or two blue eyes, or the Albino German Shepherd, which is very rare, can be high as $5,000.
As a potential dog owner, selecting a unique color that no one else has may be tempting, but that shouldn’t be the only metric for choosing your future dog. Instead, you should make sure your puppy has a stable temperament and behavior that fits well with your lifestyle and family. I think a sound temperament is more important than weight, colors, size, or appearance.
Recently, certain breeders produced a new breed of GSDs, which they call the “Miniature German Shepherds”. These breeders could charge between $2,000 to $5,000 for their Miniature German Shepherd dogs and puppies. Notwithstanding, it is important to note that the Miniature German Shepherd isn’t registered with the AKC.
What Are The Factors Affecting The Cost of a German Shepherd Puppy?
Certainly, purebred German Shepherds are one of the most popular and expensive dog breeds. You must have wondered why there are pricey. As I said earlier, many factors come into play in determining the cost of a German Shepherd. The size, weight, coat color, and appearance aren’t the only metric used.
Remember that breeders must ensure their puppies stay healthy before being sold to their new owners. Also, medical expenses, food and nutrition, daily welfare, and other essential needs must be met.
Here are some of the list of factors affecting the cost of a German Shepherd puppy:
1. Size
German Shepherds dogs can be classified as large dogs. However, there are some small and miniature German Shepherd breeds. The miniature or small German Shepherd is a GSD with dwarfism, whereas the giant ones are mixed breed and are often advertised as purebred dogs. As expected, giant German Shepherds are sold are more expensive and are sold at a higher price than the dwarf and miniature German Shepherds.
2. Coat Color
As earlier stated, German Shepherd dogs with rare coat colors such as blue, white, and black are typically more expensive than the ones with common colors.
3. Bloodline
Breeders make heavy investments to ensure their dog stays in the best shape. German Shepherds with purebred parents tend to be more pricey than ordinary companion dogs.
4. Breeder’s Reputation
Another factor that affects the cost of purebred German Shepherds is the reputation of the breeder. If the breeder has long been in the canine industry and received praise for his breeding practices, don’t expect to get his dog for cheap. Ideally, it would be best to opt for reputable breeders who have received recognition from several kennel organizations, associations, and clubs.
5. Training Received
Some breeders offer early socialization, potty training, and other forms of specialized training to their GSD puppies. The cost of this service is also included in their computed price.
6. Registration Papers
German Shepherd puppies are typically registered with kennel organizations such as the United Kennel Club (UKC) or the American Kennel Club (AKC). Breeders register their dogs in these clubs to participate in events, contests, competitions, or even shows.
The cost of transport or shipping and the breeder’s location are minor factors that can impact the price of a German Shepherd.
Now that you’ve known these factors, I am sure you will not face any problems finding a reliable breeder who will offer you a GSD puppy that is worth its price.
What Is The Cost of Adopting a German Shepherd Puppy From a Rescue?
Let’s assume you are on a tight budget and don’t have thousands to purchase a German Shepherd. You can adopt a puppy or adult German Shepherd from a shelter or rescue. The adoption fee typically varies between $150 and $300.
This adoption fee usually covers the cost of vaccination, deworming, alteration, and microchipping, so you don’t have to worry about the dog’s health.
What Is The Initial Cost of Owning a German Shepherd?
I’m sure you are informed about the price of German Shepherds. Well, there are other costs involved in their purchase and adoption. Do you know there are extra costs involved? Maybe you don’t.
Here’s a breakdown of extra costs that you should prepare for when owning a German Shepherd.
1. Food and Treats
German Shepherds have a voracious appetite for food. Once your puppy arrives, you should be ready to treat it with a hefty meal of high-quality, savory dog food. A bag of dry kibble and dog treats will cost anywhere between $100 to $120.
2. Food and Water Bowls
After feeding your dog, you will need the right amount of water to keep them hydrated after every meal. Ideally, you need to get a good food and water bowl for your pet. High-quality bowls can cost anywhere from $12 to $40 on average.
3. Crate
While your puppy German Shepherd is still growing, it’s a good idea to get a dog crate where it can stay during house training. A study crate will also prevent separation anxiety that causes destructive behavior in dogs. You can get a high-quality crate anywhere from $55 to $500.
4. Bed
Getting a comfortable bed for your GSD will ensure uninterrupted sleep. A durable bed is one of your investments for your German Shepherd. It prevents long-term joint-related issues like hip dysplasia. A durable dog bed will cost anywhere from $50 to $350.
5. Growing Essentials
Whether your German Shepherd is long-haired or short-haired, a good time is always to get a hairbrush to remove tangled hair. Other grooming supplies, such as shampoo, nail clippers, and brushes, can be purchased for around $40 to $200.
You can also take your GSD to a professional grooming salon, where they will be trimmed and cleaned for an improved appearance. The cost of grooming services should be around $75 to $100.
6. Toys
Your puppy German Shepherd will greatly benefit from chew toys, which will develop their facial muscles and prevent floppy ears. Dog toys will cost between $30 to $50.
7. Leashes and Collars
If you want to take your purebred puppy on a walk, a high-quality leash and collar will do. Leashes and collars can be purchased within the range of $15 to $70. You can personalize the collars and have your dog’s name on it and your contact number on them just in case the dog goes missing.
8. Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications
Many breeders include the cost of deworming their puppies in the final price. If your German Shepherd pup is yet to be dewormed, you should see a vet to have it dewormed. Consider including flea and tick medications while deworming your pet. Altogether, they can cost you $50 to $200.
9. Vet Visits
After getting a German Shepherd, the first thing to do is to see a vet for a check-up. Doing this will cause your GSD puppy to grow and become a healthy adult dog. Prepare to spend around $80 to $400 for vet expenses.
10. Initial Vaccine Shots
Most breeders typically give the first required shots for your GSD puppy, but afterward, the new owner bears the responsibility and burden of the next vaccine shots. Vaccine shots can cost anywhere from $70 to $200.
11. Microchip
Whether you are getting a German Shepherd a pet or a security dog, it will be beneficial to have it microchipped. A microchipped dog has more chances of being returned to its owner than a dog without one. The cost of microchip implantation typically ranges between $30 and $90.
12. Neutering or Spraying
Many breeders and rescue organizations shoulder the cost of dog sterilization. Peradventure, this service isn’t included in your purchase; you must take your German Shepherd to a vet for surgery. This procedure should cost around $50 to $500.
13. Dog License
Like other dog breeds, you would be looking at getting a license for your German Shepherd. With a dog license, you stand a great chance of having your dog returned to you if it gets stolen or missing. Depending on your neighborhood, dog licensing organizations typically charge $10 to $40 for a dog license.
14. Miscellaneous Supplies
Your German Shepherd may misbehave or do embarrassing things while on a walk. Don’t fail to invest in cleaning agents like urine cleaners and poop scoopers. These items will cost you around $12 to $49.
The table below shows the cost of owning a German Shepherd.
Type of Expense | Cost |
Food and Treats | $80 – $100 |
Food and Water Bowls | $15 – $40 |
Crate | $60 – $500 |
Bed | $50 – $200 |
Grooming Essentials | $50 – $150 |
Toys | $30 – $50 |
Leashes and Collars | $15 – $50 |
Deworming, Flea, and Tick Medications | $50 – $200 |
Vet Visits | $100 – $300 |
Initial Vaccine Shots | $75 – $200 |
Microchip | $40 – $60 |
Neutering or Spaying | $50 – $500 |
Dog License | $10 – $20 |
Miscellaneous Supplies | $15 – $30 |
Total Initial Cost | $640 – $2,400 |
Based on the table above, the cost of owning a German Shepherd puppy is estimated to be within the range of $650 to $2,500, outside the cost of buying the puppy. The items and services mentioned above ensure your German Shepherd stays happy, agile, and healthy.
If this is not your first time buying a dog, recycling your old dog’s items will reduce the cost of owning a GSD. Apart from the price of the dog itself, you may want to prepare an annual budget for other recurring expenses such as dog food, pet insurance, regular veterinary care and check-ups, grooming essentials, and toys.
Owning a dog can be compared to owning a child. When you provide for their basic needs, it shows you love them. Other minor expenses you may want to include in your budget are as follows:
- Dog Walking Services: A German Shepherd needs a daily walk to stay active and energetic. If your work schedule or lifestyle doesn’t allow you to take your dog on a walk, you can hire the services of a dog walker for $20 or $30 per session.
- Daycare Services: If you will be traveling or going out of town for days or weeks, a wise thing to do is to leave your German Shepherd at a daycare center. Many companies offer daycare services for pets. It would be great to take your dogs to a place where they can be pampered, cared for, and watched over. Also, your dog can mingle with other dogs in the daycare facility. Depending on the facility, daycare services can cost around $35 to $100.
- Kennel Club Registration: As a dog owner, you must register your GSD in kennel clubs like the United Kennel Club (UKC) or the AKC, which stands for American Kennel Club. Registering your dog in these organizations permits them to compete with other dogs at shows and competitions.
- Emergency Treatment: German Shepherds are renowned for their rapid growth. The older your GSD gets, the more likely it is to have health problems like hip dysplasia. Adult dogs are prone to health challenges and require immediate medical attention to maintain good health. That said, you may consider emergency vet visits in your budget. Ideally, you should get around $200 to $1500 for this.
Unexpected visits to the vet office can happen at any time in your dog’s life. The lifespan of a German Shepherd is from seven to ten years. So, investing in a pet insurance policy should be something you should do apart from providing your GSD with the best healthcare.
Remember that these expenses are not mandatory but optional. You can choose whether to do it depending on your financial strength and your dog’s needs.
Effective Money-Saving Tips for German Shepherd Owners
If you have family or personal expenses to deal with, don’t try to overspend on a German Shepherd. Here are some efficient ways of owning a GSD:
- Adopt a German Shepherd Dog: If you can’t purchase a German Shepherd from a breeder, a cheap but reliable way to get it is to adopt it from rescue organizations. While a new GSD puppy can be as high as $3.5000, a healthy and well-behaved dog can be adopted for under $400.
- Groom your GSD at home: Rather than paying for grooming services in a professional salon, you can learn to groom your German Shepherd yourself in your home. If you don’t know how to groom your dog, do your research and get plenty of knowledge and purchase basic grooming tools such as nail clippers, bristle brush, rubber friction brush, metal comb, pin brush, shedding rake, shedding blades, shampoo, spray, bathing mitts, combs, and dematters, etc.
- Keep your GSD in great shape: You can avoid unnecessary, expensive veterinary bills by keeping your German Shepherd fit and healthy. You can keep your GSD in the best shape by giving it a taste of high-quality, nutritious dog food. Another way is to take them on a walk every day and avoid giving them fatty treats.
- Buy high-quality items: If you are shopping for dog items for the first time, you may be tempted to buy low-quality and less expensive items. However, cheap-quality items can be fragile, and you will spend more replacing them in the long run. Rather than buying products that can break easily, purchase high-quality, sturdy items that will stand the test of time.
- Purchase supplied in bulk: If you are buying food or treats for your German Shepherd puppy, don’t forget to buy them in bulk. Buying your dog essentials in bulk is an efficient way to own and maintain a dog.
Although there are several ways to save money while dealing with your dog’s expenses, ensure that you don’t compromise or sacrifice their well-being just to cut costs. Prepare your budget and plan your spending so you don’t run into a financial crisis in the long run. Many dog owners do not do the right financial planning, which is why many abandoned dogs are on the streets and in animal shelters.
Where To Find Cheap German Shepherd Dogs?
You can find German Shepherd puppies for as cheap as $1,500 or even less, but they will never be as healthy as the ones offered by licensed, recognized breeders. You may find dogs for sale on Craigslist and other classified ads; however, these dogs could be bred without medical testing.
You may find a dog for as little as $200, but you could end up with a GSD with questionable health and temperament or a GSD that is not purebred. I am sure you want a purebred GSD and not one that is mixed with Golden Retrievers, Labradors, or Pitbulls.
If you get a dog with genetically-based health issues, the vet costs will be more than the original purchase price, so keep that in mind. Thanks to the internet, you are not limited to finding a purebred German Shepherd from backyard breeders.
One of the best places to find healthy purebred German Shepherd puppies is the American Kennel Club Market Place. On this platform, you’re provided with various reputable breeders to choose from. Also, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America Classified Ads is a reliable place to find recognized breeders who care about the health and welfare of their dogs.
Facebook groups, Instagram, and Twitter, can help you find your next German Shepherd. Many breeders upload images of their litter, and you may be fortunate to find a purebred German Shepherd pup or adult who needs a new home.
Is Craigslist Safe To Buy a Dog?
Some breeders and homeowners often advertise their dogs, including German Shepherds, on Craigslist. When you go to Craigslist, you will find varieties of dogs to pick from. However, that doesn’t make Craigslist the best place to find healthy GSD puppies.
It is risky to buy anything, including pets, on Craigslist. If you purchase anything from Craigslist, you must exercise caution, as scammers often use the website to defraud unsuspecting people of their hard-earned money.
Also, some people involved in dogfighting use the website to find cheap dogs for their activity. So, always use caution while using this website to trade anything.
Where To Find German Shepherd Puppies For Adoption?
If you have decided to buy a GSD, you may be looking for places to buy your next German Shepherd puppy. You can find cheap GSDs from puppy mills or backyard breeders. As I said earlier, the health condition of such dogs cannot be guaranteed as they are raised in extremely poor conditions, where they get little or no medical attention.
The best option is to buy healthy puppies from recognized and trustworthy breeders in your area. These puppies tend to be stronger and healthier adult dogs.
If you are searching for reliable breeders to buy your next GSD, below is a list of breeders recognized by the AKC.
- West Coast German Shepherds: This breeder is based in California, so you if stay on the West Coast, you should try them out. This breeder ensures their puppies meet the requirements and standards of the German SV. Also, their puppies come from the best bloodlines.
- Vom Ragnar German Shepherds: This Illinois-based kennel is dedicated to breeding top-notch German Shepherds in the best health condition. Their puppies undergo health testing and are trained to have a stable temperament. To prove that they are not in the business to make money alone, this breeder ensures their German Shepherd puppies are taken to the right families and homes.
- Mittelwest German Shepherds: This breeder offers show-quality German puppies that can be used as guard dogs, K-9, show dogs, and more. Mittwelwest has a solid reputation in the business as they import and ship their dogs worldwide.
Buying a purebred GSD may look expensive, especially if you are on a tight budget. One of the reasons you shouldn’t buy cheap dogs from a backyard breeder is that the future medical costs will cost you more.
Would you prefer adopting a German Shepherd puppy instead of purchasing it from a breeder? If yes, check out this list of rescue organizations below:
- Virginia German Shepherd Rescue: If you stay in Virginia, the Virginia German Shepherd Rescue has German Shepherds that you can adopt.
- German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions is a non-profit organization formed to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. The North Carolina-based organization ensures every rescued dog in its custody is treated, microchipped, spayed/neutered, and medically fit before adoption.
- German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County: This volunteer organization finds permanent homes for abused, neglected, and unwanted GSDs. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County encourages applicants to socialize and familiarize themselves with their preferred dog before adoption.
- Garden State German Shepherd Rescue: This rescue organization is based in New Jersey and has many German Shepherds waiting for loving owners to adopt them. They aim to get their dogs to homes where they will be accepted and loved.
- Mission K9: If you care so much about military honors and heritage, you can consider adopting a purebred German Shepherd from Mission K9. This rescue organization finds great homes for retired working military dogs to thank them for their wonderful service.
Tips for Recognizing A Good Breeder
If you haven’t purchased a dog before, you may likely experience challenges finding a good breeder near you. We know you will face such problems, so we have compiled some tips to help you recognize a reliable and legitimate breeder.
- One of the common ways to tell if a breeder is trustworthy is he is breeding for the love of the breed. Most breeders don’t care about the breed or their health but are particular about the money involved. A good breeder should clean his puppies regularly and take them to the vet frequently.
- Another way to know this is if the puppy’s mother is living with the puppies. If you don’t find the puppy’s mother on site, they are most likely separated earlier than they should. Money-minded breeders who are in for the money will sell their puppies even when they still need their mother around them. Ideally, puppies need to be with their mother for health reasons for at least the first 8 weeks after birth.
- A good breeder will tell you if the puppy has health problems. They will not ignore your calls and messages about your dog’s health. Rather, they will give you all the details you need to know about the puppy, and if you want to return the puppy, they’d be happy to keep it. If your puppy dies because of an underlying health problem, they may provide you with another puppy for free or at a reduced price.
- A good breeder will want to extract as much information as he wants from you to be sure where his puppies are taken to. He will not demand cash outright or try to rush the deal. After communicating with you, they know if you can take care of them or whether your home is the right place for them. Some may contact you after selling the puppies to know how they are facing. Moreover, if you don’t want to keep the puppy, they would request you to return it as they wouldn’t want it to end like other abandoned and abused dogs on the street.
Tips For Getting a Purebred German Shepherd
Here are some helpful tips for hunting for your purebred German Shepherd puppy:
- Consider it a red flag if the breeder tries to shove the puppy into your hands without communicating with you or providing satisfactory responses to your questions. When that happens, know that the breeder is breeding puppies strictly for the financial benefits.
- When you go to have a glimpse of your puppy or pick it up from the breeder, pay attention to the environment it is raised. Are their ears dirty or clean? Do they have ticks or fleas? Are their eyes watery? Are they exposed to extremely harsh temperatures, such as cold in the winter or heat in the summer? Do they have running noses? Is their noise dry and cracked or wet? Are their urine and dropping cleaned when they should, or are they sitting on their poop?
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Where Can I Cheap Ways to Find Purebred German Shepherds for Lower Prices?
Getting a purebred German Shepherd puppy with minimal health conditions from a reputable breeder will cost you about $2,000 to $5,000. Note that you may spend a little higher for other costs that may arise.
Can I Get A Purebred German Shepherd Puppy From An Animal Shelter?
Yes, you can get a Shepherd pup from a rescue center. Many purebred German Shepherd puppies need new homes and are waiting for you to pick them up. It won’t cost you up to $1,000 to get a puppy from a rescue center.
What’s The Cost of Owning a German Shepherd?
Paying for the German Shepherd is not the end of the expenses involved in breeding a dog. You need to consider the actual cost of owning a puppy and how much you should budget annually to care for one.
For your dog, you should set aside at least $90-110 every month. The fundamentals—high-quality food and routine veterinary exams—will be covered. Some owners of German Shepherds spend a lot more money. Many German Shepherd owners find professional grooming essential because of how much hair these dogs shed.
How Much Does a German shepherd Cost Per Year?
You will make some expenses annually if you own a German Shepherd. Health issues, feeding, toys, and other equipment can cost you up to $3,000 in your first year.
These expenses also cover buying your dog’s necessities, having him ID-tagged and microchipped, and purchasing cleaning supplies like shampoo and odor-removal spray. These cost between $200 and $300.
However, owning a German Shepherd can cost around $1500 yearly.
How Long Can German Shepherds Live?
Male GSDs typically reach between 22 and 24 inches in height, and female GSDs are between 24 and 26 inches. Female dogs weigh between 49 and 71 pounds, whereas male dogs usually weigh 66 to 88 pounds. They have an average lifespan of 10 to 13 years; however, they are generally healthier and less prone to sickness than other species.
Should I Buy A German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are extremely bright, making them remarkably simple to train and active pets. They perform effectively at both their jobs and in busy families. They frequently cooperate with the military and police enforcement. They are excellent guard dogs, bomb and narcotics detectors, search and rescue dogs, and service dogs.
They enjoy hanging out with their owners, training, obedience and doing dog sports. They are pretty active as family pets and enjoy playing, running, hiking, going for walks, doing chores around the house, and guarding their family members.
German Shepherds Vs. Golden Retrievers: Which is Better?
German Shepherds are generally more distant and clever than golden retrievers, who are adored for their outgoing and active nature. Their lifespans are the last variation between German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
German Shepherds were bred as working and herding dogs, while golden retrievers were developed as hunting and gun dogs. These dog breeds make wonderful family pets today. However, German Shepherds are frequently used in law enforcement or other service-related jobs, and golden retrievers are still helpful for recovering waterfowl on a hunting trip.
Conclusion
Although German Shepherds are expensive, they are great companions as they can serve as family pets or be used as guard dogs. Particularly, this breed of dog is highly sensitive, loyal, and intelligent and will do everything to keep you protected.
Finding the best breeder of GSD isn’t always easy. Fortunately, we provided helpful tips for finding a reliable and legitimate breeder. If you buy a German Shepherd pup that is improperly fed and bred, the dog may grow up with health problems such as disabilities, aggression, and behavioral problems.
German Shepherds are not cheap so if you plan on adopting one from any local rescue club or organization, be sure to make inquiries about the medical history as well as the current health conditions of the dog. This can save you a lot of money while supporting the rescue’s mission.