German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and protective dogs, making them excellent companions and working dogs. If you’re considering bringing a German Shepherd from Germany to your home, it’s essential to understand the process and requirements involved. This guide provides a detailed overview of how to get a German Shepherd from Germany, covering everything from finding a reputable breeder to navigating import regulations.
Finding a Reputable Breeder or Rescue Organization
Choosing a Breeder:
- Research: Look for breeders who follow ethical practices and prioritize the well-being of their dogs.
- Health and Temperament: Reputable breeders conduct health screenings and provide a nurturing environment. They focus on the health and temperament of their dogs.
- Visit: If possible, visit the breeder to see the conditions in which the dogs are raised and meet the parent dogs.
Adopting from a Rescue Organization:
- Consider Adoption: Rescue organizations and shelters are great places to find a German Shepherd.
- Assess the Dog: Spend time with the dog to ensure it’s a good fit for your family and lifestyle.
Understanding German Shepherd Characteristics
- Size and Appearance: German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs. Males stand 24–26 inches tall, while females are slightly smaller at 22–24 inches.
- Coat: They have a double coat that comes in medium and long lengths. The most common colors are tan/black or red/black.
- Temperament: German Shepherds can be calm, patient, playful, or rambunctious. Early socialization and training are essential for a well-mannered dog.
German Pet Import Requirements
EU Customs Guidelines:
- Regulations: Germany has strict rules for importing dogs from outside the EU, following EU customs guidelines.
- Limit: You can bring up to five dogs for non-commercial reasons.
Requirements:
- Microchip: Your dog must have a microchip or tattoo.
- Rabies Vaccination: Your dog must be fully vaccinated against rabies, with proper certification.
- Veterinary Certificate/Pet Passport: You need an official veterinary certificate (or a pet passport) that certifies the microchip and rabies vaccination.
Step-by-Step Guide to Importing Your German Shepherd
Step 1: EU Country Classifications
- Classification: Determine the classification of the country you are importing from, as the requirements depend on this classification. The EU classifies countries into EU Member States, part 1 listed third countries, part 2 listed third countries, and unlisted countries.
Step 2: Type of Transport
- Non-Commercial vs. Commercial: Understand the difference between non-commercial and commercial transport, as the requirements vary. Non-commercial transport applies if the pet travels with or within five days of the owner, involves no more than five pets, and is not for sale or adoption.
Step 3: Microchipping
- Requirement: Ensure your dog has a microchip. The microchip must be implanted before the rabies vaccination.
Step 4: Vaccinations
- Rabies Vaccination: All dogs over 12 weeks must have a current rabies vaccination. If entering from another EU Member State, Part 1, or Part 2 Listed Country, wait 21 days after the primary rabies vaccination before travel. If entering from an Unlisted Third Country, wait 30 days to administer a rabies titer test.
- Other Vaccinations: Consider vaccinations against canine distemper, hepatitis, leptospirosis, and parvovirus.
Step 5: Rabies Titer (Serology) Test
- Unlisted Countries: If importing from an unlisted country, a rabies titer test is required no sooner than 30 days after the rabies vaccination.
- Approved Laboratories: Samples must be processed at approved laboratories. Your pet can enter Germany up to three calendar months after the blood was drawn if the test results are within acceptable limits.
Step 6: Health Certificate
- EU Health Certificate: Obtain an EU Health Certificate if you are not an EU resident.
- Veterinarian Approval: Ensure your veterinarian is approved by the governing veterinary authority in your pet’s country of origin.
Step 7: Import Documentation
- Templates and Guidance: Obtain detailed templates from your veterinarian and ensure all required forms are completed correctly.
- Time Frame: Complete the necessary steps within ten days prior to departure for non-commercial transport.
Step 8: Travel Considerations
- Airlines: Research airline pet travel policies, as they can vary significantly.
- Comfort: Prepare a comfortable travel crate for your German Shepherd.
Quarantine and Restrictions
- No Quarantine: If all pet import regulations are met, there will be no quarantine.
- Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with regulations may result in quarantine, return to the country of origin, or euthanasia. The importer is responsible for all costs.
- Breed Restrictions: Wolf hybrids, Savannah, and Bengal cats cannot be imported under these regulations unless they are five generations removed from their pedigree.
Caring for Your German Shepherd
- Diet: Watch their diet.
- Exercise: Ensure they get enough exercise. German Shepherds need plenty of space to run and exercise.
- Grooming: Regularly brush their teeth and coat.
- Health: Stick to exam and vaccination schedules and watch for unusual signs of illness.
- Training: German Shepherds do well with positive, reward-based training. Early socialization and puppy training classes are essential.
Special Considerations
- Family Pet: German Shepherds can be great family pets if properly trained and cared for.
- Children: Always monitor interactions between children and dogs.
- Companionship: They thrive when they are with their family.
Bringing a German Shepherd from Germany requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following these steps and understanding the import regulations, you can ensure a smooth and successful journey for your new companion.