So, you’ve fallen in love with a German Shepherd puppy? These intelligent and loyal companions make wonderful pets. But if you’re looking for specific traits, planning to train your dog for specialized tasks, participate in dog shows, or simply want to minimize potential health issues, you’ll want to ensure your puppy is purebred. Here’s how to tell if your German Shepherd puppy is the real deal.
Why Does Purebred Status Matter?
- Predictable Traits: Purebred German Shepherds are more likely to display the breed’s characteristic strong work ethic, intelligence, and loyalty.
- Temperament and Health: Purebred puppies typically have more predictable temperaments and health histories.
- Competition and Breeding: If you plan to compete in dog shows or breed your dog, a known lineage is essential.
Physical Traits to Look For
When determining if your German Shepherd puppy is purebred, there are breed-specific physical traits to look for. It’s also essential to consider the puppy’s age when evaluating size.
Size and Weight
German Shepherd puppies grow quickly. At eight weeks old, they typically weigh 16 to 20 pounds. By six months, their weight can range from 49 to 71 pounds.
Coat
Purebred German Shepherd puppies have a double coat, consisting of a dense undercoat and a straight, slightly wavy outer coat. The fur is thicker around the neck and on their backside from the thighs to the base of the tail. The coat can be short, medium, or long, but it should never be curly. A purebred German Shepherd can have a double coat, plush coat, or a long-haired coat.
Color
While German Shepherd puppies come in various colors, the most common are black and tan, black and red, and solid black. Less common colors include sable, blue, and liver. Most German Shepherd puppies are born in a shade of tan or gray, but their color can change as they grow. The typical adult German Shepherd is either black and tan, sable (which looks like a wolf), or all black. Some can also be blue or white, but those colors are pretty rare.
Head, Eyes, and Ears
A German Shepherd puppy’s head should be proportionate to its body, featuring a strong and slightly elongated muzzle. They should have medium-sized, almond-shaped, dark eyes that look alert and intelligent. Their nose should always be black, no matter the color of their fur. The head should be dome-shaped with a straight forehead. The ears should be erect and pointed. Keep in mind that a puppy’s ears may not fully stand up until they are four to six months old.
Body and Tail
The German Shepherd puppy should have a strong, muscular body with a deep chest and a straight, strong back. They have a strong muscular build designed for both speed and endurance. They’re slightly longer than they are tall, giving them a balanced, agile appearance. Their tails should reach at least to their hocks and hang in a slight curve.
Paperwork and Pedigree
Apart from physical traits, one of the best ways to confirm your German Shepherd puppy’s purebred status is by checking their pedigree and registration.
Pedigree
A pedigree is a document that shows your puppy’s lineage, usually going back at least three generations. If you’re getting a puppy from a breeder, they should be able to provide a pedigree certificate. This shows the puppy’s family tree and can confirm it’s a purebred German Shepherd.
Registration
A registered puppy means that it’s listed with a reputable organization such as the American Kennel Club (AKC) or the United Kennel Club (UKC). A good and responsible breeder will always have these documents.
Temperament
Even as puppies, German Shepherds should show signs of being confident, courageous, and smart. They should be eager to explore their surroundings and show a willingness to learn new things.
DNA Testing
For 100% certainty, you can do a DNA test on your puppy.
Vet Check
Take the puppy to a vet for a thorough check. The vet can confirm the breed and also ensure the puppy is healthy and has no inherited health problems.
Responsible Ownership
Being a responsible pet owner means caring for your dog’s health and happiness, no matter if it’s a breed or a mix. Purebred or not, every dog deserves love and a good home.