German Shepherd Dogs and Your Family

Adding a German Shepherd Dog to your household can be a most rewarding and enriching experience. It is, however, a decision that requires much careful consideration and research on the part of both breeder and prospective owner. We consider the appropriate placement of our German Shepherd Dogs to be of paramount importance in order to ensure the happiness and well being of both dogs and humans. The extent of our commitment to appropriate placement and support for new owners is also reflected in our Guarantee/Contract.

Before deciding on any particular breed, it is essential that prospective owners carefully consider their own individual expectations regarding the acquisition of a dog. As well, this self-examination should include a careful analysis of their ability to fulfill the expectations required of conscientious dog owners, including training, management, and financial considerations for the lifetime of the dog.

Once this examination has been done, careful researching of those breeds that best suit the needs of the individual person/family needs to be done. This research should include making contact with responsible breeders who are happy to share constructive information about their breed (including positive and negative characteristics). Rarely is this a quick process, nor should it be, as you should be viewing the acquisition of a dog as something that will last for its lifetime. In proportion, a few days, weeks, or even months, is a reasonable investment of time to ensure the greatest chance of a successful outcome. Not every breed is suited for every individual and/or home.

The decision to acquire a German Shepherd Dog from a responsible breeder is the first step in the process of happy dog ownership for the prospective dog owner, as the work does not end with the responsible and selective breeding and placement by the breeder. Owners must follow up with appropriate training and management practices that will enable your German Shepherd Dog to fulfill its highest potential, whether as a valued family member or working partner. The human failure to adequately address these needs will only yield an unhappy household and an unhappy dog. Therefore, that is why we at Roslinridge strongly recommend that all new dog owners, at minimum, enroll their dog in a basic obedience class, which is reinforced through consistent training and management at home. Agility, flyball, tracking, to list a few, are some exciting activities to enjoy with your dog as well.

	Carl & Shelley Coates 275 Boundary Rd., Roslin, ON, Canada, K0K 2Y0 Tel: (613) 477-2234 • Fax: (613) 477-3236 Email: roslinridge@reztel.net	Member of: Canadian Kennel Club, Belleville and District Kennel Club CanaDogs.com