Frequently asked questions about German Shepherds

Asking a lot of questions, and getting solid answers is an important part of researching any topic, including buying a dog. We have compiled a list of our most 'F.A.Q.s' in the hope that it will be of use to other inquiring individuals in their quest to find the right German Shepherd Dog. Here they are, (in somewhat random order), with our 'typical' response:

Q. We are looking for a German Shepherd. Do you have any dogs for sale?

Perhaps, but first, tell us a little about what exactly you are looking for, i.e. your purpose for getting a G.S.D., and what your plans are for the dog. We may have dogs, but they may not be suitable for your needs.

Q. What kind of German Shepherds do you breed?

A. We are breeders who are devoted to breeding German Shepherd Dogs that excel as companions, sporting competitors, and working partners. We breed for specific characteristics that help us achieve those goals. These characteristics include high intelligence levels, high drives, stability of temperament, physical and mental strength, and a keen zest for life. We do not breed for specific colours or extreme size for example, because they are not relevant to the goals of our breeding program. The old adage 'don't judge a horse by its colour' is true in the case of dogs as well. Prospective owners may certainly have a preference, but colour and other superficial aspects should not be the governing principle in search for the right dog.

Q. Do you recommend a puppy or an older dog?

A. This depends greatly upon the individual set of circumstances. We believe that it is more important to consider the individual dog that is being offered for sale, and your particular situation, rather than limit the search for the right dog by only considering a specific age, colour, or sex. For some individuals who have the time, patience and realistic expectations regarding puppies, this is the correct choice. For other people, an older puppy or adult dog is a wiser choice. Be realistic about your abilities and needs as a dog owner, and not blinded by romantic notions of dog-ownership that will not sustain you as you cope with the challenges of adding a new canine member to your household.

Q. You only have a few puppies left from the litter. Are they the leftovers?

A. It is a misconception that the last pups from a litter to be sold are in some way inferior or undesirable. As part of our matching process, we are primarily concerned with matching needs of human and dog together; therefore, it is quite by random chance as to what pups in a litter will be sold first or last, to some extent. In our kennel, often the dog that is retained is one that demonstrates the highest working or competing potential in order to ensure that it is placed in the most suitable home or situation. Also, depending upon the goals of a particular breeding, often animals are kept back for consideration for addition to the breeding program. Regardless, we only sell when we are satisfied that the animal under consideration is appropriate for a particular individual or situation. As well, there is always full disclosure when we discuss all the dogs at Roslinridge regarding their individual uniqueness, and suitability for various placements.

Q. Do you always have dogs for sale?

A. No, we breed litters selectively, and only when everything is in place in order to devote the necessary time and energy to the demands of a litter, while balancing the needs of our adult dogs. On average, we breed one litter per year.

Q. Are the pups free of dysplasia?

A. The pups are progeny from dogs who have been certified clear of dysplasia according to OFA or OVC standards. However, without x-raying (which cannot be done with any certainty until the pups reach a certain age), it is impossible to positively diagnose the condition of dysplasia. We guarantee the pups will x-ray clear of dysplasia according to OFA or OVC standards once they reach the age of 24 months, with some restrictions/conditions as outlined in our guarantee.

As research continues to uncover new information concerning dysplasia and its causes, it appears that environmental factors as well as genetic predisposition continue to play a role in the condition. Therefore, in addition to the efforts of the breeder to prevent this condition, it is important for the individual dog owner to guard against canine obesity, to employ suitable exercise, and stay informed as to new discoveries in the prevention of this condition. However, despite the best of efforts, it is possible that a dog will be dysplastic upon x-raying, and after all the conditions of our guarantee have been met. At this point, either a full refund of the purchase price will be given, or a replacement pup of equal or greater value, at the discretion of the breeder.

Q. Are your dogs good with children?

A. It is our uncompromising belief that temperamental stability is an absolute expectation of any dog. All of our dogs have been bred for characteristics including rock-solid temperaments that have the ability to withstand significant pressures either in working situations or in family homes. All of our dogs have been socialized with young children from their day of birth until the day they leave for their new homes.

However, in addition to sound breeding practices, it is equally important for people to recognize that all family members, including children, are properly educated in the correct and consistent handling of a dog. While dogs should become important family members, they are not 4-legged humans, although they might be loved as much! Proper handling of them requires the clear understanding of how they think and function, as well as the dedication to be consistent and thorough in their training.

	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