How to How to Adopt a German Shepherd

By Barb Nefer

Instructions

Finding an Adoptable German Shepherd

Step 1:
Search for a German shepherd rescue organization in your area. There are many rescue groups that focus on specific breeds, including German shepherds. They match purebred dogs in need of a home with prospective adopters. If you live within a reasonable distance of a large city, odds are good that you'll be able to find a German shepherd rescue group in your area.
Step 2:
Search for German shepherds at local animal shelters. Even though shelters deal with any type of dog, including mixed breeds, they often have a wide selection of purebred animals. Use a Website like Petfinder or visit your local shelter's Website to see if they have any German shepherds available. If they don't, you may be able to be placed on a wait list. The shelter will then contact you when they have a German shepherd available for adoption.
Step 3:
Be flexible. You may have your heart set on an adorable German shepherd puppy, and you might be looking forward to raising it yourself, but don't rule out an adult dog. Puppies require a lot of work and training, including housebreaking, and they can be very destructive when they go through their chewing phase. Also, you never know exactly how their personality will develop. An adult German shepherd that is up for adoption often has already had basic training. Its personality will be developed, so you'll know whether it's friendly, protective or whatever other trait you might be seeking.
Step 4:
Talk to local German shepherd breeders to see if they have an adoption program. Often breeders will retire their breeding dogs at a certain age and adopt them to good homes for a reasonable fee.

Tips & Warnings

Search for German Shepherd dogs a month or two after Christmas. Many people get a puppy as a present without being prepared for the time and work involved. When they get tired of it, they give it up for adoption. The weeks after Christmas are a prime time to find purebred dogs, including German shepherds, at animal shelters.
Be wary of answering private ads to adopt a German shepherd. While you might find a good pet via a personal ad, people often place ads to get rid of a problem pet or one with health issues. They may not be honest about its problems when you express an interest. Animal shelters and rescue groups screen animals for health and temperament, so you have a much better chance of getting a healthy German shepherd with a good disposition.

Resources

Petfinder Allows You to Search Local Animal Shelters for German Shepherds.

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