Most dog owners prefer to raise a dog from puppy hood. Although it would require more work and attention, people would usually like their pets to go through the usual stages of growth and development so that their genetic qualities will be influenced by the training and learning that they get from the trainers. Unlike getting an already adult dog which is like buying a "finished product" most dog owners would prefer getting a "potential" that they would train and raise by themselves.
It is best to purchase a puppy from a pet shop or from a successful Alsatian dog owner in order to avail of a quality puppy that has minimal chance of having any hereditary ailments that occur in the breed. Likewise, since raising an Alsatian would require more time and attention, a prospective owner also needs to talk to the other family members and discuss whether having a dog in the home will be advantageous to them.
Once the puppy is brought home, it is important to ensure that it is kept clean, healthy and outgoing. The veterinarian or breeder would usually provide a diet sheet and recommend the right food that is suitable for the puppy's development. Since an Alsatian puppy would not need much exercise, it may just be permitted to play and rest as much as it likes to. Within the first four months, it would still be too young to go on work as it can cause much stress on developing bones and joints. Upon reaching its 16th week, an Alsatian puppy can start going on short walks for at least five minutes. The duration of the walks will become longer as the dog continues to grow.
After one year, an Alsatian puppy can now walk and run as often as the dog and the owner would like. Walking and exercise should be done moderately and as carefully as possible in order not to adversely affect the dog's adult development.
When it reaches its eighth week of age, bringing the Alsatian puppy to an obedience training by a dog club or a dog training expert can be helpful to its development. Joint training with other dogs will also help the Alsatian to master its socialization skills. Formal training will also provide the opportunity for the puppy to be checked regularly for vaccinations and medications. Vaccinations are first given at six weeks and then when it reaches twelve weeks old. Afterward, vaccinations are done every twelve months. Vaccinations, regular healthcare and proper feeding is very important in taking care of an Alsatian puppy. With diligent care including balance nutrition, regular veterinary care, consistent exercise and careful grooming, an Alsatian can live up to 14 years.
Aside from taking care of the physical health of the puppy, it is also important for the Alsatian to learn socialization skills. Socialization starts in the owner's home, where the puppy needs to be loved and cared for well. This includes walking the dog out and letting it meet people and other dogs to make it adjust well to the social environment and different outside situations.
Socialization, however, should be done gradually in order for it to learn how to react with calm and undergo everyday experience. It should also involve the whole family especially in instilling structured training and discipline.
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