Congratulations on your new German Shepherd puppy! These dogs are intelligent, loyal, and protective, making them a great addition to any family. They’re also super cute, especially as fluffy puppies with giant paws and ears.

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Lorna Whittemore

Veterinarian, MRCVS

Reviewed & Fact-Checked By

Dr. Lorna Whittemore

Veterinarian, MRCVS

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Before you bring them home, you want to make sure you have all the supplies you need to take care of your new pup. This way, you can focus on bonding with your new best friend while reducing issues like house-training accidents, chewing, and separation anxiety.

The 15 Essential German Shepherd Puppy Supplies

1. Dog Food

Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceGerman Shepherd puppies need high-quality dog food specifically designed for large breeds. Their diet should be rich in protein and calories to help them grow into strong, healthy adults. Look for dog food that is designed for large breed puppies as it essential they have the right ratio of calcium and phosphorus to ensure healthy bones and joints.

2. Food and Water Bowls

Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceYour German Shepherd will need two separate food and water bowls. Non slip bowls are a good choice as puppies are often messy eaters and drinkers. Some pups like to tip over their bowls so anti-tip bowls are a good investment. Keep those big brains occupied with a slow feeder or puzzle feeder for meal times.

Stocking up on the right supplies for your pet is important, but don’t forget about pet insurance! If you’re interested in a balanced plan personalized for your pet, you may want to consider Lemonade.

3. Dog Collar With an ID Tag

Image Credit: Diego Cervo, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceA collar with an ID tag is one of the most important supplies for any dog, but it’s especially important for German Shepherds.

This breed is known for being loyal and protective, which means they may try to chase after strangers or run away if they get lost. An ID tag will help ensure that your pup is returned to you if they ever stray too far from home. Getting a microchip placed by your vet is also encouraged in case the collar comes off.

As for the collar material, choose something strong and durable, like leather or nylon. Make sure the collar is a comfortable fit for your pup—not too tight and not too loose. You should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. They will grow quickly so bear this in mind when choosing a collar as it may not fit for long.

4. Leash

Image Credit: Dan_Manila, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceYou’ll need a leash to take your German Shepherd on walks and hikes. Again, look for one that’s made of a strong, durable material like leather or nylon. Plus, try to find one that is comfortable for you to hold and will help control any untrained dogs.

5. Dog Crate

Image Credit: Julien_N, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceA crate is another essential German Shepherd supply. This will be your pup’s safe space—a place they can go to relax and feel comfortable. It’s also an important training tool, as it can help with house training and separation anxiety.

Choose a crate that’s big enough for your large breed to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Make sure it’s heavy duty, too. German Shepherds are known for being strong chewers, so you want a crate that can withstand all their escape attempts.

6. Dog Bed

Image Credit: Stephm2506, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceYour German Shepherd will need a comfortable bed to sleep in. Look for one that’s big enough for them to stretch out on and that is made from a soft, comfortable material. An orthopedic bed is a good choice for German Shepherds since they’re prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. This type of dog bed encourages proper joint alignment and can help reduce pain and stiffness.

Don’t forget about the material! Regardless of the breed, puppies will naturally have accidents. So, choose a bed that’s easy to clean, like one with a removable waterproof cover.

7. Pet Gates

Check Latest PriceBecause they’re so smart and curious, German Shepherds will try to explore every nook and cranny of your home. To keep them safe, you’ll need to section off certain areas of your home with pet gates, such as the kitchen, bathroom, and stairs.

Choose a gate that’s durable and can be easily opened and closed. You’ll also want one that’s expandable, so you can adjust it as your pup grows. An automatic locking mechanism is a nice feature to have, too. This way, you don’t have to worry about your dog getting out when you’re not looking.

8. Dog Treats

Image Credit: Nicky Rhodes, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceDog treats aren’t just yummy snacks for your new dog—they’re also great training tools. German Shepherds are quick learners, so you can use treats to teach them basic commands.

Just like their food, look for treats that are made with high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid treats full of fillers and empty calories like corn, soy, and starch.

9. Potty Training Pads

Check Latest PricePotty training should be your number one priority when you first bring your German Shepherd puppy home. Not only will this save you from a stinky, unsanitary home, but it will also help your puppy feel more comfortable and confident.

Puppy pads can make the first few months of potty training a lot easier. Place them in strategic locations around your home, such as by the door or in the puppy’s crate. Look for pads that are big enough to cover the entire area and that have a leak-proof bottom layer.

10. Dog Toys

Image Credit: kscholl, Pixabay Check Latest PriceGerman Shepherds are highly energetic dogs who love to play. To keep them entertained and out of trouble, you’ll need to stock up on a variety of different dog toys.

First, remember that you have a heavy chewer on your hands. Therefore, choose toys specifically designed for tough chewers. This will help prevent them from swallowing small pieces that could cause an obstruction.

Second, get a mix of different types of toys, such as chew toys, plush toys, tug toys, and puzzle toys. Puzzle toys, in particular, are a great option for these intelligent dogs. They’ll keep your pet’s mind challenged and engaged.

11. Poop Bags

Check Latest PriceAs a responsible dog owner, you should always pick up your pet’s waste when out on walks. Poop bags make this task a lot less gross. They’re also great for cleaning up accidents in the house and preventing the spread of bacteria.

Look for poop bags that are strong and leak-proof. They should also be easy to open and close, even when you’re wearing gloves. For extra convenience, choose bags that come with a dispenser and clip. That way, you can attach them to your leash for easy access.

Want an eco-friendlier option? Look for poop bags made from biodegradable materials.

12. Pet Enzyme Cleaner

Check Latest PriceYour puppy will naturally have accidents during house training, but you should never punish them for it. Instead, be prepared with a good pet enzyme cleaner.

Compared to regular cleaning products, a pet enzyme cleaner is specifically designed to break down pet urine and feces at the molecular level. This ensures a deep clean that will completely eliminate any lingering smells that could attract your pup to that same spot again.

When shopping for a pet enzyme cleaner, look for one that’s safe to use around pets and children. You’ll also want one that’s formulated for the surface you’re cleaning, whether that’s carpet, upholstery, or hardwood floors.

13. Grooming Tools

Image Credit: Karpova, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceThe earlier you train your German Shepherd to enjoy grooming, the better. They’re going to need regular grooming for the rest of their lives, so it’s best that they get used to it from a young age. German Shepherds have a thick, double coat that sheds year-round. They also need to be brushed at least once a week to prevent mats and tangles.

A good grooming kit will have all the basic tools you need to get started, including a brush, comb and nail clippers. For German Shepherds, you’ll want a de-shedding tool too. They can need convincing that grooming is a fun experience so starting with a soft brush such as the Zoomgroom is a great option.

14. Dog Shampoo & Conditioner

Image Credit: Korneeva Kristina, Shutterstock Check Latest PriceYou should only use shampoo and conditioner specifically made for dogs on your German Shepherd because human products can be too harsh for their delicate skin. Look for a shampoo and conditioner that’s formulated for your dog’s breed and age.

You’ll also want to find a shampoo and conditioner that’s designed for dogs with double coats. This will help prevent mats and tangles, and it will leave their coat looking shiny and healthy. If they can’t sit still during bath time, look for tear-free options that won’t sting your dog’s eyes.

15. First Aid Kit for Dogs

Check Latest PriceBecause German Shepherds are so active, it’s always possible they could get injured. That’s why it’s a good idea to have a first aid kit for dogs on hand. This way, you can give them the care they need right away and prevent any minor injuries from turning into major ones.

A first aid kit for dogs should include items like gauze, bandages, antiseptic wipes, cotton balls, hydrogen peroxide, and tweezers. Finally, make sure to keep the kit in a place that’s easily accessible, like a cabinet or closet.

What to Expect From Your New German Shepherd

Now that your shopping list is ready, it’s time to learn what you can expect from your new family member. The more you understand the traits of this breed, the better prepared you’ll be to raise a healthy, happy, and well-behaved canine.

Temperament

German Shepherds are known for being loyal, obedient, and protective. They’re also intelligent, which means they take well to different types of training and quickly pick up on commands and tricks.

As long as you socialize them from a young age, German Shepherds will get along well with other pets and people. They’re also good with children, although they may be a bit too energetic for very young kids.

They are by nature more vigilant than other breeds and offering them a calm quiet space to go and relax is very important to avoid overstimulation especially as a puppy.  Make sure they are getting enough sleep to help keep them calm and focused.

Exercise

German Shepherds are an active breed, and as adults they may need 2 hours of exercise a day. Take them on long walks or runs daily or provide them with plenty of time to run and play in a safe, fenced-in area. However, this level of exercise is only needed once they are mature adult dogs.  Whilst they are growing and developing their joints it is important that they are not over-exercised.  Much of their daily exercise will be with training in these first 2 years.

Aside from physical exercise, German Shepherds also need mental stimulation. This can be provided through activities like obedience training, puzzle toys, and nose work games. Without enough exercise and stimulation, German Shepherds can become restless, destructive, and even aggressive.

Shedding and Grooming

German Shepherds have a thick double coat that sheds year-round. It’s particularly heavy during the spring and fall when they’re shedding their winter coat. During this period, you may want to consider taking them to a groomer for a deshedding treatment.

You also need to brush your furry friend at least once a week to prevent mats and tangles, but the more often you can do this, the better! Brushing stimulates the skin and helps distribute natural oils throughout the coat, keeping it healthy and looking its best.

Aside from regular brushing, trimming your German Shepherd’s nails is also important. If you can hear their nails clicking on the floor when they walk, that means they’re too long and need to be trimmed. Long nails can cause pain and make it difficult for them to walk properly.

Training

German Shepherds are up there with Australian Shepherds and Border Collies as some of the most intelligent breeds of dogs. This means they learn quickly, but it also means they can be stubborn and will test boundaries if they’re not properly trained.

Fortunately, German Shepherds are also very obedient, so as long as you’re consistent with their training, they’ll quickly learn what’s expected of them. Start training your German Shepherd puppy as early as possible and focus on positive reinforcement methods via treats, praise and games.

Life Expectancy

The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 10–12 years. Of course, this depends on factors like diet, exercise, and genetics.

If you’re still in the process of selecting a German Shepherd puppy, check the health history of the parents to get an idea of what you can expect in terms of lifespan. Many reputable breeders also test their dogs for genetic diseases to ensure they’re not passing anything on to their young.

Health Issues

German Shepherds are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they’re prone to certain health problems. Some of the most common health issues seen in German Shepherds include hip and elbow dysplasia, bloating, and allergies.

To ensure your German Shepherd stays healthy, you should take them to the vet for regular check-ups and vaccinations. You should also keep an eye out for any changes in their behavior or appearance that could indicate a health problem.

Raising a German Shepherd can be a lot of work, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. These dogs are loyal, brilliant, and loving, and they make excellent companions for families and individuals alike. With the right care and training, your German Shepherd will be a treasured member of your family for years to come.

Wrapping It Up

Your German Shepherd is going to bring so much joy and love into your life! As their owner and best friend, it’s your job to make sure they have everything they need to thrive. By taking the time to get all the supplies we’ve listed above, you’ll be well on your way to giving your pup the best life possible.

Sources

https://magsr.org/content/gsd-health-issues https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_german_shepherd https://www.petmd.com/dog/infographic/german-shepherd-dog-field-guide https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/large-dogs/german-shepherd https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/german-shepherd-dog-facts https://be.chewy.com/new-dog-product-checklist-for-every-life-stage/ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/puppy-shopping-list-needs-care-preparations/ https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/c/german-shepherd-supplies

Featured Image Credit: 1195798, Pixabay