Thank you for making this. I tend to rescue, but I know alot about breeding. I've seen and been through some sad cases with rescues due to bad breeding. I do have my kinda hate towards show dog breeders as they tend to more ruin breeds. Albeit some working breeders are doing bad to a few breeds I like.
After 50 years in dog training and competition, obedience, conformation, hunting, protection work I feel that show breeders are destroying every breed to get the ribbons and feed their ego.
@Samurai Shampoo some actually breed for temperament and health. Looks and behaviours have been altered to varying degree however DNA remains around 98% wolf. If you’ve got a problem with dog training/breeding/owning then you’ve got a problem with every domestic/livestock animal. A samurai should understand the training required to bring out the best in ones self.
They've basically destroyed all the breeds, now they busy disturbing the Malinois, because of Hollywood K9 holograms. Then a little girl somewhere asks "Daddy I want a Rottweiler/Cane Corso" Then uneducated Daddy supports the supply and demand chain. This happened next door to us. This unfortunate Rottweiler is on a chain 24/7. Overbreeding causes emotional chaos within the female that infects the puppies biological rhythm, as in human females. In Nature, the Bitch is not bred everytime, if she's in heat: she will fight certain males for the preservation of her feminine milieu, like a wife that pushes her husband away in excessive breeding. A Leader or males of the pack will at times, fight a male, due to the cycles of nature, concerning food in lean times. Breeding is for the preservation of the pack, which is the safety of self.
Yes and no, I have shown many bullterriers and trained them also, but alot do breed for looks which is a major part of the breeding exercise but it's 1 component. Some people are rediculous and as he says GSD breeders are one of the worst, but also if you breed for drive purposes then shelters fill up with animals that were "too much dog" for the owner. It's a catch 22
To a large extent that is true. American "style" of Boxers is quite different from the "true type" sought by European Boxer breeders. American Boxers are prone to roach-back, a hunched back. They also have heads that are too small and necks too long and arched. And they don't stand squarely in their feet, but look like they are on point, like a ballerina, plus the feet are too small. The neck looks like a quarter horse, curved. But even worse, Europeans are breed primarily for purpose, as they should, but Americans play around with style instead of the function of a true working dog. Vets here do not even consider that so-called common diseases of Boxers are fully American-bred because they have veered away from "type' and gone over to 'style.' So it is true what you said but also enforced by the vets who don't know the breed and dispense poor care through neutering / spaying instead of methods that keep the Adrenal glands and hormones functioning, plus not considering the length of time of growth from puppy to adult in the Boxer breed.
@@jeaninekincheloe2520 I agree the American type isn't my type I breed and show only European dogs, we follow German breed standard. We do IPO and other training with our dogs, I prefer them for protection work, in these days our dogs are more about companions than working dogs, and yet the breeders are not placing their puppies with right owners. European dogs like to use their brain not just parade a showring.
I grow up with Labadors and Blue Heelers . I made a change after my Father past away .I always wanted a German Shepard, I didnt do my homework ,I didnt shop around . I bought the first dog on Alaska List . Ive been very fortunate after 4 years Blitz my dog is healthy and no problems . He is from a local breeder AKC Reg. $ 1,400. No breeding rights . This dog so loyal , Obedient and Protective. Best dog i've ever had
I love working line GSDs. I got one when I was 16, having no idea what issues to research. She was the best dog and part of me wishes I'd bred her based on her temperament alone (she was that awesome) and she had no hip or elbow problems in 12 years. After her passing, I did research and selected a breeder for a male GSD. The breeder has a following with many word of mouth recommendations and repeat buyers because her dogs are awesome. The breeder interaction was amazing and the effort she puts in to her dogs is top notch. That boy didn't make it to 3 due to an autoimmune disease. The breeder feels so bad, but I know it's not her fault. It sucks, but breeding just doesn't work that way; it's not a guarantee. She offered me another puppy and provided lots of tips and advice on his care during the rough times.
I too have a working line GSD with an autoimmune disease. I'd love it it you could message me directly as I'm studying to get a new puppy after my dog dies which will probably happen soon.
@Martha Cox--may I have the contact info of your male GS breeder? What was your dog's auto immune dissease? I'm studying which lines have genetic diseases. Who are his parents?
My brother bought his Malinois from a breeder/trainer in New Jersey. It is from police dog lineage. He was actually looking to buy another breed because he had no experience with this breed. He was just so impressed with how smart and obedient his dogs were. The dog he chose is brindle so it does have Dutch Shepherd in his lineage. Personality wise he is pure Malinois. Sometimes his dog is a handful but he does obey orders. He can be stubborn but he has a great personality. My brother takes him to the vet regularly. He likes to take his dog to public places for socialization. Everyone comments on how handsome and well-trained his dog is. They ask what breed and some ask if he is a Belgian Malinois. Recently he decided to get a professional trainer with Malinois dog experience because he thought he could be better and reach his full potential with a trainer He is not interested in competitions. His dog is a year and a half and he is so attached to my brother it would be impossible to rehome him. He does not like my brother out of his sight. His dog will settle for me or his wife if not given a choice but he will constantly be watching for my brother. The trainer is going to have him a week while they visit his mother-in-law in Texas and he might be okay since other dogs are there. Then they will go to his training sessions afterward. They like the trainer who is former military so they think this is the right way to go.
Wow what a podcast. Thankyou. Growing up I had a g. Shepard%! He would pick me up everyday after school. I would just look at him and he knew what I was thinking. So very very smart. I will never forget. Wolffie.
I could listen to Mr Cohen all day very interesting, informative and just a character. I’m sorry to hear about Fury. At least he had a good owner and a good life.
I got a Jack Russell and I bought him from a well knowing breeder for over 30 years. I looked at over 20 years of photos of the same breed the same markings the exact same temperament no health problems. Either I got extremely lucky or maybe I just did the right thing in the first place. I waited 3 years for him In fact this dog was too good for me he outsmarts me and almost every thing I do. He knows over 30 commands and I've just run out of things to teach him. Here's my best friend apart from Jesus. Only men understand the love between a man and his dog I could hear the pain and Sadness in your voice. You are a champion yourself for the love you give to these wonderful animals.
I’ve even so lucky. All my Shepherds never had problems with their joints. I do thoroughly check out bloodline and watch the parents move, as well as their temperament.
Please, PLEASE tell me what questions you asked.....PLEASE. I lost my beloved GSD this last August because of DM...........and NOW my 10 yr. old Czech is suffering from the same. YES, I was passionate about my male ( registered as a therapy dog) who I lost and I am PASSIONATE about my female who has DM NOW. Thank you for THIS VIDEO.
@@truecynic1270 I make sure both parents are tested for DM as well as OFA certified good hips and elbows. I also watch their movements. I don't spay mine until 2 years old to assure their joints are fused and closed. I don't over feed, as well as don't run over overwork during their first year, especially during the fast growing phase. I finally bred my first and last litter 2 years ago. I have a FB page for the whole litter. They are all thriving confident pups in wonderful homes. All have shown no problems so far. I made sure they thoroughly knew everything that they can do to give their best chance for physical and mental health. Happy pups and owners so far. One pup did have Pituitary dwarfism. None of us knew our dogs carried the recessive gene. The vet tech adopted the pup and he is thriving. He is so robust, she might even Schutzhund title him. I am very lucky so far. The few who got breeding papers signed to DNA test for Pituitary Dwarfism and having a DM test, as well as hip & elbow OFA certification to give the best chance to future generations.
…. and then the conversation took an even more beautiful turn when Avi told us about his Fury. I remembered the story from before of not touching the dog. So so sad. I’m sorry Avi! Thank you for coming back on the show.
Fair leadership , far too many dogs are trained with extreme pain that places dogs into survival drive and they are then fighting for their lives. Not good.
Thank you both. I just got a 5 yr old GSD from a decent shelter. He was coming to his limit. I'm blessed I got him. His hips are already showing some signs. I'll do what I can to keep him healthy. Thank you championing dogs.
Rest In Peace Fury and my condolences Avi. I did the research - in retrospect perhaps not enough for a working dog (though at the time that was not what I was buying and having studied vet med I was reasonably confident in my ability to read breeding co-efficients etc) and got unlucky. My beautiful cripple of show x working lines (sound on +++ meds) now concentrates on her job of doing medical alert for me as a service dog. She loves her job and all is good. She LOVED her IGP, and was the dog that introduced me to the sport, but luckily she has enough mental stimulation in her 'proper' job of saving my life, to be happy. She was a nice dog, she would have done well at club level, but my new IGP line puppy is a grade above her - which I would never have bought had my other bitch stayed sound. So in the end it works out, but of course my worry is for how long I can keep my older bitch sound and happy. As for insurance - yes a must have, but when you have a long term condition the yearly uplift in premiums often become totally unaffordable.
Awwww... I have so many thoughts on this episode. Such critical insights for owners! Thank you so much for producing these!!! And condolences for Fury! 💖💖💖
I wish I had known just how much time is involved in training for IPO before I tried it, but Avi's absolutely right. It's almost impossible to do as a hobby. All that time you need gets spent working to pay the bills, and there's not a chance if you're also disabled or have anything else going on in life that takes up your time. I'd love to be able to live this lifestyle, and tried off and on for 15 years, but still can't afford to (and being of the working class, likely never will). But my point is that clubs and trainers are often not honest about this with new members. A couple of my friends have now ended up in the same boat for the same reasons, and others are barely hanging in there (and I wonder how much fun it still is for them). Those I know who are able to succeed and even title are those who work with dogs professionally, are retired, are neglecting the rest of their lives because they can't let go, or were born into money. I'm in no way complaining about the amount of work involved, because I knew it would be hard and I deeply respect how much time people do put into this training (but I am in every way complaining about the fact of social class so often being the deciding factor in determining who gets to stay in the sport). Not much we can do about it, short of changing our society, but I do wish that clubs were more honest with prospective/new members right here in this reality. I think this is contributing to the numbers of inexperienced people who are buying these dogs from these disreputable breeders (don't worry about my own dogs though, I've found other outlets for them, and I did know enough to buy from good breeders, but I just wanted to add my thoughts, as I've been through this and it's a punishing realization when you're already so invested, let alone if you also have a sick dog). I've also known a number of people over the years who have fallen victim to BYBs and their ilk, and it's reassuring to still hear voices in the bite sports who are honest and willing to bite into the problems in their midst. Thank you both, and keep doing what you're doing!
Rarely mentioned is the importance of correct breed standard temperament. If I can't meet the parents, it's a no go regardless of how they look. I was looking for a GSD pup and went to a kennel that had a litter of stunning pups. The mother was a full send psycho. An absolute nerve bag. I dearly wanted one but had to pass.
I cannot thank you enough for this frank discussion. I am looking for a dog, having put down my Shepherd almost two years ago. Even though I am not looking for a show dog, I now know what to look for when looking for a new dog, by looking at the owner/breeder.
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could get humans to care for each other, all of us, like we care about animals? I’ve never understood the animosity some have for gay people..I mean, love is love, right? Do we have any choice about who we fall in love with?
I’m just saying that humans aren’t very tolerant, that wouldn’t it be a better world if we could be more loving towards everyone regardless of our relationship to them..@@milkmel5450
Just as most young adults who think they know more than their parents, my daughter (in her late 30's), and my son's wife (early 30's), both with a family and kids, reluctantly, would take any advice under consideration I gave them both when it came to their pets... Much of it you go over in this video. Nevermind my life-long experience with different animals, including working my way up the ladder to become a K9 Handler/Trainer... First, as an MP in the US Army, and later the Sheriff's Office where I was a patrol deputy, on training days or slow shifts, I volunteered as an assistant to the handlers... So, when it came to the process of getting a puppy, my D-I-L won the prize... LOL Looking for a Yorkie puppy, fell in love with the "tiniest in the litter" (ie., the Runt)... She not only paid $800 for the dog, but never tried to train it in even the simplest of obedience tasks, so it barked constantly, and crapped under all their beds (but did urinate outside, or used the new "weekly" disposible pee pads)... She was "free-fed" cheap kibble, and never got her puppy or adult vaccinations, nor yearly vet visits... It was no wonder she only reached three pounds (at most), and died at half a Yorkies expected lifespan at seven, almost eight years... My D-I-L cried and cried at the loss, had her cremated and paid $125 for the special doggie urn... (Note: Most all this was rectified as I was over their house twice daily caring for my three, now older, grandkids, whom I involved in the care and training of their next dog (half Dachshund, half Jack Russel(?), they got free from a friend.. But, still waited till the puppy grew up before getting her shots, and is intact so loves to escape their fenced backyard)... My daughter, who hated ANY kind of advice, paid dearly when she surprised her family by bringing home an Akita puppy, to keep their other (surprise) mix-breed dog company -- and because her oldest kid was embarrassed to walk the other dog in front of his friends... Again, NO training, except "Sit" and a few others, free-fed (with ONE bowl for the dogs to share and eat out of all day and night, very little of the "walking" by my grandson as he was too busy with his girlfriends... I don't think I need to explain why they now only have two cats, an NO DOGS... Poor Peaches... RIP.
I wrote my comment before I watched the entire video. I think most of us know all too well how Avi feels after putting down his very special friend. I hope he finds his new Fury soon. Thank you David for bringing him on and to Avi for sharing his expertise with us.
What will help the buyer is for them to ask the breeder if the puppies parents have had their hips and elbows xrayed and if they have been DM tested. A good breeder will have these tests done before using any dog for breeding, and will provide the buyer with the test results. If they don't have this, Walk Away! Hips should be a grade of A+ to B+, this gets a little complicated but most breeders won't use a dog that's a C, except under certain circumstances, namely that the dog will be breed to an A+ proven producer of soundness. The breeder should be asking the potential buyer many questions about their experience with gsds, their living situation, etc... The puppies should be utd on what shots they need at that age, they should be clean, happy and healthy, and excited to meet you. One more important thing, the breeder is to give you the puppies blue puppy AKC registration papers at time of purchase! Do not believe ANY excuses! This is a requirement of the AKC and any breeder not following this rule can face a lifetime ban. People, do your homework! I also study bloodlines like this gentleman speaking, but I'm not going to get into that here. Learn your five types of gsds and the characteristics of each at least, that will give you a good start. That being said, the original working line German shepherds are the best dogs, in my opinion. Expect to pay more for a properly raised puppy, because a breeder doing it the right way has invested a lot of money in their dogs and their puppies. Most will also give you a guarantee on the puppy, and will take the puppy back if you are not happy with it, but you must have proof of taking the puppy to your vet within so many days of purchase. I could go on for hours, but I'm just going to shut up and wish you future gsd owners the best of luck, the German Shepherd is the greatest breed of dog in the world, if you don't have the time and interest these dogs require to be successful, please don't get one. Thank you
those back channels - that's how I got my dog. I knew an excellent breeder through dog club, she didn't have a litter, but her sister was great friends with an excellent breeder and recommended me, and there you go. If I had contacted them myself I'd never have gotten my puppy.
Oh my. This is exactly what hubby and I did. We didn’t do homework and we saw GS pups on FB. Went and got two. So now we have two GS pups male that just turned 10 months. One of the pups the vet said his hocks are turned in and he cries at times. Got a scan and his hips are horrible. Right side 10-15% in cup and left side 20% in hip cup. So we saw a surgeon recently and hip replacement is approx $15k. And other people say put him down. We don’t know what to do. We were idiots on not researching but we’re both retired and have taken both pups to board/train and they are a handful but I feel so bad for the bad hip pup. His brothers hips are fine at this moment. When do you know? We’re thinking of the hip surgery but we don’t know. We’re both older in 70s and want the best for them. We should have found these videos before we got pups but we were after the fact. Sorry. 😢
Such great a informative video content! So sorry about Fury! Putting your dog down is one of the most difficult aspect of having a dog. Thanks for all you do making your videos and look forward to seeing your next video.
Thank you for the great videos Looking to get a working line German shepherd. Any good breeders that you will recommend . Info will be greater appreciated
I’m a retired Marine and love your channel I’ve always owned German Shepard’s I own a West German true to bloodline my breeder is strict with maintaining too bad
So true. Too many breeders I will say this if you looking to buy for work or breeding intentions buy from reputable breeders who have the credentials. In my neck of the woods most of the so called breeders never took a dog through the process from scratch yet they breeders
Those prices are just crazy, I think if dog has x-rays done, and you can allready see about working abilities, then few thousands is ok, but for puppy 5000 seems lunatic no matter who parents are.
In my personal experience, even if a person follows the rules re research on breeders to avoid puppy mills, backyard breeders, it is incredibly difficult to find a breeder like Avi. Many of the discussions on this show I agree with. It seems tho that breeders like Avi are breeding specifically for competition working dogs. I feel people looking for companion dogs have very limited options for getting a well bred, healthy and stable tempered puppy. Leaves us with kind of taking a chance purchase from those fancy websites. I wish that weren’t so, because I love GSDs, they are incredible companions in a family home.
Good breeders dont have a website/ads. Their customers are their website/ads, spreading the word about him. This thing is the same with "Why Lamborghini dont have commercials?? Because people who can buy a Lamborghini dont watch the TV!". I own a Working line German shepherd and because of your "GENETICS ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT THING" I went from Romania straight to Germany (Hamburg) to buy a puppy. I got that breeder's phone number from a friend who`s a dog trainer for Romania military (train the dogs to sniff drugs/bombs and even suicidal persons). That guy dont have a website nor ads, and u know why? He dont have time for that sh!t. He`s 100% of his time busy with his dogs. All the best from Romania!
Si eu am fost saptamana trecuta in Cehia. Liniile din Cehia sunt diferite fata de cele de la nemti. Cat timp are cainele tau ? I-ai facut testele de displazie de sold si cot ?
Great information for anyone buying a pedigree animal... It reminds me of a friend who spent hours studying all kinds of information, including their family trees, to decide which horses he'd bet on at the track... He must have gotten his system down right as he won a lot more than he lost.
I went to Truepanion it was $336 and Embrace was 200, what coverages do you recommend for a well-bred German rottweiler. the prices you gave were much cheaper. Is it the area I live in? What advice can you give?
I just realized that even though I purchased a West German Show Line the parents were working dogs. Explains a lot the guy emphasized training. This is my second dog. Much harder than a Frenchies.
i've had 3 gsd's though childhood to now, 2 got hip dysplasia at 10+, the other was only 6 1/2, heart breaking as he was a lovely obedient dog, it is exactly what I won't have one now, its far to common here.
Avi: "I need something that will be Me". I get you. So sorry for your loss. I guess we all will go thru this at some point. You are a wonderful trainer and dog lover. I hope you find a great dog soon as soon as you are ready. Once your grief is a little better, I think you need a wonderful dog in your life. You are a lovely man, hang in there, friend. Some day, when my ❤ dog (German Shepherd) is gone, your words will help me. I hope it's a long time from now, though.
@Steven Faulds I wonder about that. A servicemember I know bought a GSD from a German kennel for >$2k. I wouldn't let my boy breed with her bitch; to be honest, the dog doesn't look perfectly correct proportionately (it's not an awful looking dog, but doesn't look perfectly breed standard). She showed me photos of the outdoor kennels where they raised the pups, she bragged about how great it was, I wasn't impressed at all (of course, I didn't tell her that). Her dog just looks "off". I think she got bamboozled. Also--I'm pretty sure they're not testing sperm count in an infant--a puppy. The rest you said might be true. Robert & other big trainers (Ivan Balanobov, Haz at Shield K9) have said people here in the US need to be very careful buying GSDs sight unseen from German Breeders overseas who they don't know personally--even some of the overseas breeders in Germany run a slick-looking sales operation, and charge top dollar to Americans for dogs they wouldn't keep or sell (at least at that price) to German buyers in country. Some of the German breeders are unethical, and see overseas buyers as easy marks to unload less than great dogs. Of course, there ARE many great, honest breeders in Germany--it can just be tricky for an American to know who to buy from if you're going off the internet, and relying on certifications/paperwork to "prove" a dogs quality. I bet a lot of good German Breeders are on the Working Dog University site Avi talks about, seeing those extensive bloodlines might help someone make a better choice if buying from a kennel they can't personally visit, I don't know.
This has a lot of great information, thank you both for sharing I'm all ears trying to learn all I can so my dog and I can have the best life together as we learn and teach each other. Thanks for you knowledge.
Such a great podcast. I almost bought an American Show because I didn't know about getting a Czech Working from Czech for SAR. He is Amazing SAR dog but quite a bit for my first time working line. I wouldn't trade him for everything.
I have been very fortunate to work with excellent and ethical breeders always. I have also had excellent dogs from shelters. I have trained, had sport dogs, service/search and rescue, and good old house dogs. The excellent and ethical breeders I have been fortunate to know have given or deeply discounted puppies to me because they knew my purpose (in the case of search), especially after 9/11. If the breeder does not ask serious questions, they are in it for the money. Quality dogs can be found anywhere but you must, as Avi says, do your research and/or take the time to work with the dog before purchase. I suspect Avi has tremendous instinct and is downplaying it.
Glad I'm not the only person that starts early. I'm doing Zeds training drills from 3am so I get the field to myself. I don't have to put up with the untrained pet dogs. We use a lot of room as well which would be unfair on other dog owners. I think the ability to be able to walk away from a litter is essential. Leave the emotions at home when going to view. I agree that researching prior to buying is important. Love listening to such experience. Working Dog EU is similar to the ISDS for Border Collies. Well worth doing the research if you want to do a particular sport or train a dog for particular job. Thanks Guys : )
I wish trainers like you guys were in Oregon where I live. My pup went to board and train, because I had surgery and they did no training with her. Waste of $1300. She’s now training with me at Petco, but it feels more playtime. She knows what they are teaching already.
michelle johnson do a search for local dog training clubs. Petco trainers vary widely in quality but most will never never get you beyond the basics. I found a local club that meets once a week with 4 classes each night. Beginners, Advanced Novice, Competition Obedience, and alternate weeks Nose Works and Rally Obedience. My dog went from basic obedience to competitive Rally O in a very short time. Its so fun and beautiful to watch a dog moving in concert with its owner. IPO requires other type of club, but BH is very good basic obedience and temperament title for ANY dog.
When Robert talks about Fury when he was to take Fury’s stick and Fury growled and Robert said “Get Put Of Here” and I love it that Robert was able to make Fury respect him but without hitting or screaming at Fury. My opinion once you start hitting a dog, then the owner has already lost the dog. Robert is of excellent character ✊✊ Having self-control, patience, discipline, compassion, and willpower. You have been raised right, Tito Robert 👍👍
Great interview and as true as it gets. Research is everything. But as long as people invest into cuteness only, puppy mills and back yard breeders will exist.
So sad, it's awful. And of course, by the time you realized, I bet you loved the dog & were completely attached...😢 Was it a working type dog? I got very lucky with an amazing breeder for my German Shepherd, but he's no longer breeding. Next time, I think I'd use Avi's Working Dog EU or ask around the local IPO Club.
3000-5000 dollars for a puppy???? I have a working line german. With blood line and from a top breader. They are used for police,protection etc. It cost 1100euro. So it must be big business in the US .
Actually makes me happy to hear him say “I don’t raise puppies..the biting the pants, the pulling etc etc show them to me a year old!” .cause wow..I was getting a little frustrated and worried about how he’s acting, but, my boy has a serious little soul in there, I think he’s going to turn out great! But it was heartening to hear that the pros also experience the “puppy difficulties “ !!
Start with titles and conformation ratings that look like this VA Sch 3 IPO3 kkl1 lbz especially on the sire side but important on the female side These letters mean a lot V is also a good conformation rating
I really thank good that's I so this video before I buy a German shepherd ,, I big thanks from my heart for this episode A lot bot information a lot of knowledge,, AVI you are a wonderful guy I hope to see you in person one day
The real problem is there aren't enough good breeders, there aren't enough solid dogs being bred, so when we have those great breeders that nobody can get a dog from, the resort to bad breeders.
Worst Case Scenario: my sister bought an expensive "Teacup Poodle" for my Mom for Mother's Day. My Mom had no interest in getting a dog. Knew nothing about training. The tiny Poodle had SERIOUS health conditions---but by the time its was fully apparent, my Mom was enamored with the poor, sick dog. Breeder offered to "take the dog back"--come on, THAT'S RIDICULOUS. Horrible breeder probably would have put the dog down. So my Mom had a crippled club-foot, oozing eyes, pissing & pooping all over the house tiny dog for years. It was awful. Not sure who was worse--my sister, who spent $1200, or the breeder. Probably the breeder, but my sister a close second.
Hmm..too bad I didn’t see this video a couple months ago. I..think..I did well with my breeder, but, like he says, it’s a crapshoot. I met the dog daddy, and mom, all the litter, the pedigrees look really good, no inbreeding, dogs are from very different lines and countries, but live in the same house. My boy is 11 weeks, seems great, a real handful, not quite what I expected in terms of not a floofy affectionate pup, but we are in training with local pros, so I’m hopeful for the future.
I'm from Belgium and now I feel I'm lucky: I can get a Malinois puppy for 400€, working line, and would know the breeder bc he/she lives within a mile.
Number 1 thing IMO to take from this is all the marketing with website, pics and videos doesn't mean Jack Shit about the quality of someone's dogs and or training. Of all my experiences the last 3 decades the best dogs I have encountered had come from the opposite. The top 3 best dogs I've seen were bought from farms in Europe that never stepped foot on a training field either, they were pets and we bought them. Genetics is paramount!
Thank you for the great topic. Can you make a program about dogbreading in the GDR (DDR) please? I have read that the state GDR did a great job for GS breading for boarder guard dogs. Love from Norway.
@@sophiesmith5922 my grandfather and I bred, raised, and trained Border Collies. We were very persnickety about the stud we bred our bitch with. We usually had a 2 year waiting list. We didn't charge an exorbitant amount of money for our dogs, either.
I truly love the GSD because I had a once in a lifetime dog of the breed. But she was atypical. Absolutely nerves of steel, bombproof, play drive through the roof but absolutely no suspicion of people unless they made it obvious they were up to no good. Most of my Shepherd friends thought she was a "face licker" because she had no interest in hunting people....but I since I don't like dogs that bite people - I was happy. But I'd never have another GSD. What if I got a breed typical dog that was suspicious or aggressive towards people? I'd be miserable until it died.
I'm not sure you need such an extensive champion pedigree to get a good "family pet", certainly you should for a dog you want for protection sports. But you absolutely MUST be able to see & meet the parent dogs in the breeders home, and basic health checks. And under NO CIRCUMSTANCES, take a puppy less than 8 weeks old.
Boerboel, Cane Corso, I have had several calls lately about training various imported mastiff breeds. These are being purchased by novices who have never had a mastiff before. People are buying them for protection. A very frightening trend!
What does one look for when "studying" the bloodline. Why aren't these breeders checked by some governmental organization and they are given a certificate of checking for each dog and/or the breeder. In the uk we have the "kennel club" but they are of no use to anyone other than the breeders. They issue the paperwork.
You need to find a breeder that can provide the individual characteristics of those dogs in the lines for at least 5 generations. Some lines will produce the characteristics more strongly and pass them onto the pups on a more regular basis. Just because you have high drive dogs doesn't mean every pup will be the same.
@@jw-vx8im we kept all the records for our Border Collies for 10 generations. They were working dogs during the day, but at the end of the day they were family members..
Hips and elbows x-rayed in parents, if possible, grandparents, vet certified ok, and puppy x-rayed and vet certified. Or dont breed the dog. Period. Thats how you prevent the DOGS from suffering due to genetic defect. Same with buying the pup for working or pet. You could buy a second home for the cost of potential vet bills.
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Check my online dog training:
robertcabral.com/training/yt
Thank you for making this. I tend to rescue, but I know alot about breeding. I've seen and been through some sad cases with rescues due to bad breeding.
I do have my kinda hate towards show dog breeders as they tend to more ruin breeds. Albeit some working breeders are doing bad to a few breeds I like.
After 50 years in dog training and competition, obedience, conformation, hunting, protection work I feel that show breeders are destroying every breed to get the ribbons and feed their ego.
@Samurai Shampoo some actually breed for temperament and health. Looks and behaviours have been altered to varying degree however DNA remains around 98% wolf. If you’ve got a problem with dog training/breeding/owning then you’ve got a problem with every domestic/livestock animal. A samurai should understand the training required to bring out the best in ones self.
They've basically destroyed all the breeds, now they busy disturbing the Malinois, because of Hollywood K9 holograms. Then a little girl somewhere asks "Daddy I want a Rottweiler/Cane Corso" Then uneducated Daddy supports the supply and demand chain. This happened next door to us. This unfortunate Rottweiler is on a chain 24/7. Overbreeding causes emotional chaos within the female that infects the puppies biological rhythm, as in human females. In Nature, the Bitch is not bred everytime, if she's in heat: she will fight certain males for the preservation of her feminine milieu, like a wife that pushes her husband away in excessive breeding. A Leader or males of the pack will at times, fight a male, due to the cycles of nature, concerning food in lean times. Breeding is for the preservation of the pack, which is the safety of self.
Yes and no, I have shown many bullterriers and trained them also, but alot do breed for looks which is a major part of the breeding exercise but it's 1 component. Some people are rediculous and as he says GSD breeders are one of the worst, but also if you breed for drive purposes then shelters fill up with animals that were "too much dog" for the owner. It's a catch 22
To a large extent that is true. American "style" of Boxers is quite different from the "true type" sought by European Boxer breeders. American Boxers are prone to roach-back, a hunched back. They also have heads that are too small and necks too long and arched. And they don't stand squarely in their feet, but look like they are on point, like a ballerina, plus the feet are too small. The neck looks like a quarter horse, curved. But even worse, Europeans are breed primarily for purpose, as they should, but Americans play around with style instead of the function of a true working dog. Vets here do not even consider that so-called common diseases of Boxers are fully American-bred because they have veered away from "type' and gone over to 'style.' So it is true what you said but also enforced by the vets who don't know the breed and dispense poor care through neutering / spaying instead of methods that keep the Adrenal glands and hormones functioning, plus not considering the length of time of growth from puppy to adult in the Boxer breed.
@@jeaninekincheloe2520 I agree the American type isn't my type I breed and show only European dogs, we follow German breed standard. We do IPO and other training with our dogs, I prefer them for protection work, in these days our dogs are more about companions than working dogs, and yet the breeders are not placing their puppies with right owners. European dogs like to use their brain not just parade a showring.
I grow up with Labadors and Blue Heelers
. I made a change after my Father past away .I always wanted a German Shepard, I didnt do my homework ,I didnt shop around . I bought the first dog on Alaska List . Ive been very fortunate after 4 years Blitz my dog is healthy and no problems . He is from a local breeder AKC Reg. $ 1,400. No breeding rights . This dog so loyal , Obedient and Protective. Best dog i've ever had
GSD show Breeders here in AK are pretty responsible.
How do you know that he have good hips and elbows ? Did you made the X-ray ?
I love working line GSDs. I got one when I was 16, having no idea what issues to research. She was the best dog and part of me wishes I'd bred her based on her temperament alone (she was that awesome) and she had no hip or elbow problems in 12 years. After her passing, I did research and selected a breeder for a male GSD. The breeder has a following with many word of mouth recommendations and repeat buyers because her dogs are awesome. The breeder interaction was amazing and the effort she puts in to her dogs is top notch. That boy didn't make it to 3 due to an autoimmune disease. The breeder feels so bad, but I know it's not her fault. It sucks, but breeding just doesn't work that way; it's not a guarantee. She offered me another puppy and provided lots of tips and advice on his care during the rough times.
7
Where did you get your GSD? Are they still in business?
I too have a working line GSD with an autoimmune disease. I'd love it it you could message me directly as I'm studying to get a new puppy after my dog dies which will probably happen soon.
@Martha Cox--may I have the contact info of your male GS breeder? What was your dog's auto immune dissease? I'm studying which lines have genetic diseases. Who are his parents?
... and we will never find out. Because it's big business. So disappointing.
Avi reminds me of my uncle - everyone needs a Avi in their family.
😂😂
This is perfect for anybody who absolutely loves dogs. Perfect advice.
My brother bought his Malinois from a breeder/trainer in New Jersey. It is from police dog lineage. He was actually looking to buy another breed because he had no experience with this breed. He was just so impressed with how smart and obedient his dogs were. The dog he chose is brindle so it does have Dutch Shepherd in his lineage. Personality wise he is pure Malinois. Sometimes his dog is a handful but he does obey orders. He can be stubborn but he has a great personality. My brother takes him to the vet regularly. He likes to take his dog to public places for socialization. Everyone comments on how handsome and well-trained his dog is. They ask what breed and some ask if he is a Belgian Malinois. Recently he decided to get a professional trainer with Malinois dog experience because he thought he could be better and reach his full potential with a trainer He is not interested in competitions. His dog is a year and a half and he is so attached to my brother it would be impossible to rehome him. He does not like my brother out of his sight. His dog will settle for me or his wife if not given a choice but he will constantly be watching for my brother. The trainer is going to have him a week while they visit his mother-in-law in Texas and he might be okay since other dogs are there. Then they will go to his training sessions afterward. They like the trainer who is former military so they think this is the right way to go.
Wow what a podcast. Thankyou. Growing up I had a g. Shepard%! He would pick me up everyday after school. I would just look at him and he knew what I was thinking. So very very smart. I will never forget. Wolffie.
I could listen to Mr Cohen all day very interesting, informative and just a character. I’m sorry to hear about Fury. At least he had a good owner and a good life.
So sorry about losing Fury. I lost my beautiful German Shepherd in August last year. Still cry for him everyday. My heart is absolutely broken 💔
Oh, I know how you feel. Just coming out of the grief after 9 yezrs!
I got a Jack Russell and I bought him from a well knowing breeder for over 30 years. I looked at over 20 years of photos of the same breed the same markings the exact same temperament no health problems. Either I got extremely lucky or maybe I just did the right thing in the first place. I waited 3 years for him In fact this dog was too good for me he outsmarts me and almost every thing I do. He knows over 30 commands and I've just run out of things to teach him. Here's my best friend apart from Jesus. Only men understand the love between a man and his dog I could hear the pain and Sadness in your voice. You are a champion yourself for the love you give to these wonderful animals.
I’ve even so lucky. All my Shepherds never had problems with their joints. I do thoroughly check out bloodline and watch the parents move, as well as their temperament.
Please, PLEASE tell me what questions you asked.....PLEASE. I lost my beloved GSD this last August because of DM...........and NOW my 10 yr. old Czech is suffering from the same. YES, I was passionate about my male ( registered as a therapy dog) who I lost and I am PASSIONATE about my female who has DM NOW. Thank you for THIS VIDEO.
@@truecynic1270 I make sure both parents are tested for DM as well as OFA certified good hips and elbows. I also watch their movements. I don't spay mine until 2 years old to assure their joints are fused and closed. I don't over feed, as well as don't run over overwork during their first year, especially during the fast growing phase.
I finally bred my first and last litter 2 years ago. I have a FB page for the whole litter. They are all thriving confident pups in wonderful homes. All have shown no problems so far. I made sure they thoroughly knew everything that they can do to give their best chance for physical and mental health. Happy pups and owners so far. One pup did have Pituitary dwarfism. None of us knew our dogs carried the recessive gene. The vet tech adopted the pup and he is thriving. He is so robust, she might even Schutzhund title him. I am very lucky so far. The few who got breeding papers signed to DNA test for Pituitary Dwarfism and having a DM test, as well as hip & elbow OFA certification to give the best chance to future generations.
…. and then the conversation took an even more beautiful turn when Avi told us about his Fury. I remembered the story from before of not touching the dog. So so sad. I’m sorry Avi! Thank you for coming back on the show.
Fair leadership , far too many dogs are trained with extreme pain that places dogs into survival drive and they are then fighting for their lives. Not good.
Thank you both. I just got a 5 yr old GSD from a decent shelter. He was coming to his limit. I'm blessed I got him. His hips are already showing some signs. I'll do what I can to keep him healthy. Thank you championing dogs.
Rest In Peace Fury and my condolences Avi.
I did the research - in retrospect perhaps not enough for a working dog (though at the time that was not what I was buying and having studied vet med I was reasonably confident in my ability to read breeding co-efficients etc) and got unlucky. My beautiful cripple of show x working lines (sound on +++ meds) now concentrates on her job of doing medical alert for me as a service dog. She loves her job and all is good. She LOVED her IGP, and was the dog that introduced me to the sport, but luckily she has enough mental stimulation in her 'proper' job of saving my life, to be happy. She was a nice dog, she would have done well at club level, but my new IGP line puppy is a grade above her - which I would never have bought had my other bitch stayed sound. So in the end it works out, but of course my worry is for how long I can keep my older bitch sound and happy.
As for insurance - yes a must have, but when you have a long term condition the yearly uplift in premiums often become totally unaffordable.
I gotta say….I love you two guys together. I’m learning and being entertained at the same time.
Awesome Mr.Robert. Loved it. Thank you to Mr.Avi for sharing so much details.
This process is so important in finding out the true roots of a dog. Which we had more breeders doing this.
This guy is saying the something my breeder was telling me. I'm starting to feel good about the puppy I'll be getting.
Awwww... I have so many thoughts on this episode.
Such critical insights for owners! Thank you so much for producing these!!!
And condolences for Fury! 💖💖💖
Avi should charge for breeding consultation. I'd pay for sure. His knowledge is priceless.
Why? He's doing it free here... You're just lazy.
Love this guy!!
Needs to be on as a regular or longer!
Legend Avi I like his humor and honesty. And thanks Robert for such great contents always educating. 👍👍👍👌👌👌
What a great interview…..Avi is so knowledgeable, he is a true asset to the GSD community
I wish I had known just how much time is involved in training for IPO before I tried it, but Avi's absolutely right. It's almost impossible to do as a hobby. All that time you need gets spent working to pay the bills, and there's not a chance if you're also disabled or have anything else going on in life that takes up your time. I'd love to be able to live this lifestyle, and tried off and on for 15 years, but still can't afford to (and being of the working class, likely never will). But my point is that clubs and trainers are often not honest about this with new members. A couple of my friends have now ended up in the same boat for the same reasons, and others are barely hanging in there (and I wonder how much fun it still is for them). Those I know who are able to succeed and even title are those who work with dogs professionally, are retired, are neglecting the rest of their lives because they can't let go, or were born into money. I'm in no way complaining about the amount of work involved, because I knew it would be hard and I deeply respect how much time people do put into this training (but I am in every way complaining about the fact of social class so often being the deciding factor in determining who gets to stay in the sport). Not much we can do about it, short of changing our society, but I do wish that clubs were more honest with prospective/new members right here in this reality. I think this is contributing to the numbers of inexperienced people who are buying these dogs from these disreputable breeders (don't worry about my own dogs though, I've found other outlets for them, and I did know enough to buy from good breeders, but I just wanted to add my thoughts, as I've been through this and it's a punishing realization when you're already so invested, let alone if you also have a sick dog). I've also known a number of people over the years who have fallen victim to BYBs and their ilk, and it's reassuring to still hear voices in the bite sports who are honest and willing to bite into the problems in their midst. Thank you both, and keep doing what you're doing!
Rarely mentioned is the importance of correct breed standard temperament. If I can't meet the parents, it's a no go regardless of how they look. I was looking for a GSD pup and went to a kennel that had a litter of stunning pups. The mother was a full send psycho. An absolute nerve bag. I dearly wanted one but had to pass.
I cannot thank you enough for this frank discussion. I am looking for a dog, having put down my Shepherd almost two years ago. Even though I am not looking for a show dog, I now know what to look for when looking for a new dog, by looking at the owner/breeder.
Really sorry for your loss Avi. Thank you for both for great information
Hi Avi ! 👍 nice to see you ! ❤
My heart broke when hearing about Fury, I love how much you guys love your dogs
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could get humans to care for each other, all of us, like we care about animals? I’ve never understood the animosity some have for gay people..I mean, love is love, right? Do we have any choice about who we fall in love with?
@johncspine2787 I mean, I am gay so... wth?
I’m just saying that humans aren’t very tolerant, that wouldn’t it be a better world if we could be more loving towards everyone regardless of our relationship to them..@@milkmel5450
I learn so much every time you interview Avi, hated to hear about Fury. Love the Fury Vids on Avi's channel.
EXCELLENT PODCAST!! Thank you so much Robert & Avi!
Loooooove. I want to meet Avi and consult him before I get my next Shepherd...the working German kind!
Ari is a gold mine. Super interview.
Avi😂
thanks for your kind words
Just as most young adults who think they know more than their parents, my daughter (in her late 30's), and my son's wife (early 30's), both with a family and kids, reluctantly, would take any advice under consideration I gave them both when it came to their pets... Much of it you go over in this video.
Nevermind my life-long experience with different animals, including working my way up the ladder to become a K9 Handler/Trainer... First, as an MP in the US Army, and later the Sheriff's Office where I was a patrol deputy, on training days or slow shifts, I volunteered as an assistant to the handlers...
So, when it came to the process of getting a puppy, my D-I-L won the prize... LOL Looking for a Yorkie puppy, fell in love with the "tiniest in the litter" (ie., the Runt)...
She not only paid $800 for the dog, but never tried to train it in even the simplest of obedience tasks, so it barked constantly, and crapped under all their beds (but did urinate outside, or used the new "weekly" disposible pee pads)... She was "free-fed" cheap kibble, and never got her puppy or adult vaccinations, nor yearly vet visits...
It was no wonder she only reached three pounds (at most), and died at half a Yorkies expected lifespan at seven, almost eight years... My D-I-L cried and cried at the loss, had her cremated and paid $125 for the special doggie urn...
(Note: Most all this was rectified as I was over their house twice daily caring for my three, now older, grandkids, whom I involved in the care and training of their next dog (half Dachshund, half Jack Russel(?), they got free from a friend.. But, still waited till the puppy grew up before getting her shots, and is intact so loves to escape their fenced backyard)...
My daughter, who hated ANY kind of advice, paid dearly when she surprised her family by bringing home an Akita puppy, to keep their other (surprise) mix-breed dog company -- and because her oldest kid was embarrassed to walk the other dog in front of his friends...
Again, NO training, except "Sit" and a few others, free-fed (with ONE bowl for the dogs to share and eat out of all day and night, very little of the "walking" by my grandson as he was too busy with his girlfriends...
I don't think I need to explain why they now only have two cats, an NO DOGS... Poor Peaches... RIP.
Sorry to long to read.
I wrote my comment before I watched the entire video. I think most of us know all too well how Avi feels after putting down his very special friend. I hope he finds his new Fury soon. Thank you David for bringing him on and to Avi for sharing his expertise with us.
Who's david
@@stonnergaming420 NOYFB
@@Coste1072 I'll refer to him as David now than you
What will help the buyer is for them to ask the breeder if the puppies parents have had their hips and elbows xrayed and if they have been DM tested. A good breeder will have these tests done before using any dog for breeding, and will provide the buyer with the test results. If they don't have this, Walk Away! Hips should be a grade of A+ to B+, this gets a little complicated but most breeders won't use a dog that's a C, except under certain circumstances, namely that the dog will be breed to an A+ proven producer of soundness. The breeder should be asking the potential buyer many questions about their experience with gsds, their living situation, etc... The puppies should be utd on what shots they need at that age, they should be clean, happy and healthy, and excited to meet you. One more important thing, the breeder is to give you the puppies blue puppy AKC registration papers at time of purchase! Do not believe ANY excuses! This is a requirement of the AKC and any breeder not following this rule can face a lifetime ban. People, do your homework! I also study bloodlines like this gentleman speaking, but I'm not going to get into that here. Learn your five types of gsds and the characteristics of each at least, that will give you a good start. That being said, the original working line German shepherds are the best dogs, in my opinion. Expect to pay more for a properly raised puppy, because a breeder doing it the right way has invested a lot of money in their dogs and their puppies. Most will also give you a guarantee on the puppy, and will take the puppy back if you are not happy with it, but you must have proof of taking the puppy to your vet within so many days of purchase. I could go on for hours, but I'm just going to shut up and wish you future gsd owners the best of luck, the German Shepherd is the greatest breed of dog in the world, if you don't have the time and interest these dogs require to be successful, please don't get one. Thank you
what a wonderful podcast!!! good to see Avi again.
So much knowledge shared, Can't wait to see Avi back again and again.
Love this video
I bred my dog a long time ago and it was a horrible idea then I started to educate my self on the topic and by far this is the best video
🙏🏻🙏🏻
Avi is a great guy
those back channels - that's how I got my dog. I knew an excellent breeder through dog club, she didn't have a litter, but her sister was great friends with an excellent breeder and recommended me, and there you go. If I had contacted them myself I'd never have gotten my puppy.
Oh my. This is exactly what hubby and I did. We didn’t do homework and we saw GS pups on FB. Went and got two. So now we have two GS pups male that just turned 10 months. One of the pups the vet said his hocks are turned in and he cries at times. Got a scan and his hips are horrible. Right side 10-15% in cup and left side 20% in hip cup. So we saw a surgeon recently and hip replacement is approx $15k. And other people say put him down. We don’t know what to do. We were idiots on not researching but we’re both retired and have taken both pups to board/train and they are a handful but I feel so bad for the bad hip pup. His brothers hips are fine at this moment. When do you know? We’re thinking of the hip surgery but we don’t know. We’re both older in 70s and want the best for them. We should have found these videos before we got pups but we were after the fact. Sorry. 😢
Sorry. Hoping it will help others.
Very sorry to read this post
Stay strong what ever decision you make it will be ok.
So sad. I cannot even imagine. God bless you both, whatever you decide.💙
Thanks for posting. Maybe its will save someone else from 💔
Such great a informative video content! So sorry about Fury! Putting your dog down is one of the most difficult aspect of having a dog. Thanks for all you do making your videos and look forward to seeing your next video.
Thank you for the great videos
Looking to get a working line German shepherd.
Any good breeders that you will recommend .
Info will be greater appreciated
What an awesome cast ...thank you both.
So sorry for your loss of Fury Mr. Cohen. Condolences.
I’m a retired Marine and love your channel I’ve always owned German Shepard’s I own a West German true to bloodline my breeder is strict with maintaining too bad
Thank you brother.
Avi, I'm so sorry to hear about Fury.
So true. Too many breeders
I will say this if you looking to buy for work or breeding intentions buy from reputable breeders who have the credentials. In my neck of the woods most of the so called breeders never took a dog through the process from scratch yet they breeders
Those prices are just crazy, I think if dog has x-rays done, and you can allready see about working abilities, then few thousands is ok, but for puppy 5000 seems lunatic no matter who parents are.
In my personal experience, even if a person follows the rules re research on breeders to avoid puppy mills, backyard breeders, it is incredibly difficult to find a breeder like Avi. Many of the discussions on this show I agree with. It seems tho that breeders like Avi are breeding specifically for competition working dogs. I feel people looking for companion dogs have very limited options for getting a well bred, healthy and stable tempered puppy. Leaves us with kind of taking a chance purchase from those fancy websites. I wish that weren’t so, because I love GSDs, they are incredible companions in a family home.
such a great podcast. Rob i really love this podcast, as a university student just getting into dog sports this helps limits big mistakes
If you put the time in to watch Robert's videos BEFORE you find your ❤ dog, you'll likely avert a lot of problems & wind up with an awesome dog!😁🐾
And good luck with your studies!!💓
Good breeders dont have a website/ads. Their customers are their website/ads, spreading the word about him. This thing is the same with "Why Lamborghini dont have commercials?? Because people who can buy a Lamborghini dont watch the TV!".
I own a Working line German shepherd and because of your "GENETICS ARE THE MOST IMPORTANT THING" I went from Romania straight to Germany (Hamburg) to buy a puppy. I got that breeder's phone number from a friend who`s a dog trainer for Romania military (train the dogs to sniff drugs/bombs and even suicidal persons). That guy dont have a website nor ads, and u know why? He dont have time for that sh!t. He`s 100% of his time busy with his dogs.
All the best from Romania!
What about Gunbil Mittelwest and Kappel German Shepherd breeders. They're quite reputed. Are they not good enough ?
Very interesting- can you say about dogs trained to find suicidal people ?
Si eu am fost saptamana trecuta in Cehia. Liniile din Cehia sunt diferite fata de cele de la nemti. Cat timp are cainele tau ? I-ai facut testele de displazie de sold si cot ?
Great information for anyone buying a pedigree animal... It reminds me of a friend who spent hours studying all kinds of information, including their family trees, to decide which horses he'd bet on at the track... He must have gotten his system down right as he won a lot more than he lost.
I went to Truepanion it was $336 and Embrace was 200, what coverages do you recommend for a well-bred German rottweiler. the prices you gave were much cheaper. Is it the area I live in? What advice can you give?
I recommend the 90% coverage with $1000 deductible.
I just realized that even though I purchased a West German Show Line the parents were working dogs. Explains a lot the guy emphasized training. This is my second dog. Much harder than a Frenchies.
This is very very educational. Thank you for this video.
I understand I need to research and I am. I will becan amateur at researching blood line for a long time. Where did he get that bloodline link
i've had 3 gsd's though childhood to now, 2 got hip dysplasia at 10+, the other was only 6 1/2, heart breaking as he was a lovely obedient dog, it is exactly what I won't have one now, its far to common here.
Fantastic Trupanion is a must
I learn so much every time you have Avi on! Hated to hear about Fury, love the Fury vids on Avi's channel.
Avi: "I need something that will be Me". I get you. So sorry for your loss. I guess we all will go thru this at some point. You are a wonderful trainer and dog lover. I hope you find a great dog soon as soon as you are ready. Once your grief is a little better, I think you need a wonderful dog in your life. You are a lovely man, hang in there, friend. Some day, when my ❤ dog (German Shepherd) is gone, your words will help me. I hope it's a long time from now, though.
@Steven Faulds I wonder about that. A servicemember I know bought a GSD from a German kennel for >$2k. I wouldn't let my boy breed with her bitch; to be honest, the dog doesn't look perfectly correct proportionately (it's not an awful looking dog, but doesn't look perfectly breed standard). She showed me photos of the outdoor kennels where they raised the pups, she bragged about how great it was, I wasn't impressed at all (of course, I didn't tell her that). Her dog just looks "off". I think she got bamboozled. Also--I'm pretty sure they're not testing sperm count in an infant--a puppy. The rest you said might be true. Robert & other big trainers (Ivan Balanobov, Haz at Shield K9) have said people here in the US need to be very careful buying GSDs sight unseen from German Breeders overseas who they don't know personally--even some of the overseas breeders in Germany run a slick-looking sales operation, and charge top dollar to Americans for dogs they wouldn't keep or sell (at least at that price) to German buyers in country. Some of the German breeders are unethical, and see overseas buyers as easy marks to unload less than great dogs. Of course, there ARE many great, honest breeders in Germany--it can just be tricky for an American to know who to buy from if you're going off the internet, and relying on certifications/paperwork to "prove" a dogs quality. I bet a lot of good German Breeders are on the Working Dog University site Avi talks about, seeing those extensive bloodlines might help someone make a better choice if buying from a kennel they can't personally visit, I don't know.
This has a lot of great information, thank you both for sharing I'm all ears trying to learn all I can so my dog and I can have the best life together as we learn and teach each other. Thanks for you knowledge.
Such a great podcast. I almost bought an American Show because I didn't know about getting a Czech Working from Czech for SAR. He is Amazing SAR dog but quite a bit for my first time working line. I wouldn't trade him for everything.
I have been very fortunate to work with excellent and ethical breeders always. I have also had excellent dogs from shelters. I have trained, had sport dogs, service/search and rescue, and good old house dogs. The excellent and ethical breeders I have been fortunate to know have given or deeply discounted puppies to me because they knew my purpose (in the case of search), especially after 9/11. If the breeder does not ask serious questions, they are in it for the money. Quality dogs can be found anywhere but you must, as Avi says, do your research and/or take the time to work with the dog before purchase. I suspect Avi has tremendous instinct and is downplaying it.
Avi's the man! 👏👍
You know it!
Amazing podcast amazing guest amazing host
Thanks
@@avicohen8176 we have to thank you and robert for taking the time to record these great conversations for us.
@@pidianr Thanks for your kind words
Glad I'm not the only person that starts early. I'm doing Zeds training drills from 3am so I get the field to myself. I don't have to put up with the untrained pet dogs. We use a lot of room as well which would be unfair on other dog owners. I think the ability to be able to walk away from a litter is essential. Leave the emotions at home when going to view. I agree that researching prior to buying is important. Love listening to such experience. Working Dog EU is similar to the ISDS for Border Collies. Well worth doing the research if you want to do a particular sport or train a dog for particular job. Thanks Guys : )
Great info on Isds Laura. Thanks.
I wish trainers like you guys were in Oregon where I live. My pup went to board and train, because I had surgery and they did no training with her. Waste of $1300. She’s now training with me at Petco, but it feels more playtime. She knows what they are teaching already.
michelle johnson do a search for local dog training clubs. Petco trainers vary widely in quality but most will never never get you beyond the basics. I found a local club that meets once a week with 4 classes each night. Beginners, Advanced Novice, Competition Obedience, and alternate weeks Nose Works and Rally Obedience. My dog went from basic obedience to competitive Rally O in a very short time. Its so fun and beautiful to watch a dog moving in concert with its owner. IPO requires other type of club, but BH is very good basic obedience and temperament title for ANY dog.
When Robert talks about Fury when he was to take Fury’s stick and Fury growled and Robert said “Get Put Of Here” and I love it that Robert was able to make Fury respect him but without hitting or screaming at Fury. My opinion once you start hitting a dog, then the owner has already lost the dog. Robert is of excellent character ✊✊ Having self-control, patience, discipline, compassion, and willpower. You have been raised right, Tito Robert 👍👍
Nice "correction" for Avi:)
Great interview and as true as it gets. Research is everything. But as long as people invest into cuteness only, puppy mills and back yard breeders will exist.
is there a resource for trusted breeders ?
Avi taking hits love this man 🤣😂
Yup. I learned this the hard way. He only lasted 6 years. Totally crippled.
So sad, it's awful. And of course, by the time you realized, I bet you loved the dog & were completely attached...😢
Was it a working type dog? I got very lucky with an amazing breeder for my German Shepherd, but he's no longer breeding. Next time, I think I'd use Avi's Working Dog EU or ask around the local IPO Club.
Did you use a breeder or random person?
3000-5000 dollars for a puppy???? I have a working line german. With blood line and from a top breader. They are used for police,protection etc. It cost 1100euro. So it must be big business in the US .
Actually makes me happy to hear him say “I don’t raise puppies..the biting the pants, the pulling etc etc show them to me a year old!” .cause wow..I was getting a little frustrated and worried about how he’s acting, but, my boy has a serious little soul in there, I think he’s going to turn out great! But it was heartening to hear that the pros also experience the “puppy difficulties “ !!
Start with titles and conformation ratings that look like this VA Sch 3 IPO3 kkl1 lbz especially on the sire side but important on the female side These letters mean a lot V is also a good conformation rating
I really thank good that's I so this video before I buy a German shepherd ,,
I big thanks from my heart for this episode
A lot bot information a lot of knowledge,,
AVI you are a wonderful guy I hope to see you in person one day
The real problem is there aren't enough good breeders, there aren't enough solid dogs being bred, so when we have those great breeders that nobody can get a dog from, the resort to bad breeders.
Worst Case Scenario: my sister bought an expensive "Teacup Poodle" for my Mom for Mother's Day. My Mom had no interest in getting a dog. Knew nothing about training. The tiny Poodle had SERIOUS health conditions---but by the time its was fully apparent, my Mom was enamored with the poor, sick dog. Breeder offered to "take the dog back"--come on, THAT'S RIDICULOUS. Horrible breeder probably would have put the dog down. So my Mom had a crippled club-foot, oozing eyes, pissing & pooping all over the house tiny dog for years. It was awful. Not sure who was worse--my sister, who spent $1200, or the breeder. Probably the breeder, but my sister a close second.
Hmm..too bad I didn’t see this video a couple months ago. I..think..I did well with my breeder, but, like he says, it’s a crapshoot. I met the dog daddy, and mom, all the litter, the pedigrees look really good, no inbreeding, dogs are from very different lines and countries, but live in the same house. My boy is 11 weeks, seems great, a real handful, not quite what I expected in terms of not a floofy affectionate pup, but we are in training with local pros, so I’m hopeful for the future.
What working line GSD breeders based in the US would you recommend for balanced personal protection dogs? Not super high drive sport dogs.
really any line will be great. just pick the right breeder.
@@avicohen8176 thx. That's exactly what I was asking. What breeders would you recommend? I was thinking about a dog from AlpineK9/Jinopo.
@@hustle1413 contact me on FB
@@avicohen6112 appreciate that! Just sent you a direct message
@@hustle1413 under what name?
another great podcast thanks guys
I'm from Belgium and now I feel I'm lucky: I can get a Malinois puppy for 400€, working line, and would know the breeder bc he/she lives within a mile.
Number 1 thing IMO to take from this is all the marketing with website, pics and videos doesn't mean Jack Shit about the quality of someone's dogs and or training. Of all my experiences the last 3 decades the best dogs I have encountered had come from the opposite. The top 3 best dogs I've seen were bought from farms in Europe that never stepped foot on a training field either, they were pets and we bought them. Genetics is paramount!
Interesting. Did you get a chance to meet the parent dogs and see the entire litter?❤
Thank you for the great topic. Can you make a program about dogbreading in the GDR (DDR) please?
I have read that the state GDR did a great job for GS breading for boarder guard dogs. Love from Norway.
My best pets were mutts found by the side of the road or in a shelter... the ones we purchased from "breeders," not so much...
ya...too much in-breeding. Also its good to know just how much dog you can handle and get the right personality, like Avi says.
YES! The Soul is the pedigree.
Mutts are best. Dogs aren't supposed to be breeds. Breed is a 100 year invention.
@@sophiesmith5922 my grandfather and I bred, raised, and trained Border Collies. We were very persnickety about the stud we bred our bitch with. We usually had a 2 year waiting list. We didn't charge an exorbitant amount of money for our dogs, either.
I truly love the GSD because I had a once in a lifetime dog of the breed. But she was atypical. Absolutely nerves of steel, bombproof, play drive through the roof but absolutely no suspicion of people unless they made it obvious they were up to no good.
Most of my Shepherd friends thought she was a "face licker" because she had no interest in hunting people....but I since I don't like dogs that bite people - I was happy.
But I'd never have another GSD. What if I got a breed typical dog that was suspicious or aggressive towards people? I'd be miserable until it died.
Mine was a rescue at 5 months. She has nerves of steel. She is 12 yo now. I would love another GSD but am afraid to get one with anxiety issue.
which german shepherd breeder would you reccommend?
You need to do research and look around
If you're looking for European showline type then my suggestion is breeders in Ukraine and Russia. Their have huge puppies with very strong bones.
Love this!
This is an amazing video.
I'm not sure you need such an extensive champion pedigree to get a good "family pet", certainly you should for a dog you want for protection sports. But you absolutely MUST be able to see & meet the parent dogs in the breeders home, and basic health checks. And under NO CIRCUMSTANCES, take a puppy less than 8 weeks old.
Boerboel, Cane Corso, I have had several calls lately about training various imported mastiff breeds. These are being purchased by novices who have never had a mastiff before. People are buying them for protection. A very frightening trend!
Sad!
I'm not liking the combination of novice with a very powerful breed just because it is "trendy".
For example, I had one gentleman tell me that Boerboel were gentle couch potatoes. Are you flat kidding me?
What does one look for when "studying" the bloodline.
Why aren't these breeders checked by some governmental organization and they are given a certificate of checking for each dog and/or the breeder. In the uk we have the "kennel club" but they are of no use to anyone other than the breeders. They issue the paperwork.
Same as AKC in the US. Worthless. A breeder with dogs that are titled/certified are far more valuable than registration papers alone.
$$$ it’s all about that. It’s your job to do the research.
You need to find a breeder that can provide the individual characteristics of those dogs in the lines for at least 5 generations.
Some lines will produce the characteristics more strongly and pass them onto the pups on a more regular basis. Just because you have high drive dogs doesn't mean every pup will be the same.
There should also be tests done on hips, elbows, eyes (whatever problems the dog is prone to).
@@jw-vx8im we kept all the records for our Border Collies for 10 generations. They were working dogs during the day, but at the end of the day they were family members..
so sorry about Fury , @Avi Cohen 😭😭😭
Hips and elbows x-rayed in parents, if possible, grandparents, vet certified ok, and puppy x-rayed and vet certified. Or dont breed the dog. Period. Thats how you prevent the DOGS from suffering due to genetic defect. Same with buying the pup for working or pet. You could buy a second home for the cost of potential vet bills.
Anyone know good working line gsd breeders in the US
There is many you just need to talk to people and don’t jump on the first one