Hi:
My name is Ricardo and I'm new to the forum, and new to having a dog.
I'm thinking of getting a German Shepherd.
If you guys have any other suggestions for a first time dog owner, I will appreciate it.
Also could you tell me how much I should expecto to pay for a new puppy.

Thank you,

Ricardo.

Hi Ricardo,

Welcome to the forum. If you are actually purchasing a registered puppy from a "real" breeder you can expect to pay a minimum of $600. That's at minimum. I don't have any specific breed recommendations for a first time novice dog owner. Maybe the others will. It seems to me, though, that every breed out there has some caveat or another to first timers, expecting one to have some sort of prior "experience." (As though mixed breeds are specially designed for beginners, the way gold fish are recommended for novice aquarists). That being said, it would seem that labs and goldens seem to be the most popular with novice dog owners, and especially families with small children. German shepherds are a strong breed, requiring a handler who kind of has an idea of how to raise a dog. Spaniels are another breed category that have a gentle, forgiving temperament, making them nice for gentle owners. But they are very high energy, so even the novice dog owner needs to be willing and able to get outside for a brisk daily romp. Good luck with whatever your final choice is, and let us know what you end up with!

Hi Ricardo! It's nice to meet you.

Hello thank you to join here.would you show a nice pic all?

[lil mutt]

before you get a new pet, do not forget to think first if you can give everything that your pet's need. If you think that you can give the care and attention that your dog needs then get a dog... If not, then that's the time you should reconsider your decisions.

hi welcome to the forum im glad to meet you its nice to have you here

Hi Ricardo,

What type of dog is right for you depends on you and your situation. Do you living in a city apartment or a country estate? I suggest you read about different breeds and what their requirements and temperments are like and then decide what is right for you. This is a 10-15 year commitment so for both you and the dog--take your time and think about what is right.

German Shepherds (GSD) are wonderful dogs. They are loyal and protective. You will need to commit to obedience training and providing allot of exercise.

The other thing to consider is age: puppy or older dog. There are advantages and disadvantages to both.

Consider adopting from a rescue group. You can get wonderful, purebred and mixed dogs that need a forever home. Many of these dogs are not in rescue due to their own misdeeds but due to their previous owner.

Cesar Milan has an excellent DVD on how to select the right dog for you whether from a shelter, rescue group, or breeder. Good pointers on looking for the right temperment or "energy" regardless of the breed you want.

[wishbone]

Welcome Ricardo, see to it that you have the time and place to train a GSD, they are very energetic and intelligent dog and needs enough exercise everyday.

Ricardo, welcome to the community...

I advise you to choose a breed you like...
You are the one who knows exactly what you want...
If you are confuse you can search for the specific breed you like...
For you to have more information about the breed...

German Shepherd Dog's are very smart! They also shed a LOT, Get very large (big poop) and require a lot of exercise. As far as how much you are going to pay, that varies. If you buy from a breeder it will be more expensive. Mix dogs typically = healthier dogs. When two different breeds have a litter. the stronger genes from each breed dominate. So if one kind of dog has hip problems and the other doesn't, there is a good chance that the pup will inherit the positive genes. Of course this is not guatanteed, but quite common. Just an idea. Shelter...