How to Adopt a German Shepherd in Colorado

How to Adopt a German Shepherd in Colorado

German shepherds are some of the bravest canines around, so it’s not too surprising that they’ve earned a reputation for being phenomenal police dogs. However, this isn’t their only claim to fame; they can make excellent family pets, too! They’re steadfastly loyal, protective, and affectionate. They’re also easy to take on adventures, as their well-muscled physique and endless stamina mean they can handle practically any outdoor activity. This includes even Colorado’s toughest hiking trails (like the Venable-Comanche Loop).

There is no shortage of German shepherds available for adoption in Colorado. However, it’s important to understand the full scope of their care needs before you look to adopt one. They can be strong-willed and need a lot of exercise each day. They also fare best with families who have access to plenty of space.

Know in your heart that the German shepherd is the perfect pup for you? Then keep reading. Below, our guide will cover everything you need to know on how to adopt a German shepherd in Colorado, from the steps involved to the typical costs. We’ll also share some training tips, since you’ll no doubt be training this eager-to-learn, intelligent pup every day!

German Shepherd Adoption in Colorado

Colorado has ranked as the state with the most devoted dog owners. If you’re looking to follow suit and join them, the first step is to get connected with local rescue agencies and shelters in your area. Ask if they have any German shepherds available for rehoming and learn all you can about each pup’s characteristics and care needs. You can also reach out to breed-specific rescue groups in Colorado, like the German Shepherd Rescue of the Rockies (GSROR), or use our dog adoption platform.

German shepherds are relatively common and often crop up in rescues (at no fault of their own), so it shouldn’t take too long to find a pup who seems like a suitable candidate. When you’re ready, you’ll need to fill in an adoption application form and wait to hear back from the staff. You’ll also need to show proof of your home address and a valid ID, so make sure to have this documentation prepared in advance to prevent any delays.

If the rescue accepts your initial application, you’ll be advised on the next steps. Generally, you’ll need to attend an in-person interview, followed by a meet-and-greet with the German shepherd. Some rescues are more stringent and have additional measures to screen potential owners, including home checks, character references, and a copy of previous veterinary records if you’ve owned pets in the past.

This means the process can take some time, though remember that it’s for the benefit of both you and the rescue dog. These measures are in place to ensure they can assess suitability accurately and are giving their dogs to the best possible homes in Colorado.

After you’ve passed these checks, you’ll sign the paperwork and pay the adoption fee to make it official. You may be able to bring your German shepherd home on the same day, though other rescues in Colorado may require you to wait for a couple of weeks to give you plenty of time to prepare for their arrival.

How Much Does It Cost to Adopt a German Shepherd in Colorado? The cost of living in Colorado is known to be higher than the national average, though you shouldn’t expect to pay significantly more to adopt a dog here than you would in any other state. Generally, adopting a German shepherd in Colorado will set you back $50 to $550. The exact cost will depend on the rescue agency’s pricing structure and the dog’s characteristics and care needs. German shepherd puppies under six months are usually priced higher than seniors, matching demand. Once you bring your German shepherd home, aim to budget at least $1,000 per year to cover the cost of their care. This includes expenses like food, vet trips, grooming supplies, and bedding. In many counties in Colorado (like Denver), you will also need to be prepared to pay a pet license fee.

How Should I Train a German Shepherd? The German shepherd is a famously intelligent dog — and there’s data to back their quick-witted nature too. They pick up advanced commands as quickly as they pick up basic commands, and they’ll often surprise you with their aptitude. However, this does mean they need a lot of mental stimulation each day to prevent them from getting bored and turning to destructive habits. Aim to teach your German shepherd new tricks regularly to keep them engaged, and consider challenging them with activities that make use of their muscles as well as their brain, like agility. Colorado has plenty of places where you can take your German shepherd for specialized training classes. You can also take them to dog parks in Colorado that have dedicated agility areas, such as Bear Creek Dog Park. Knowing where to start (or how to challenge your German shepherd further!) can be tricky, but at Dog Academy, we can help guide you and ensure you’re prepared. We offer an array of online training courses to accommodate different goals and experience levels. Each course is expertly reviewed and built on the very best training principles (positive reinforcement). Dog Training with Dog Academy

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Find the Right German Shepherd in Colorado for You

The German shepherd is beloved by many in Colorado for their striking looks, high trainability, and loyalty. They’re also active enough to take along on hikes or road trips throughout the state. However, their high energy means they need an owner who is committed to understanding their care needs and giving them lots of attention throughout the day.

Even if you’re confident you can give the German shepherd the perfect home, remember that each rescue dog will have their own unique qualities too. Some may be better suited to your home and lifestyle than others, so approach the adoption process carefully and take the time to learn about each rescue German shepherd. By being patient and thorough, you’re bound to find the best German shepherd in Colorado for you.