A German shepherd kennel is home to a variety of Shepherd breeds. Finding a clean kennel where dogs are well cared for is step one. Step two: Choose your ideal dog, and then take good care of him.

Most German shepherd kennels plan their litters well in advance and once you describe the kind of dog you want, they can guide you to the litter that best fits your needs. Some kennels raise puppies indoors, in a clean, climate controlled room. The cost of puppies from these kennels varies according to the type of puppy you choose; companion puppies are cheapest—they’re not meant for breeding or sport. A show/sport prospect comes with full AKC registration and breeding rights and can be bred to participate in sports, and to work. Considerably cheaper, but no less loving or lovable are retired dogs, usually five years and older. One thing to keep in mind when choosing price is that show dogs that are "entire" - not spayed or neutered - cost much more than non-entire dogs.

Along with your puppy a kennel will provide proof of the vet exam, AKC papers, health and hip guarantee and a puppy packet that gives you training tips and advice—and booster shots if they are two months or older.

Most kennels are willing to ship puppies to your destination. In that case the puppy will fly in an airline-approved crate; but of course, this costs extra. These crates are generally shipped in cargo along with the other animals in the flight. And the older the puppy, the bigger the crate, so you’ll pay more. Some kennels require a non-refundable deposit in exchange for the puppy. But chances are you’ll never ask for your money back.