Our Health Guarantee
We prioritize the health and happiness of every animal. Here is our commitment to you and your new companion.
At German Shepherds Central, our commitment to you begins long before you take your puppy home. We selectively breed for sound temperaments, structural integrity, and excellent health. This document outlines our guarantees to you, as well as your responsibilities as a new German Shepherd owner.
Initial Health Guarantee (The First 72 Hours)
We guarantee that at the time of release, your puppy is in good health, has received age-appropriate vaccinations, and has undergone a regular deworming schedule.
The 72-Hour Exam
The Buyer must have the puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian within 72 hours of receiving the puppy.
Minor Exclusions
This initial guarantee does not cover temporary, treatable conditions common in puppies transitioning to a new environment, including but not limited to: mild parasites (coccidia, giardia, worms), stress-induced diarrhea, or minor upper respiratory infections.
Major Illness
If, within these 72 hours, a licensed veterinarian certifies that the puppy has a life-threatening illness or systemic disease present at the time of sale, the Seller will replace the puppy or issue a full refund upon the return of the puppy and all registration paperwork.
24-Month Genetic & Joint Warranty
Because German Shepherds are a large working breed, we take proactive steps to protect their structural future. We provide a 24-month warranty from the puppy’s date of birth against severe, crippling genetic defects.
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia
We guarantee against severe hip or elbow dysplasia that prevents the dog from living a normal, functional pet life. To activate a claim, the dog must be X-rayed between 12 and 24 months of age, and the films must be officially evaluated and graded as "Severe" or "Fail" by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or PennHIP.
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
We certify that our breeding sires and dams are DNA tested for Degenerative Myelopathy. We guarantee that your puppy will not be genetically affected by DM during the first 24 months of life.
Buyer Responsibilities & Conditions
To maintain the validity of this 24-month warranty, the Buyer must agree to the following care guidelines, as environmental factors heavily impact a large breed’s development:
Weight Management
The dog must be kept at a healthy, lean weight. Obesity puts immense strain on developing joints and voids the hip/elbow warranty.
Exercise Limitations
The dog must not participate in strenuous, high-impact activities (such as forced running on asphalt, jumping out of truck beds, or agility weaving) before reaching 12 months of age.
Routine Care
The Buyer must maintain regular veterinary care, including standard booster vaccines, heartworm prevention, and proper high-quality nutrition designed for large-breed puppies.
Lifelong Return Policy
We are dedicated to every dog we bring into this world for the duration of its life. Under no circumstances should a German Shepherds Central dog ever be surrendered to an animal shelter, rescue group, or humane society.
Right of First Refusal
If at any point in the dog’s life you can no longer care for, house, or keep the dog, you agree to contact us first.
The Promise
We will always accept the dog back and find them a loving, vetted home, or assist you in rehoming them responsibly. No refunds or replacements are given for owner surrenders outside of the health guarantee windows.