Buying a working-line puppy is a long-term decision. These are the
questions we hear most, answered plainly. If yours isn’t here, call or
text 201-230-2285.

Black and tan German Shepherd puppy from Metro K9 Academy lying on a cushion

Buying a Puppy from Metro K9

How much does a Metro K9
puppy cost?

Puppies start at $4,500. Started puppies start at $6,800, and trained
juveniles start at $9,000. Final pricing depends on the individual dog
and is discussed on a call. See Pricing for every level.

What comes with a puppy?

Every buyer gets ongoing support from our team. New Jersey buyers
also receive 3 months of puppy training at our Bernardsville facility.
Out-of-state buyers don’t receive the training program, but the support
is the same.

Are your puppies registered?

Yes. Our German Shepherds are AKC and SV registered. Our Dobermans
are AKC and FCI registered.

Are the parents health
tested?

Yes. Our breeding dogs have comprehensive, breed-appropriate health
testing, including OFA screening. Ask us about the results for the
specific parents of any litter you’re considering.

Do you place puppies
outside New Jersey?

Yes. We place puppies nationwide. We’ll talk through pickup and
delivery options for your location when we speak.

How do I get a puppy?

Start by inquiring about availability. Call or text 201-230-2285, or
send an inquiry through our puppy inquiry form. Robert
Gierla responds within 48 hours. From there, we talk about your home,
your experience, and what you want the dog to do.

How do you decide
which puppy is right for us?

Matching is about fit, not availability. We evaluate each puppy’s
temperament as it develops and match it to your household, your
experience, and your goals. Sometimes that means waiting for the right
litter.

What if nothing is
available right now?

Check Upcoming
Litters
and let us know what you’re looking for. If timing matters,
a started puppy or
a trained
dog
may be the better path.

What’s
the difference between a puppy, a started puppy, and a trained
juvenile?

How much of the foundation is already built when the dog comes home.
A puppy gives you genetics and a clean start. A started puppy already
has early routines and manners in place. A trained juvenile has a
finished level of training. Our guide, Puppy
vs. Trained Dog
, walks through the choice.

Black and tan Doberman puppy on a leash sitting in front of a stone wall at Metro K9 Academy

About the Breeds

What’s
the difference between working-line and show-line German Shepherds?

Working lines are bred for drive, nerve, and the ability to do a job.
Show lines are bred with more emphasis on appearance and movement. We
breed working-line German Shepherds because stability and trainability
come first. The right line depends on your lifestyle, and we’ll tell you
honestly if a working-line dog isn’t the right fit.

Are German
Shepherds and Dobermans good with kids?

With the right match, structure, and supervision, yes. Temperament
and training matter more than breed. A stable dog raised with clear
rules is a safer family dog than an unclear one of any breed.

How much exercise do they
need?

More than most people expect. Working-line dogs need daily physical
exercise and mental work: training, structured play, and a job to do.
Without it, they’ll invent their own jobs. This is not a breed for a
household that wants a couch-only dog.

Do they shed?

German Shepherds shed year-round, with heavier sheds a couple of
times a year. Dobermans have a short, single coat and shed much
less.

Should I get a male or a
female?

It depends on your household. Males are often larger and more
physically strong. Females are often a little more compact. Individual
temperament matters more than sex, which is why we match by temperament
first.

Ready to Talk?

Inquire about availability: call or text
201-230-2285. We’ll help you figure out whether a puppy, a started
puppy, or a trained dog is the right fit.