Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
Consistency, positive reinforcement, and reward-based dog training are essential for German Shepherds. They are intelligent, eager to please, and fast learners.
They naturally protect their family members because of their strong work ethic. They are able to be trained to ensure security. They are energetic and need ample space for exercise. They need early socialization, obedience training and to become confident, well-mannered dogs.
Origin
In the latter half of 1800 Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to create a dog who could not be matched in its ability to herd. It took him years to find a foundation stock that met his criteria, both physically and mentally. At the dog show in 1899, he spotted a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of several generations of selective breeding and he was a perfect match for Von Stephanitz's vision of what a herding animal should be. Von Stephanitz declared Hektor the first German Shepherd Dog and founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde.
Breed enthusiasts began to standardize herding dog breeds in the second half of the 19th century. They were able to preserve a lot of the characteristics that attracted Von Stephanitz's attention. those traits are what make the breed famous today. schäferhund kaufen has revealed that German Shepherds can learn tasks in just five repetitions, and follow the first command 95percent of the time.
The same characteristics make this breed a popular pet for the family and one of the top working dogs for military and police. If properly socialized and trained they make excellent companions for children and other pets. They are usually reserved with strangers but are generally affectionate with those they love. If they are not socialized as puppies,, a German Shepherd may have difficulty adjusting to new situations later on in life, and can become stressed or anxious.
Because of their strong instincts to protect German Shepherds are extremely cautious around strangers and make good guard dogs. They are smart and eager to please. This makes them highly capable of being trained. They are strong, agile and can run up 30 miles per hour.
Due to their versatility and popularity you will see a lot of different German Shepherds in the world. The breed's distinctive features are easy to recognize, particularly if you are familiar with the breed standard. If you're not sure, consult your veterinarian for help to determine the breed. Most veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards of most dogs and will be in a position to assist you quickly and effectively.
Characteristics
If you're thinking about adopting or purchasing a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you locate a reputable German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back several generations. Breeders with a good reputation are also members of organizations such as the American Kennel Club, which can give you further assurances of their integrity.
A purebred German Shepherd has a hearty, deep-chested athletic build with a distinctive black and tan coat. Adult males weigh 65 to 90 pounds and stand approximately 24 to 26 inches tall, while females are typically smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22-25 inches tall. They have a long, erect ears and a sharp stare. While they may appear intimidating, a properly trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and will not display aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs.
They are very smart and are able to respond to positive reinforcement-based training methods and are quick learners. Early and consistent socialization is essential to their growth as well-mannered, confident family pets. They are natural guardians and will be watchful over their family members. However, they'll be tolerant of strangers as long as they don't pose a threat to them.
These powerful, agile dogs excel in military and police work, and also serve as aid dogs for people with disabilities. They possess an extremely strong prey drive and are likely to chase small animals, which is why creating a safe and secure environment and ensuring lots of positive ongoing socialization is key for families with pets.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective and obedient when they are properly socialized and trained. They are generally cautious of strangers and other dogs, but can be taught to play with other dogs through positive training and early socialization.
When evaluating a German Shepherd's quality look for a head with a wedge shape that is proportional to the dog's height and has been chiseled cleanly. The shoulders should be broad and square and have a straight, level back that's just slightly sloped from the croup to the croup. A curving or curved rear or back legs are a sign of an imbalance in the structural structure. A well-constructed German Shepherd moves with a smooth, effortless stride that's driven by an upward thrust of the hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs who are obedient without being overly eager to please. They have a steadfast devotion to their family members and are cautious of strangers, making them a very effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and be challenged both physically and mentally. They require regular exercise and a large area to play in. If they are not sufficiently stimulated, they could resort to destructive behaviors such as digging or chewing.
When choosing a breeder pick someone who is committed to the breed and has a thorough understanding of its temperament and personality. A reputable breeder will be able discuss the background of the parents and puppies. He or she will determine if the litter has received obedience training and socialization. If a puppy is not socialized, it may need extensive obedience and behavior training to prepare it for a future life as an adult member of the family.
Puppy must be curious and outgoing and have a natural capacity for asserting themselves. If one puppy is more timid than the others this is an indication. A good German Shepherd will also have solid, consistent grip when taken up.
The muzzle is long and strong with a well-developed jaw and chin. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be dark (blue, liver or other colors are not acceptable). The teeth must be white, and the top row should be slightly bigger than the lower. The ears are erect and wide at their base with pointed tips that may be slightly droopy when in rest.
The German Shepherd is a very adaptable dog that can be used in many different ways including herding, search and rescue as well as drug and bomb detection, and even guiding the blind. This versatility makes it among the most sought-after breeds across the world. It is crucial to remember that the temperament of the German Shepherd dog can be heavily affected by its training and its upbringing.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds are extremely resilient, able to flourish in a variety of settings and roles. This makes them great therapy dogs, service animals and loyal companions. They also excel at advanced obedience and protection training as well as competitive dog sports. Their strong work ethic and innate instincts may inspire them to search and rescue missions or police work as well as military careers. GSDs, like most breeds, are prone to certain health problems despite their amazing capabilities.
As a breed that is larger GSDs are more prone to joint issues like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative diseases can cause discomfort and even lameness as your dog gets older. A healthy breeding program and regular medical examinations by a veterinarian can reduce the effects.
German Shepherds are susceptible to the condition known as bloat. It is condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas, cutting off blood supply to the liver and spleen. Bloat can be fatal in the event that it is not treated. It requires immediate medical care.
Due to their long, thick coats and darker coloration GSDs are also susceptible to heat stroke. On hot days, keep them hydrated and give them plenty of shade. Also, we should check their eyes for signs of pannus - an immune-mediated condition that can cause blindness if not treated immediately.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease, von Willebrand's disease, and hemangiosarcoma, which is a cancerous blood vessel, can all affect your German Shepherd. The jelly-like cushion between the vertebrae in the spine may rupture or slide and pressurize the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include inability to go up steps or jump, a hunched back, discomfort when being touched, and dragging of the rear feet.
As with all dogs, you'll want to keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid table foods which can lead to weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. Clean their coat frequently to maintain a healthy and clean appearance. It's fine to give your dog bath every now and then, but too much can strip away the natural oils which keep their coat clean and shiny.