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 are quick learners.
Their work ethic and dedication makes them naturally vigilant of family members and are able to help in security. They are energetic and need plenty of space to exercise. They also require early socialization and obedience training to mature into confident, well-mannered dogs.
Origin
Captain Max von Stephanitz worked to create an herding dog that was unmatched. It took a long time to find a foundation breed that would meet his requirements physically and temperamentally. At a dog show in 1899, he saw the appearance of a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of several generations of selective breeding, and he matched perfectly with Von Stephanitz's ideal of what a herding dog ought to be. Von Stephanitz declared Hektor the first German Shepherd Dog and founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde.
In the second part of the 19th century, breed enthusiasts worked to standardize herding dogs. They were able preserve certain traits that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these traits continue to make the German Shepherd breed famous today. A study found that German Shepherds are able to master tasks in just five repetitions, and follow the first command 95percent of the time.
These same traits also make this breed among the best police and military working dogs, and also a loved pet for families. If properly trained and socialized, these dogs are ideal companions for children as well as other pets. They are reserved around strangers however, they are incredibly affectionate towards the ones they love. If they are not socialized as puppies, however, a German Shepherd may have difficulty adapting to new environments later in life and may become stressed or anxious.
German Shepherds are excellent guard dogs due to their instincts for protection. They are intelligent and eager to please. This makes them extremely capable of being trained. They are strong, agile and can run at speeds up to 30 miles an hour.
There are a variety of German Shepherds in the world because of their wide range of uses and acclaim. But the breed's distinctive characteristics are generally easy to identify and, in particular, if you're familiar with the standard of the breed. If you are unsure, consult your veterinarian for help to determine the breed. Most veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards for most dogs and will be capable of helping you quickly and efficiently.
Characteristics
If you're thinking about adopting or purchasing a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you locate an established German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back several generations. Breeders who are reputable are also members of organizations such as the American Kennel Club, which will give you additional assurances of their integrity.
A purebred German Shepherd is characterized by a strong, athletic physique with a distinct black and tan colour. Adult males weigh 65 to 90 pounds and stand approximately 24 to 26 inches tall, whereas females are usually smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22-25 inches tall. They have long, erect ears and a ferocious gaze. While they may appear intimidating, a properly trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and not exhibit aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs.
They are very intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based training methods which makes them fast learners. Socialization is crucial in their development to become confident well-mannered pets. They are natural guardians, and will watch over their family members. However, they will be tolerant of strangers as long as they don't threaten them.
These powerful, agile dogs excel in police and military tasks, as well as service dogs for the handicapped. They possess a strong prey drive and will likely chase smaller animals. Therefore, a safe environment that provides plenty of socialization for other animals is crucial.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective and respectful when properly socialized and taught. They are typically shy of other dogs and strangers however, with early socialization and regular positive training, they'll be able to have fun with other pets.
When assessing the German Shepherd's qualities, look for a head shape that is proportional to the dog's size and is cleanly chiseled. The shoulders should be square and broad, with a straight back that has a slight slope from the withers to the croup. A curved or excessively curving rear or back legs suggest an imbalance in the structural structure. schäferhund abzugeben -built German Shepherd moves with an effortless smooth stride that is driven by the forward thrust of its hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent, curious dogs who are loyal and gentle without being too eager to please. They have a strong loyalty for their families and are wary of strangers, which makes them an excellent guard dog. They thrive in a home with active owners who challenge them physically and mentally. They require daily exercise and a huge yard to play in. If they aren't sufficiently stimulated, they might engage in destructive behavior like chewing or digging.
When selecting a breeder you should look for someone who is dedicated to the breed and knows its temperament and personality. A reputable breeder can discuss the background of both parents and puppies. He or she can inform you whether 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 a family member.
Puppies should be curious and outgoing with a natural tendency to assert themselves. If one puppy is more timid than others it should be taken as an indication of danger. In addition, a good German Shepherd should have a firm and consistent grip when picked up.
The muzzle is large and strong with a well-developed jaw and chin. The eyes should be dark and almond shaped. The nose should be dark (blue, liver or other colors are not acceptable). The teeth should be white and have a strong scissor-like bite with the upper row of teeth slightly bigger than the lower. The ears are wide and erect at the base, with pointed tips. They can droop a little when they are at rest.
The German Shepherd can be used in a variety of ways. It is a versatile dog and can be employed to assist in herding or search and rescue, detect drugs and bombs, or guide the blind. This versatility is what makes it one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. It is essential to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd dog can be greatly affected by its training and environment.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds are incredibly resilient, and are able to thrive in many different environments and roles. This makes them ideal therapy dogs, service animals, and affectionate companions. They also excel at competitive dog sports, advanced obedience, and training in protection. Their commitment to work could lead to careers in search and rescue, police work or military careers. Despite these amazing talents as with all breeds, GSDs are prone to certain health issues.
As a breed that is larger, GSDs are susceptible to joint issues like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause your dog to become lame and painful as they get older. A healthy breeding program and regular health checks by your veterinarian can help reduce their impact.
Like other large breeds German Shepherds are also prone to Bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus) in which the stomach turns, filling with gas and cutting off blood flow to the spleen and liver. Bloat can be fatal if left untreated. It requires immediate medical care.
GSDs may also suffer from heat stroke because of their thick, long dark coats. On hot days, make sure to keep them hydrated and give them plenty of shade. We also check their eyes during every exam for signs of pannus, an eye disease that is immune-mediated and causes blindness if not addressed promptly.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease Von Willebrand's disease and hemangiosarcoma which is a blood vessel that is cancerous, can all affect your German Shepherd. The jelly-like cushion between vertebrae of the spine could break or fall off and pressurize the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include inability to climb steps or jump and a hunched back. discomfort when being touched, and dragging of the rear feet.
As with most dogs you will want to feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and avoid eating table food, which can cause weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. It is also important to brush their coat regularly to keep it healthy and clean. It's okay to give your dog bath every now and then, but too much can remove the natural oils that keep their coat healthy and shiny.