Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
Consistency, positive reinforcement, and reward-based dog training are crucial for German Shepherds. They are smart and eager to please.
Their dedication to work makes them naturally watchful of family members and can be trained to help with security. They are energetic, and need plenty of space to exercise. They require early socialization, obedience training, and to develop into confident, well-mannered dogs.
Origin
Captain Max von Stephanitz worked to create a herding dog that was unmatched. It took him years to find foundation dogs that met his requirements, physically and mentally. Hektor Linksrhein, an German Shepherd, was discovered at a dog show in 1899. Hektor was the product of several generations of selective breeding and He perfectly matched Von Stephanitz's vision of what a herding breed ought to 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 during the second half of 19th century. They were able to preserve many of the characteristics that attracted Von Stephanitz's attention. And these traits continue to make the breed popular in the present. A study revealed that German Shepherds can master tasks with just five repetitions, and they obey the first command 90% of the time.
The same traits make the breed one of the top military and police working dogs, as well as a beloved pet for families. If properly socialized and trained, these dogs are great companions for children and other pets. They tend to be cautious around strangers, but are generally affectionate with people they love. If they are not socialized as puppies, however they German Shepherd may have difficulty adapting to new situations later in life and become anxious or stressed.
Because of their strong protective instincts German Shepherds are cautious around strangers and are good guard dogs. They are intelligent and eager to be loved by others. This makes them extremely trainable. deutscher schäferhund kaufen are agile and strong and can run up to 30 miles an hour if they need to.
Because of their versatility and popularity, you'll see a variety of different German Shepherds in the world. The distinctive features of the breed are easy to recognize, especially if you're familiar with the breed standard. If you're unsure then ask your veterinarian for help to determine the breed. Most veterinarians are familiar with breed standards of most dogs and can assist you quickly.
Characteristics
If you're thinking of adopting or buying a purebred German Shepherd, it's important to find a reputable breeder with pedigree papers that can be traced for several generations back. Breeders who are reputable are also members of organizations like the American Kennel Club. This will provide you with additional assurances regarding their honesty.
A purebred German Shepherd is characterized by an athletic, muscular physique with a distinct black and tan color. Adult males weigh between 65 and 90 lbs and are approximately 24 to 26 inches tall and females are typically smaller at 50-70 lbs and 22-25 inches tall. They have long, erect ears and a sharp, erect gaze. While they may look intimidating, a well-trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and not display aggressive behavior towards dogs or people.
They are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based training techniques, making them quick learners. Early and consistent socialization is essential to their development as confident, well-mannered family pets. They are natural guardians and will watch over their family. However, they'll accept strangers if they don't pose a threat to them.
These powerful, agile dogs are well-suited to a variety of types of work. They excel in police and military duty as well as serving in the capacity of service dogs for those who are disabled. They have an exceptionally powerful prey drive and will likely chase small animals, which is why creating a safe and secure environment and ensuring lots of positive ongoing socialization is key for households with pets.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective and obedient when they are properly socialized and trained. They're generally wary of strangers and other dogs, but with early socialization and positive training, they'll be able to play with other pets.
When assessing a German Shepherd's quality, look for a head with a wedge shape that is proportional to the size of the dog and is cleanly chiseled. The shoulders should be straight and broad and straight, with a back that slopes slightly from the withers to the croup. A curving or curved rear or back legs are a sign of poor structural alignment. A well-constructed German Shepherd moves with a smooth, easy stride driven by an upward thrust of the hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent, curious dogs who are obedient and tolerant without being too eager to please. They have a steadfast devotion for their family members and are cautious of strangers, which makes them an excellent guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and test them physically and mentally. They require plenty of daily exercise as well as a large backyard to play in. If they aren't adequately stimulated, they may engage in destructive behavior like digging or chewing.
When selecting a breeder, look for someone who is dedicated to the breed and is aware of its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder will be able to discuss the background of both parents and the puppies. He or she can also inform you if the puppies have been socialized and received obedience training. If a puppy isn't socialized, it might require extensive training in obedience and behavior to prepare it for a future as a family member.
Puppies must be curious and outgoing, with a natural tendency to assert their rights. If one puppy is more timid than others, it is an indication. A good German Shepherd will also have a firm, consistent grip when taken up.
The muzzle is strong and long with a well-developed jaw and the chin. The eyes should be dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be black (blue or red-colored noses are disqualifying). The teeth must be white and meet in a strong scissor-like bite with the upper row of teeth slightly wider than the lower. The ears are large and erect at the base, with pointed tips. They can droop a little when at rest.
The German Shepherd can be used in a variety of ways. It is an adaptable dog that can be employed to assist in herding or search and rescue, detect drugs and bombs or help blind people. This versatility makes it one the most sought-after breeds in the world. It is crucial to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd dog can be heavily affected by its training and environment.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds are extremely resilient, able to flourish in many different environments and roles. This makes them great therapy dogs, service animals, and loyal companions. They also excel at sporting competition advanced obedience, as well as protection training. Their commitment to work could lead to careers in search and rescue, police work or military careers. GSDs, like most breeds, are prone to certain health issues despite their impressive capabilities.
As a larger breed GSDs are more susceptible to joint problems such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative diseases can cause lameness and pain as your dog gets older. A healthy breeding program and regular health checks by your veterinarian can help reduce their effects.
German Shepherds are susceptible to Bloat, an illness in which the stomach expands and fills up with gas, cutting off blood supply to the liver and spleen. If untreated, bloat can be a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical care.
Due to their long, thick coats as well as their darker coloration GSDs are also susceptible to heat stroke. On hot days, ensure they are hydrated and give them plenty of shade. We also examine their eyes at every exam for indications of pannus, an eye disease caused by immune system that causes blindness if not treated promptly.
Several inherited and hereditary illnesses can impact your German Shepherd's digestive system, such as hemangiosarcoma cancer of the blood vessels, exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) as well as von Willebrand disease, and intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). The cushion of jelly between vertebrae of the spine could rupture or slide, causing pressure to the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include an inability to climb stairs or jump.
Like all dogs, you will want to feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and avoid table food, which can cause weight growth and nutritional deficiencies. You should also regularly brush their coat to keep it healthy and clean. It's fine to give your dog bath every now and again, but too much can take away the natural oils which keep their coat clean and shiny.