Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
Consistency, positive reinforcement and reward-based dog training are crucial for German Shepherds. They are smart, eager to please, and quick learners.
Their strong work ethic makes them naturally watchful of family members and are able to help with security. They are active and require ample space for exercise. They also need early socialization and obedience training to develop into well-mannered, confident dogs.
Origin
In the latter half of 1800, Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to create a dog that could not be matched in its herding capabilities. It took a long time to find a foundation breed that would meet his standards physically and in temperament. Finally, at an exhibition for dogs in 1899, he saw an adorable German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the product of several generations of selective breeding and he perfectly matched Von Stephanitz's idea of what a herding breed should be. Hektor was declared to be the first German Shepherd Dog, and von Stephanitz founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (or Society for the German Shepherd Dog).
In the second half of the 19th century, breeders worked to standardize herding dogs. They were able to preserve a lot of the characteristics that attracted Von Stephanitz's attention, and those traits still make the breed famous today. A study has revealed that German Shepherds can learn tasks with only five repetitions, and follow the first command 95percent of the time.
The same characteristics make this breed a beloved pet for the family and one of the most effective working dogs for military and police. These dogs make great pets and are great companions for children if they are well-socialized and taught. They tend to be cautious around strangers, but are generally affectionate with people they love. If they are not socialized as puppies, however, a German Shepherd may have difficulty adapting to new situations later in life and become anxious or stressed.
German Shepherds are good guard dogs due to their instincts to protect. They are generally highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly capable of being trained. They are strong and agile and can run up to 30 miles per hour if they have to.
There are many German Shepherds all over the world because of their versatility and acclaim. The distinctive features of the breed are easy to recognize, especially if you're familiar with the breed standard. Ask your veterinarian for help in identifying the breed if aren't certain. Most veterinarians are familiar with breed standards of most dogs and will be able to assist you quickly.
Characteristics
If you're thinking about adopting or purchasing a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you choose an established German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back many generations. Breeders who are reputable are also members of organizations like the American Kennel Club, which can give you further assurances of their integrity.
Purebred German Shepherd is characterized by a strong, athletic body with distinctive black and tan color. Adult males weigh between 65 to 90 pounds and stand 24 to 26 inches tall and females are usually smaller at 50 to 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have erect ears, long and elongated and a sharp, erect stare. While they may appear intimidating, a properly trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and not show aggressive behavior toward people or other dogs.
They are very intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based techniques for training and are quick learners. schäferhunde suchen ein zuhause is essential in their development to become confident, well-mannered 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 agile, powerful dogs excel at military and police work as well as being service dogs for the handicapped. They possess an extremely strong prey drive and are likely to chase small animals, so making sure they are in a secure area and ensuring plenty of ongoing socialization is key for households with pets.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective and respectful when properly socialized and taught. They're generally cautious of other dogs and strangers However, with early socialization and regular positive training, they can be taught to play with other pets.
When evaluating the quality of a German Shepherd look for a wedge shaped head that is proportional to the dog's size and is well chiseled. The shoulders should be wide and square, with a straight, level back that's just slightly sloped from the withers to the croup. A curved back or excessive curvature of the rear legs indicates an insufficient structural alignment. A well-built German Shepherd moves with an effortless smooth stride that is driven by the forward thrust of its hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs who are obedient without being overly 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 in a home with active owners who will challenge them physically and mentally. They need plenty of daily exercise and a large yard to play in. If they aren't properly stimulated, they could use destructive methods like chewing or digging.
When choosing a breeder pick someone who is enthusiastic about the breed and has a good understanding of its temperament and personality. A reputable breeder will be able to talk about the history of both the parents and puppies. He or she will also be able to determine if the litter has been socialized and received obedience training. If a puppy is not socialized, it may need 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 for asserting their rights. If one puppy is more timid than others, it should be interpreted as a warning. Additionally, a good German Shepherd should have a strong and steady grip when picked 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 liver-colored noses are disqualifying). The teeth must be white and the upper row should be slightly wider than the lower. The ears should be straight and wide at the bottom, with pointed tips that can droop slightly when at rest.
The German Shepherd is a very versatile dog that can be used in many different ways, such as herding or searching and rescue, bomb and drug detection, and even guiding blind people. This versatility is the reason why it is among the most sought-after breeds in the world. However, it is important to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd can be heavily influenced by its upbringing and training.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds are incredibly resilient, able to thrive in many different environments and roles. They are great companions, therapy dogs, and service animals. They also excel at competition dog sports, advanced obedience, and protection training. Their commitment to work could lead to careers in search and rescue, police work or military careers. GSDs, like most breeds, are susceptible to certain health issues despite their impressive abilities.
GSDs, because they are larger breeds, are more prone to joint problems like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative diseases can cause discomfort and even lameness as your dog ages. Responsible breeding and regular vet exams can help reduce the effects.
German Shepherds are susceptible to the condition known as bloat. It is an illness in which the stomach expands and fills with gas which cuts off blood supply to the liver and spleen. If not treated, bloat could be a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment.
Because of their thick, long coats and darker colors GSDs are also more prone to heat stroke. Keep them hydrated and provide plenty of shade on hot days. We also check their eyes on every examination for indications of pannus, an immune-mediated eye disease that can cause blindness if not treated promptly.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease Von Willebrand's disease and hemangiosarcoma, a blood vessel that has cancer, could all affect your German Shepherd. The jelly-like cushion between the vertebrae in the spine may rupture or slip and cause pressure to the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD are an inability to climb stairs or jump.
As with all dogs, you'll need to ensure that you keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid eating table foods which can lead to weight gain and nutritional deficiencies. You should also brush their coat regularly to keep it clean and healthy. It's okay to give your dog bath every now and again however, too much of it can take away the natural oils that keep their coat healthy and shiny.