Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
Consistency, positive reinforcement and reward-based dog training are crucial for German Shepherds. They are intelligent and eager to please and are quick learners.
Their strong work ethic ensures they are naturally attentive to family members and they can be trained to help with security. They are active and require plenty of space to exercise. They also require early socialization and obedience training to develop into confident, well-mannered dogs.
Origin
In the late 1800s Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to create a dog who would be unmatched in its herding capabilities. It took a long time to find a foundation breed that could satisfy his criteria -- both physically and in temperament. At an exhibition for dogs in 1899, he spotted the appearance of a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of many generations of selective breeding, and He perfectly matched Von Stephanitz's vision of what a herding breed should be. Hektor was declared the first German Shepherd Dog, and von Stephanitz founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (or Society for the German Shepherd Dog).
Breed fanciers began to standardize herding dog breeds during the second half of the 19th century. They were able to preserve a lot of the traits that drew Von Stephanitz's attention. these traits continue to make the breed famous today. For instance, a study found that German Shepherds master tasks in just five repetitions and obey the first command that is given at least 95% of the time.
These traits make this breed a beloved family pet and one of the best working dogs for police and military. If properly socialized and trained they can be ideal companions for children as well as other pets. They are reserved around strangers, but they are affectionate with those they love. A German Shepherd that is not socialized from a young age may have difficulty adapting to new situations and be anxious or stressed.
German Shepherds are excellent guard dogs due to their protective instincts. They are generally highly smart and eager to please, making them extremely trainable. They are strong, agile and can run at speeds of up 30 miles per hour.
There are a variety of German Shepherds around the world because of their wide range of uses and acclaim. The distinctive characteristics of the breed are easy to recognize, especially if familiar with the breed standard. Ask your veterinarian for assistance in identifying the breed, if you aren't certain. The majority of veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards of most dogs and can help you quickly.
Characteristics
Whether you're considering buying or adopting a purebred German Shepherd, it's important to locate a reputable breeder who has 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 give you more confidence about their credibility.
A true purebred German Shepherd has a hearty muscular build, with a deep chest with a distinctive coats of black and tan. Adult males weigh between 65 to 90 pounds and are 24 to 26 inches tall and females are usually smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have a long, straight ears and a sharp stare. A well-trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating, but it will remain loyal to the owner and not display aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs.
They are very intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based training methods and are quick learners. Socialization early and consistently is essential to their development as well-mannered, confident family pets. They're natural guardians and watchful over their families, but will most likely allow strangers to enter their homes if they don't pose an threat.
These powerful, agile dogs excel in police and military work as well as being service dogs for those with disabilities. They have a strong prey drive and will likely chase smaller animals. Therefore, a secure environment that offers plenty of positive interaction with other animals is crucial.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective and respectful when they are properly socialized and trained. They're typically cautious of other dogs and strangers However, with early socialization and positive training, they can be taught to have fun with other pets.
When evaluating the quality of a German Shepherd, look for a wedge-shaped head proportional to its height and perfectly chiseled. The shoulders should be wide and square with an even, straight back that is only slightly sloped from the withers to the croup. A curly back or excessive curvature of the rear legs indicate an insufficient structural alignment. A well-built German Shepherd moves with an effortless, smooth stride that is fueled by the forward thrust of its hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs who are well-behaved, but not too eager to please. They have a steadfast devotion for their families and are wary of strangers, which makes them a very effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and challenge them mentally and physically. They require a lot of exercise and a large backyard to play in. If they are not sufficiently stimulated, they may use destructive methods such as digging or chewing.
When choosing a breeder choose one who is dedicated to the breed and is aware of its temperament and personality. A reputable breeder can discuss the history of both the parents and the puppies. They can also tell you whether the litter has been through obedience training and socialization. If a puppy is not socialized, it may need extensive training in obedience and behavior to prepare it for its future life as an adult member of the family.
Puppies must be curious and outgoing and have a natural capacity to assert themselves. If one puppy is more timid than others and is more timid, it should be interpreted as a warning. Additionally, navigate to this site should have a firm and consistent 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 dark (blue or liver colors are disqualifying). The teeth must be white, and the top row should be slightly wider than the lower. The ears are wide and erect at their base, with pointed tips. They may droop a little when at rest.
The German Shepherd can be used in a variety of ways. It is a flexible dog that can be used to help herd, search and rescue, detect explosives and drugs or even guide blind people. This versatility makes it one the most popular breeds in the world. However, it is important to keep in mind that the personality 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 excellent companions, therapy dogs and service animals. They are also excellent in advanced obedience and security training and competitive dog sports. Their dedication to work can lead to careers in search and rescue, police work, or military careers. GSDs, as with all breeds, are susceptible to certain health problems despite their impressive talents.
As a breed that is larger, GSDs are susceptible to joint issues like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative diseases can cause your dog to become debilitated and painful as they get older. A healthy breeding program and regular health checks by your veterinarian can help reduce their effects.
German Shepherds are at risk of Bloat, a condition in which the stomach expands and expands and cuts off blood flow to the liver and spleen. If left untreated, bloat is an extremely serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.
Due to their long, thick coats as well as their darker colors GSDs are also susceptible to heat stroke. Keep them hydrated and provide plenty of shade on hot days. We also check their eyes at every exam for signs of pannus, an eye disease that is immune-mediated and can cause blindness if not treated promptly.
Several inherited and hereditary illnesses can affect your German Shepherd's digestive system, including Hemangiosarcoma cancer of blood vessels, exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI), von Willebrand disease, and intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). The last one occurs when the jelly-like cushion that divides the vertebrae of the spine ruptures or falls, causing pressure on the spinal cord. Signs of IVDD include an inability to climb steps or jump or jump, a hunched spine, pain when being touched, and dragging of the rear feet.
In addition, like most dogs, you'll want to keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid table food, which can contribute to weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. It is also important to brush their coat regularly to keep it clean and healthy. It's okay to give your dog bath every now and again but excessively can take away the natural oils that keep their coat clean and shiny.
