Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
German Shepherds thrive when they are consistent positive reinforcement, a steady diet, and rewarding training. They are smart and eager to please and are quick learners.
Their dedication to work makes them naturally watchful of family members and can be trained to help in security. They are lively and require plenty of space to exercise. They also need 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 him years to find foundation stocks that matched his requirements both physically as well as mentally. Then, at a dog show in 1899, he spotted 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 dog 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 keep certain traits that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these traits still make the German Shepherd breed famous today. For example, a study revealed that German Shepherds master tasks after only five repetitions, and they obey the first command given 95% of the time.
These traits also make the breed one of the top military and police working dogs, as well as a loved pet for families. These dogs are great pets and companions for children if they are properly socialized and taught. They tend to be reserved with strangers but are generally affectionate with those they love. A German Shepherd that is not socialized at a young age may have difficulty adapting to new environments and may become anxious or stressed.
Due to their strong protective instincts German Shepherds have a tendency to be cautious around strangers and are excellent guard dogs. They are intelligent and eager to be loved by others. This makes them highly trainable. They are agile, strong and can run at speeds up 30 miles per hour.
There are many German Shepherds in the world because of their versatility and popularity. But the distinctive characteristics of the breed are usually easy to recognize and, in particular, if you're familiar with the breed standard. If you are unsure, ask your veterinarian for assistance to identify 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 considering buying or adopting 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 such as the American Kennel Club. This will provide you with additional assurances about their credibility.
A purebred German Shepherd is characterized by a muscular, athletic physique with a distinct black and tan hue. Adult males weigh between 65 to 90 pounds and stand at a height of 24 to 26 inches and females are typically smaller at 50 to 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have long, erect ears and a stern stare. Although they can appear intimidating, a properly trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and will not display aggressive behavior towards dogs or people.
They are quick learners and highly intelligent. Regular and early socialization is crucial to their growth as well-mannered, confident family pets. They are natural guardians and will watch over their family members. However, they'll accept strangers if they don't pose a threat to them.
These powerful, agile dogs excel in military and police work as well as being service dogs for the handicapped. They have a powerful prey drive, and will likely chase smaller animals. Therefore, a safe environment with plenty of positive socialization for other pets is important.
When properly socialized and trained German Shepherds are extremely protective, loving and extremely loyal companions. They're typically wary of strangers and other dogs However, with early socialization and ongoing positive training can learn 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 dog's size and is cleanly chiseled. deutscher schäferhund kaufen schweiz should be large and square and have a straight, level back that's only slightly sloped from the croup to the croup. A curving or curved rear or back legs suggest an imbalance in the structural structure. A well-built German Shepherd moves with an effortless easy stride, which is driven by the forward thrust of its hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent, curious dogs who are obedient and tolerant without being too eager to please. They are loyal to their family and sceptical of strangers. This makes them a great guard dog. They thrive with owners who challenge them physically and mentally. They require regular exercise and a large area to play in. If they aren't sufficiently stimulated, they could use destructive methods such as chewing or digging.
When selecting a breeder to work with you should 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 history of the parents as well as the puppies. He or she will determine whether the litter has received obedience training and socialization. If a puppy isn't socialized, it might require extensive training in obedience and behavior to prepare it for a future as an adult member of the family.
Puppy must be curious and outgoing with a natural inclination to assert their rights. If one puppy is more reserved than the others and is more timid, it is a warning. A good German Shepherd should also have a a firm, consistent grip when taken up.
The muzzle is long and strong with a well-developed jaw and the chin. The eyes should be dark and almond shaped. The nose must be black (blue or liver-colored noses are a disqualification). The teeth should be white and meet in a strong scissor-like bite with the top row of teeth slightly wider than the lower. The ears are wide and erect at their 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 a versatile dog and can be employed to help herd, search and rescue, spot 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 important to remember that the temperament of the German Shepherd dog can be significantly affected by their training and environment.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds are incredibly resilient, able to thrive in a variety of settings and roles. They are excellent companions, therapy dogs and service animals. They also excel in competition dog sports advanced obedience and training for protection. Their dedication to work can result in careers in search and rescue, police work or military careers. Despite their impressive abilities like most breeds, GSDs are susceptible to certain health issues.
GSDs, being larger breeds, are more prone to joint issues such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause lameness and pain as your dog gets older. Regular medical examinations by a veterinarian can reduce the effects.
Like other large breeds, German Shepherds are prone to Bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus) in which the stomach expands, filling with gas and cutting off the blood supply to the spleen and liver. Bloat can be life-threatening in the event that it is not treated. It requires immediate medical care.
GSDs can also suffer from heat stroke because of their thick, long dark coats. On hot days, keep them hydrated and offer them plenty of shade. 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.
Many hereditary and inherited diseases can affect your German Shepherd's digestive system, such as Hemangiosarcoma cancer of blood vessels, exocrine pancreatic dysfunction (EPI), von Willebrand disease, and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). The last one occurs when the cushion of jelly that divides the vertebrae of the spine breaks or falls, causing pressure on the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD are the inability to climb stairs or jump.
As with all dogs, you'll want to keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid table food that can cause weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. Clean their coat frequently to maintain an appearance that is clean and healthy. A bath is acceptable every now and then but excessively doing it can remove the natural oils which keep a dog's coat healthy and shiny.