Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd

German Shepherds thrive when they are consistent positive reinforcement, as well as reward-based training. They are intelligent and eager to please.

They are naturally protective of their family members because of their strong work ethic. They are able to be trained to ensure security. They are energetic and need ample space to exercise. They also require early socialization and obedience training to mature into well-mannered, confident dogs.

Origin

Captain Max von Stephanitz worked to create an herding dog that was unmatched. It took years to find foundation stock that would meet his standards physically and in temperament. Finally, at the dog show in 1899, he spotted an adorable German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of a few generations of selective breeding, and he was a perfect match for Von Stephanitz's idea of what a herding animal should be. Von Stephanitz declared Hektor the first German Shepherd Dog and founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde.

Breed fanciers began to standardize herding dog breeds in the second half 19th century. They were able to preserve many of the traits that caught Von Stephanitz's attention. And those traits still make the breed popular in the present. For instance, a research study revealed that German Shepherds can learn tasks after only five repetitions and obey the first command that is given at least 95% of the time.

These same traits also make this breed among the top military and police working dogs, and also a beloved pet for families. These dogs are great pets and companions for children if they are properly trained and socialized. They are usually cautious around strangers, but are generally affectionate with people they love. A German Shepherd that is not socialized at a young age might later have difficulty adjusting to new circumstances and may be anxious or stressed.

Due to their strong protective instincts, German Shepherds can be wary around strangers and are excellent guard dogs. They are intelligent and eager to be loved by others. This makes them highly capable of being trained. They are strong and agile, and can run up to 30 miles an hour, if they are required to.

Because of their versatility and schäferhund Kaufen welpe popularity, you'll see a variety of German Shepherds across the world. The distinctive features of the breed are easy to identify, especially if you're familiar with the standard of the breed. If you're unsure you are, consult your veterinarian for help to determine the breed. The majority of veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards of a majority of dogs and will be able to assist you quickly.

Characteristics

If you're considering purchasing or adopting a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you locate an accredited German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back several generations. Breeders with a good reputation are also members of organizations like the American Kennel Club, which will give you additional assurances of their honesty.

Purebred German Shepherd is characterized by a muscular, athletic body with distinctive black and tan color. Adult males weigh 65 to 90 pounds and are 24 to 26 inches high, whereas females are usually smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22-25 inches tall. They have a long, erect ear and an intense stare. A well-trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating but it will be loyal to its owner and not display aggressive behavior towards humans or other dogs.

They are quick learners and highly intelligent. Early and Schäferhund kaufen consistent socialization is essential to their growth as confident, well-mannered family pets. They are natural guardians and will guard their family. However, they'll be tolerant of strangers as long as they don't pose a threat to them.

These powerful, agile dogs are suitable for a variety of kinds of jobs and excel in police and military duty as well as in the role of service dogs for the disabled. They possess a remarkably strong prey drive, and deutscher schäferhund welpe kaufen schäferhund kaufen welpe welpe (More Tips) will likely chase small animals, which is why creating a safe environment and ensuring lots of positive interactions is crucial for families with pets.

If properly trained and socialized German Shepherds can be extremely protective, loving, and incredibly obedient companions. They are typically cautious of strangers and other dogs, but they can be taught to play with other dogs with positive training and early socialization.

When assessing the quality of a German Shepherd, look for a wedge-shaped head proportional to its size and perfectly chiseled. The shoulders should be broad and square, with a straight, level back that is only slightly sloped from the croup to the croup. A curving or curved rear or schäFerhund kaufen welpe back legs are a sign of poor 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 well-behaved, but not too eager to please. They have a strong loyalty to their family members and are cautious of strangers, making them an excellent guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and test them physically and mentally. They need daily exercise, and a huge yard to play in. If they are not sufficiently stimulated, they could use destructive methods like chewing or digging.

When choosing a breeder you should look for someone who is dedicated to the breed and knows its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder can discuss the history of the parents and the puppies. They will also be able to tell you whether the litter has been socialized and given obedience training. If the puppy isn't 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 should be curious and outgoing, with a natural tendency for asserting themselves. If one puppy is more timid than the others, it should be interpreted as a warning. In addition, a good German Shepherd should have a strong and steady grip when being picked up.

The muzzle is long and strong with a well-developed jaw and chin. The eyes should be dark and almond shaped. The nose should be dark (blue liver, blue or other colors are not acceptable). The teeth should be white, and the top row should be slightly bigger than the lower. The ears should be straight and wide at the bottom with pointed tips that may drop slightly when resting.

The German Shepherd is a very versatile dog that can be used in many different ways, such as herding or searching and rescue or bomb and drug detection, and even guiding blind people. This versatility makes it one of the most sought-after breeds in the entire world. But, it is important to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd can be heavily affected by its environment and training.

Health

Purebred German Shepherds are extremely resilient, able to thrive in many different environments and roles. This makes them great therapy dogs, service animals, and loyal companions. They are also adept in advanced obedience and protection training and competitive dog sports. Their dedication to work can lead to careers in search and rescue, police work or military careers. GSDs, like all breeds, are susceptible to certain health problems despite their impressive abilities.

As a larger breed GSDs are more prone to joint problems like elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia. These degenerative diseases may cause your dog to become debilitated and schäferhund kaufen welpe painful as they get older. A healthy breeding program and regular veterinary examinations can help minimize the effects.

Like other large breeds German Shepherds are also prone to bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus) that is when the stomach twists in a way, releasing gas and cutting off blood flow to the liver and spleen. Bloat can be fatal when left untreated. It requires immediate medical treatment.

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 for signs of pannus, an immune-mediated condition that can cause blindness if it is not treated immediately.

A variety of hereditary and inherited illnesses can impact your German Shepherd's digestive system, including Hemangiosarcoma cancer of blood vessels, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) as well as 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 creating pressure on the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD are the inability to climb stairs or jump.

As with all dogs, you will want to feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and stay clear of table food which can lead to weight growth and nutritional deficiencies. It is also important to regularly brush their coat to keep it clean and healthy. A bath is okay every now and then, but overdoing it can take away the natural oils which keep a dog's coat healthy and shiny.