Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd

German Shepherds thrive when they are consistent, positive reinforcement, and rewarding training. They are smart and eager to please.

Their work ethic and dedication ensures they are naturally attentive to family members and are able to help in security. They are energetic, and require plenty of space to exercise. They also require early socialization and obedience training in order to grow into confident, well-mannered dogs.

Origin

In the late 1800s Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to create a dog who could not be matched in its herding capabilities. It took him years to find a foundation stock that matched his requirements physically as well as mentally. Hektor Linksrhein is one of the German Shepherd, was discovered at a dog show in 1899. Hektor was the product of several generations of selective breeding and He was perfectly in line with Von Stephanitz's vision for what a herding breed should be. Von Stephanitz declared Hektor the first German king shepherd kaufen Dog and founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde.

Breed fanciers began to standardize herding dog breeds during the second half of the 19th century. They were able to preserve certain traits that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these characteristics continue to make the German Shepherd breed a cult. For example, a study showed that German Shepherds learn tasks in just five times and follow the first command that is given 95% of the time.

The same traits make this breed among the best police and military working dogs, as well as a popular family pet. They make excellent pets and companions for children if they are properly trained and socialized. They are generally reserved with strangers but generally affectionate with the people they love. A German Shepherd that is not socialized early in life may later have trouble adjusting to new situations and become anxious or stressed.

Due to their strong instincts to protect German Shepherds have a tendency to be extremely cautious around strangers and make good guard dogs. They are generally highly intelligent and eager to please, making them highly adept at training. They are strong and agile, and can run up to 30 miles per hour if they have to.

There are many German Shepherds around the globe due to their versatility and popularity. The distinctive features of the breed are easy to identify, especially if familiar with the standard of the breed. Ask your veterinarian for help in identifying the breed if aren't sure. Most veterinarians are familiar with breed standards of a majority of dogs and will be able to assist you quickly.

Characteristics

If you're thinking about buying 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. Reputable breeders are also part of organizations like the American Kennel Club. This can give you additional assurances regarding their honesty.

Purebred German Shepherd is characterized by an athletic, muscular physique with a distinct black and tan color. Adult males typically weigh 65 to 90 pounds and stand between 24 and SchäFerhundwelpen 26 inches tall 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. A well-trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating however, it will remain loyal to its owner and will not display aggressive behavior towards humans or other dogs.

They are very intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based training methods, making them quick learners. Early and consistent socialization is crucial to their growth as confident, well-mannered family pets. They are naturally guardians and will watch over their family members. However, they'll accept strangers as long as they don't pose a threat to them.

These agile, SchäFerhundwelpen powerful dogs excel in police and military tasks, as well as service dogs for those with disabilities. They possess a strong prey drive and will likely chase smaller animals. Therefore, a secure environment with plenty of positive socialization for other pets is important.

If properly trained and socialized, German Shepherds can be extremely protective, loving and extremely loyal companions. They are typically wary of other dogs and strangers, but with early socialization and regular positive training, they'll be able to have fun with other pets.

When assessing a German Shepherd's quality Look for a head shape that is proportional to the size of the dog and is cleanly chiseled. The shoulders should be broad and square and straight, with a back that slopes slightly from the withers down to the croup. A curved or excessively curving rear or back legs are a sign of poor 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 obedient without being overly eager to please. They have a strong loyalty to their families and are wary of strangers, which makes them a highly effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and challenge them mentally and physically. They require plenty of daily exercise as well as a large backyard to play in. If they are not adequately stimulated, they may use destructive methods like chewing or digging.

When selecting a breeder you should look for someone who is committed to the breed and is aware of its temperament and personality. A reputable breeder can discuss the history of the parents and puppies. They will also be able inform you if the litter has been socialized and has received obedience training. If a puppy is not socialized, it might require extensive training in obedience and behavior to prepare it for a future as a family member.

Puppy should be curious and outgoing with an instinctual tendency to assert their rights. If one puppy is more timid than the others this is a warning. A good German Shepherd should also have a an unwavering, steady grip when being held.

The muzzle is strong and long with a well developed jaw and chin. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be black (blue or Schäferhund welpe Kaufen liver-colored noses are not acceptable). The teeth should be white and have an imposing scissor bite with the upper row of teeth slightly wider than the bottom. The ears are large and erect at the base, with pointed tips. They may be a bit droopy when in rest.

The German Shepherd is a very adaptable dog that can be used for many different activities, was kostet ein reinrassiger Schäferhund such as herding as well as search 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. But, 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 extremely resilient, able to flourish in a variety of settings and roles. They are excellent companions, therapy dogs and service animals. They also excel at competition dog sports advanced obedience, as well as protection training. Their dedication to work and instincts could lead them to missions of search and rescue as well as police work and military careers. GSDs, like all breeds, are susceptible to certain health issues despite their remarkable abilities.

GSDs, being a larger breed are more prone to joint problems such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause lameness and pain as your dog ages. Responsible breeding and regular vet exams can help reduce the impact.

German Shepherds are prone to Bloat, a condition in which the stomach expands and fills with gas and cuts off blood flow to the liver and spleen. If left untreated, bloat is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical treatment.

Because of their long, thick coats and darker coloring, GSDs are also prone to heat stroke. Keep them hydrated and offer plenty of shade on hot days. We also check their eyes during every examination for signs of pannus. It is an eye disease caused by immune system that 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 Insufficiency (EPI) as well as von Willebrand disease, and intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). The last one occurs when the cushion of jelly that connects the vertebrae of your spine is ripped or slips and puts pressure on the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include inability to go up steps or jump or jump, a hunched spine, discomfort when being touched, and dragging of the rear feet.

As with all dogs, you'll need to keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid table foods that can cause weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. You should also brush their coat regularly to keep it clean and healthy. It's fine to give your dog a bath every now and again, but too much can remove the natural oils which keep their coats healthy and shiny.