Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd

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

They are naturally protective of their family members due to their strong work ethic. They can be trained for security. They are active and need plenty of space to exercise. They need early socialization, obedience training and to develop into confident and 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 ability to herd. It took years to find foundation stock that would meet his standards physically and emotionally. At an exhibition for dogs in 1899, he saw an adorable German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of a few generations of selective breeding, and he matched perfectly with Von Stephanitz's idea of what a herding dog should be. Hektor was named the first German Shepherd Dog, and von Stephanitz founded the Verein fur deutsche schäferhunde welpen kaufen österreich Schaferhunde (or Society for SchäFerhund Abzugeben the German Shepherd Dog).

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

The same traits make this breed a popular family pet and one of the most effective working dogs for military and police. They make excellent pets and can be great companions for children when they are properly trained and socialized. They are cautious around strangers, however, they are incredibly affectionate towards the ones they love. If they are not socialized as puppies, they German Shepherd may have difficulty adjusting to new situations later in life and become stressed or anxious.

Because of their strong protective instincts German Shepherds have a tendency to be extremely cautious around strangers and make excellent guard dogs. They are generally very smart and eager to please, making them extremely capable of being trained. They are strong and agile and can run up to 30 miles per hour, if they are required to.

You will find many different German Shepherds in the world because of their wide range of uses and popularity. But the distinctive characteristics of the breed are usually easy to recognize, especially if you are familiar with the standard of the breed. Ask your veterinarian for help identifying the breed if you are not certain. Most veterinarians are knowledgeable of the breed standards of most dogs and will be in a position to assist you quickly and efficiently.

Characteristics

If you're thinking of buying or adopting a purebred German Shepherd, it's important to find a reputable breeder who has pedigree papers that can be traced several generations back. Reputable breeders are also part of associations like the American Kennel Club. This can give you additional assurances about their integrity.

A true purebred German Shepherd has a hearty athletic build, deep-chested and a distinctive coats of black and tan. Adult males weigh 65 to 90 pounds and are approximately 24 to 26 inches tall, whereas females are usually smaller at 50-70 lbs and 22-25 inches tall. They have long, erect ears and a sharp stare. A trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating but it will be loyal to the owner and will not exhibit aggression towards people or other dogs.

They are extremely smart and are able to respond to positive reinforcement-based techniques for training and are quick learners. Regular and early socialization is essential to their development as a well-mannered, confident family pets. They are natural guardians and will guard their family. However, they'll be tolerant of strangers as long as they don't threaten them.

These agile, powerful dogs excel at military and police work as well as being aid dogs for people with disabilities. They have a powerful prey drive and will likely chase smaller animals. Therefore, a safe environment that provides plenty of interactions with other animals is crucial.

German Shepherds are loyal, protective and obedient when properly socialized and taught. They are typically shy of strangers and other dogs, but can be taught to play with other pets through positive training and early socialization.

When evaluating the German Shepherd's qualities Look for a head with a wedge shape that is proportional to the dog's size and is well chiseled. The shoulders should be large and square and have a straight, level back that's only slightly sloped from the withers to the croup. A curved or excessively curving rear or back legs suggest an imbalance in the structural structure. A well-built German Shepherd moves with an effortless easy stride, which is fueled by the forward thrust of its hindquarters.

Temperament

German Shepherds are intelligent, curious dogs who are loyal and gentle without being 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 SchäFerhund BeschüTzerinstinkt will test them physically and mentally. They need daily exercise, and a large area to play in. If they aren't adequately stimulated, they might engage in destructive behavior such as chewing or digging.

When choosing a dog breeder select a person who is passionate about the breed and has a good knowledge of its temperament and personality. A trustworthy breeder will be able discuss the background of the parents as well as the puppies. They will also be able to tell you whether the puppies have been socialized and has received 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 inquisitive and outgoing, with an instinctual tendency to assert themselves. If one puppy is more timid than the others this should be taken as an indication. Also, a great German Shepherd should be able to maintain a firm and consistent grip when being picked up.

The muzzle is strong and long with a well-developed jaw and chin. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be dark (blue or liver colors are not acceptable). The teeth must be white and have a strong scissor-like bite with the top row of teeth being slightly larger than the bottom. The ears are large and erect at the base with pointed tips. They may slide down a bit when they are 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, identify drugs and bombs, or guide the blind. This versatility is what makes it one of the most sought-after breeds across the world. It is essential to remember that the temperament of the German Shepherd dog can be heavily affected by its training and its upbringing.

Health

Purebred German Shepherds are extremely resilient, able to flourish in many different environments and roles. This makes them excellent therapy dogs, service animals, and faithful companions. They are also excellent in advanced obedience and deutsche schäFerhundwelpen protection training, as well as competitive dog sports. Their commitment to work could result in careers in search and rescue, police work, or military careers. Despite these amazing talents as with all breeds, GSDs are prone to certain health conditions.

GSDs, as larger breeds, are more prone to joint problems like hip dysplasia or elbow 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 condition where the stomach twists and fills with gas and purebred German Shepherd cuts off blood flow to the liver and spleen. Bloat can be fatal if left untreated. It requires immediate medical care.

Because of their thick, long coats and darker coloring GSDs are also more prone to heat stroke. Make sure they are hydrated and provide plenty of shade on hot days. We also examine their eyes on every visit for signs of pannus. It is 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, causing pressure to the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include inability to go up stairs or jump and a hunched back. discomfort when touched, and dragging the rear feet.

As with all dogs, it is important to keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid table foods which can lead to weight growth and nutritional deficiencies. Brush their coat regularly to keep an appearance that is clean and healthy. A bath is fine every now and then, but overdoing it can take away the natural oils which keep a dog's coat shiny and healthy.