Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
Consistency, positive reinforcement, and reward-based dog training are crucial for German Shepherds. They are smart and eager to please and fast learners.
They are naturally protective of their family members because of their strong work ethics. They can be trained for security. They are energetic, and require plenty of room to exercise. They require early socialization, obedience training, and to become confident, well-mannered dogs.
Origin
Captain Max von Stephanitz worked to create a herding dog that was unmatched. It took him years to find foundation stocks that met his requirements, physically as well as mentally. Finally, at a dog show in 1899, he spotted a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of several generations of selective breeding and he was a perfect match for Von Stephanitz's vision of what a herding dog ought to 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 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 showed that German Shepherds master tasks after only five repetitions and obey the first command given in 95% of cases.
The same traits make this breed among the top military and police working dogs, and also a loved pet for families. If properly trained and socialized, these dogs are great companions for children and other pets. They are usually reserved with strangers but generally affectionate with the people they love. If they're not socialized as puppies, they German Shepherd may have difficulty adapting to new situations later in life and may become stressed or anxious.
German Shepherds are great guard dogs due to their instincts to protect. They are generally very sensitive and eager to please, which makes them highly adept at training. They are strong and agile, and can run up to 30 miles an hour if they need to.
Because of their versatility and popularity, you'll see a variety of different German Shepherds in the world. The breed's distinctive features are easy to recognize especially if you're familiar with the breed standard. If you are unsure you are, ask your veterinarian for help to identify the breed. Most veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards for the majority of dogs and will be in a position to assist you quickly and effectively.
Characteristics
If you're considering purchasing 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 several generations. Reputable breeders are also members of organizations such as the American Kennel Club. This can give you additional assurances about their integrity.
A true purebred German Shepherd has a hearty, deep-chested athletic build and a distinctive black and tan coat. Adult males weigh between 65 to 90 pounds and are 24 to 26 inches tall and females are typically smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have a long, straight ears and a stern stare. While they may appear intimidating, a well-trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and will not display aggressive behavior towards other dogs or even people.
They are extremely sensitive and can be a good responder to positive reinforcement-based training techniques, making them quick learners. Socialization early and consistently is crucial to their growth as a well-mannered, confident family pets. They are natural guardians and will be watchful over their family members. However, they'll accept strangers if they don't pose a threat to them.
These powerful, agile dogs excel at police and military tasks, as well as service dogs for the handicapped. They possess a remarkably powerful prey drive and will likely chase small animals, which is why creating a safe and secure environment and ensuring plenty of interactions is crucial for households with pets.
When properly socialized and trained German Shepherds are loving, protective and extremely obedient pet companions. They are usually wary of strangers or other dogs, but they can be taught to play with other dogs with positive training and early socialization.
When evaluating the quality of a German Shepherd, look for a head with a wedge shape that is proportional to its height and well-chiseled. The shoulders should be broad and square, with a straight, level back that's only slightly inclined from the withers to the croup. A curving or curved back or rear legs indicate an insufficient structural alignment. A well-constructed German Shepherd moves with a easy, smooth stride that is driven by a forward thrust of the hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent, curious dogs who are gentle and respectful without being overly eager to please. They have an unwavering loyalty to their family members and are cautious of strangers, making them a highly effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and test them physically and mentally. They need plenty of daily exercise and a large backyard to play in. If they are not sufficiently stimulated, they could resort to destructive behaviors like chewing or digging.
When selecting a breeder choose one who is dedicated to the breed and knows its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder will be able to discuss the history of both the parents and the puppies. altdeutscher schäferhund kaufen or she will also be able to determine if the litter has been socialized and has received obedience training. If a puppy is not socialized, it may need extensive training in obedience and behavior to prepare it for a future as an adult member of the family.
Puppies should be curious and outgoing with a natural inclination to assert themselves. If one puppy is more timid than others and is not confident, it could be a warning sign. A good German Shepherd will also have an unwavering, steady grip when being held.
The muzzle is long and strong with a well-developed jaw and the chin. The eyes should be dark and almond shaped. The nose should be dark (blue liver, blue or other colors are disqualifying). The teeth should be white and have an imposing scissor bite with the upper row of teeth being slightly larger than the lower. The ears should be straight and wide at their base with pointed tips that droop slightly when at rest.
The German Shepherd can be used in many different ways. It is a flexible dog that can be employed to assist in herding as well as search and rescue, detect bombs and drugs or even guide blind people. This flexibility is the reason it is 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 greatly affected by its training and its upbringing.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds possess high levels of resilience and can thrive under a variety of different circumstances. This makes them ideal therapy dogs, service animals, and faithful companions. They also excel in sporting competition advanced obedience, as well as protection training. Their commitment to work could lead to careers in search and rescue, police work or military careers. GSDs, like all breeds, are susceptible to certain health issues despite their impressive talents.
As a breed that is larger, GSDs are susceptible to joint problems such as elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause discomfort and even lameness as your dog gets older. A healthy breeding program and regular medical examinations by a veterinarian can reduce the impact.
Like other large breeds, German Shepherds are prone to bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus), in which the stomach turns to fill with gas, cutting off blood flow to the spleen and liver. Bloat can be life-threatening when left untreated. It requires immediate medical care.
Because of their thick, long coats and darker coloring GSDs are also more prone to heat stroke. Keep them hydrated and provide plenty of shade during hot days. We also check their eyes on every exam for signs of pannus. It is an eye disease that is immune-mediated and causes blindness if not treated promptly.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease Von Willebrand's Disease, and hemangiosarcoma which is a blood vessel that has cancer, could all affect your German Shepherd. The cushion of jelly between vertebrae in the spine can rupture or slide and cause pressure to the spinal cord. Signs of IVDD include an inability to go up stairs or jump or jump, a hunched spine, discomfort when touching, and dragging the rear feet.
As with all dogs, you'll want to ensure that you keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid table food which can lead to weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. You should also clean their coat frequently to keep it clean and healthy. A bath is okay occasionally but excessively doing it can remove the natural oils that keep a dog's coat looking shiny and healthy.