Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
German Shepherds thrive on consistency positive reinforcement, a steady diet, and reward-based training. They are intelligent and eager to please and quick learners.
Their work ethic and dedication makes them naturally watchful of family members and they can be trained to assist in security. They are active and require plenty of space to exercise. They also need early socialization and obedience training in order to grow into well-mannered, confident dogs.
Origin
In the latter half of 1800 Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to develop a dog that would be unmatched in its herding capabilities. It took him a long time to find a foundation stock that met his requirements, physically and mentally. Hektor Linksrhein, a German Shepherd, was finally discovered at a dog show in 1899. Hektor was the result of several generations of selective breeding, and he was a perfect match for Von Stephanitz's idea of what a herding animal should 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 enthusiasts began to standardize herding dog breeds during the second half of 19th century. They were able preserve some of the traits that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these characteristics continue to make the German Shepherd breed a cult. For example, a study revealed that German Shepherds master tasks in just five times and follow the first command given 95% of the time.
These traits make this breed a beloved family pet, as well as one of the most effective working dogs for police and military. If properly trained and socialized they make ideal companions for children as well as other pets. They are usually shy around strangers, but they are generally affectionate with people they love. If they are not socialized as puppies, they German Shepherd may have difficulty adapting to new situations later in life and become anxious or stressed.
German Shepherds are great guard dogs because of their instincts to protect. They are smart and eager to please. This makes them very adept at training. They are strong and agile, and can run up to 30 miles per hour if they need to.
Due to their versatility and popularity you'll find a wide variety of German Shepherds around the world. But the breed's distinctive characteristics are usually easy to recognize, especially if you are familiar with the breed standard. If you are unsure you are, consult your veterinarian to help you identify the breed. Most veterinarians are familiar with breed standards of a majority of dogs and will be able to assist you quickly.
Characteristics
Whether you're considering purchasing or adopting a purebred German Shepherd, it's important to find a reliable breeder who has pedigree papers that can be traced for several generations back. navigate to this website are also members of organizations 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 distinctive coat of black and tan. Adult males weigh between 65 to 90 pounds and are 24 to 26 inches tall and females are usually smaller at 50 to 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have a long, straight ears and a stern stare. A trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating, but it will remain loyal to its owner and will not exhibit aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs.
They are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based techniques for training and are quick learners. Socialization is vital in their development to become confident, well-mannered pets. They are natural guardians and will be watchful over their family. However, they will be tolerant of strangers as long as they don't frighten them.
These powerful, agile dogs excel at military and police work, and also serve as service dogs for those with disabilities. They have an exceptionally strong prey drive and will likely chase small animals, which is why making sure they are in a secure area and ensuring plenty of ongoing socialization is key for households with other pets.
deutscher schäferhund kaufen are loyal, protective and respectful when properly socialized and trained. They are typically wary of strangers or other dogs, but they can be taught to play with other pets through positive training and early socialization.
When assessing a German Shepherd's quality Look for a head shape that is proportional to the size of the dog and is well chiseled. The shoulders should be wide and square with an even, straight back that is only slightly sloped from the withers to the croup. A curly back or excessive curvature of the rear legs indicates an insufficient structural alignment. 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 and curious dogs who are loyal and not overly eager to please. They have an unwavering loyalty to their families and are wary of strangers, making them a very effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and will be challenged both physically and mentally. They require daily exercise and a large yard to play in. If they aren't adequately stimulated, they could resort to destructive behaviors such as chewing or digging.
When selecting a breeder for your dog select a person who is enthusiastic about the breed and has a good knowledge of its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder will be able to discuss the history of both the parents and the puppies. They can also tell you whether the puppies have been socialized and has received obedience training. If the puppy isn't socialized, it could require extensive training in obedience and behavior to prepare it for a future life as a family member.
Puppies should be curious and outgoing, with a natural tendency to assert their rights. If one puppy is more timid than others, this should be considered an indication of danger. Additionally, a good German Shepherd should have a firm and consistent grip when 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 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 their base, with pointed tips that droop slightly when at rest.
The German Shepherd can be used in many different ways. It is a versatile dog that can be used to help herd as well as search and rescue, spot explosives and drugs, 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 a variety of settings and roles. They are great companions, therapy dogs, and service animals. They are also adept at advanced obedience and protection training, as well as competitive dog sports. Their strong work ethic can result in careers in search and rescue, police work, or military careers. Despite their impressive abilities like most breeds, GSDs can be susceptible to certain health issues.
As a breed that is larger GSDs are more susceptible to joint problems like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause your dog to become debilitated and painful as they get older. Responsible breeding and regular vet checkups can reduce their effects.
German Shepherds are at risk of bloat, condition where the stomach expands and fills with gas and cuts off blood flow to the liver and spleen. Bloat can be fatal when left untreated. It requires immediate medical treatment.
Because of their long, thick coats and darker coloring GSDs are also more prone to heat stroke. On hot days, ensure they are hydrated and give them plenty of shade. We also check their eyes for signs of pannus - an immune-mediated illness that could cause blindness if it is not treated promptly.
Several inherited and hereditary illnesses can affect your German Shepherd's digestive system, including hemangiosarcoma tumors of the blood vessels, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI), von Willebrand disease, and intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). The latter occurs when the cushion of jelly that connects the vertebrae of your spine is ripped or falls creating pressure on the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD are an inability to climb stairs or jump.
As with all dogs, you will need to feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and stay clear of table food which can lead to weight gain and nutritional deficiencies. Clean their coat frequently to keep an appearance that is clean and healthy. A bath is fine occasionally but excessively doing it can strip the natural oils that keep the coat looking shiny and healthy.