Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
German Shepherds thrive with consistency positive reinforcement, as well as rewarding training. They are intelligent and eager to please.
They are naturally protective of their family members due to their solid work ethics. They are able to be trained to ensure security. They are active and need plenty of space to exercise. They need early socialization, obedience training and to become confident and well-mannered dogs.
Origin
Captain Max von Stephanitz worked to create a herding dog unmatched. It took a long time to find foundation stock that could satisfy his criteria -- both physically and temperamentally. Finally, at an exhibition for dogs in 1899, he saw the appearance of a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of a few generations of selective breeding and he perfectly met Von Stephanitz's idea of what a herding dog should be. Hektor was declared to be the first German Shepherd Dog, and von Stephanitz founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (or Society for the German Shepherd Dog).
schäferhunde suchen ein zuhause began to standardize herding dog breeds during the second half of 19th century. german shepherd kaufen were able to preserve many of the characteristics that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these traits still make the German Shepherd breed popular today. A study found that German Shepherds can learn tasks with just five repetitions, and follow the first command 95percent of the time.
The same characteristics make this breed a favorite pet for families and one of the best working dogs for military and police. They make excellent pets and can be great companions for children if they're properly socialized and taught. They tend to be reserved with strangers but generally affectionate with the people they love. If they are not socialized as puppies, however, a 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 good guard dogs. They are smart and eager to be loved by others. This makes them very trainable. They are strong, agile and can run at speeds up 30 miles per hour.
There are a variety of German Shepherds all over the world because of their variety and acclaim. However, the distinctive traits of the breed are usually easy to recognize and, in particular, if you're familiar with the standard of the breed. Ask your veterinarian for help identifying the breed if you aren't certain. Most veterinarians know the breed standards of a majority of dogs and can assist you quickly.
Characteristics
If you're thinking about 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. Breeders with a good reputation are also affiliated with organizations such as the American Kennel Club, which can give you further assurances of their honesty.
A purebred German Shepherd is characterized by a strong, athletic body with distinctive black and tan hue. Adult males typically weigh 65 to 90 pounds and stand 24 to 26 inches tall and females are usually smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have erect ears, long and elongated and an intense stare. A trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating however, it will remain loyal to its owner and will not display aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs.
They are very smart and are able to respond to positive reinforcement-based training methods and are quick learners. Socialization is crucial in their development to become confident well-mannered pets. They're natural guardians and are attentive to their families, but they will most likely allow strangers to enter their homes if they aren't considered to be a threat.
These agile, powerful dogs excel in military and police work, and also serve as service dogs for the handicapped. They have a strong prey drive, and will likely chase smaller animals. Therefore, a secure environment with plenty of positive interaction with other pets is essential.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective and obedient when properly socialized and trained. They are generally shy of strangers and other dogs, but they can be taught to play with other pets with positive training and early socialization.
If you are evaluating the quality of a German Shepherd, look for a head with a wedge shape that is proportional to its size and cleanly chiseled. The shoulders should be broad and square and have an even, straight back that's just slightly sloped from the croup to the croup. A curly back or excessive curvature of the rear legs indicate poor 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 that are loyal and not overly eager to please. They have a steadfast devotion for their family members and are cautious of strangers, making them a highly effective guard dog. They thrive with owners who will challenge them physically and mentally. They require plenty of daily exercise and a large yard to play in. If they aren't adequately stimulated, they could engage in destructive behavior such as chewing or digging.
When selecting a breeder you should look for someone who is dedicated to the breed and is aware of its temperament and personality. A reputable breeder will be able to talk about the history of both the parents and the puppies. They will also be able to inform you if the litter has been socialized and has received obedience training. If the puppy hasn't been socialized, it will likely require extensive obedience and behavioral training to get it ready for life as a pet for the family.
Puppies should be curious and outgoing, with an inherent tendency to assert themselves. If one puppy is more timid than the others and is more timid, it should be taken as an indication. In addition, 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 or liver colors are not acceptable). The teeth should be white, and the top row should be slightly wider than the lower. The ears are erect and wide at the bottom with pointed tips that may be slightly droopy when in rest.
The German Shepherd is a very versatile dog that can be used for many different activities like herding or searching and rescue, bomb and drug detection, and guiding blind people. This versatility is the reason it is one of the most sought-after breeds across the world. It is important to keep in mind that the temperament of the German Shepherd dog can be significantly affected by their training and its upbringing.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds have an impressive level of resilience and are able to thrive in a variety of different situations. This makes them great therapy dogs, service animals and faithful companions. They also excel at competitive dog sports advanced obedience, as well as training for protection. Their commitment to work could lead to careers in search and rescue, police work, or military careers. GSDs, like all breeds, are prone to certain health problems despite their impressive capabilities.
GSDs, being larger breeds, are more susceptible to joint issues such as elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause pain and lameness as your dog ages. Regular health checks by your veterinarian can help reduce their impact.
German Shepherds are prone to Bloat, an illness in which the stomach twists and expands, cutting off blood supply to the liver and spleen. Bloat can be fatal if left untreated. It requires immediate medical treatment.
Due to their long, thick coats as well as their darker colors, GSDs are also prone to heat stroke. Make sure they are hydrated and provide plenty of shade on hot days. Also, we should check their eyes for signs of pannus, an immune-mediated disease that can cause blindness if it is not treated immediately.
Several inherited and hereditary illnesses can affect your German Shepherd's digestive system, including Hemangiosarcoma cancer of blood vessels, exocrine pancreatic dysfunction (EPI), von Willebrand disease, and intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). The last is when the cushion of jelly that connects the vertebrae of your spine is ripped or falls, causing pressure on the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include an inability to climb stairs or jump.
As with all dogs, you should feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and stay clear of table food which can cause weight growth and nutritional deficiencies. It is also important to regularly brush their coat to keep it healthy and clean. It's okay to give your dog a bath every now and again however, too much of it can remove the natural oils which keep their coat healthy and shiny.