Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
German Shepherds thrive with consistency positive reinforcement, as well as rewarding training. They are intelligent, eager to please, and fast learners.
They are naturally protective of their family members because of their strong work ethics. They are able to be trained to ensure security. They are active and require ample space to exercise. reinrassiger deutscher schäferhund require early socialization, obedience training and to become confident well-mannered 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 years to find foundation stocks that met his requirements, both physically as well as mentally. Hektor Linksrhein, a German Shepherd, was 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 vision 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 in the second half of 19th century. They were able to preserve a lot of the characteristics that attracted Von Stephanitz's attention. those traits are what make the breed famous today. A study found that German Shepherds can learn tasks with only five repetitions, and they obey the first command 95percent of the time.
The same characteristics make this breed a beloved pet for the family and one of the top working dogs for military and police. They make excellent pets and are great companions for children if they are properly trained and socialized. They are cautious around strangers, but they are affectionate with those they love. If they are not socialized as puppies, they German Shepherd may have difficulty adapting to new environments later in life and become anxious or stressed.
German Shepherds are excellent guard dogs due to their instincts for protection. They are smart and eager to please. This makes them highly adept at training. They are agile, strong and can run at speeds of up 30 miles per hour.
Due to their wide range of uses and popularity, you'll find a wide variety of German Shepherds across the world. The breed's distinctive features are easy to recognize especially if familiar with the standard of the breed. If you are unsure, consult your veterinarian for assistance to determine the breed. The majority of veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards of a majority of dogs and will be able to assist you quickly.
Characteristics
If you're considering adopting or purchasing a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you choose a reputable German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back several generations. Breeders with a good reputation are also affiliated with organizations such as the American Kennel Club, which will provide you with additional assurances of their integrity.
A purebred German Shepherd has a hearty muscular build, with a deep chest with a distinctive black and tan coat. Adult males typically weigh 65 to 90 pounds and are between 24 and 26 inches tall, while females are generally smaller at 50 to 70 pounds and 22 to 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 its owner and will not display aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs.
They are highly sensitive and can be a good responder to positive reinforcement-based training methods, making them quick learners. Socialization is essential in their development to become confident and 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 an threat.
These powerful, agile dogs are suitable for a variety of types of work and excel in police and military duty as well as in the role of service dogs for the disabled. They have a powerful prey drive, and will likely chase smaller animals. Therefore, a secure environment that offers plenty of positive socialization for other pets is important.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective and respectful when they are properly socialized and trained. They're typically wary of other dogs and strangers, but through early socialization and positive training, they can be taught to have fun with other pets.
When evaluating the German Shepherd's qualities, look for a head with a wedge 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 is slightly sloped from the croup to the croup. A curved back or excessive curvature of the rear legs indicates 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 that are obedient without being overly eager to please. They are loyal to their families and wary of strangers. This makes them a great guard dog. They thrive with owners who challenge them physically and mentally. They require a lot of exercise and a large yard to play in. If they aren't adequately 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 background of both parents and pups. They will also be able to inform you if the puppies have been socialized and has received obedience training. If a puppy hasn't been socialized, it will likely require a lot of obedience and behavioral training to get it ready to be a pet for the family.
Puppies must be curious and outgoing, with a natural tendency for asserting themselves. If one puppy is more timid than others this should be taken as an indication. Also, a great German Shepherd should be able to maintain a firm and consistent grip when picked up.
The muzzle is strong and long with a well developed jaw and the chin. The eyes should be dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be dark (blue, liver or other colors are not acceptable). The teeth must be white, and the top row should be slightly larger than the lower. The ears should be straight and wide at the bottom, with pointed tips that can drop slightly when resting.
The German Shepherd is a very adaptable dog that is employed in a variety of different tasks like herding as well as search and rescue or bomb and drug detection, and even guiding blind people. This versatility is the reason it is one of 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 dependent on its background and training.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds have an impressive level of resilience and can thrive in a variety different circumstances. This makes them great therapy dogs, service animals, and faithful companions. They are also adept at advanced obedience and protection training, as well as competitive dog sports. Their dedication to work can result in careers in search and rescue, police work, or military careers. GSDs, like all breeds, are susceptible to certain health issues despite their remarkable abilities.
As a breed that is larger GSDs are more prone to joint problems like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative diseases can cause pain and lameness as your dog ages. Responsible breeding and regular health checks by your veterinarian can help reduce their impact.
Like other large breeds German Shepherds are susceptible to Bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus) in which the stomach turns to fill with gas, cutting off blood flow to the liver and spleen. If left untreated, bloat is an extremely serious condition that requires immediate medical treatment.
GSDs may also suffer from heat stroke because of their long, thick dark coats. On hot days, make sure to keep them well-hydrated and provide them with plenty of shade. We also check their eyes during every visit for signs of pannus, an eye disease caused by immune system that causes blindness if not addressed promptly.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease, von Willebrand's disease, and hemangiosarcoma, which is a blood vessel that is cancerous, can all affect your German Shepherd. The jelly-like cushion between the vertebrae in the spine can rupture or slip and cause pressure to the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include the inability to climb stairs or jump.
In addition, like most dogs, it is important to ensure that you 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 healthy and clean. A bath is acceptable from time to time but if you overdo it, it could remove the natural oils which keep a dog's coat shiny and healthy.
