Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd

Consistency, positive reinforcement, and reward-based dog training are essential for German Shepherds. They are intelligent, eager to please, and fast learners.

Their dedication to work makes them naturally watchful of family members and are able to help with security. They are active and require plenty of space to exercise. They also require early socialization and obedience training to mature 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 ability to herd. It took him a long time to find foundation dogs that met his requirements, both physically and mentally. Then, at a dog show in 1899, he spotted 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 kaufen Schaferhunde (or Society for the German Shepherd Dog).

Breed fanciers began to standardize herding dog breeds during the second half of the 19th century. They were able to preserve certain traits that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these traits continue to make the German Shepherd breed popular today. A study revealed that German Shepherds are able to master tasks with only five repetitions, and they obey the first command 95% of the times.

The same traits make this breed a popular family pet, as well as one of the best working dogs for military and police. If properly trained and socialized, these dogs are ideal companions for children as well as other pets. They tend to be reserved with strangers but are generally affectionate with those they love. A German Shepherd that is not socialized at a young age may have difficulty adapting to new situations and become anxious or stressed.

German Shepherds are great guard dogs because of their instincts for protection. 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 an hour if they need to.

Due to their versatility and popularity, you'll see a variety of German Shepherds across the world. The breed's distinctive features are easy to recognize especially if you're familiar with the breed standard. Ask your veterinarian for help in identifying the breed if are not sure. 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 locate a reputable breeder with pedigree papers that can be traced many generations back. Breeders who are reputable are also affiliated with organizations such as the American Kennel Club, which will give you additional assurances of their integrity.

A purebred German Shepherd has a hearty athletic build, deep-chested and deutscher Schäferhund kaufen distinctive coats of black and tan. Adult males weigh between 65 and 90 lbs and are 24 to 26 inches high, while females are typically smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inch tall. They have a long, straight ear and an intense stare. While they may appear intimidating, a properly trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and not exhibit aggressive behavior towards dogs or people.

They are extremely sensitive and Deutscher Schäferhund kaufen can be a good responder to positive reinforcement-based techniques for training, making them quick learners. Regular and early socialization is essential to their development as a well-mannered, confident family pets. They're naturally guardians and watchful over their families, however they'll most likely allow strangers to enter their homes if they aren't danger.

These agile, powerful dogs excel in police and military work, and also serve as service dogs for the handicapped. They possess a strong prey drive, and are likely to chase smaller animals. Therefore, a secure environment that offers plenty of positive interaction with other pets is important.

German Shepherds are loyal, protective and obedient when they are properly socialized and trained. They're generally cautious of other dogs and strangers however, with early socialization and positive training, they'll be able to engage in playful interactions with other pets.

When evaluating the quality of a German Shepherd look for a head shape that is proportional to the dog's size and is well chiseled. The shoulders should be square and broad, schäferhund kaufen österreich with a straight back that has a slight slope from the withers down 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 driven 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 an unwavering loyalty for their family members and are cautious of strangers, which makes them a highly effective guard dog. They thrive with active owners who will challenge them physically and mentally. They require daily exercise and a large yard to play in. If they are not adequately stimulated, they may use destructive methods like chewing or digging.

When selecting a breeder for your dog pick someone who is enthusiastic about the breed and has a thorough knowledge of its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder will be able to discuss the history of both the parents and the puppies. He or she can also determine if the puppies have been socialized and has received obedience training. If a puppy has not been socialized, it will likely require extensive obedience and behavioral training to prepare it to be a pet for the family.

Puppies should be inquisitive and outgoing, with an inherent tendency to assert their rights. If one puppy is more timid than others it should be taken as an indication of danger. Also, a great German Shepherd should be able to maintain a firm and schäferhund welpe kaufen consistent grip when picked up.

The muzzle is strong and long with a well-developed jaw and the chin. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be black (blue or liver-colored noses are disqualifying). The teeth must be white and meet in a strong scissor bite, with the top row of teeth being slightly larger than the lower. The ears are wide and erect at their base, with pointed tips. They can droop a little when in rest.

The German Shepherd is a very versatile dog that can be employed in a variety of different tasks including herding or searching and rescue, SchäFerhund beschüTzerinstinkt bomb and drug detection, and even guiding the blind. This versatility makes it among the most sought-after breeds across the world. However, it is important to remember that the temperament of a German Shepherd can be heavily influenced by its upbringing and training.

Health

Purebred German Shepherds are extremely resilient, able to thrive in a variety of settings and roles. This makes them excellent therapy dogs, service animals and affectionate companions. They also excel in competitive dog sports advanced obedience, as well as protection training. Their work ethic and instincts could lead them to search and rescue missions or police work as well as military careers. Despite their impressive abilities as with all breeds, GSDs can be susceptible to certain health issues.

GSDs, as larger breeds are more susceptible to joint issues such as elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause your dog to become debilitated and in pain as they get older. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary checkups can help minimize their impact.

German Shepherds are at risk of the condition known as bloat. It is condition where the stomach twists and fills up with gas, cutting off blood supply to the liver and spleen. Bloat can be fatal when left untreated. It requires immediate medical treatment.

Due to their long, thick coats and darker colors 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 on every visit for signs of pannus. It is an immune-mediated eye disease that 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 jelly-like cushion between vertebrae in the spine can rupture or slip and pressurize the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include inability to go up stairs or jump, a hunched back, discomfort when touched, 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 foods which can lead to weight growth and nutritional deficiencies. Regularly brush their coats to maintain an appearance that is clean and healthy. It's okay to give your dog bath every now and again however, too much of it can remove the natural oils which keep their coats healthy and shiny.