Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd

German Shepherds thrive when they are consistent positive reinforcement, a steady diet, and reward-based training. They are intelligent, eager to please, and fast learners.

Their dedication to work ensures they are naturally attentive to family members and can be trained to assist in security. They are lively 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 late 1800s, Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to develop a dog that would be unmatched in its herding capabilities. It took years to find a foundation dog that would meet his requirements physically and in temperament. At the dog show in 1899, he saw a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the product of several generations of selective breeding and he perfectly matched Von Stephanitz's idea of what a herding dog should be. Von Stephanitz declared Hektor the first German Shepherd Dog and founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde.

In the second half of the 19th century, breeders tried to standardize herding dog breeds. They were able to preserve many of the traits that drew Von Stephanitz's attention. And those traits are what make the breed popular today. For instance, a study found that German Shepherds can learn tasks in just five repetitions, and SchäFerhund Welpen Kaufen Schweiz they obey the first command 95% of the time.

The same traits make this breed a popular pet for families, as well as one of the best working dogs for police and military. If properly trained and socialized they can be ideal companions for children as well as other pets. They are cautious around strangers, but they are affectionate with those they love. A German Shepherd that is not socialized from a young age might later have difficulty adjusting to new circumstances and may become anxious or SchäFerhunde Suchen Ein Zuhause stressed.

German Shepherds are great guard dogs due to their instincts to protect. They are smart and eager to please. This makes them extremely capable of being trained. They are agile, strong and can run up to 30 miles an hour.

Due to their versatility and popularity, you'll find a wide variety of different German Shepherds in the world. The distinctive characteristics of the breed are easy to recognize, especially if you're familiar with the breed standard. Ask your veterinarian for help in identifying the breed, if you are not certain. Most veterinarians know the breed standards of a majority of dogs and can help you quickly.

Characteristics

If you're thinking of purchasing or adopting a purebred German Shepherd, it's important to locate a reputable breeder who has pedigree papers that can be traced many 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 integrity.

A purebred German Shepherd is characterized by a muscular, athletic physique with a distinct black and tan colour. Adult males weigh 65 to 90 pounds and stand 24 to 26 inches high, whereas females are typically smaller at 50-70 lbs and 22 to 25 inch tall. They have long, erect ear 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 humans or other dogs.

They are very intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based training techniques, making them quick learners. Socialization is crucial to their development into confident well-mannered pets. They're naturally guardians and watchful over their families, but they will likely accept strangers who aren't an threat.

These powerful, agile dogs excel at military and police tasks, reinrassiger schäferhund as well as service dogs for the handicapped. They possess a remarkably powerful prey drive and are likely to chase small animals, which is why creating a safe and secure environment and ensuring lots of positive interactions is crucial for households with pets.

German Shepherds are loyal, protective and obedient when properly socialized and deutscher Schäferhund kaufen - m.Oszk.hu - taught. They are typically shy of strangers and other dogs, but can be taught to play with other dogs through positive training and early socialization.

When evaluating the quality of a German Shepherd, look for a wedge shaped head that is proportional to the dog's height and is cleanly chiseled. The shoulders should be large and square and have a straight, level back that's just slightly sloped from the croup 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 that are well-behaved, but not too eager to please. They are loyal to their families and are wary of strangers. This makes them an effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and will challenge them mentally and physically. They require regular exercise and a large yard to play in. If they aren't adequately stimulated, they could use destructive methods like digging or chewing.

When selecting a breeder to work with you should look for someone who is dedicated to the breed and is aware of its temperament and personality. A trustworthy breeder will be able discuss the background of the parents and puppies. They can also tell you if the litter has received obedience training and socialization. If the puppy isn't socialized, it may need extensive training in obedience and behavior to prepare it for its future life as an adult member of the family.

Puppies should be curious and outgoing and have a natural capacity for asserting themselves. If one puppy is more timid than others and is not confident, it could be an indication of danger. In addition, a good German Shepherd should have a firm and consistent grip when picked up.

The muzzle is long and strong with a well-developed jaw and chin. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be black (blue or red-colored noses are not acceptable). The teeth must be white and join in an imposing scissor bite with the upper row of teeth 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 can be used in a variety of ways. It is an adaptable dog that can be used to help herd or search and rescue, identify bombs and drugs, or guide the blind. This versatility makes it among the most popular breeds in the entire world. However, it is important to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd can be heavily dependent on its background and training.

Health

Purebred German Shepherds are incredibly resilient, able to thrive in many different environments and roles. They are great companions, therapy dogs, and service animals. They are also adept at advanced obedience and protection training and competitive dog sports. Their strong work ethic and instincts can even lead them to search and rescue missions, police work, and military careers. GSDs, as with all breeds, are susceptible to certain health issues despite their amazing talents.

GSDs, because they are larger breeds, are more prone to joint problems such as elbow dysplasia or hip dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause your dog to become lame and in pain as they get older. Responsible breeding and regular vet checkups can reduce 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. If left untreated, bloat is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical care.

Because of their thick, long coats and darker coloration GSDs are also susceptible to heat stroke. Keep them hydrated and offer plenty of shade during hot days. We also evaluate their eyes on every examination for signs of pannus, an immune-mediated eye disease that can cause blindness if not treated promptly.

Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease, von Willebrand's disease, and hemangiosarcoma, a blood vessel that is cancerous, can all affect your German Shepherd. The jelly-like cushion between the vertebrae in the spine may break or fall off, causing pressure to the spinal cord. Signs of IVDD include an inability to climb steps or jump, a hunched back, pain when being touched, and dragging of the rear feet.

In addition, like most dogs, it is important to keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid eating table foods, which can contribute to weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. Regularly brush their coats to maintain a healthy and clean appearance. A bath is acceptable from time to time, but overdoing it can strip the natural oils which keep a dog's coat shiny and healthy.