Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd

German Shepherds thrive with consistency, positive reinforcement, and reward-based training. They are smart and eager to please.

They naturally protect their family members because of their strong work ethic. They are able to be trained to ensure security. They are active and require ample space to exercise. They also require early socialization and obedience training in order to grow into well-mannered, confident dogs.

Origin

Captain Max von Stephanitz worked to create a herding dog that was unmatched. It took him years to find foundation dogs that matched his requirements physically as well as mentally. Finally, at an exhibition for dogs in 1899, he spotted the appearance of a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the product of several generations of selective breeding, and He was perfectly in line with Von Stephanitz's vision of what a herding breed 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 the 19th century. They were able to keep certain traits that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these traits continue to make the German Shepherd breed popular today. A study revealed that German Shepherds can master tasks with just five repetitions, and they obey the first command 95percent of the time.

The same characteristics make this breed a popular family pet and one of the top working dogs for military and police. They make excellent pets and companions for children if they are properly socialized and taught. They are reserved around strangers however, they are incredibly affectionate towards the ones they love. If they're not socialized as puppies, however they German Shepherd may have difficulty adapting to new environments later on in life, and can become anxious or stressed.

Due to their strong protective instincts German Shepherds are cautious around strangers and are good guard dogs. They are generally very intelligent and eager to please, making them extremely trainable. They are agile, strong and can run up to 30 miles per hour.

Due to their wide range of uses and popularity, you will see a lot of different German Shepherds in the world. But the distinctive characteristics of the breed are usually easy to recognize particularly if you are familiar with the breed standard. Ask your veterinarian for assistance in identifying the breed if aren't certain. The majority of veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards of most dogs and can assist you quickly.

Characteristics

If you're thinking about buying or adopting a purebred German Shepherd, it's important to find a reliable breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced for several generations back. Reputable breeders are also members of associations like the American Kennel Club. This can give you additional assurances about their credibility.

A true purebred German Shepherd has a hearty muscular build, with a deep chest and distinctive black and tan coat. Adult males weigh between 65 to 90 pounds and stand between 24 and 26 inches tall and females are typically smaller at 50 to 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have a long, straight ears and a sharp stare. Although they can appear intimidating, a properly trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and not show aggressive behavior toward people or other dogs.

They are very sensitive and can be a good responder to positive reinforcement-based training methods which makes them fast learners. Early and consistent socialization is crucial to their growth as a well-mannered, confident family pets. They're naturally guardians and are attentive to their families, however they'll likely be open to strangers who aren't considered to be an threat.

These agile, powerful dogs are well-suited to a variety of types of work. They excel in police and military duty as well as serving as service dogs for the disabled. They possess a strong prey drive, and are likely to chase smaller animals. Therefore, a secure environment with plenty of positive interaction with other pets is important.

If properly socialized and trained German Shepherds are loving, protective and extremely loyal companions. They're typically cautious of strangers and other dogs however, through 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 with a wedge shape that is proportional to its height and perfectly chiseled. The shoulders should be large and square and have a straight, level back that is only slightly inclined from the withers to the croup. A curving or curved rear or back legs are a sign of an imbalance in the structural structure. A well-constructed German Shepherd moves with a smooth, effortless stride that's driven by a forward thrust of the hindquarters.

Temperament

German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs that are well-behaved, but not too eager to please. They have a steadfast devotion for their family members and are cautious of strangers, making them an excellent guard dog. They thrive in a home with active owners who will challenge them physically and mentally. They require daily exercise and a huge yard to play in. If they aren't adequately stimulated, they could use destructive methods like chewing or digging.

When choosing a dog breeder, choose someone who is committed to the breed and has an excellent understanding of its temperament and personality. A reputable breeder can discuss the background of both parents and the puppies. They can determine if the litter has received obedience training and socialization. If a puppy has not been socialized, it will likely require a lot of obedience and behavioral training to prepare it for a life as a family pet.

Puppies should be curious and outgoing and have a natural capacity for asserting their rights. If one puppy is more timid than the others and is more timid, it should be taken as a warning. A good German Shepherd will also have an unwavering, steady grasp when being picked up.

The muzzle is large and strong with a well-developed jaw and the chin. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be black (blue or red-colored noses are not acceptable). The teeth should 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 base, with pointed tips that may be slightly droopy when in rest.

The German Shepherd can be used in a variety of ways. It is a flexible dog and can be employed to help herd, search and rescue, identify bombs and drugs, or guide the blind. This versatility is the reason it is one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. But, schäferhund welpe kaufen is important to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd can be heavily affected by its environment and training.

Health

Purebred German Shepherds are extremely resilient, able to flourish in a variety of environments and roles. This makes them ideal therapy dogs, service animals, and affectionate companions. They also excel in advanced obedience and security training as well as competitive dog sports. Their strong work ethic and instincts could inspire them to search and rescue missions, police work, and military careers. GSDs, like all breeds, are susceptible to certain health problems despite their amazing capabilities.

As a breed that is larger, GSDs are susceptible to joint problems such as hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These degenerative diseases can cause discomfort and even lameness as your dog gets older. A healthy breeding program and regular vet exams can help reduce the effects.

German Shepherds are at risk of Bloat, condition where the stomach expands and fills with gas, cutting off blood supply to the liver and spleen. Bloat can be life-threatening when left untreated. It requires immediate medical treatment.

GSDs can also suffer from heat stroke due to their thick, long dark coats. Keep them hydrated and offer plenty of shade on hot days. We also examine their eyes for signs of pannus, an immune-mediated condition that can cause blindness if it is not treated immediately.

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 may break or fall off and cause pressure to the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD are the 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 cause weight growth and nutritional deficiencies. Clean their coat frequently to maintain an appearance that is clean and healthy. A bath is fine occasionally but if you overdo it, it could strip the natural oils which keep a dog's coat shiny and healthy.