Also known as the shepherd dog, the German shepherd originated in Germany in the nineteenth century. They used to be used to protect sheep. Because of its character traits, the German shepherd is a perfect dog for a family. These dogs are also used in police and military units because they are easy to train and they are incredibly hard workers. A German shepherd is an active dog that needs a lot of exercise. Would you like to learn more about this dog breed? Then read this article.
History: protection for sheep
The German shepherd originally comes from Germany. In 1889, Max Stephanitz bred a German Shepherd for the first time. The goal of breeding was to develop a breed that could work hard and then use these dogs to herd herd cattle. Today, German Shepherds are not often needed for livestock protection, but can be used for other tasks. Because of their hard-working nature, the German shepherd is the favorite dog of police and military units around the world. Among other things, they are used by the police as tracking dogs to detect drugs.
The character: obedient and alert
A German shepherd has many fine qualities. Are you curious which characteristics they have? Then read on. German shepherds are:
- Obedient
- Intelligent
- Energetic
- Alert
- Curious
- Confident
- Loyal
- Brave
- Vigilant
A German shepherd is a suitable dog for a family. However, it is important to give him time to get used to the persons and to have clear rules. Towards strangers they can be suspicious.
The appearance of a German Shepherd
In general, a German Shepherd is medium sized. Males are between 60 and 65 cm and they weigh an average of 30 to 40 pounds. A female is between 55 and 60 cm and weighs an average of 22 to 32 kilos. The coat color is mostly black and brown or gray. There are also German shepherds who have a completely black coat. The build can be called athletic. Your first impression will also be that it is a muscular, strong and agile dog.
The eyes are almond shaped and have a sharp intelligent expression. The ears are pointed and open in proportion to the skull when they are alert. They have a long muscular neck. The shoulder blades are also long and angled. The legs are straight and the bone oval. The tail has more hair at the bottom than on top and will never rise above the back line but is carried low.
The care
The German shepherd is used to move around a lot. It is important that you give your dog enough exercise, this can be through long walks or running along if you like running. This immediately creates a better bond. It is nice if you involve your dog in your daily life. You will see that this gives him pleasure.
In addition to adequate exercise, mental stimulation is also important. There are also various exercises that are good for a dog’s mental state. Examples of mental exercises are: tricks, hiding something or commands. This can be combined with a small course for the best effect.
A German Shepherd has a double coat consisting of a dense and hard outer coat with a soft undercoat. The coat is easily maintained by brushing every few days. This will remove the loose wax. Twice a year the German shepherd sheds and it is important to brush more often. You can then brush the coat every day to reduce the hair in the house. The nails should be checked every month and trimmed if necessary. A German shepherd does not need a bath very often. You can do this, for example, if he is dirty from ditch water or mud.
Are there any diseases that occur in this breed?
On average, a German Shepherd lives to be ten to twelve years old. Unfortunately, there are several hereditary diseases that occur in this breed that can shorten the lifespan. The German Shepherd is in the top ten dog breeds with the most disorders. Below are some hereditary disorders named and described. It is important to have regular checkups with a veterinarian to keep an eye on the dog’s health. Hereditary disorders in a German shepherd may include:
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Pituitary dwarfism
- Pyodermia
- Epilepsy
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Eye disorders
Degenerative myelopathy is a neurological disorder. The first symptom is loss of coordination that causes a dog to stagger and stumble more and more often.
Pituitary dwarfism is a condition that can be hereditarily transmitted and is associated with serious health problems. A test is available to show this condition.
Pyoderma is a hereditary condition that can cause sores on the back and hind legs. Eventually, the sores can spread throughout the body.
Epilepsy also occurs in a German shepherd. It may also be the case that a dog only has a seizure once in its lifetime. In general, dogs with epilepsy live to be the same age as dogs without epilepsy.
Hip and elbow dysplasia are abnormalities of the hip and elbow joints. In a young dog, the development of the hips and elbows does not proceed properly and joints can become deformed. More information can be obtained from a veterinarian who takes an x-ray.
Various eye disorders also occur in the German shepherd. The dog may have progressively worse vision and the cornea may be increasingly affected.
Did you know?
In this article you will learn a lot about the German Shepherd and you may read information that you did not already know. For example, did you already know that the German shepherd is one of the most well-known recognized breeds and that in Germany they use an abbreviation? In Germany, they also call the German shepherd GSD. This stands for German Shepherd Dog.
Dog training for this breed
A German Shepherd is a very suitable dog for training. They are hard workers who learn new things easily. A German Shepherd has a powerful and strong character, therefore it is important to start training early. Often you can start puppy training when the puppy is eight weeks old.
You can use this to form his personality and build a bond. Exercise keeps a dog healthy. In addition, for intelligent dogs like the German shepherd it is important to keep them busy. There are various follow-up trainings but you can also think of all kinds of mental challenges.
It is important to offer a German Shepherd mental stimulation in addition to plenty of physical exercise. Through training both are addressed. A basic course or puppy training is a good choice for any dog. You can participate when your dog is eight to ten weeks old and has had all vaccinations. German shepherd dogs are often used as police and service dogs. They are loved by the police and military unit because they are easy to train and have a very loyal nature.
What does a German shepherd cost?
A German shepherd with a pedigree from a recognized breeder costs between $900 and $1400. On the internet German Shepherd puppies can be offered from $600. You must take into account that this is not always a recognized breeder. If you buy a dog from a recognized breeder you often pay more, but then you know that you buy at a reliable address.
In addition, the purchase from an authorized breeder has the additional advantage that he is obliged to provide you with information about the pedigree. Also, an authorized breeder wants to keep the breed as pure as possible and they try to breed with healthy dogs so the various diseases will occur less.
How much exercise does this breed need?
A German Shepherd needs a lot of exercise and is not made to sit still. He is bred to trot and have good stamina. In addition to daily walks, it is important to give the dog a chance to move freely at least once a day. A German shepherd loves to run and play games. It is important to provide him with sufficient physical challenge. You can also do this by letting him swim or run alongside the bike. You must be careful that you slowly build up the activity, so no injuries or complaints to the joints can occur.
Recognition in the United States
This dog breed is officially recognized in the United States, this can be found on the official website of the AKC.
Do you already own a German Shepherd or are you planning to purchase one?
A German shepherd is suitable as a dog for the family with children. It is important to be aware that this dog gets enough exercise and mental training. A German shepherd needs time to get used to its owner at first, but in time will be an obedient, loyal and reliable buddy for life. Are you someone who owns a German Shepherd and would like to share your story? Or are you about to purchase a German Shepherd? If so, leave a comment below.
