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Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
German Shepherds thrive when they are consistent, positive reinforcement, and rewarding training. They are smart and eager to please.
They naturally protect their family members due to their solid work ethics. They can be trained for security. They are energetic and need ample space for exercise. They need early socialization, obedience training and to become confident and well-mannered dogs.
Origin
In the late 1800s, Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to develop a dog that would be unmatched in herding abilities. It took him a long time to find foundation dogs that met his requirements, both physically and mentally. Then, at an exhibition for dogs in 1899, he spotted an adorable German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of a few generations of selective breeding, and he was a perfect match for Von Stephanitz's vision of what a herding dog should be. Hektor was named the first German Shepherd Dog, and von Stephanitz founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (or Society for the German Shepherd Dog).
In the second period of the 19th century, breed fanciers were working to standardize herding dogs. They were able to preserve a lot of the traits that drew Von Stephanitz's attention. those traits are what make the breed popular in the present. For example, a study revealed that German Shepherds master tasks after just five repetitions, and they obey the first command that is given 95% of the time.
These traits make this breed a popular pet for families, as well as one of the top working dogs for military and police. If properly socialized and trained they make excellent companions for children and other pets. They are reserved around strangers, however, they are incredibly affectionate towards the ones they love. If they're not socialized as puppies, however, a German Shepherd may have difficulty adapting to new situations later in life and become stressed or anxious.
Due to their strong protective instincts German Shepherds are wary around strangers and are excellent guard dogs. They are smart and eager to be loved by others. This makes them extremely capable of being trained. They are agile, strong and can run up to 30 miles per hour.
Because of their versatility and popularity you'll see a variety of different German Shepherds in the world. The distinctive features of the breed are easy to recognize, especially if you're familiar with the standard of the breed. Ask your veterinarian for assistance identifying the breed if you aren't certain. The majority of veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards of most dogs and will be in a position to assist you quickly and easily.
Characteristics
If you're considering buying or adopting a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you choose an established German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back many generations. Reputable breeders are also members of associations like the American Kennel Club. This can give you additional assurances about their credibility.
A purebred German Shepherd is characterized by an athletic, muscular physique with a distinct black and tan hue. Adult males weigh 65 to 90 lbs and are 24 to 26 inches high and females are typically smaller at 50-70 lbs and 22-25 inches tall. They have long, erect ears and a sharp, erect gaze. entzückendescäferhundwelpen -trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating however, it will remain loyal to the owner and not display aggression towards people or other dogs.
They are extremely intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based training methods and are quick learners. Socialization is essential in their development to become confident, well-mannered pets. They are naturally guardians and will be watchful over their family members. However, they will accept strangers if they don't pose a threat to them.
These agile, powerful dogs excel at police and military work as well as being service dogs for the handicapped. They have an exceptionally strong prey drive and will likely chase small animals, therefore making sure they are in a secure area and ensuring lots of positive regular socialization is essential for households with other pets.
When properly trained and socialized German Shepherds are extremely protective, loving, and incredibly obedient companions. They are typically wary of strangers or other dogs but can be taught to play with other pets through positive training and early socialization.
When evaluating the quality of a German Shepherd Look for a head shape that is proportional to the dog's height and has been chiseled cleanly. The shoulders should be broad and square and straight, with a back that has a slight slope from the croup to the croup. A curved or excessively curving rear or back legs are a sign of 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, curious dogs who are obedient and tolerant but not too eager to please. They are loyal to their family and are wary of strangers. This makes them a great guard dog. They thrive in a home 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 resort to destructive behaviors like chewing or digging.
When choosing a dog breeder pick someone who is committed to the breed and has a thorough understanding of its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder will be able to discuss the background of both parents and puppies. He or she can also tell you if the litter has received obedience training and socialization. If a puppy is not socialized, it may need extensive obedience and behavior training to prepare it for a future as a family member.
Puppies should be curious and outgoing, with a natural tendency to assert their rights. If one puppy is more timid than others, this should be considered a warning sign. A good German Shepherd should also have a a firm, consistent grasp when being taken up.
The muzzle is long and strong with a well-developed jaw and chin. The eyes should be dark and almond shaped. The nose should be dark (blue liver, blue or other colors are not acceptable). The teeth must be white and join in an imposing scissor bite with the upper row of teeth slightly bigger than the bottom. The ears should be straight and wide at their base, with pointed tips that drop slightly when resting.
The German Shepherd can be used in a variety of ways. It is a flexible dog that can be employed to assist in herding as well as search and rescue, detect explosives and drugs or even guide blind people. This flexibility is the reason it is one of the most sought-after breeds across the world. But, 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 flourish in many different environments and roles. They are excellent companions, therapy dogs and service animals. They are also adept in advanced obedience and security training and competitive dog sports. Their strong work ethic can lead to careers in search and rescue, police work, or military careers. GSDs, like all breeds, are prone to certain health problems despite their impressive talents.
GSDs, because they are a larger breed are more susceptible to joint issues such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause your dog to become debilitated and in pain as they get older. Regular medical examinations by a veterinarian can reduce the impact.
Like other large breeds German Shepherds are susceptible to bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus) that is when the stomach twists in a way, releasing gas and cutting off blood flow to the spleen and liver. If left untreated, bloat is life-threatening and requires immediate medical care.
Because of their long, thick coats and darker coloration, GSDs are also prone to heat stroke. On hot days, keep them well-hydrated and provide them with plenty of shade. We also examine their eyes for signs of pannus, an immune-mediated condition that can cause blindness if it is not treated quickly.
A variety of hereditary and inherited illnesses can impact your German Shepherd's digestive system, such as hemangiosarcoma cancer of the blood vessels, exocrine pancreatic dysfunction (EPI), von Willebrand disease, and intervertebral disk disease (IVDD). The jelly-like cushion between vertebrae in the spine can break or fall off, causing pressure to the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include inability to climb steps or jump and a hunched back. discomfort when touched, and dragging the rear feet.
As with most dogs you will need to feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and avoid table food, which can cause weight growth and nutritional deficiencies. You should also regularly brush their coat to keep it healthy and clean. It's okay to give your dog bath every now and then, but too much can strip away the natural oils which keep their coat clean and shiny.