Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
Consistency, positive reinforcement, and reward-based dog training are crucial for German Shepherds. They are smart and eager to please.
Their dedication to work makes them naturally watchful of family members and they can be trained to assist in security. They are lively and require plenty of room to exercise. They also require early socialization and obedience training in order to grow into confident, well-mannered dogs.
Origin
In the latter half of 1800, Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to develop a dog that could not be matched in its herding capabilities. It took a long time to find a foundation breed that would meet his standards -- both physically and temperamentally. At the dog show in 1899, he came across a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of a few generations of selective breeding, and he perfectly met Von Stephanitz's ideal of what a herding animal should be. Von Stephanitz declared Hektor the first German Shepherd Dog and founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde.
During the second period of the 19th century, breed fanciers were working to standardize herding dogs. einen deutschen schäferhund kaufen were able to keep some of the traits that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these characteristics continue to make the German Shepherd breed famous today. For instance, a research study found that German Shepherds learn tasks after just five times and follow the first command at least 95% of the time.
The same traits make this breed among the best police and military working dogs, as well as a loved pet for families. If properly socialized and trained they can be excellent companions for children and other pets. They are cautious around strangers, but they are affectionate with those they love. If they are not socialized as puppies, however, a German Shepherd may have difficulty adjusting to new situations later on in life, and can become stressed or anxious.
Due to their strong instincts to protect German Shepherds are extremely cautious around strangers and make good guard dogs. They are generally very intelligent and eager to please, making them extremely capable of being trained. They are agile, strong and can run at speeds up to 30 miles per hour.
Due to their versatility and popularity, you will see a lot of German Shepherds around the world. But the distinctive characteristics of the breed are usually easy to recognize, especially if you are familiar with the breed standard. Ask your veterinarian for assistance in identifying the breed if aren't certain. Most veterinarians are knowledgeable of the breed standards for the majority of dogs and will be in a position to assist you quickly and efficiently.
Characteristics
If you're considering adopting or purchasing a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you locate an accredited German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back many generations. Reputable breeders are also members of organizations such as the American Kennel Club. This will provide you with additional assurances about their integrity.
A purebred German Shepherd has a hearty athletic build, deep-chested and a distinctive black and tan coat. Adult males weigh between 65 and 90 pounds and stand between 24 and 26 inches tall, whereas females tend to be smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inch tall. They have erect ears, long and elongated and a ferocious gaze. A well-trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating, but it will remain loyal to its owner and not display aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs.
They are very smart and are able to respond to positive reinforcement-based techniques for training, making them quick learners. Regular and early socialization is essential to their growth as confident, well-mannered family pets. They're natural guardians and vigilant over their families, however they'll likely be open to strangers who aren't a threat.
These agile, powerful dogs excel in police and military work, and also serve as service dogs for those with disabilities. They possess a remarkably powerful prey drive and will likely chase small animals, which is why creating a safe and secure environment and ensuring plenty of ongoing socialization is key for households with pets.
If properly trained and socialized German Shepherds are affectionate, protective and extremely obedient pet companions. They are typically cautious of strangers and other dogs, but they can be taught to play with other dogs with 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 size and has been chiseled cleanly. The shoulders should be square and broad, with a straight back that has a slight slope from the withers to the croup. A curly back or a large curvature of the rear legs is a sign of an insufficient structural alignment. A well-constructed German Shepherd moves with a smooth, effortless stride that's driven by a forward thrust from the hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent, curious dogs that are loyal and gentle without being too eager to please. They have a strong loyalty for their families and are wary of strangers, making them a highly effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and challenge them mentally and physically. They need plenty of daily exercise and a large backyard to play in. If they aren't properly stimulated, they could engage in destructive behavior such as chewing or digging.
When choosing a breeder, look for someone who is dedicated to the breed and knows its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder will be able discuss the history of the parents and puppies. They can inform you whether the litter has received obedience training and socialization. If a puppy has not been socialized, it will likely require extensive obedience and behavior training to prepare it for a life as pet for the family.
Puppies should be inquisitive and outgoing with an instinctual tendency to assert their rights. If belgischer schäferhund welpen kaufen österreich of the puppies is more timid than others, this should be considered a warning signal. A good German Shepherd will also have an unwavering, steady 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 black (blue or red-colored noses are not acceptable). The teeth should be white and have a strong scissor bite, with the upper row of teeth being slightly larger than the lower. The ears should be straight 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 a versatile dog that can be used to assist in herding, search and rescue, spot bombs and drugs or even guide blind people. This flexibility is the reason it is one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. It is important to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd dog can be heavily affected by its training and its upbringing.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds possess an impressive level of resilience and can thrive in a variety of different conditions. They are great companions, therapy dogs, and service animals. They also excel at competition dog sports advanced obedience and training in protection. 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 remarkable talents.
GSDs, because they are larger breeds are more susceptible to joint problems such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause pain and lameness as your dog ages. Responsible breeding and regular health checks by your veterinarian can help reduce their impact.
German Shepherds are prone to bloat, a condition in which the stomach expands and fills with gas which cuts off blood supply to the liver and spleen. If not treated, bloat could be life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment.
Because of their long, thick coats as well as their darker coloration GSDs are also more prone to heat stroke. Make sure they are hydrated and provide 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 promptly.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease Von Willebrand's disease and hemangiosarcoma, a blood vessel that is cancerous, can all affect your German Shepherd. The last one occurs when the jelly-like cushion that connects the vertebrae of your spine is ripped or sags and puts pressure on the spinal cord. Signs of IVDD include an inability to climb stairs or jump and a hunched back. pain when being touched, and dragging of the rear feet.
Like all dogs, you should feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and stay clear of table food which can lead to weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. Clean their coat frequently to keep the appearance of a healthy and tidy. It's fine to give your dog a bath every now and then, but too much can take away the natural oils that keep their coat clean and shiny.