Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
German Shepherds thrive with consistency positive reinforcement, a steady diet, and rewarding training. They are intelligent and eager to please and fast learners.
They are naturally protective of their family members because of their strong work ethics. They can be trained for security. They are active and require ample space for exercise. They need early socialization, obedience training, and to develop into confident well-mannered dogs.
Origin
Captain Max von Stephanitz worked to create a herding dog unmatched. It took years to find a foundation breed that would meet his standards -- both physically and temperamentally. Then, at the dog show in 1899, he spotted an adorable German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of a few generations of selective breeding, and he matched perfectly with Von Stephanitz's vision of what a herding animal 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).
Breed fanciers began to standardize herding dog breeds in the second half of the 19th century. They were able to preserve many of the characteristics that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these traits continue to make the German Shepherd breed famous today. A study found that German Shepherds can learn tasks in just five repetitions, and they follow the first command 95% of the times.
The same traits make this breed a favorite family pet and one of the most effective working dogs for military and police. If properly trained and socialized they make great companions for children and other pets. They are usually shy around strangers, but they generally affectionate with the people they love. If they're not socialized as puppies, they German Shepherd may have difficulty adjusting to new situations later in life and may become anxious or stressed.
German Shepherds are great guard dogs because of their instincts for protection. They are generally extremely smart and eager to please, which makes them extremely capable of being trained. They are agile and strong, and can run up to 30 miles an hour, if they are required to.
You will find many different German Shepherds in the world because of their variety and popularity. 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 help in identifying the breed if are not certain. Most veterinarians know the breed standards of the majority of dogs and will be able to assist you quickly.
Characteristics
If you're thinking about adopting or purchasing a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you choose an accredited German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back many generations. Breeders who are reputable are also members of organizations like the American Kennel Club. This can give you additional assurances about their credibility.
A purebred German Shepherd has a hearty athletic build, deep-chested and distinctive black and tan coat. Adult males weigh 65 to 90 pounds and stand approximately 24 to 26 inches tall, while females are usually smaller at 50-70 lbs and 22 to 25 inch tall. They have long, erect ears and a stern stare. A well-trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating, but it will remain loyal to the owner and not display aggression towards people or other dogs.
They are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement-based training techniques, making them quick learners. Socialization is vital to their development into confident well-mannered pets. They're naturally guardians and watchful over their families, however they'll likely accept strangers who don't pose an threat.
These powerful, agile dogs excel in police and military tasks, as well as service dogs for those with disabilities. They have an exceptionally powerful prey drive and are likely to chase small animals, therefore creating a safe environment and ensuring plenty of regular socialization is essential for households with other pets.
When properly trained and socialized, German Shepherds can be affectionate, protective, and incredibly obedient companions. They're typically wary of strangers and other dogs However, with early socialization and regular positive training, they can be taught to engage in playful interactions with other pets.
If you are evaluating the quality of a German Shepherd, look for an elongated head that is proportional to its height and well-chiseled. The shoulders should be broad and square with an even, straight back that's only slightly inclined from the withers to the croup. A curly back or excessive curvature of the rear legs indicate an insufficient structural alignment. A well-constructed German Shepherd moves with a easy, smooth stride that is driven by a forward thrust from the hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs that are loyal and not overly eager to please. They have a strong loyalty to their family members and are cautious of strangers, making them a highly effective guard dog. schäferhund kaufen österreich thrive when their owners are active and be challenged both physically and mentally. They need plenty of daily exercise and a large yard to play in. If they are not sufficiently stimulated, they could resort to destructive behaviors like chewing or digging.
When choosing a breeder pick someone who is enthusiastic about the breed and has a good knowledge of its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder will be able to discuss the background of both parents and pups. They can inform you if the litter has received obedience training and socialization. If the puppy isn't socialized, it may need extensive obedience and behavior training to prepare it for its future life as a family member.
Puppies must be curious and outgoing with a natural inclination for asserting their rights. If one puppy is more timid than others it should be taken as a warning signal. Additionally, a good German Shepherd should have a strong and steady grip when being picked up.
The muzzle is strong and long with a well-developed jaw and chin. The eyes should be dark and almond shaped. The nose must be black (blue or liver-colored noses are not acceptable). The teeth should be white and the top row should be slightly wider than the lower. The ears are erect and wide at the bottom, with pointed tips that can droop slightly when at rest.
The German Shepherd is a very versatile dog that can be used in many different ways like herding or searching and rescue as well as drug and bomb detection, and even guiding the blind. This flexibility is the reason why it is among the most sought-after breeds in the world. However, it is important to remember 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 flourish in many different environments and roles. This makes them excellent therapy dogs, service animals, and faithful companions. They also excel at competition dog sports advanced obedience, as well as training in protection. Their dedication to work and instincts could lead them to search and rescue missions, police work, and military careers. GSDs, like all breeds, are susceptible to certain health problems despite their amazing abilities.
GSDs, as a larger breed are more susceptible to joint issues such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia. These degenerative diseases may cause your dog to become debilitated and in pain as they get older. schäferhund kaufen österreich breeding and regular vet exams can help reduce the impact.
Like other large breeds German Shepherds are susceptible to Bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus) in which the stomach expands in a way, releasing gas and cutting off blood flow to the spleen and liver. If not treated, bloat could be life-threatening and requires immediate medical treatment.
GSDs also can suffer from heat stroke because of their long, thick dark coats. Keep them hydrated and offer plenty of shade during hot days. We also examine their eyes at every exam for signs of pannus. It is an immune-mediated eye disease that causes blindness if not addressed promptly.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease, von Willebrand's disease, and hemangiosarcoma, a blood vessel that has cancer, could all affect your German Shepherd. The last is when the cushion of jelly that connects the vertebrae of your spine is ripped or sags and puts pressure on the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include the inability to climb stairs or jump.
In addition, like most dogs, you'll need to ensure that you keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid table food that can cause weight gain and nutritional deficiencies. It is also important to clean their coat frequently to keep it clean and healthy. It's fine to give your dog bath every now and then however, too much of it can take away the natural oils that keep their coats healthy and shiny.