Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
Consistency, positive reinforcement, and reward-based dog training are essential for German Shepherds. They are smart, eager to please, and fast learners.
schäferhunde suchen ein zuhause protect their family members due to their strong work character. They can be trained to protect themselves. They are energetic and need ample space for exercise. They also need early socialization and obedience training to develop into well-mannered, confident dogs.
Origin
In the latter half of 1800 Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to create a dog who could not be matched in its herding capabilities. It took him a long time to find foundation stocks that matched his requirements both physically as well as mentally. Hektor Linksrhein is a German Shepherd, was finally discovered at a dog show in 1899. Hektor was the result of a few generations of selective breeding, and he perfectly met Von Stephanitz's idea of what a herding dog ought to be. Von Stephanitz declared Hektor the first German Shepherd Dog and founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde.
schäferhunde suchen ein zuhause began to standardize herding dog breeds during the second half of 19th century. They were able to preserve a lot of the characteristics that attracted Von Stephanitz's attention. And these traits continue to make the breed popular in the present. For instance, a research study found that German Shepherds can learn tasks in just five repetitions and obey the first command that is given in 95% of cases.
The same traits make this breed one of the top police and military working dogs, as well as a loved pet for families. If properly trained and socialized they can be ideal companions for children as well as other pets. They tend to be shy around strangers, but they are generally affectionate with people they love. A German Shepherd that is not socialized early in life may have difficulty adapting to new situations and be anxious or stressed.
Due to their strong instincts to protect German Shepherds are wary around strangers and are excellent guard dogs. They are generally extremely sensitive and eager to please, making them highly trainable. They are strong, agile and can run at speeds up to 30 miles per hour.
Due to their versatility and popularity, you'll see a variety of German Shepherds across the world. The distinctive characteristics of the breed are easy to identify, especially if you're familiar with the standard of the breed. If you're not sure you are, ask your veterinarian to help you identify the breed. The majority of veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards of a majority of dogs and can assist you quickly.
Characteristics
If you're thinking about adopting or purchasing a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you find a reputable German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back many generations. Reputable breeders will also be affiliated with organizations such as the American Kennel Club, which can give you further assurances of their credibility.
A purebred German Shepherd is characterized by a muscular, athletic build with a distinctive black and tan colour. Adult males typically weigh 65 to 90 pounds and are 24 to 26 inches tall and females are usually smaller at 50 to 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have long, erect ears and a stern stare. A well-trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating, but it will remain loyal to its owner and will not exhibit aggressive behavior towards humans 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 well-mannered, confident family pets. They're natural guardians and are attentive to their families, but will most likely allow strangers to enter their homes if they aren't an threat.
These powerful, agile dogs are well-suited to a variety of types of work and excel in military and police duty, as well as serving in the capacity of service dogs for those who are disabled. They possess a strong prey drive and will likely chase smaller animals. Therefore, a secure environment that offers plenty of positive interaction with other pets is important.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective and obedient when properly socialized and taught. They are usually shy of strangers and other dogs, but can be taught to play with other dogs through positive training and early socialization.
When evaluating a German Shepherd's quality look for a head with a wedge shape that is proportional to the size of the dog and has been chiseled cleanly. The shoulders should be broad and square and straight, with a back that is slightly sloped from the withers to the croup. A curly back or excessive curvature of the rear legs is a sign of poor structural alignment. A well-built German Shepherd moves with an effortless, smooth stride that is fueled by the forward thrust of its hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs who are loyal and not overly eager to please. They have a strong loyalty for their families and are wary of strangers, which makes them a highly effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and challenge them mentally and physically. They need daily exercise, and a large yard to play in. If they aren't properly stimulated, they might engage in destructive behavior such as chewing or digging.
When choosing a breeder pick someone who is enthusiastic about the breed and has an excellent understanding of its temperament and personality. A reputable breeder will be able to talk about the background of both parents and the puppies. They will also be able determine if the litter has been socialized and received obedience training. If blaue schäferhunde isn't socialized, it might require extensive training in obedience and behavior to prepare it for a future life as a family member.
Puppies should be curious and outgoing and have a natural capacity for asserting themselves. If one puppy is more reserved than the others and is more timid, it is an indication. A good German Shepherd will also have solid, consistent grip when being held.
The muzzle is strong and long 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 should be white, and the top row should be slightly wider than the lower. The ears are large and erect at the base with pointed tips. They may be a bit droopy when they are at rest.
The German Shepherd is a very adaptable dog that can be used in many different ways, such as herding, search and rescue as well as drug and bomb detection, and even guiding blind people. This versatility makes it among the most popular breeds in the entire world. It is important to remember that the temperament of the German Shepherd dog can be greatly affected by its training and upbringing.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds are incredibly resilient, and are able to thrive in a variety of environments and roles. This makes them ideal therapy dogs, service animals, and loyal companions. They are also excellent in advanced obedience and security training as well as competitive dog sports. Their dedication to work and instincts could lead them to search and rescue missions as well as police work and military careers. GSDs, like most breeds, are susceptible to certain health problems despite their amazing abilities.
As a larger breed GSDs are more susceptible to joint problems like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause discomfort and even lameness as your dog gets older. A healthy breeding program and regular vet checkups can reduce the impact of these diseases.
Like other large breeds German Shepherds are susceptible to Bloat (gastric dilatation volvulus) that is when the stomach turns in a way, releasing gas and cutting off the blood supply to the spleen and liver. Bloat can be life-threatening when left untreated. It requires immediate medical attention.
GSDs may also suffer from heat stroke due to their long, thick, darker coats. On hot days, ensure they are hydrated and give them plenty of shade. We also check their eyes on every exam for signs of pannus. It is an eye disease caused by immune system that causes blindness if not treated promptly.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease Von Willebrand's disease and hemangiosarcoma which is a blood vessel that is cancerous, can all affect your German Shepherd. The jelly-like cushion between vertebrae in the spine may rupture or slide, causing pressure to the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include an inability to climb stairs or jump.
Like all dogs, you should feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and avoid eating table food, which can cause weight growth and nutritional deficiencies. Brush their coat regularly to maintain a healthy and clean appearance. A bath is acceptable occasionally but if you overdo it, it could take away the natural oils which keep a dog's coat shiny and healthy.