Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd<br /><br />Consistency, positive reinforcement, and reward-based dog training are essential for German Shepherds. They are intelligent, eager to please, and quick learners.<br /><br />Their dedication to work makes them naturally vigilant of family members and are able to help in security. They are energetic, and require plenty of space to exercise. They require early socialization, obedience training and to develop into confident and well-mannered dogs.<br /><br />Origin<br /><br /><br /><br />Captain Max von Stephanitz worked to create a herding dog that was unmatched. It took him a long time to find foundation stocks that matched his requirements both physically and mentally. Then, at an exhibition for dogs in 1899, he spotted a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of several generations of selective breeding and he matched perfectly with Von Stephanitz's ideal of what a herding dog ought to be. Hektor was declared to be the first German Shepherd Dog, and von Stephanitz founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (or Society for the German Shepherd Dog).<br /><br />During the second half of the 19th century, breeders tried to standardize herding dog breeds. They were able preserve many of the characteristics that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these traits continue to make the German Shepherd breed a cult. A study found that German Shepherds can learn tasks with just five repetitions, and follow the first command 90% of the time.<br /><br />These same traits also make this breed one of the best police and military working dogs, and also a loved pet for families. If properly trained and socialized, these dogs are great 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, they German Shepherd may have difficulty adjusting to new situations later on in life, and can become anxious or stressed.<br /><br />German Shepherds are good guard dogs due to their protective instincts. They are intelligent and eager to please. This makes them very trainable. They are strong and agile and can run up to 30 miles an hour if they have to.<br /><br />Because of their versatility and popularity you'll see a variety of different German Shepherds in the world. <a href="https://entzückendescäferhundwelpen.de/">schäferhunde suchen ein zuhause</a> of the breed are easy to identify, especially if you're familiar with the breed standard. Ask your veterinarian for help in identifying the breed, if you are not sure. Most veterinarians are familiar with the breed standards of most dogs and will be able to help you quickly and easily.<br /><br />Characteristics<br /><br />If you're considering buying or adopting a purebred German Shepherd it's important that you find an established German Shepherd breeder with pedigree documents that can be traced back several generations. Reputable breeders are also part of organizations like the American Kennel Club. This can give you additional assurances about their integrity.<br /><br />A true purebred German Shepherd has a hearty muscular build, with a deep chest and a distinctive coat of black and tan. Adult males weigh between 65 to 90 pounds and are 24 to 26 inches tall, while females are generally smaller, weighing between 50 and 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have erect ears, long and elongated and a sharp, erect gaze. A trained German Shepherd may seem intimidating, but it will remain loyal to its owner and will not exhibit aggressive behavior towards people or other dogs.<br /><br />They are quick learners and extremely intelligent. Early and consistent socialization is essential to their development as a well-mannered, confident family pets. They are natural guardians and will guard their family. However, they will be tolerant of strangers as long as they don't threaten them.<br /><br />These powerful, agile dogs excel at police and military tasks, as well as service dogs for those with disabilities. They have a strong prey drive, and are likely to chase smaller animals. Therefore, a safe environment that offers plenty of positive interactions with other animals is crucial.<br /><br />German Shepherds are loyal, protective and respectful when properly socialized and trained. They are typically cautious of other dogs and strangers However, with early socialization and regular ongoing positive training can learn to have fun with other pets.<br /><br />When assessing the quality of a German Shepherd Look for a head with a wedge shape that is proportional to the dog's size and is cleanly chiseled. The shoulders should be large and square, with a straight, level back that is only slightly inclined from the withers to the croup. A curved or excessively curving rear or back legs are a sign of poor structural alignment. A well-constructed German Shepherd moves with a easy, smooth stride that is driven by a forward thrust from the hindquarters.<br /><br />Temperament<br /><br />German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs who are loyal and not overly eager to please. They are loyal to their families and sceptical of strangers. This makes them a good guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and will be challenged both physically and mentally. They require a lot of exercise as well as a large backyard to play in. If they aren't adequately stimulated, they might engage in destructive behavior like digging or chewing.<br /><br />When selecting a breeder you should look for someone who is dedicated to the breed and is aware of its temperament and personality. A trustworthy breeder will be able discuss the background of the parents and the puppies. They will also be able tell you whether the litter has been socialized and has received obedience training. If a puppy has not been socialized, it will require extensive obedience and behavioral training to get it ready to be a family pet.<br /><br />Puppy should be curious and outgoing, with a natural tendency to assert themselves. If one puppy is more timid than the others, this should be considered an indication of danger. Also, a great German Shepherd should be able to maintain a firm and consistent grasp when being picked up.<br /><br />The muzzle is long and strong with a well-developed jaw and the chin. The eyes are dark and almond-shaped. The nose should be dark (blue liver, blue or other colors are not acceptable). The teeth should be white and have an imposing scissor bite with the upper row of teeth slightly wider than the bottom. The ears are erect and wide at the base and have pointed tips that drop slightly when resting.<br /><br />The German Shepherd can be used in a variety of ways. It is an adaptable dog that can be employed to herd as well as search and rescue, detect drugs and bombs, or guide the blind. This versatility makes it one of the most sought-after breeds in the entire world. But, it is important to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd can be heavily dependent on its background and training.<br /><br />Health<br /><br />Purebred German Shepherds are extremely resilient, able to flourish in a variety of environments and roles. This makes them excellent therapy dogs, service animals, and affectionate companions. They also excel at competitive dog sports advanced obedience, as well as protection training. Their commitment to work could result in careers in search and rescue, police work or military careers. GSDs, like most breeds, are susceptible to certain health issues despite their remarkable capabilities.<br /><br />As a breed that is larger GSDs are more susceptible to joint problems like elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause discomfort and even lameness as your dog gets older. A healthy breeding program and regular medical examinations by a veterinarian can reduce the impact.<br /><br />German Shepherds are susceptible to the condition known as bloat. It is an illness in which the stomach expands and fills up with gas which cuts off blood supply to the liver and spleen. If untreated, bloat can be an extremely serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.<br /><br />Because of their long, thick coats and darker colors GSDs are also susceptible to heat stroke. On hot days, ensure they are hydrated and give them plenty of shade. We also examine their eyes for signs of pannus - an immune-mediated disease that can cause blindness if it is not treated promptly.<br /><br />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 cushion of jelly that connects the vertebrae of your spine breaks or slips and puts pressure on the spinal cord. The symptoms of IVDD include an inability to climb stairs or jump.<br /><br />As with most dogs you will need to feed your German Shepherd a high quality diet and stay clear of table food which can cause weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. Regularly brush their coats to keep a healthy and clean appearance. It's fine to give your dog bath every now and again however, too much of it can strip away the natural oils which keep their coat clean and shiny.<br /><br />