Adopting a Purebred German Shepherd
German Shepherds thrive with consistency positive reinforcement, a steady diet, and reward-based training. They are intelligent and eager to please.
german shepherd kaufen protect their family members due to their strong work character. They can be trained to protect themselves. They are energetic and need ample space to exercise. They need early socialization, obedience training, and to become confident, well-mannered dogs.
Origin
In the late 1800s Captain Max von Stephanitz was working to create a dog that would be unmatched in its herding capabilities. It took him years to find foundation dogs that met his requirements, physically and mentally. Then, at a dog show in 1899, he came across the appearance of a German shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Hektor was the result of several generations of selective breeding, and he perfectly matched Von Stephanitz's idea of what a herding breed ought to be. Von Stephanitz declared Hektor the first German Shepherd Dog and founded the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde.
During the second half of the 19th century, breeders tried to standardize herding dog breeds. They were able to preserve certain traits that attracted Von Stephanitz, and these characteristics continue to make the German Shepherd breed a cult. For instance, a study showed that German Shepherds can learn tasks in just five times and follow the first command that is given at least 95% of the time.
These same traits also make this breed one of the top police and military working dogs, as well as a popular family pet. These dogs make great pets and are great companions for children if they're well-socialized and taught. They are usually shy around strangers, but they generally affectionate with the people they love. A German Shepherd that is not socialized at a young age may have difficulty adapting to new situations and be anxious or stressed.
Due to their strong instincts to protect German Shepherds are cautious around strangers and are excellent guard dogs. They are generally extremely sensitive and eager to please, making them extremely trainable. They are strong and agile, and can run up to 30 miles an hour, if they are required to.
Because of their versatility and popularity, you'll see a variety of different German Shepherds in the world. The breed's distinctive features are easy to recognize, especially if you're familiar with the standard of the breed. If you're not sure then consult your veterinarian to help you determine the breed. Most veterinarians are familiar with 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 are also members of organizations like the American Kennel Club. This can give you additional assurances about their credibility.
Purebred German Shepherd is characterized by an athletic, muscular physique with a distinct black and tan hue. Adult males typically weigh 65 to 90 pounds and stand 24 to 26 inches tall and females are typically smaller at 50 to 70 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. They have long, erect ears and a sharp stare. While they may appear intimidating, a well-trained German Shepherd will remain loyal to its owner and will not exhibit aggressive behavior towards other dogs or even people.
They are quick learners and extremely intelligent. Socialization early and consistently is essential to their growth as a well-mannered, confident family pets. They are naturally guardians and will guard their family members. However, they will accept strangers if they don't pose a threat to them.
These agile, powerful dogs are suitable for a variety of types of work. They excel in police and military duty, as well as serving in the role of service dogs for the disabled. They possess an extremely strong prey drive and will likely chase small animals, therefore making sure they are in a secure area and providing plenty of positive interactions is crucial for households with other pets.
If properly socialized and trained German Shepherds are extremely protective, loving and extremely loyal companions. They are usually cautious of strangers and other dogs, but can be taught to play with other pets through positive training and early socialization.
When assessing the German Shepherd's qualities look for a head shape that is proportional to the size of the dog and is cleanly chiseled. The shoulders should be square and broad and straight, with a back that is slightly sloped from the withers down to the croup. A curved or excessively curving rear or back legs are a sign of an insufficient structural alignment. A well-constructed German Shepherd moves with a smooth, easy stride driven by an upward thrust of the hindquarters.
Temperament
German Shepherds are intelligent and curious dogs who are loyal and not overly eager to please. They are loyal to their families and are wary of strangers. This makes them an effective guard dog. They thrive when their owners are active and will test them physically and mentally. They require daily exercise and a large yard to play in. If they aren't adequately stimulated, they might engage in destructive behavior such as chewing or digging.
When selecting a breeder to work with, look for someone who is committed to the breed and is aware of its temperament and personality. A reliable breeder will be able to discuss the background of both parents and puppies. They will also be able to tell you whether the puppies have been socialized and has received obedience training. If a puppy has not been socialized, it will likely require extensive obedience and behavioral training to prepare it for a life as a pet for the family.
Puppy must be curious and outgoing and have a natural capacity for asserting their rights. If one puppy is more timid than the others, it is an indication. Also, a great German Shepherd should have a strong and steady grip when being picked up.
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 black (blue or red-colored noses are not acceptable). The teeth must be white and join in an imposing scissor bite with the upper row of teeth slightly wider than the lower. The ears are wide and straight at the base, with pointed tips. They may slide down a bit when in rest.
The German Shepherd is a very adaptable dog that is used in many different ways like herding as well as search and rescue as well as drug and bomb detection, and guiding the blind. This versatility makes it among the most sought-after breeds across the world. It is essential to keep in mind that the temperament of a German Shepherd dog can be heavily affected by its training and environment.
Health
Purebred German Shepherds are incredibly resilient, able to thrive in many different environments and roles. They are great companions, therapy dogs, and service animals. They also excel at competition dog sports advanced obedience, as well as training in protection. Their dedication to work and innate instincts may lead them to missions of search and rescue, police work, and military careers. GSDs, as with all breeds, are prone to certain health issues despite their remarkable capabilities.
As a breed that is larger GSDs are more prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. These degenerative conditions can cause your dog to become lame and in pain as they get older. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary examinations can help minimize the effects.
German Shepherds are at risk of Bloat, an illness in which the stomach twists and fills with gas, cutting off blood supply to the liver and spleen. Bloat can be life-threatening in the event that it is not treated. It requires immediate medical care.
Because of their long, thick coats as well as their darker coloring GSDs are also susceptible 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 illness that could cause blindness if it is not treated promptly.
Intervertebral disc (IVDD) disease Von Willebrand's Disease, and hemangiosarcoma which is a blood vessel that has cancer, could all affect your German Shepherd. The cushion of jelly between vertebrae of the spine could rupture or slide and cause pressure to the spinal cord. Signs of IVDD include an inability to climb steps or jump and a hunched back. pain when touching, and dragging the rear feet.
In addition, like most dogs, you'll need to ensure that you keep your German Shepherd on a high-quality diet and avoid eating table foods that can cause weight increase and nutritional deficiencies. Clean their coat frequently to keep a healthy and clean appearance. A bath is okay from time to time, but overdoing it can strip the natural oils that keep the coat looking shiny and healthy.