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The German Shepherd is a
very popular breed, as a family pet and as a
professional working dog. The natural intelligence
and energy of this large dog make it a great choice
for those wanting to spend time outdoors and
providing a few challenges for the pet.
In addition, law enforcement agencies, rescue teams
and other organizations have found the breed’s
intelligence, stamina, and keen sense of smell very
valuable in emergency, situations. To help you
understand this special breed, we have gathered ten
common questions about the German Shepherd, with
answers for each.
1. What is the
history of the German Shepherd?
This breed is the result of efforts by a small group
of German dog enthusiasts who formed a society in
1891 to promote native German dog breeds. A man
named Captain Max von Stephanitz entered the picture
in 1894. Seeing a particular breed of dog in 1899,
von Stephanitz found it to have amazing strength and
herding skills so admired. From this excellent
animal came the line from which German Shepherds
emerged and by 1919, the English Kennel Club gave
the breed a separate register.
2. How big is a German Shepherd?
A healthy German Shepherd should be muscular but
appear lean and sturdy, with pointed, upright ears
and hard soles on its feet. Keep in mind that three
varieties of German Shepherd exist to include the
rough-coated, long rough-coated, and the longhaired
types. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches while
females are about one or two inches shorter. As far
as weight, a mature German Shepherd could be
anywhere from 77 to 85 pounds.
3. Would a German Shepherd be good in a home with
children?
The German Shepherd can be an excellent family dog,
doing quite well with children. However, it is
important to purchase your puppy from a reputable
breeder, one that has taken the time to make sure
the young dog is comfortable around humans, as well
as other dogs. Keep in mind the size and strength of
the German Shepherd, which could be a problem for
small children. It is also necessary to give the dog
plenty of outside exercise to help burn off energy.
4. How do I choose a breeder?
You should do some research on breeders in your area
and visit at least three reputable, top-quality
breeders. If necessary, ask the American Kennel Club
or your personal veterinarian for breeder
recommendations. Then, take your time when visiting
each, asking plenty of questions so that you do not
leave with any doubts in your mind. You should
always ask to see the parents of the puppy you are
considering and look closely at the conditions the
puppy lives in.
5. Does a German Shepherd make a good inside dog?
This breed is happiest with outside activity,
especially if the dog is challenged and given
something to keep it interested. A German Shepherd
would do fine as a housedog but on a limited basis.
In this case, you want to plan spending regular time
outside to allow your pet to run and get plenty of
exercise. As with most dogs, German Shepherds should
not be left alone for long periods and never tie
your dog up leaving it outside alone.
6. Does this breed work well for family members
with allergies?
The German Shepherd may not be the best breed in a
home with allergies. Remember that this dog sheds
small amounts of hair regularly but is not
considered a heavy shedder. Many experienced
breeders and owners consider this a very “natural”
breed in that its coat does not take a great deal of
grooming. In addition, a German Shepherd needs to be
outside often, so this can introduce irritants to
the home. It is best to ask your breeder and
veterinarian specific questions about this situation
before you choose a German Shepherd puppy or any
puppy for that matter.
7. Is this breed of dog easy to housebreak?
This intelligent breed is considered highly
trainable. Housebreaking is not generally a major
problem with a well-socialized, healthy German
Shepherd. We might recommend crate training, which
can teach the dog restraint and provide it with a
safe haven. The key to successful housebreaking is
prevention. Therefore, plan to take the dog outside
early in the morning and again, before you go to bed
at night. Praise your pet for good behavior, because
positive reinforcement works best with this breed.
8. Do German Shepherds get along with other dogs?
First of all, the German Shepherd makes a very loyal
pet but one that is often wary of strangers.
However, with good socialization as a puppy, this
breed should do quite well with people and with
other pets. Just keep in mind that you want to use a
firm hand when introducing a German Shepherd to an
existing family dog, especially if the Shepherd is
older.
9. How often should I feed my German Shepherd?
German Shepherds seem to do well with what is called
“free feeding”, meaning food is left out throughout
the day. However, you should keep a close watch on
your dog as it grows, making sure that it does not
gulp too much food at a time. The reason is that
some larger, deep-chested dogs tend to suffer from
bloat, a malady that is connected with a twisting of
the abdomen. This health risk is the result of too
much food and water being consumed at once.
10. How long will my German Shepherd live?
A healthy, well-fed German Shepherd should live
between 10 and 13 years in the right situation
although middle age is about 5 to 7 years. Nutrition
needs can change over the course of time, so be
prepared to consult with your veterinarian about
changes to help extend the life of your pet.
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