For many years, the German
Shepherd has been one of the most popular dog
breeds, as a family pet, a companion to those with
physical limitations, and as a working dog in law
enforcement. Generally, a strong, active, and
healthy dog, the German Shepherd would be a
wonderful addition to your family and with good
care, could give you years of companionship.
Over the years, the popularity of the German
Shepherd has led to some careless breeding that
encouraged hereditary diseases such as joint
dysplasia, blood disorders, and other medical
conditions. This alone is reason enough to work with
a top-quality, reputable breeder to make sure that
the young dog you bring home is healthy and as free
from physical problems as any dog can be. This
strong start, along with a good diet and plenty of
exercise, should eliminate many of the serious
health issues that may afflict a purebred dog.
One of the conditions that all
dog owners should be aware of is hip dysplasia, a
degenerative joint disease that does not have to be
a problem for you if your breeder has certified his
puppies as free from this condition. The Orthopedic
Foundation for Animals (OFA) has a radiograph
procedure that will detect early signs of this
condition. When working with a breeder, you should
ask for documentation showing the puppy meets this
OFA standard.
Proper socialization of puppies by the breeder is
also important, not only because you will receive a
calmer, friendlier dog that is comfortable with
humans, but also because a less nervous, less
stressed dog would not be prone to some of the
digestive problems that can afflict a timid or
skittish animal. Proper socialization and care from
the start will go a long way to ensuring that your
new pet will eat properly and exercise to stay
healthy.
German Shepherds can also be subject to some flea
allergies and skin problems, such as eczema. Three
main types of allergies related to skin conditions
are food allergy, flea allergy dermatitis, and
allergic inhaled dermatitis. In addition, some dogs
are allergic to the grains in cheaper grades of
commercial food (wheat, corn, soy). Dairy products
can sometimes be a problem for individual dogs as
well.
For flea allergy dermatitis, this was more common
years ago but new treatments and awareness of the
condition have made it more treatable and less of a
worry to the dog owner. Canine atopy or allergic
inhaled dermatitis is generally caused by
re-exposure to the same allergen, items such as
certain trees and grasses, feathers, house dust, and
chemicals used to treat fabrics.
Many experienced owners of German Shepherds
recommend staying away from all but the top-quality
commercial foods. However, other people recommend
that you feed your dog the same high-quality foods
that you bring home from the store for yourself,
such as lean meats and certain vegetables. Bloat or
gastric distortion can sometimes be a problem for
large, deep-chested dogs. One of the key factors in
this condition is a twisting of the stomach that
traps contents and causes gas to build up. One way
to help prevent this condition is to feed your
German Shepherd smaller amounts at each feeding so
it does not wolf down too much food at once. The
same is true for water.
Because the German Shepherd was bred as a working
dog, it is best to plan for regular exercise to keep
him healthy. Give your German Shepherd some regular
tasks to do, even if they are just fun and a little
bit challenging such as retrieving the paper,
getting the ball, etc. With proper care and
nutrition, your German Shepherd will be with you for
12 or more happy years.
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