The German Shepherd is a dog breed popular in America, and also other parts of the world. The breed is very intelligent and hard-working, making it one of the best dog breeds in many fields.
You can use German Shepherds as; police dogs, in the military, as service dogs (for blind and the disabled), for search and rescue, herding, agility, and more. If raised properly, they can also make excellent family dogs.
The German shepherd, as the name tells us, originates from Germany. At first, it was mostly used as a sheepdog, but later on, it also became a working dog, due to his intelligence and high energy.
Character and temperament
German Shepherds are very intelligent, reliable, brave, obedient, and balanced dogs. They usually don’t trust strangers, which makes them excellent guard dogs. If raised properly, they make great family dogs. They are especially attached to their masters. German Shepherds need a lot of love and attention from their family, and lot’s of walking and exercise.
The female is noted as a very good mother, caring for her offspring in a tender and loving manner.
Socialization and training
Socialization is critical since they can be aggressive towards strangers. They learn and train quickly due to their high intelligence.
Well-trained German Shepherds can be extremely reliable and obedient. Dogs that lack socialization and training can be nervous, over-protective, have behavioral problems, and can even be aggressive. They are compatible with other pets in the family if properly introduced.
With proper training and socialization, they are great with children and other animals. When German Shepherds are well-socialized and trained from a puppy, they are not highly demanding, as they like to serve the master, and don’t cause any trouble.
Compatibility with children
When a dog is adequately socialized, he will get along with all the members of the family, even small children. Once they see you as part of the family, they will be patient and gentle. Adult supervision is still needed due to its size and strength, as he could unintentionally hurt small children when playing.
Exercise requirements
German Shepherds are an energetic and active breed. At least one long walk a day (more than 40 minutes), is their minimum. They require continuous mental and physical tasks to stay healthy and are not suitable for people who don’t have enough time or energy. As mentioned before, due to their high energy level, they are often used as police, military, service…, etc. dogs.
This breed thrives best when living directly with the family, (not chained in the yard or the kennel). If German Shepherds don’t have enough love and attention from their family, they can turn destructive and aggressive.
General health
This breed is generally healthy but can be prone to certain conditions. Not every dog will suffer from these conditions, but it’s essential to be aware of them.
- Allergies
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI)
Allergies, hip and elbow dysplasia, some cases of degenerative myelopathy, and EPI, can often be treated. These dogs are generally healthy and might get sick only with old age. You can avoid some of these conditions when you purchase from a certified breeder.
Grooming
Grooming is relatively easy, except when the dog is shedding. In shedding periods, the dog has to be brushed every day. In general, you need to brush him a couple of times a week, to remove dead skin and hair. Always expect some hair on the furniture and in the apartment.
You do not need to bath this breed too often. We can wash your dog 1-2 times a year, because of protective oils in his hair that keep him from getting dirty.
Another find German breed you may want to check out is the German Shorthaired Pointer.
