Read About German Shepherd Dog

German Shepherd - Facts

1. AKC Group:

   This breed is part of the herding group.

2. Size & Weight:

   The average dog is 24-26 inches and about 77-85 pounds.

3. Coat:

   The coat length in a German Shepherd is medium. It is generally straight, hard, and close lying with a dense undercoat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   The head is well proportioned to the body and is wedge shaped. The muzzle is long and strong and to a point.

5. Body:

   German Shepherd has a muscular body with strong bones. It has a long abdomen.

6. Colors:

   Usually the dog is found in solid black, gray, tan and gold.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12 -- 13 years

8. Popularity:

   It has gained its popularity through the passing years.

9. Habitat:

   They are more comfortable in countryside living. However if there is ample space, they can live even in the city. But it should be given a fenced yard.

German Shepherd - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Germany

2. Lineage:

   The lineage is given from the German fancier Rittmeister von Stephanitz

3. Date Admitted to AKC:

   1908

4. Historical Information:

   German Shepherds originated from the mountain sheepdogs of Germany. They were found in 7th Century A.D. They were basically military dogs.

German Shepherd - Defining Characteristics

1. Training Ease:

   German Shepherd should be given training by a learned instructor. They require obedience training that helps them improve their social skills. They are fast learners.

2. Child Friendly:

   They are lovable toward the family and children and love to play with them, but need to be watched around children.

3. Behavior:

   The German Shepherd is very intelligent and becomes a great family pet. They are very alert. They are very loyal to their master and family. They are fearless and quite confident.

4. Habits:

   It is strange, but they only bark when it is necessary. They are very protective toward their masters and family members.

German Shepherd - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   Usually they may suffer with hip dysplasia, and are also prone to some skin diseases.

2. Feeding:

   German Shepherd should be given meals with rich nutrient sources. There should be a balance of protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. They should be fed 3-4 meals in a day.

3. Exercise Needs:

   German Shepherd should be taken out for long walks. They love to do strenuous activities like hiking, jogging etc.

4. Grooming Needs:

   They shed a lot and need to be brushed daily to maintain the oil on the coat.

5. Special Household Needs:

   The German Shepherd can stay in an apartment only if they have a vigorous exercise regime. They are normally inactive indoors and are quite happy playing in a large yard.

6. Travel Needs:

   German Shepherd can easily be taken anywhere as long as they are not left alone for long periods of time.

7. Getting Along With Other Pets:

   This breed of dog has the need to be trained at an early stage to be friendly with the other pets.

German Shepherd - How to Choose

1. What to look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   They should have a strong bone structure. Should be muscular and do check the leg bones to see if they are strong enough or not.

2. What you will need for a New Puppy:

   They love to play in the open. Hence, it is important to fence your backyard for safety purposes.

3. Puppy-Proofing your House:

   German Shepherd has a nature to hunt, so it's advisable to keep the floor clear. Keep plants to a minimum to ensure he does not dig them as it is in his habit.

4. How to Make your New Puppy Feel at Home:

   Have a large area in the backyard where he can spend his time playing.