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Could a German Shepherd be the right dog for you?
The German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian or Schafer(hund)) is an
intelligent breed of dog. Because they are eager to please, they
are easily trained in obedience and protection. The German
Shepherd Dog is a large, strong, substantial-looking dog.
Ever since Rin Tin Tin became a famous television personality,
the German Shepherd has gone from an already popular dog breed
to one of the most well known breeds on earth. This versatile
dog breed seems to be everywhere that a dog can be of help, from
war torn countries to areas where natural disasters have
occurred. The powerful German Shepherd will strike terror in the
hearts of criminals one minute and endure the overly
affectionate attention of little children the next.
German Shepherds were bred to be guardians and the breed still
has a very strong protective instinct. A dog that is high strung
or nervous should never be bred, as the resulting puppies can be
untrustworthy. However, most German Shepherds are wonderful dogs
and devoted to their families, including children and other
pets.
The German Shepherd is a fairly large dog, weighing from sixty
to seventy five pounds and standing twenty two to twenty six
inches tall. This breed has erect ears, dark, intelligent eyes,
and a graceful tail. The German Shepherd is most commonly black
and tan, although gray and tan or black and gray dogs are also
available. A striking all white dog, commonly called an
Alsatian, is popular with many people. If you like the look of
the Alsatian, be sure you meet the puppy's parents, as these
white German Shepherds can sometimes be a bit high strung.
Although German Shepherds are high energy animals, they can live
in the city. Just be aware that you will have to exercise your
dog frequently and that he will be miserable if you leave him
alone for long hours without giving him a job to do. Of course,
a house with a big yard in a rural area is ideal.
Since your German Shepherd will rapidly grow into a big,
powerful dog, you may want to enroll him in obedience classes
while he is a puppy. It is much easier to control a small puppy
than a full grown untrained dog. In addition, puppy obedience
classes also help provide another important benefit for your
German Shepherd puppy, socialization to other dogs and people.
Many people who own these intelligent dogs make the unfortunate
mistake of thinking that their dogs need to be trained as guard
dogs. However, this training can lead to aggression if your dog
is not trained properly. Since German Shepherds are naturally
protective, they do not need attack dog training to guard your
home.
The German Shepherd's coat requires very little grooming. The
dense coat is coarse and does not mat easily. Brush your dog
once a week to remove dirt and debris. If you live in the city,
concrete will probably wear down your Shepherd's nails. However,
if your dog lives in a rural area he may need to have his nails
trimmed several times a year.
German Shepherds need to eat a nutritional food that is
formulated for large breed dogs. If your Shepherd is a working
dog, you may need to feed him a high protein food. A good dog
vitamin is also a smart idea.
This loyal, smart breed commonly suffers from hip dysplasia or
epilepsy. To see one of these dignified dogs suffering from
either disease is heart breaking. Please be sure that your
puppy's breeder has had the parents tested to be sure they do
not carry these diseases.
German Shepherd Dogs are often used as working dogs in many
capacities, including search and rescue, military, police or
guard dogs. They are also used as assistance dogs or service
dogs (such as guide dogs).
If you want a dog who will be protective and loyal, then a
German Shepherd may be the right dog for you and your family.
About the author:
Clive Chansa writes for the Dog Care Guide at http://www.dog-care-help.com
/ and the Pet Care Supplies Uk website at
http://www.pet-care-supplies.co.uk/ which offers a wide
range of pet products and supplies.
Written by: Clive Chansa
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