Breed All About It!
Spotlight on: The German Shepherd
Description: Well-proportioned and strong, the German Shepherd comes in three varieties- double coat, plush coat, and long-haired coat. The coat is most often black and tan, sable, or all black, but can also be white, blue, and liver. The white German Shepherd is now recognized as a separate breed by some clubs, and is called the American White Shepherd.
Temperament: Often used as working dogs, German Shepherds are one of the smartest and most trainable breeds. This breed has a very strong protective instinct, is faithful, brave, and extremely loyal to its handler, and would not hesitate to give its life for its human pack. That is why they are frequently used as police dogs, guide dogs, guard dogs, search and rescue, and in the military. The German Shepherd is also a popular family companion. They love to be close to their people, but can be wary of strangers. The breed can sometimes have an aloof and suspicious nature. Start training and socializing in their puppyhood, and be an authoritative pack leader. It ' s important to socialize them well when they are very young so they are acclimated to different people and situations. A stable, well-adjusted, trained dog is, for the most part, generally good with other pets and children in the family. They usually only bark when they feel it is necessary. Do not leave isolated for long periods of time. German Shepherds ' personalities are confident, cheerful, obedient, fearless, serious, and clever. They have a high learning ability, and are eager to channel their mental and physical energies into new challenges.
Average Height / Weight: Approximately 22- 26 inches in height, about 77- 85 pounds.
Health Issues: This breed is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, blood disorders, digestive problems, bloat, epilepsy, chronic exzema, keratitis, flea allergies, and splenic tumors( tumors of the spleen).
Exercise: German Shepherds love strenuous activity, preferably combined with training of some kind, as they enjoy having a job to do. They should be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog, or run, and love a good game of ball or frisbee, and participation in a canine playgroup. Agility is also a good option. If under-exercised or mentally unchallenged, they could become destructive.
Life Expectancy: Approximately 10- 14 years.
Grooming: German Shepherds shed hair often, and are seasonally heavy shedders. They should be brushed daily, or you will have a lot of fur in your home! Bathe only when necessary, as overbathing can cause skin irritation from oil depletion. Check ears and trim nails regularly.
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Pawsitively Pets-- January 7