What to Know About German Shepherds

German Shepherds are one of the widely recognized dog breeds in the world. German shepherds have been bred to be highly adaptable to various climates and environments, so they are often used to helping humans in rescue missions. Whether they are used as police dogs or rescuers, German shepherds generally have a reputation for being very active and energetic dogs. They can be suspicious of strangers and get anxious when left alone for long periods. On the whole, though, they are very good with children and gentle with other animals.

Characteristics and Temperament

Even though German shepherds may look intimidating, they are usually very affectionate and crave human attention. They have a strong personality and mind, which may make training complex, but ultimately rewarding. Some shepherds have even been known to think of themselves as leaders rather than followers in the family. It is vital to remember that any dog breed can be unpredictable in certain situations. They are not recommended for anyone who lacks previous experience with dogs. German shepherds are very energetic. They can run and play for hours, but they also have a strong mind and will know when it's time to rest. By the way, German shepherds can get along with other animals and children. However, they should be supervised around cats as this breed may attack them on sight.

German Shepherds and Training

Obedience training should be done with German shepherds, just as it is done with any other breed. It will help you create a strong bond with your dog while also setting you up to be a fully trained dog in the future. Obedience training should be started early and used consistently for the best results. This dog breed can be susceptible to harsh treatment and will react if they feel it is necessary.

German Shepherds and Activity Levels

This breed is usually very active, so it is not recommended for anyone who does not like to exercise their dog. They will need at least one long daily walk, around two hours in length, or an hour of strenuous play every day. This dog breed can also be a good candidate for agility training, as long as the work environment is safe and suited to the dog's needs. German shepherds should also be allowed plenty of room to run around while not working.

German Shepherds and Health Problems

There is a risk for the development of hip dysplasia in German shepherds. This is a prevalent problem that can be treated if diagnosed early enough. However, if untreated, it can weaken the joints and even complete paralysis in severe cases. There is also a chance of developing cancer and deafness in this breed. These health problems are prevalent, but they should not cause alarm. They are simply things that you should expect with this breed.

German Shepherds and Grooming

Grooming isn't something that will be required regularly with German shepherds. This dog breed will only need to be brushed once a week during shedding seasons or when the coat is dirty. German shepherds are also the easiest breeds to bathe because their fur doesn't get too matted or oily. They also have a long life span, most reaching upwards of 12 years.