Breed info
German ShepherdOverview
This breed was developed in the 19th century by Max Von Stephanitz who is considered to be the father of the German Shepherd. Revered for their versatility as companion and for their dedication to work, this breed has the distinction of being the first dog ever used as a guide for the blind. Today the German Shepherd is one of the most popular breeds in the world.
Training
The German Shepherd requires early intensive and extensive socialization and obedience training. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed is obedient and quick to learn. Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, reward, and consistency. They are exceptionally talented in tracking, Schutzhund, Agility, Obedience, Fly-ball, and Ring sport. The German Shepherd is often used in Police Work, Search and Rescue, as a guide for the blind, military work, as well as Personal and Family Protection.
Activity
This breed is happiest when given a job to do. They require strenuous exercise and enjoy securely leashed walks, family play sessions, and a large safely fenced area to romp and run freely in. The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention.
Ownership
If you are looking for a German Shepherd puppy for sale from a reputable German Shepherd breeder, then make sure you understand as much about the dog breed as you can. Begin your research by reading the breed information about the German Shepherd puppy above, ask the breeder if they can furnish you with testimonies from previous buyers, check with AKC to see if they have had any complaints, ask how their breeding program works and if they do selective breeding. German Shepherd puppies make great pets if cared for properly.
Color(s)
Black and Tan, Bi Color, Black and Silver, Blue, Blue and Tan, Solid Black and Sable. The German Shepherd is a double coat breed. The outer coat is harsh, straight, and thick. The under coat is dense and soft. The German Shepherd comes in three varieties: rough coat, long hair, and long rough coat. This breed is a regular shredder, but with proper diet that can be minimized. Although they will completely shed their coat in the spring and fall.
Character
The German Shepherd is a breed of classic beauty and possesses superior intelligence, and courage. They are highly adaptable, energetic, curious, strong, and dependable. This breed displays a magnificent appearance and is extremely agile with great stamina and endurance.
Temperament
A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd is fearless, bold, hard working, and alert. They are esteemed for their loyalty, deep devotion, and courage. This breed thrives on human interaction from their family . German Shepherds are naturally wary of strangers but with proper socialization will tolerate them. They will most generally get along with other household pets they have been raised with.
Care
This breed requires frequent brushing to minimize loose hair. Bathing should only be done when necessary using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat. They must be kept on a well balanced diet, with plenty of exercise. German Shepherds are prone to such health issues as blood disorders, elbow and hip dyspepsia, epilepsy, flea allergies, digestive problems, and chronic eczema.