essay on german shepherd

German Shepherd: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

History, Care Tips, and Helpful Information for Pet Owners

Dr. Bartley Harrison is a veterinarian with more than 15 years of professional veterinary experience treating dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, birds, and small mammals, with a specific focus on Emergency Medicine. Dr. Harrison is part of The Spruce Pets’ veterinary review board.

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Characteristics
Breed History
Training and Care
Health Problems

Diet and Nutrition

Where to Adopt or Buy

Breed Overview

Further Research

German shepherd dogs are one of the most popular breeds in the world, treasured for their intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism. They're large brown-and-black dogs with a streamlined build that makes them both strong and agile.

Though they're excellent herding dogs, German shepherds are also very well suited to work as service animals , such as guide dogs for the visually impaired. They also serve as police officers, members of the military, guard dogs, and even movie stars.

They're undoubtedly versatile dogs, but they need owners who can give them enough ways to expend their energy and smarts. If you think you can keep up, read on to learn more about the German shepherd dog.

Group: Herding

Height: 22 to 26 inches

Weight: 60 to 100 pounds

Coat: Coarse, medium-length double coat

Coat Color: Black and tan, black and cream, black and red, black and silver, solid black, gray, sable. Note that blue, liver or white are unfavorable based on breed standards.

Temperament: Intelligent, courageous, alert, bold, loyal, protective

Hypoallergenic: No

Origin: Germany

Characteristics of the German Shepherd

German shepherds are protective, loyal companions. Bred with a strong work ethic, they are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States— No. 4 in 2022 —thanks in large part to their ability to be great family dogs. They love "their people" but can be cautious around strangers or newcomers and thrive on the care and attention of their family.

This isn't the right breed for you if you are rarely home, live in a very small home without access to a yard, or simply don't have a lot of time to devote to your pet. The German shepherd needs a lot of companionship and attention to thrive and to help ward off destructive or annoying behaviors that can rise out of anxiety or boredom .

While most German shepherds are family pets, many of these dogs are hard-working canines in various jobs that serve humans, including search-and-rescue , police , drug- or bomb-sniffing, service , and entertainment work.

History of the German Shepherd

The ancestors of German shepherd dogs acted as both servants and companions to humans for hundreds of years. Developed from old shepherd and farm dogs, the German shepherd dogs we know today were first introduced in Germany in 1899. That's when Capt. Max von Stephanitz founded the breed.

Worldwide interest in the breed began rising in the early 1900s and the German shepherd was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1908. During World Wars I and II, the word "German" was dropped and the breed was referred to as the shepherd dog or the Alsatian (a name that is still often used in Europe).

The breed's popularity has led to cross-breeding, including the development of king shepherds , a mix between German shepherds and Shiloh shepherds.

German Shepherd Care

German shepherd dogs require frequent care, training, and attention but they will reward you with many years of loyalty and love. They are well suited to families, though they're best acquired as pets when they're young so they have ample time to adjust to life with their humans and undergo training.

The Spruce / Kevin Norris

Plenty of regular exercise is essential for German shepherds because they have so much energy. A daily walk is not enough. If you're a jogger, a German shepherd can be a good running companion . Your dog needs to run, play, and explore to prevent frustration, boredom, and pent-up energy. A bored dog may resort to barking, digging , and chewing .

Even if they aren't bored, these dogs like to chew and have powerful jaws, so keep durable chew toys available.

German shepherds are better off in a home with a fenced yard for play rather than an apartment . However, it's even more important that your dog receives plenty of attention and isn't left alone most of the day.

German shepherds have coarse, sometimes wiry, medium-length hair with thick undercoats. Their coats should be brushed every few days to combat their relatively high shedding rate, which can be lessened by routine grooming . Still, you should be prepared to have dog hair on your clothing and furniture—you'll need to vacuum frequently. Luckily, a German shepherd's coat also resists dirt and debris, so you won't need to bathe your dog more than once a month. In fact, too-frequent bathing will strip out the oils that keep their coats healthy.

Remember to keep your dog's nails trimmed to help them walk around comfortably. You should also help your dog maintain good dental hygiene by brushing their teeth a couple times a week.

German shepherds can be very gentle companions and family protectors with proper training and socialization. They're an ideal breed for active households, and the intelligence and protective demeanor of this breed can make it a good choice for families with children as long as the dog is properly trained.

German shepherds can sometimes become anxious or even aggressive if not properly trained and handled. These dogs will ideally be trained to perform a duty they'll take pride in—such as canine sports . The breed's intelligence and desire to work should make training fairly easy. Socialization will make sure your German shepherd does not become stressed or scared when meeting new people or animals and seeing new environments.

Additionally, German shepherds may have a tendency to chase cats and other small pets, so they may not be a good fit for a multi-pet household unless raised together. They also may not get along with strange dogs, especially of the same sex, which may be a problem when you visit a dog park .

Common Health Problems

Responsible breeders strive to maintain the highest breed standards as established by kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club. German shepherd dogs bred by these standards are less likely to inherit health conditions, however, some hereditary health problems can occur in the breed. The following are some conditions to be aware of:

Hip dysplasia : This genetic orthopedic disorder affects the hip joints of many large-breed dogs. It causes pain, limping , and degeneration of the joint.
Elbow dysplasia : This is another orthopedic problem that is similar to hip dysplasia but affects the dog's front legs.
Elbow hygroma : This alarming, but non-cancerous growth swells over the dog's elbow. Filled with fluid, it's usually caused by minor trauma, and although unsightly, it normally does not cause the dog pain unless the hygroma becomes infected.
Gastric dilatation-volvulus : Also called bloat, this is a very serious condition that occurs when a dog's stomach expands with gas or food and then flips within the abdominal cavity, cutting off the exits from the dog's stomach. Bloat can be fatal without prompt treatment.
Degenerative myelopathy : This progressive neurological condition affects a dog's spinal cord. It starts with weakness in the hind legs and ultimately progresses to paralysis.

The Spruce / Emilie Dunphy

Your adult German shepherd will need two meals a day of up to 2 cups of dry dog food, but this will depend on the dog's size, activity level, age, and health. You may also want to mix canned dog food into the kibble for extra flavor and interest. German shepherds are prone to bloating and possible stomach torsion, so you'll want to avoid giving one large meal a day and having the dog gulp it down. Be sure your dog has constant access to clean, fresh water. Monitor your dog's weight and address any overweight issues early, as obesity will shorten your dog's lifespan. You can also discuss nutritional needs with your veterinarian to get recommendations for feeding schedules and dog food types throughout your dog's life.

Where to Adopt or Buy a German Shepherd

If you think you'd like to adopt a German shepherd, start by contacting one of the following organizations:

German Shepherd Dog Club of America
German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions

These groups will be able to provide guidance and next steps for adoption as well as direct you to reputable breeders if you choose to go that route. The AKC also boasts a marketplace where you can inquire about AKC-registered litters that have been cared for and raised according to breed standards. While prices vary, you can generally expect to pay $2,000 or more for a German shepherd puppy, depending on sex, appearance, demand, and bloodline.

German shepherds, especially German shepherd mixes, are very common at animal rescues, so if you aren't concerned about your dog being purebred, or you simply prefer to rescue a pet rather than purchase one, it's always a good idea to start your search with local animal rescue organizations.

German Shepherd Overview

German shepherds are perennially popular dogs and will continue to be desirable, loving companions for decades to come. Provided you can meet their requirements for training, exercise and companionship, they are sure to be a great addition to your home and family.

Loyal, loving
Smart, trainable
Effective guard dog
Needs a yard and plenty of exercise
Sheds frequently
Can be aggressive without training
May not get along with other pets

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

As with any breed, if you think the German shepherd dog is right for you, be sure to do plenty of research before you get one. Talk to other owners, reputable breeders, and rescue groups to learn more.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, look into these breeds to compare the pros and cons.

Belgian Malinois
Doberman pinscher

There's a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!

You should leave your German shepherd along for no more than several hours. If you do have to disappear for longer, make sure you leave your dog with plenty of toys for chewing and playing.

No, German shepherds are not low maintenance. They require plenty of training when you first bring them home, and then you'll have to spend plenty of time making sure they get enough exercise and attending to their grooming needs—aka plenty of fur brushing.

You can expect a German shepherd to live around 10 years, according to the American Kennel Club.

German Shepherd Dog ; American Kennel Club

The History of the German Shepherd Dog ; German Shepherd Dog Club of America

Pros And Cons Of German Shepherds

Table of Contents:

German Shepherd Dogs: Pros and Cons [Expert Opinion]

German shepherds are rated high in intelligence and trainability, and it would only take a few rounds of practice and repetition for them to understand and fo If your dog is a german shepherd, you’ll want to show it off; their physical characteristics will undoubtedly draw people’s admiration despite the disadvantages of owning a german shepherd. German shepherds have fairly thick coats that can be difficult to groom and maintain. Their hair would often shed off, so it’s possible to scatter it on the floor or even on your furniture. A big dog also requires plenty of space.

Disadvantages of having a german shepherd

What is the best family dog?

Family dogs such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Beagles, and Irish Setters are playful and protective. … Find Labrador Retriever puppies on the AKC Marketplace and start shopping for everything you’ll need. Bulldog. … Golden Retriever. … Beagle. … Pug. … Irish Setter. … Brussels Griffon. … Newfoundland. … French Bulldog.

Source: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/best-family-dogs/

Owning a German shepherd is not recommended for those who live in small apartments or don’t have a very active lifestyle.

GSDS are very powerful and can be uncontrollable because of their big, sturdy structure.
German shepherds are tremendously strong dogs.
Without proper training and socialization, these dogs can be a real headache.

You will have a difficult time controlling it with its leash or keeping it well behaved inside your home; they love to be with you a little too much; you cannot leave a german shepherd home alone for long periods of time or they will develop various emotional health issues, such as separation anxiety and depression. Owning a German shepherd requires a considerable commitment because it needs continuous attention and interaction. GSDs are not recommended for those who work and leave the house the whole day; it’s also not advised that you leave your dog for more than four hours. Owning them can be a pain in your wallet to start with.

Getting a German Shepherd can cost you a lot of money, and the main reason for this is because their breeding is not so cheap. This is mainly if you buy from a trusted breeder, so you’re sure to own a pure and certified-quality bread pup. Maintenance can also be expensive; they need registration and more significant portions of meals. regular visits to the vet and other utilities Owning a German shepherd is definitely not for everybody. As for the list of its pros and cons, it would hopefully help you reflect on whether you’re a hundred percent ready to take on the responsibility.

Is owning a German Shepherd hard?

German Shepherd Dog owners should be prepared for an energetic dog that needs a job . Even if your GSD will be a pet, they were bred to work and will need an outlet for their energy and drive. Keep in mind that you will need to provide your dog with extensive physical and mental exercise every day.

Source: https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/is-a-german-shepherd-dog-right-for-you/

It’s actually a significant step that you’re doing your research, which just proves that you care about whether or not you’re able to take care of it.

There are more pros than cons when it comes to owning a German shepherd.
Click the link in the description below to read more about it.
If the information on this article was useful, please like it and don’t forget to subscribe.

Frequent Questions – 💬

❓ what are the disadvantages of german shepherd.

One of the biggest issues facing the breed is hip dysplasia .

A lot of GSD owners have encountered this problem and it is a reoccurring theme with the breed.
They are also susceptible to epilepsy.
It is a common hereditary disease found in these working dogs and can result it seizures.

❓ What are pros and cons about a German Shepherd?

German Shepherds' biggest pros are their courage, loyalty, affection, and intelligence . They are also highly trainable, good with family and kids, and protective. However, GSDs also have some cons in that they are predisposed to several breed-related illnesses, shed a lot, and are expensive to own.

❓ Are German Shepherds good family dogs?

Although they have a reputation for being a tough dog, German Shepherds (particularly females) are generally sweet-natured and good with children . Males might be a little less forgiving of rough play and unless raised with children and well trained, they should be supervised.

❓ What I wish I knew before getting a German Shepherd?

They can have high-energy needs German shepherds are working dogs.

There is a reason they are frequently used as military dogs, police dogs and service dogs.
They love having a job to do, and your German shepherd is no exception.
Be prepared for lots of long walks with your German shepherd and then some.

References:

“German Shepherds For Dummies” by D. Caroline Coile – Wiley, 2019
“Small Animal Surgery Textbook – E-Book” by Theresa Welch Fossum – Elsevier Health Sciences, 2012
“Puppies For Dummies” by Sarah Hodgson – Wiley, 2019
“The Dog: Its Behavior, Nutrition, and Health” by Linda P. Case – Wiley, 2013
“Poodles For Dummies” by Susan M. Ewing – Wiley, 2007

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‘can be uncontrollable’ ? what does that mean, exactly? They are a ‘working breed’ and were used by military and police handlers for guarding and patrolling. since nearly no dog owner ever takes all of a single complete basic class, figure the odds that a GSD will make it in a regular family…. Very low likelihood.

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Home > Dog Breed Reviews > German Shepherd Dog

German Shepherds: What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em

German Shepherd temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton , Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books

Jump directly to:

Temperament
Pros and Cons
With strangers
With children
With other pets
Similar breeds

German Shepherds were my very first breed. This noble-looking male has a beautiful rugged head, intelligent expression, and rich coloration.

My experience with German Shepherd temperament

Temperament and behavior stem from what the breed was designed for.

To understand a breed's temperament and behavior, ask, "What was he developed to do?" Whichever traits help him accomplish his intended work have likely been "hard-wired" into his genes – not perfectly, but generally.

The German Shepherd was developed from various sheepherding dogs. So you would expect sheepherding traits such as athleticism, a compulsion to chase things that move, and swift responsiveness to their human shepherd/master.

German Shepherds were also developed as military messenger and sentry dogs, and as personal protection and police dogs. So expect traits such as aloofness toward strangers and protective/territorial instincts.

The breed also excels at search and rescue, bomb and drug detection, and guiding the blind. Certainly you would expect high intelligence, high self-confidence, trainability, and an ability to focus.

All of those traits are what you get in an ideal German Shepherd. One of the most capable and trainable breeds in all of dogdom, an ideal German Shepherd, when properly raised by a confident owner, can be a magnificent companion. There's a good reason my first dogs were German Shepherds!

Unfortunately, it can be difficult today to find a German Shepherd with an ideal temperament. Or at least an ideal temperament to be a good family companion.

Different lines have different temperaments

Today, the temperament of a German Shepherd often depends largely upon what kind of line he comes from.

Some breeders, you see, produce working lines of German Shepherds with high-drive temperaments – vigorous and intense. These dogs are ideal for competitive protection-dog sports. But not so much for the average family companion – unless you looked carefully for an individual pup in one of those litters who didn't inherit that high-drive temperament.

Other breeders produce show lines that match a detailed standard of conformation for the show ring. These dogs are softer-tempered than those from working lines. That sounds nice and yet....

I've worked with far too many German Shepherds from show lines who were hyperactive, skittish, spooky, or downright dopey. This happens when breeders focus on appearance more than temperament and trainability.

My recommendation for a good family dog

If you're looking for an easygoing family companion, I would avoid both strict show lines and strict working lines.

Instead, you might look for more of a generalist breeder who focuses on calmness and high trainability. These breeders might prove their dogs' trainability by participating in non-protection dog sports such as obedience, rally, or agility.

Or, if you want a truly mellow Shepherd, you might consider a longhaired or perhaps a solid white German Shepherd. These dogs are seldom bred for aggressive dog sports, so they tend to have a milder temperament that fits well into many families.

Just be careful with the whites. A good number of them are too soft, which can result in timidity or skittishness.

I hope you can see....

....that with German Shepherds more than most other breeds, you must know what you want before you start calling breeders or looking at litters.

Because if you don't know what you want, and what you don't want, and if you don't ask the right questions, you're likely to end up with a German Shepherd that isn't at all what you were looking for – and possibly one who is too much for you to handle.

Such an intelligent expression – confident and inquiring.

Pros and cons of German Shepherds

Handsome, natural-looking, athletic
Thrives on challenging activities and exercise
Loyal to his own family
Looks imposing and has a reputation that bad guys don't want to fool with, so makes an effective deterrent
Highly intelligent and versatile – can learn almost anything
Can be hard to find one with a family-oriented temperament and a decent chance of staying healthy
Needs plenty of exercise and interesting things to do
Needs careful socialization
Destructiveness when bored or not exercised enough
Potential aggression toward other animals
Constant shedding – 365 days a year
Legal liabilities (insurance issues, increased chance of lawsuits)
High risk of serious health problems

Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.

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You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group . With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult German Shepherds have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.
If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy .

How big are German Shepherds?

Males stand about 24-26 inches at the shoulder and weigh 75-110 pounds.

Females stand about 22-24 inches and weigh 65-90 pounds.

Some German Shepherds are considerably larger than that, but shouldn't be. This breed is supposed to be athletic and agile, not giant-sized and ponderous. Larger dogs can have more joint problems and a shorter lifespan.

Are there different "types" of German Shepherds?

Officially there's only the one breed. But I explained in the Temperament section that there are different lines of German Shepherds with different temperaments. Those lines can also LOOK very different from each other.

Those of us who admired the strong, noble look of German Shepherds from decades ago are saddened at what has been done to the appearance of modern show dogs.

If you go to a German Shepherd specialty show in the United States or Canada, you'll see tall narrow bodies, long narrow heads, and such excessive curvature of the rear legs that the dog's back slopes downward from shoulders to tail. You could roll a ball down that back.

In my opinion, these are misshapen caricatures of a German Shepherd. To make matters worse, show lines produce more than their share of spooky and low-intelligence dogs, which is what happens when you over-focus on appearance rather than temperament and trainability.

In contrast, the West German show line has a more normal shape. Best of all, German Shepherds in West Germany cannot win show ring ribbons or be bred without passing a temperament/trainability test.

There are many West German bloodlines in the United States. So if you're interested, you can look for show breeders who emphasize West German lines instead of American/Canadian.

Just be aware that these dogs aren't couch potatoes: they do have plenty of energy and some working drives that will need to be exercised .

Solid black German Shepherds are less common, but when combined with a rugged build, makes for a very handsome dog.

Working/protection lines

I love these lines because the dogs look and behave more like German Shepherds.

It's true that working lines are often too strong-tempered and intense for the average family. But if you're an experienced owner who knows how to be in charge and if you provide firm rules and plenty of physical and mental exercise, working lines can make great companions.

Knowledgeable working dog breeders can point you toward the pups in their litters who are calmer and have less working drive.

In the United States, working lines stem predominantly from West Germany or East Germany.

I don't recommend East German (often called DDR) lines. DDR stands for Deutsches Demokratische Republik , the name by which East Germany was known while the Berlin Wall was up. These dogs were used by the military and border patrol, so they're tough, not recommended for the average family.

You might be thinking, "Must I choose show line or working line? Isn't there another choice, like a line specifically bred to be a good pet?"

Some breeders blend show and working lines, trying to produce a more moderate build and temperament.

Some breeders emphasize high trainability, competing with their intelligent dogs in non-protection sports such as obedience or agility.

Other breeders emphasize "old style" German Shepherds with a more rugged build. But avoid breeders who boast about their "giant" German Shepherds. Packing more weight onto the frame and joints of a breed that's supposed to be medium to large is a huge (pun intended) mistake.

German Shepherd with long hair. This particular dog has a minimalist long coat – just some ear tufts and a body coat that's slightly longer than normal.

Shorthaired or longhaired

When you're thinking about the different types of German Shepherds, you should also consider the two types of COAT:

The normal coat is short hair. But German Shepherds also come in a longer coat. Both coats are the same breed.

Unfortunately, in the United States, long coats are frowned upon by the official clubs and show-dog breeders. Long-coated dogs can be registered, bred, and shown in certain activities such as obedience and agility. But they're not welcome in the conformation ring, where judging is based on appearance.

Some long-coated Shepherds have essentially a short body coat with only minor feathering around their ears, on the backs of their legs, and on their bum and tail. Other long-coated German Shepherds have long hair across most of their body.

Do long haired German Shepherds have a different build or temperament? Yes, often they do. Because they're not welcome in the conformation ring, their structure hasn't been deformed like that of their shorthaired brothers.

And because they're seldom seen in protection dog sports, their temperament tends to be softer and milder, which fits well into many families.

German Shepherds are active dogs, but should not be hyperactive. Fetch games are a great way to exercise this breed.

How much exercise do German Shepherds need?

German Shepherd puppies and adolescents (up to 18 months old) should have moderate exercise only – multiple walks, fetch games, or (if there is a compatible playmate) playing with another dog.

But the growing bones and ligaments in a young dog can be irreparably damaged by too much exercise or the wrong kind of exercise. At this age, there should be no forced running (beside a jogger or bicyclist). Restrict jumping as much as possible.

Once the dog is mature, the amount of exercise needed will vary according to the dog's energy level. But all German Shepherds, to maintain fitness, need brisk walking every day and all-out running in a safe, enclosed area as often as possible.

Dogs from working lines typically want a lot more exercise.

Mental exercise is even more important for German Shepherds. Mental exercise means the dog gets to participate in interesting activities that keep his intelligent mind stimulated.

This might be a dog sport such as agility, rally obedience, musical freestyle, tracking, flyball, herding, or schutzhund. It might be interactive dog toys, or a homemade obstacle course, or learning tricks, or playing games such as Hide 'n Seek.

Some of these activities are included in my free online training book, Teach Your Dog 100 English Words .

Handsome black German Shepherd, attentively awaiting your next words.

Are German Shepherds easy to train?

Some are easy to train, while others are more moderate.

As we've seen, different lines have different temperaments. German Shepherds from working lines are typically more assertive and stronger-willed. A "tougher" German Shepherd will be more challenging to train unless you pay closer attention to building the right Leader-Follower relationship with the dog.

That doesn't mean "softer" German Shepherds are automatically easy to train. Some dogs with soft temperaments are skittish or shy, making them just as challenging as a strong-tempered dog.

In general, though, a sound-tempered German Shepherd who is a good fit for family life should be easy to train. Just establish the right Leader-Follower relationship and the dog will be happy to work with you.

This is taught in my free puppy training book, Respect Training For Puppies (30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy).

How sociable are German Shepherds?

Are they friendly with strangers.

Most German Shepherds are reserved with strangers. As the breed's national club says, a good German Shepherd has:

"a certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. The dog must be approachable, quietly standing its ground and showing confidence and willingness to meet overtures without itself making them."

As you might imagine, this can be a fine line to walk. Without proper guidance from the owner, a German Shepherd's natural aloofness can morph over the line to suspiciousness, distrust, and even aggression or fearfulness.

When you own an aloof breed, you need to socialize the dog thoroughly. This means a careful program of teaching him to pay attention to you and mind you in the presence of other people and other dogs. He doesn't have to like them, but he must accept them.

One thing I should mention: many German Shepherds who bark and lunge at strangers or other dogs aren't being either protective or aggressive. Rather, this kind of reactivity can be the dog's attempt to hide his own insecurities behind a blustering facade.

At the other end of the spectrum are German Shepherds who tuck their tail between their legs, and try to hide behind you or run away whenever a stranger or another dog approaches. Sometimes this is just inexperience with the world, but sometimes it's an inherited form of shyness. German Shepherds who are genetically shy can be helped by socialization – but not "cured." Yet another reason to be very careful when acquiring this breed.

There are also legal liabilities to consider when you acquire a German Shepherd. For example, your homeowner insurance policy might be cancelled or the rates hiked, because people are often quicker to sue if a "guard dog breed" does anything even remotely questionable.

Are German Shepherds good with children?

If the dog was raised with childen and if the children are well-behaved, most German Shepherds with a normal temperament are fine with them.

But if you have young children, you need to be especially careful about bringing an adult German Shepherd with an unknown background into your home. That dog should have a stellar temperament vouched for by experienced rescue personnel.

Also I wouldn't be comfortable with some high-drive German Shepherds around toddlers. These vigorous, intense dogs could send a toddler flying without even meaning to.

Are German Shepherds good with other pets?

Most German Shepherds are fine with other dogs and cats in their own family, if introduced to them when the dog is young. I've had multiple German Shepherds living harmoniously with my Chihuahuas and cats.

However, some German Shepherds show strong predatory/chasing behavior toward cats and other animals that run.

And some German Shepherds are dominant, or aggressive, toward other dogs of the same sex. My dog Luke, for example, would never dream of harming a female dog – but he would have loved to engage any strange male. Only a firm Respect Training program kept his behavior under control.

Long-coated German Shepherd. Keep their feathering combed out to avoid painful mats and tangles.

Grooming: Do German Shepherds shed a lot? Are they easy to groom?

About shedding.....

I have good news and bad news.

The good news is that German Shepherds have only one shedding period a year.

The bad news is.... their shedding period lasts for 365 days. In other words, German Shepherds shed constantly.

How is this different from most breeds?

Most breeds shed a few hairs here and there throughout the year. But the vast bulk of their shedding occurs only twice a year – for three weeks in the spring as their thicker winter coat switches over to a cooler summer coat, and for three weeks in the fall as the summer coat switches over to a winter coat.

Not German Shepherds. They shed a TON during those spring and fall coat-switching seasons. Plus they shed moderately the rest of the year.

So year-round, you'll find hair on your clothing, on your carpets, and under your refrigerator. Frequent vaccuming will become a way of life.

You might be wondering, "How can a shorthaired dog shed so much?" The answer is that German Shepherds have a double coat. They have a short outer coat (harsh to the touch), plus a woolly undercoat (for insulation). Breeds with a double coat always shed more than breeds who simply have an outer coat but no undercoat.

German Shepherds come in a long coat, as well as a short coat. Both coats shed heavily.

Now, about grooming....

How much grooming is required depends on whether a German Shepherd is shorthaired or longhaired.

We've already talked about the temperament (usually good) of longhaired German Shepherds. As far as grooming goes, they obviously need regular brushing and combing to prevent mats and tangles. The longer the coat, the more work it will be.

But even if your Shepherd has a short coat, you're not off the hook when it comes to brushing. With a constant shedder, you should brush as often as possible to pull out the shed hairs before they end up on your floor and furnishings.

Ironically, longhaired German Shepherds often seem to shed less than the shorthaired. That's because some shed hair gets caught in the long coat instead of falling out. The trade-off is that you need to brush out that accumulated hair regularly or it will tangle and fuse into a matted mess.

Longhaired dogs need trimming

Along with brushing and combing, longhaired German Shepherds need trimming every few months.

Focus on the longish hair around the dog's private parts. Otherwise whenever he goes to the bathroom, the result is going to be unsanitary, both for the dog and for your house. Remember, anything that sticks to long hair eventually ends up on your floor or furnishings. So keep your dog's private parts trimmed short.

Gray sable pattern

How long do German Shepherds live? Are they a healthy breed?

German Shepherds typically live 10-12 years. Some do live to 13 or 14, but usually with chronic health issues such as arthritis.

And sadly, many don't even make it to age 10.

As a long-time German Shepherd owner, I know first-hand how many health problems this breed suffers from. Crippling joint diseases, autoimmune diseases, digestive diseases, skin diseases, heart and eye diseases.... truly a breed with serious health problems.

Here is a complete list of health problems in German Shepherds.

Or see my advice on → keeping your dog healthy (feeding, vaccinations, neutering, veterinarians, and more).

The most common color in German Shepherds – black and tan, in the saddleback pattern

What colors do German Shepherds come in?

The most common colors are black and tan, black and red, black and cream, or black and silver. These colors cover the dog in one of these three patterns:

Saddleback – the black overlays the dog's back and sides (like a saddle). The rest of the dog is tan, red, cream, or silver. Usually there's some black on the face, as well.
Blanketback – the black extends further down the shoulders and hips.
Bicolor – like a Doberman or Rottweiler, which is mostly black with small tan/red/cream markings specifically confined to the head, chest, and legs. Honestly I don't know why this pattern is called bicolor , which simply means two colors. As we've just seen, the other two patterns also have just two colors.

Another common color is sable , which is an overall shade of gray, golden, or red, with black-tipped hairs that create a "dusted with black" effect.

A less common, but perfectly acceptable, color is solid black.

"Faulty" colors

Then there are two controversial colors: blue and liver :

Blue German Shepherds have inherited a color-modifying gene that changes their black pigment to smoky gray. Many blue dogs look as though they've been dusted with flour.
Liver German Shepherds have inherited a color-modifying gene that changes their black pigment to brown (any shade from light to dark).

If a dog has inherited either of these color-modifying genes, all of his black pigment is changed to blue/gray or brown, including his nose and the pads of his feet. For example, if a German Shepherd would have been a black and tan saddleback – except that he inherited a modifying gene – he becomes a blue and tan saddleback, or a liver and tan saddleback.

Blue and liver are considered serious faults by the official German Shepherd clubs and breeders who show their dogs in the conformation ring. But you can still register these dogs and compete with them in activities such as obedience and agility.

Controversial color: solid white

As with blue and liver, you can register a white German Shepherd and show him in competitive activities such as obedience and agility. But you can't show him in the conformation ring.

Why? Well, the Powers-That-Be say white is an unacceptable color because German Shepherds were developed to be herding and guard dogs. White dogs, they say, are too visible to make effective guard dogs. On the other hand, white dogs blend in too much with the sheep or snow instead of being clearly visible to the human shepherd.

If you love the white color, you might be pleased to hear that White Shepherd enthusiasts have formed their own club, which holds its own conformation shows.

Do German Shepherd ears stand up on their own, or do they have to be cut or taped to make them stand up?

Ah, you're thinking about cropping , a surgical procedure to make the ears stand up. That's done with Doberman Pinschers, but not with German Shepherds. A Shepherd puppy's ears prick up naturally – they're never cropped.

German Shepherd puppy with perfectly normal ears at this age. If the pup inherited normal genes, the other ear should come up shortly.

But German Shepherd puppies aren't born with pricked ears. In some pups, the ears start to prick up at 6 or 8 weeks old, while others don't start until 12 or 14 weeks old.

Often the ears don't go up smoothly. In other words, they don't suddenly pop straight up. Typically one ear will go up halfway, and stay like that for a few days. Then the other ear may start to prick while the first ear straightens all the way up. A few days later, just as the second ear straightens up, the first one suddenly flops back down.

This can be a trying time for new owners who worry that their pup's ears will never stand properly. Rest assured, it's normal for German Shepherd puppy ears to go up and down for a month or two, especially during the teething period.

Unfortunately, some puppies do inherit poor genes for ear strength and often those ears will never come all the way up. They're called "soft ears." Sometimes taping a weak ear can help it stand erect, but often not.

I had a German Shepherd with one soft ear. It flopped sideways on top of his head, while the other ear stood up beautifully. Of course I loved him dearly anyway!

Most German Shepherd puppies start out with floppy ears and dark coloration.

German Shepherd Puppies

If you already have a german shepherd puppy.....

Congratulations! I'll be happy to show you how to raise and train your new family member.

Follow my free puppy training book, Respect Training for Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy.
Also see my advice on German Shepherd health care , including feeding and vaccinations

If you don't have a German Shepherd puppy, but you want one....

I can help you with that, too.

German Shepherds are extremely common in the United States, the 2nd most common of all breeds.

So they're very easy to find. The problem is finding one with the best chances of developing a stable temperament and the best chances of staying healthy through the years.

THAT is harder to do.

First, you need to think about the different types of German Shepherds we talked about earlier. The different temperament types and the different build and coat types .

You'll remember... show lines, working lines, old-style lines, longhaired lines, solid white lines.... one German Shepherd can be very different from another.

Or you can just hop onto Craigslist and buy a puppy from someone who "just breeds pets" or "just had one litter." But should you?

Not unless the seller has done the proper health certifications on the puppy's parents . One huge difference between a responsible breeder and an irresponsible "puppy producer" is – health certifications.

Both parents of a German Shepherd puppy should have OFA certificates for hips, elbows, and heart. One parent should have a certificate showing them to be clear of degenerative myelopathy. This is the fastest way to rule out all the bad breeders. No certificates equals irresponsible breeding.

BOTH PARENTS of a German Shepherd puppy should have:

a certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) or PennHip certifying the dog to have normal hips
a certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) certifying the dog to have normal elbows
a certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) or a report from a veterinary cardiologist – dated within the past year – certifying that the dog has had an Advanced Cardiac Exam and has a normal heart

Also, at least ONE PARENT of a German Shepherd puppy should have:

a DNA test proving they are Normal/Clear of a severe neurological disease called degenerative myelopathy . Many years ago, I had a dear German Shepherd with this devastating disease. Believe me, you do not want to go through that.

If a seller can't show you those certificates, the puppies are higher risk for health problems. You might choose to accept that risk. But then you need to be willing (and able) to pay a couple thousand bucks for future surgeries and lifelong meds if your German Shepherd ends up crippled, paralyzed, or stricken with heart disease.

See my advice on → finding a good dog

How do I adopt a German Shepherd?

Because of their popularity, and because so many owners acquire one without doing diligent research, German Shepherds are often available from dog rescue groups .

German Shepherd crosses and mixes are frequently found in animal shelters .

However, shelter personnel can be over-zealous in labeling every medium- to large dog with a vaguely shepherd-ish look as a "German Shepherd cross." Be aware that a dog can look like a German Shepherd without having any Shepherd genes at all.

What breeds are similar to German Shepherds?

The Shiloh Shepherd looks like a large German Shepherd, which is not surprising since the Shiloh was developed 50 years ago by crossing German Shepherds with larger breeds. Compared to German Shepherds, Shiloh Shepherds tend to have a calmer, more easygoing personality.

Compared to German Shepherds, most White Shepherds have a softer, more sensitive personality. White Shepherds are fine watchdogs, but seldom aggressive. In fact, if a White Shepherd is going to have any temperament fault, it's more likely to be timidity or skittishness.

The Belgian Shepherd is recommended only for experienced owners. Compared to the German Shepherd, a Belgian is more agile, graceful, and elegant. Belgian Shepherds are highly intelligent, but also easily bored and prone to obsessive behaviors. This is a demanding breed that needs ongoing supervision and structured activities.

My best-selling books – now available FREE on my website

Understanding the German Shepherd’s Temperament: Key Traits and Behaviors

January 26, 2024 By Dogsintl Leave a Comment

German Shejson Shepherds⁤ are well-known for their intelligence, loyalty,⁣ and versatility. However, understanding their temperament is ‌crucial for ⁢anyone⁢ considering bringing one of these remarkable dogs ‌into their ‌home. In this article, ⁣we‌ will delve into⁣ the various aspects of the German Shepherd’s temperament, ‌shedding light on their behavior, socialization, ⁢and characteristics that make them⁢ unique among ⁣dog breeds. Understanding the temperament of German Shepherds is essential for those⁢ considering them as ⁣pets or working dogs, as ‌it can ⁣greatly impact their compatibility with different ⁤lifestyles and environments.

Characteristic ‌Temperament of German Shepherds
Understanding the Protective Nature of German Shepherds
Challenges in ⁣Training German Shepherds’ Temperament
Tips for Socializing German Shepherds‍ from Puppyhood

Managing Aggression in German Shepherds

To conclude, characteristic temperament of german shepherds.

German Shepherds ⁢are renowned for their unique and characteristic temperament,‍ which sets ⁢them apart from other dog breeds. Understanding the typical temperament of German ‌Shepherds is crucial for anyone who is considering adding one to their family. Here are some of the key traits that define the temperament of German ⁢Shepherds:

**1.⁣ Intelligence:** German Shepherds are highly intelligent and quick learners, which⁣ makes them highly trainable and versatile. They are often used as⁣ working dogs in roles such as police work, search and rescue, and as service animals.

**2. Loyalty:** One of the most notable traits of German Shepherds is their unwavering loyalty and devotion to their owners. They are fiercely protective of their family and are known for forming deep bonds with their human companions.

**3. Confidence:** German Shepherds are ‍confident and ⁣assertive dogs by nature. They are not easily intimidated and ⁢exude⁣ a sense of self-assuredness in their demeanor.

**4. Active:** German Shepherds are energetic and require plenty of exercise ⁢and mental ‍stimulation ‍to keep them happy and healthy. They thrive in active ⁤households where they can engage in⁤ physical activities and play.

Understanding the is essential ⁢for providing them with the care and training they need ‌to thrive as loyal and loving companions.‍ Whether you’re ⁣considering adopting a German Shepherd or already have one as a beloved pet, ‍knowing their temperament will help you build a strong and fulfilling bond with them.

Understanding the Protective Nature⁢ of ⁣German Shepherds

German Shepherds are renowned for their protective nature, making them a popular⁣ choice for ⁣police and military work, as well as loyal family pets. Understanding their temperament is key to appreciating their protective instincts ⁢and ‌knowing⁤ how to best handle and train them.

One of the defining characteristics of German Shepherds is their loyalty to their family and their⁣ natural protective instincts. They are known to be fearless, confident, and alert,⁤ making‌ them excellent guard dogs. However, proper socialization ⁤and training from an early age is crucial to ensure ‍that their⁣ protective nature does not become overbearing or aggressive.

When it comes to‍ their protective nature, German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and form deep bonds⁣ with their owners. They are known‍ to be⁢ highly intuitive and can pick up on their owner’s emotions, responding with comfort and protection as needed. Their protective instincts also extend to other family members, making them ⁤excellent companions ‌for households with children. However, they can also be reserved and cautious around strangers, which is why ⁢early socialization is essential to ⁢ensure they remain⁤ well-balanced and⁤ friendly in different situations.

Challenges in⁣ Training German⁣ Shepherds’⁣ Temperament

German‌ Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, making them one of the ⁣most popular dog breeds in the world. However, training their temperament can be a challenging ‌task for many owners‍ and trainers. Understanding the common ‍ can help you better prepare for the process and ensure the success of your training efforts.

One of the⁢ main⁤ is their protective nature. This breed⁣ is naturally protective of their ‍family and territory, which can lead to aggressive behavior if not properly trained. Additionally, German Shepherds can be wary of ⁢strangers⁢ and other⁤ animals, making socialization a crucial aspect of their temperament training.

Another common challenge is the breed’s high energy levels ‌and intelligence. German Shepherds require regular ⁢physical and mental stimulation ⁢to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, they may exhibit negative behaviors ⁣such as excessive barking, digging, or chewing. Training German Shepherds’ temperament requires patience, consistency, and a deep understanding of the breed’s unique characteristics. With the right approach, you ⁤can help your German Shepherd develop into⁣ a well-behaved, balanced, and confident companion.

Tips for Socializing German Shepherds from Puppyhood

German Shepherds are known for their loyal and intelligent nature, making them great companions for socialization. Starting from puppyhood, it’s important to introduce your German Shepherd to various social situations to ‌ensure they grow up⁢ to ‌be well-adjusted and friendly dogs. Here are ⁢some tips to help you ‍socialize your German Shepherd from a young age:

**Exposure to Different People:** Introduce your German⁣ Shepherd ‌to people of all ages, genders, and ethnicities. This will help them become comfortable around different types of individuals.

**Positive Reinforcement:** Use treats and praise to reward your German Shepherd when they exhibit good behavior ‍around new people or in new ‌environments. This will help‌ them associate⁣ socialization with positive experiences.

**Dog Park Visits:** Take your German Shepherd to dog parks to interact with other dogs. ⁣This will help them learn⁣ how to properly interact and play with other canines.

**Obedience Training Classes:** Enroll your German Shepherd in obedience training classes where they can ‌learn to⁤ follow commands‌ and behave well in public settings.

Implementing ‌these tips for socializing ⁣your German Shepherd from puppyhood can help shape their temperament and ensure they grow up to ⁢be‌ well-rounded and social⁢ dogs. It’s ⁤important to be patient and consistent with ⁣the socialization process to help your German Shepherd develop into a friendly ⁤and well-behaved ⁢companion.

German⁢ Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective⁢ nature. However, they can also exhibit aggressive behavior if not ‍properly managed. Understanding and ⁣effectively is ⁣crucial for their well-being ⁢and the safety of those around them.

One of ‌the most important factors in is proper socialization from a young age. Exposing them‌ to a variety of people, animals, and environments can help them develop good social skills and reduce the likelihood ⁢of aggressive behavior.‍ Additionally, consistent and ‍positive reinforcement training ⁣is ⁢essential for teaching German ‌Shepherds how to behave appropriately in⁤ different situations.

Proper exercise and‌ mental stimulation are also key components of⁢ . Regular physical activity and challenging mental exercises can⁤ help alleviate boredom and reduce anxiety, both of which ‍can contribute ‍to aggressive behavior. Providing a⁣ variety of toys, puzzles, ⁢and activities can keep German Shepherds engaged and mentally stimulated. Additionally, establishing a routine for exercise and playtime can help maintain ‌their overall well-being and⁢ prevent aggressive tendencies.

Q: What is the typical temperament of⁢ a German shepherd? A: German shepherds are known for ‌their loyalty, intelligence, and confidence. They are often described as being courageous, fearless, and protective.

Q: Are German shepherds good with children? A: When properly⁢ trained and socialized, German⁢ shepherds can be great ⁤with children. They are often gentle and patient, making them excellent family pets.

Q: Do German shepherds get along well with other pets? A: German shepherds can‍ coexist peacefully with other pets, especially when they are raised ⁣together from a ⁣young age. Proper socialization and training are key in ensuring⁣ they get⁢ along with other animals.

Q: Are German shepherds easy to train? A: Yes, German shepherds are highly trainable due to their⁣ intelligence and eagerness ‍to please. They excel in obedience training ‍and are often used as working dogs in ⁢various roles.

Q: Do German shepherds have a tendency to be aggressive? A: Like any breed, the temperament ⁣of a German shepherd can vary depending on factors such as‌ genetics, training, and socialization. With proper care and training, they can⁣ be well-behaved and non-aggressive.

Q: How does the temperament of a German ⁢shepherd affect their suitability as a‌ guard or working dog? A: The temperament of a German shepherd makes them well-suited for guard ‍or working roles. ‍Their loyalty, intelligence, and protective instincts make them excellent choices for these types of tasks.

In conclusion, the German Shepherd is ‍a versatile and ⁤loyal breed with a strong temperament. While they can be ‍protective and wary of strangers, they are also ‍affectionate and eager to please their owners. With proper ⁣training and socialization, German Shepherds can make excellent companions and working ‍dogs. ‍It is ⁤important for potential owners to‌ understand and‍ appreciate the unique characteristics of this‍ breed in order to provide ⁤them with a fulfilling and rewarding life.

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10 Reasons Why German Shepherds Are Great Family Dogs

You might have already fallen in love with the idea of getting a German Shepherd. After all, they are beautiful, intelligent, and loyal dogs.

But you may have or soon plan on having a family, so you still have one major question – are German Shepherds good family dogs?

My answer to you is an unequivocal yes, a German Shepherd is a great family pet, and will make a great new addition to your family.

So here are my top ten reasons why a German Sheperd is a great family dog.

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1. They are great at giving affectio n

We love our GSDs, and it’s nice when they love us back. Who doesn’t like a cuddle before bedtime or a little nudge of the hand every now and then?

I have experienced GSDs who love giving physical affection such as kisses on the face, or who want to put their head in your lap. They may also try to playfully climb on top of you (my GSD is the biggest lap dog most people have ever seen!).

You may also find yourself being stared at with those big eyes or deliberately bumped into as a sign of affection. They are quite fond of snuggling as well.

And, like humans, each GSD has its own special ways of showing affection. Those of you who already own one can surely think of a few one of a kind ways that your GSD shows its love for you and different members of your family.

2. They are great with children

You’re probably wondering whether such a big dog is a good choice when you have small children.

While of course their size compared to babies and very young children needs to be considered, so that they don’t accidentally do any harm, GSDs are actually an excellent breed to own when you have small kids.

They have an excellent balance of playfulness and protectiveness when it comes to younger children. Children want to be loved, entertained and protected – and a GSD is perfect for this job.

When well socialized as a puppy, they have the patience and the temperament to be happy around kids of all ages. They genuinely enjoy the attention that they receive from children.

This means that as an adult you can let your GSD and kids entertain themselves. A GSD makes for a great babysitter. But this does not mean that you should leave your dog and child home alone!

And remember that proper training and socialization as a puppy is essential for a GSD if you want it to be the great family pet that we know and love.

3. They will entertain your children for hours

So, how will your GSD play entertain your kids? For starters, treasure hunts are a great game that your kids can play with your GSD due to their excellent sense of smell and direction. Just try hiding a treat and then telling your GSD to find it. Trust me, it will – and quickly!

GSDs also like to play all kinds of games from fetch, to frisbee as well as being taught new tricks.

GSDs need lots of exercise every day, and it takes a lot to tire one out. So a GSD will happily run around with your kids all day long, and in turn make your life a lot easier. Tired kids = rested parents!

And if you, like me, have a family that loves to be outdoors, a GSD makes for a great addition to the group. My family and I have enjoyed many a hike and plenty of camping trips while accompanied by our GSDs.

For the less active of you, this also means that they will help you stick to your New Year’s resolutions and give you motivation to get out and go on that run. I know from experience that they make great running partners – if you can keep up!

4. They are extremely agile

German Shepherds have demonstrated themselves to be one of the most agile breeds of dog. They excel in competition, and they also excel at the local park!

Many parks now have their own mini-agility courses set up for intelligent dogs who like a challenge. Training on an agility course with your family and your dog is a great way to spend a weekend afternoon.

Just conduct a search for dog agility training in your area, and you may be surprised at the results. During recent years, this has become more and more popular as a social activity.

However, a word of caution. Wait until your GSD is around 9 months to one year old before you undertake any agility training. It’s a good idea to hold off on putting any strain on their hips until their muscles are more fully developed.

Due to their long legs, they can usually run pretty fast in a straight line from a young age, but the agility required for sharp turns and bends is a little more challenging.

I’ve found that GSDs can be a little un-co-ordinated when young, but with age, training, and practice they can become very agile dogs.

5. They are able to quickly learn some cool and fun tricks

I’ve personally taught one of my dogs how to “stand up,” “wave,” and “salute,” but GSDs are capable of learning much more. When you’re ready you can move on to more complex tricks like how to army crawl, or even grab you something from the refrigerator. Yes, they can actually learn to do that!

Or for something that requires a little less agility, and when you are too worn out to play anymore, you can always go for the “play dead” trick!

6. They are the 3rd most intelligent dog breed

So you know that German Shepherds are intelligent, but you might be wondering just how intelligent they are.

According to WebMD , German Shepherds are the third most intelligent dog breed. Their intelligence makes them highly trainable, and this makes the GSDs a top choice for use by the army, police and they are also ideally suited for service dog work.

Their intelligence gives them the ability to stand back and view a situation, understand whether there is a real threat and then act accordingly. Yes, I mean they do actually think before they react, the way a person does (or should!).

And they are also intelligent enough to actually be in touch with peoples’ emotions. So oftentimes they will actually bring calm to an otherwise unnerving situation, like bringing comfort to a crying child when even a parent’s best efforts fall short.

7. They are easy to train

One of the reasons German Shepherds make such good family dogs is because they are so easily trainable.

They are excellent at remembering commands quickly and easily. And once a behavior is learned, they will follow commands the first time, every time. This is because GSDs love to please their owners.

They are in fact so easily trainable and eager to please, that even your kids can enjoy training your GSD. And the look on a child’s face when it teaches a dog a new trick is priceless. Of course, a little patience may be needed, but having your children teach your GSD tricks is an incredible bonding experience for both the dog and the child.

8. Your home will always be well protected

Due to their loyalty and protective nature, GSDs are excellent guard dogs that will keep your house and family safe. They are fiercely protective of their owners and property, and will not hesitate to put their own lives in danger to protect the ones they love.

Even with no training, a GSD possesses a natural instinct to protect. Because GSDs were originally bred as herding dogs, their instinct is to protect the herd. And the herd is your family!

So you will sleep soundly knowing that you have a very capable and intimidating guardian looking over you, your family, and your home at all times.

9. They can handle change better than we can

GSDs are incredibly good at adapting and handling change. In fact, they are probably better at it than most humans.

They can thrive in various conditions, from hot to cold climates, to being kept inside or outside, to living with a large family or a smaller family. A GSD will adapt.

So if your life calls for you to move house to an entirely new place, or if you plan on having a child or more children, not to worry. Your GSD will again adapt without issue. It will be happy to go where you go, and it will grow quite fond of any new additions to your family.

10. They make great road trip companions

While many dogs love riding in cars, in my personal experience, GSDs really, really, really love riding in cars.

One of my GSDs accompanied my family on many a road trip across the entire country. He never acted out and very easily merged with my family’s schedule. Our rest stops were his rest stops. Our feeding time was his feeding time. Our bedtime was his bedtime.

The only issue we ever ran across was finding a hotel for the night that accepted large dogs. So just plan ahead and make a phone call or two, and you should have accommodation for all sorted out rather easily.

And, based on my experiences, I can say without hesitation that a GSD makes for a better road trip companion than most people I know (no offense intended to my family of course!).

Preconditions for breeding

Breeder registers, responsibility in breeding.

Breed certificate of authenticity
Guaranteeing the pedigree
Breeding shows
Fight against diseases
Data Privacy declaration

The German Shepherd
Everything about the breed

Breeding and upbringing

Activ with dog
Helper and saviour
Breeding predisposition test
The federal groups
SV magazine
Local groups
Head office
Media office
Membership department
Stud book office
Financial department
EDP service
Bank details
Stellenangebote
Certificate of competence
Breeding warden licenses
Head of youth license
Head of training
Head of training: Agility
Head of training: Obedience
Head of training: rescue dogs
Head of training: Rally Obedience
Association's main events
Supra-regional events VDH/FCI
Events calender
Become a member
FAQ Membership
Paymentsystem
Forms, information brochures, directories
Statutes and rule books
HDI - The sports insurance
Information Material
World Union (WUSV)
HDI - Die Sportversicherung
Order service
SV-DOxS - data base online

Several hundred thousand dog lovers in 78 countries are members of the German Shepherd Associations of the World Union. There are approximately 250,000 purebred German Shepherds with papers from the German Shepherd Association SV right now in Germany. Every year, around 10,000 puppies are registered in the German stud book.

"The German Shepherd is medium-sized, slightly elongated, strong and well-muscled, with dry bones and firm overall structure. It has a strong, healthy and complete set of teeth with 42 teeth (carnassial). The pointed prick ears are mobile and can be positioned correspondingly by the dog, which, among other aspects, determines his quality as a guard dog.”

Breeding is a responsible and beautiful task in which one can collaborate in developing a dog breed in a goal-oriented way. Apart from idealism and the love for the animal, the breeding of German Shepherds primarily requires extensive expertise, clear goals and experience. Lots of space for a kennel site and an understanding neighbourhood are further basic preconditions. Apart from the breeding dogs’ training and their presentation at breeding shows, the small puppies in particular need to be constantly cared for and looked after.

The financial side of breeding also needs to be considered. Among the costs are, for instance, the costs for the facilities, food, the veterinarian and all costs connected with the registration of the dogs for breeding – i.e. training, HD, ED and DNA procedures, trials, breeding shows, examinations for breed licenses, the trip to the stud dog and the stud fee.

Planning leads to the goal: the right partner choice

The prerequisite for successful breeding is the quality of the parents and their ancestors. The choice for a suitable stud dog for the individual bitch depends on the advantages (and also the mistakes) of the breeding partners. Further criteria: degree of kinship, type, line, coat type, quality of already existing offspring and finally also the breeding willingness of the considered dog. It is recommended that you consult with experienced breeders and with the breed wardens of the Association for German Shepherds (SV) e. V.

Securing the quality of the breed

If two dogs are brought together for the purpose of breeding, the bitch generally travels to the stud. The mating fee must be agreed on beforehand in writing with the owner of the dog. Important: The bitch must be at least 20 months old before she can be covered for the first time. The SV has dictated the frequency of mating per stud in its breeding rules. Bitches may be covered up to 90 times, thereof maximum 60 times in Germany. These statutory provisions of the SV ensure the quality of the breed. Without an adequate rest period between mating, the rate of fertilization will worsen.

An important principle for every breeder: it must be ensured that the puppies that are subsequently sold are of better quality than their parents. That is the requirement behind the SV breeding philosophy. In its statutes, the SV ensures that this requirement is not infringed – and provides every help to fulfil it. Too many dog breeds have almost been destroyed in the last hundred years through unrestrained reproduction. The quality principle is therefore paramount for the SV.

Information

Rassestandard PDF file

Jugendarbeit im SV

Finanzielle Förderung der Jugendarbeit

Neben der Betätigung der Mitglieder in den Bereichen der Zucht und der Ausbildung des Deutschen Schäferhundes gehört die Förderung der Jugendarbeit zu den zentralen satzungsmäßigen Zwecken und Aufgaben des Vereins für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) e.V.

The German Shepherd Dog - companion in everyday life

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Breeding is a responsible and beautiful task.

Dog breeders have a great responsibility. They form the foundation for the dog’s development during the first weeks of life. This imprinting by the breeder forms the basis for the subsequent human-dog relationship. They are also an irreplaceable consultant for the buyers.

SV members who earn special merits in the breeding of the German Shepherd are therefore awarded a bronze, silver or gold Breeder Badge.

Successful breeders with the gold SV Breeder Badge

Breeder Badges in bronze, silver or gold are awarded only to those members who have earned merits for breeding German Shepherds. The awarding follows a strict point system where every dog suitable for assessment is assessed only once. The awards take place ceremoniously at a main Association event. Only those breeders who demonstrate proper conduct in all aspects and who evidence flawless, clean dog and kennel maintenance will receive such a coveted badge.

All successful breeders

Pedigrees are not genealogical trees

„Breed certificate of authenticity“: this is the most important document a buyer of a German Shepherd must have. Only an association recognized by the World Canine Organization (FCI) and the German Kennel Club (VDH) can issue this certificate. No dog can be classified as a purebred German Shepherd without this verification. In contrast to the pedigree, which goes back four generations, the genealogical tree leads back to the origin of the breed – back to the progenitor.

The pedigree is drawn up and issued by the SV. This official extract of the stud book (over 2 million dogs are currently registered), records the 30 direct ancestors of the animal. The breed certificate of authenticity therefore leads back to the generation of the great-great-grandparents of the dog and also gives information about their qualities. This certificate lists the performance records, information about colors of the siblings, coat types, colours, as the results of training, exhibitions and licensing events for each of these 30 ancestors and their siblings. For the responsible breeder, the information compiled here offers the most important basis for future breeding plans.

Description of the dog in the pedigree

If already available, the pedigree also contains the dog’s breeding license report. The description of the dog in this report is essential. The dog’s virtues and disadvantages, the good and less good qualities are listed here. The ownership status is also registered in the pedigree. Every seller of a German Shepherd must hand over the pedigree, registering and confirming the new owner in the pedigree when selling the dog. The date must also be included.

Admission in the annex register

The SV offers all dog owners of German Shepherds without a pedigree or with pedigrees not recognised by the VDH or the FCI, the option of registering their dogs in the SV annex register. The dogs then receive a registration certificate. Dogs registered in the SV annex register can:

Participate in VDH exhibitions and tests (no SV membership required)
Participate in SV breeding shows (SV membership required)
German Shepherds breeds with long coats and undercoats can also be used for breeding (SV membership required). The puppies from this breeding will also be registered in the annex register. From the fourth generation without any gaps, the descendants will then be accepted in the Breed Book of the SV.
Antrag auf Aufnahme im Anhangsregister des SV PDF file
Informationen zur Aufnahme in das Anhangregister des SV PDF file
Phänotypbeurteilung PDF file

Guaranteeing the pedigree records for breeding animals

In modern animal keeping, biotechnological procedures have been used for breeder goals for many years now. One of these goals concerns the pedigree guarantee. With the introduction of DNA analytical methods (DNA=genetic makeup), the SV was one of the first breeding associations to recognised the importance of this method. Since January 1999, the association has therefore made the molecular biological pedigree guarantee for breeding animals obligatory. The individual results have been registered in a genetic database since then and are available anytime for subsequent pedigree evaluations.

Correct stud book maintenance through guaranteed pedigree conditions

Pedigree conditions must be guaranteed for the correct stud book documentation; not just for formal reasons, but also because important breeding decisions are made based on these pedigrees. The constellation of characteristics relating to the parent dogs can be used to evaluate the possible characteristics of their progeny. This is only possible based on a guaranteed pedigree.

Each procedure starts with the taking of a blood sample, the filling of the accompanying documents and the following dispatch of the material by a veterinarian. The incoming samples are registered, analysed and stored long-term by the laboratory. The recorded results, so called genotype formulas, are registered in a specifically designed database and are available for subsequent pedigree evaluations initiated exclusively by the German Shepherd Association (SV) e. V. Once the SV has received a positive result, the breeder receives a DNA stamp in the pedigree.

The address of the SV laboratory is: Generatio Sol. GmbH Blumenstr. 49 69115 Heidelberg

Licensing and planned breeding

The breed licensing is reserved exclusively to animals registered in the stud book of the German Shepherd Association (SV) e. V. Further preconditions are listed in the licensing rules. Sick animals and animals that cannot be identified through their tattoo/microchip number are not admitted to the initial licensing (“Ankörung”). The breeding animals have to demonstrate that, with regards to character, performance and anatomy, they are capable of promoting “the preservation and advancement of the breed as far as is possible”. A breed licensing document is thereby a rating which is awarded exclusively by the licensing inspectors who have performed special services as breeding judges for the SV.

At the beginning is the character test

The four-legged candidate needs to demonstrate himself as unbiased, well-balanced, self-confident and good-natured. The dog is exposed to different stimuli situations, the mastering of which shows his characteristic traits. The dog must be controlled by his handler at all times. After this, the dog is measured, weighed and assessed in standing and movement by the licensing inspector. The initial licensing and the initial licensing after interruption are valid for a period of two years. A licensing improvement does not extend the original licensing period. In the final year before the expiration of this period, the dog can be presented again for a lifetime license.

Around 3,000 – 4,000 German Shepherds take this test every year. All presented animals are published on SV-DOxS .

A breeding show at the SV is the moment of truth for every dog.

The breeding show: Beauty alone is not enough here

For many people, the German Shepherd is one of the most beautiful dogs. This is one reason that a breeding show at the SV is the moment of truth for every dog (and of course for his owner). Because, at this show, it is all about the hereditary quality of the animal. Good looks alone do not guarantee a winning place.

At breeding shows, dogs have to perform in preliminary tests – and prove their performance physically. The assessment by trained SV breeding judges is carried out not only with the dog standing, but also at a sustained trot. The assessments are made according to strict standards. The judge can only issue a breeding assessment if looks and character are right for the breed standard. Criteria like running enjoyment, condition and temperament also influence the assessment. This results in a competition where the best measure themselves against the best. For every breeding show, the dog is prepared optimally with focused training.

The SV national winner breeding show – a highlight every year

The SV organizes over 150 breeding shows each year. Places and dates can be found in the SV magazine or on our website in the category “Events”. Local groups organize breeding shows for the varieties “stock hair” and “long stock hair with undercoat” for the junior class (12 – 18 months), the young dog class (18 – 24 months) and the working dog class (over 2). Puppy classes may also take place at the same time; future breeders present their animals for their first assessments at these shows. The highlight every year is the SV national winner breeding show (Bundessiegerzuchtschau) where only dogs with top results are admitted.

Informationen zur Durchführung von Zuchtschauen PDF file
Checkliste zur Durchführung von OG-Zuchtschauen PDF file
Richten von Zuchtschauen im Ausland PDF file

The fight against hip dysplasia (HD) and other hereditary diseases

German shepherds are a healthy breed. Nevertheless, the “hereditary diseases” problem has also reached their breeding. Hip dysplasia (HD), feared by breeders of all big dog breeds, is a development disorder in the formation of the hip joint socket which only occurs during the growth period. This also applies to elbow dysplasia which has been observed over the past few years. This causes an abnormal development in a certain area of the elbow joint.

Genetic predisposition plays an important role. HD troubles afflict our four-legged friends immensely. Many dogs have, for example, problems when getting up. Other characteristics are a wobbling walk, difficulties in climbing stairs or jumping. It is clear: Genetic predisposition plays a decisive role in the development of these diseases. However, influences due to feeding and rearing are also of importance. Medical treatments with pain relievers or cortisone often have severe side effects. Only an operation can offer real help.

Elbow dysplasia is probably also genetically determined. The results: During growth, a small bone section does not join with the rest of the bone. The result is an instable elbow joint, with related pain right up to lameness. Only an operation will help in this case as well.

Initiatives for combating this issue

The German Shepherd Association (Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV)) already took the initiative for the systematic reduction of HD back in 1966. Since 2002, it is also evaluating ED, initiating X-ray checks for the breeding license. This set up a procedure where breeders, veterinarians and the SV Pedigree Office work together. In this procedure, the X-ray photographs of dogs that were at least twelve months old at the time of the examination are initially evaluated. In the central appraisal body at the SV, experts then assess the X-ray images. A final HD and ED report is determined according to the results in the individual points. The Pedigree Office registers this report in the relevant pedigree. Dogs that have been diagnosed with medium or serious HD or ED may not be used for breeding anymore. The pedigree is created and issued by the SV.

Information zum HD-Verfahren PDF file
Erläuterungen zum ED-Verfahren PDF file
Qualität bei HD-Röntgenaufnahmen PDF file

Breeders whose kennels are authorised by the SV advertise in this category.

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17 Reasons Why German Shepherds Are Good Family Dogs

You can even enlist the help of your kids to teach simple tricks. It’s a great way to involve your children in training your German Shepherd.

Here’s something you can count on from your German Shepherd:

They are an excellent guard dog that’s capable of keeping you safe.

They know when there is a real threat. And they will do their best to keep intruders at bay.

You can sleep better at night knowing your dog can protect your household from harm.

Respect is two-way. You can’t expect your dog to respect you if you don’t respect them.

A German Shepherd will respect you provided that you have trained them well. It’s all in proper training from the time they were puppies.

If you set boundaries, they will respect it. In turn, you must respect your dog as a capable member of your family.

But how do you foster respect? Here are just some tips to show your respect:

Don’t ignore them.
Respect their instinct.
Be patient and loving.
Speak to them using a calm voice.
Don’t bother them when they sleep.
Do your responsibilities as a dog owner.
Don’t touch them if they don’t want to be touched.
Don’t let your children do things that hurt your dog.

This is possible if they have been exposed to other animals from when they were puppies. They learn early on how to get along with everybody.

See? This is the reason why your German Shepherd needs early socialization.

Another very endearing quality of German Shepherds is their devotion to their family. If they are well-treated and cared for, they will show their affection in their own ways.

It becomes their purpose to protect you at all times.

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Everything to Love About German Shepherds

G erman shepherd dogs (or GSDs) are known for being loyal, hardworking and courageous. They have so many admirable qualities, it’s not surprising they’re one of the most popular dog breeds around. Yes, this large breed may be dependable and obedient, but that doesn’t mean they don’t know how to have fun. People with German shepherds know what fantastic pets they make.

While most people could identify a German shepherd if they saw one, many of the breed’s commendable qualities, interesting facts and surprising details go unknown. Here’s a glimpse into what makes German shepherd dogs special and beloved.

There are two unofficial types of German shepherds.

One kind is the American, and the other is the German. The American type is more focused on looks rather than the abilities and traits of the German.

The American ones tend to be more dependent on their owners and will develop behavioral problems if they’re left alone for too long. In contrast, the German ones are obedient and take all orders seriously.

Captain Max von Stephanitz is known as the father of the German shepherd breed.

Captain von Stephanitz purchased his first shepherd dog at a dog show and named him Horand Von Grafath. He wanted a herding dog that’d be highly intelligent, work hard and be able to be a fast learner.

Captain von Stephanitz spent 35 years of his life working on perfecting the herding dog and experienced a great deal of satisfaction at the results.

German shepherds are given strong names.

The most popular German shepherd names change from year to year, but they still tend to be strong ones like Jax, Ace, Max, Bear, Chief, Luna, Blitz, Moose, Sadie or Nala.

It doesn’t take long, only four or five days, for a puppy German shepherd to learn their name by using a system of positive reinforcement and repetition.

German shepherds are police and military dogs.

German shepherds make excellent search and rescue dogs and were part of the search and rescue teams following 9/11. Apollo, the NYPD K-9, was one standout police dog who received the AKC Humane Fund for Canine Excellence.

Peter Davis and his handler arrived at the World Trade Center 15 minutes after the Twin Towers fell. Apollo was nearly killed from the fire and falling debris but managed to survive and continue working.

For more about German shepherds, check out Always Pets.

Menendez’s In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story Essay

Introduction, author’s unconscious desires and anxieties, reconstructing meaning, moving to cuba.

Anna Menendez’s story talks about the complexities of being a Cuban American with a strong desire to reconnect with their own country. Immigrants face significant challenges in trying to maintain the identity of the country they came from. Hermeneutics as a theoretical approach helps in focusing on the processes in which meaning is constructed and reconstructed (Meretoja 274). This approach will be used to understand the way characters in the story understand different aspects and what influences their knowledge. Psychoanalysis, on the other hand, argues that literary texts contain the unconscious desires and anxieties of the author. The theory will be used to explain how thoughts, past traumas, and conflicts enhance the meaning of the story. The two approaches will be used to enhance meaning and provide insight into different aspects. Menendez seeks to recapture a feeling of belonging by going back to Cuba as a way of reconstructing meaning through memories.

Psychoanalysis seeks to assess aspects such as unresolved emotions, psychological conflicts and guilts within a literary work. Freud was of the view that childhood trauma, family life, sexual conflicts, and fixations can have an impact on the behavior of an individual (The Dissection 2-11). In the story, the author depicts a conflict between the narrator and her husband that eventually results in a divorce. In representing the antagonism between the two, the author also creates an indication that the problem between the two is complex. The basis of using psychoanalysis is it allows literary analysis to focus on the repressed meaning. In this case, the author uses the conflict to show that Lisette was struggling with reconciling the past with the present. Menendez notes that ‘the past wasn’t something you could play again like an old song’ (209). This quote shows the difficulties experienced by the narrator when reminiscing.

The conflict between Lisette and her husband also presents the realization that the narrator had an intention of rediscovering Cuba. The inability to remember her past yet it was their identity as Cuban Americans, was another motivating factor towards going back to Cuba. Most Cuban immigrants experience an awareness that there is another place where they feel at home, even though it is only through imagination (Rivero 114). As the conflict develops, the narrator also introduces divorce as a new aspect of the relationship between Lisette and Erminio. The divorce impacted the behavior of Lisette’s mother due to the assertion that their families were not failures. The author likens being divorced to failing in life, which can help explain the importance of the family among Cuban Americans. The mother was also apprehensive about Lisette going to Cuba. Therefore, through the author’s narration, it becomes clear that there was a strong desire to visit Cuba, and the lack of support from her mother made her anxious.

One of the reasons Lisette desires to go to Cuba is to reconstruct her ideas and knowledge of Cuba and her family’s background. To do so, Lisette relies on the memory of her mother to trace back her roots. The narration also depicts that Lisette had developed a negative attitude toward her country of birth. This is represented when the author notes that ‘the people had been kind. The police had not followed’ (Menendez 212). The author does not explicitly show a negative attitude and instead alludes through words. This is essential as it also shows the author’s thought process and provides insight into the reasons Lisette went to Cuba. Lisette relied on memories of her mother to identify the location of their former house. This shows that when creating new meaning, one has to have a basis for consideration. The narrator based her recreation on some of her mother’s memories and this led her to the house.

The need to reconstruct her understanding and possibly other people’s knowledge of Cuba is the central factor in tracing her roots. Freud notes that parents exact their super-ego on their children, which leads to them developing and adopting similar traditions from generation to generation (The Dissection 14-15). Lisette’s mother had wanted her daughter to be successful and raise a family as part of the tradition. However, the divorce resulted in her mother likening the divorce to failure. This shows that her mother favored the continuation of their generation while disregarding the plight of Lisette. The decision to go back to Cuba was a way to rediscover the true meaning of being Cuban. Menendez notes that ‘she had thought that they had something here that her parent’s generation had lost in exile’ (212). This quote shows the author’s acknowledgment of the differences she encountered during her first days in Cuba.

Moving to Cuba is symbolic of the quest to rediscover the feeling of belonging that had been awakened by Lisette’s experiences in Miami. The trauma of witnessing the war results in Lisette’s mother developing a negative attitude towards Lisette’s intention to return to Cuba. At the start of the narration, the author depicts the situation in Cuba during the war that forced them to move and immigrate to America. Her mother’s action of dropping to the floor when telling her about Cuba is essential as they create an expanded understanding of the experience. The stories told by her mother are crucial as they enhance her ability to remember her memories of the same situation. The information provided by Lisette’s mother illustrates the negative view of Cuba. This also helps explain why Lisette was surprised after finding Cuba a nation with loving people.

Psychoanalysis criticism seeks to understand the repressed ideas that the author did not provide explicitly. In this case, the author does not openly indicate that Cuba is a poor nation. However, the narrator provides information that readers can use to deduce the attitude of the character towards an object (Ricoeur 8). The mother tries to prevent Lisette from going to Cuba, which confirms that her attitude toward Cuba is negative. The behavior of the mother is representative of how immigrants who adopt new behaviors lose a part of their psyche (López and Rivero 16). Moving back to Cuba was to rediscover what made a person Cuban and to understand the way people lived after the end of the war. This is symbolic of how people are driven by unconscious elements toward discovering new abilities or meanings.

In summary, Menendez’s story depicts the life of Lisette, who seeks to recapture feelings of belonging by going back to Cuba as a way of recreating meaning through memories. The author presents her desires and anxieties that motivate her to visit her country of birth. The tone in the way different characters view Cuba shows how past trauma can affect the way people conceptualize meaning.

Freud, Sigmund. “On Beginning the Treatment.” The Standard Edition of the Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud . Translated by James Strachey, vol. 12, Vintage, 2001, pp. 121-144

López, Iraida H., and Eliana S. Rivero, eds. Let’s Hear Their Voices: Cuban American Writers of the Second Generation . State University of New York Press, 2019.

Menendez, Ana. ‘ In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd’ . 2001.

Meretoja, Hanna. “Life and narrative: The Routledge Companion to Narrative Theory.” Routledge , 2023, pp. 273-285.

Ricoeur, Paul. Hermeneutics and the Human Sciences . Edited by John B. Thompson. Thompson, Cambridge University Press, 2016.

Rivero, Eliana. “Writing in Cuban, Living as Other: Cuban American Women Writers Getting It Right.” Cuban-American Literature and Art: Negotiating Identities , 2009, pp. 109-125.

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IvyPanda. (2024, February 17). Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story. https://ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/

"Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story." IvyPanda , 17 Feb. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/.

IvyPanda . (2024) 'Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story'. 17 February.

IvyPanda . 2024. "Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story." February 17, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/.

1. IvyPanda . "Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story." February 17, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story." February 17, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/.

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