Are German Shepherds High Maintenance

How Do You Tell If Your German Shepherd Loves You

German Shepherd Signs Of Affection

• 1) They cant help but kiss or lick you. Dogs learn to lick and kiss during puppyhood.
• 2) They like staying close to you.
• 3) They often snuggle or cuddle.
• 4) They lean on you.
• 5) They allow you to hug them.
• 6) They ask for rubs.
• 7) Theyre always happy to see you.
• 8) They keep wanting to play.

What Food Should German Shepherd Eat

German shepherds can eat a variety of different foods, but because theyre a large and active breed, they have certain caloric and nutrient needs.

A German shepherd should be fed a quality, protein-rich food with all the fats, vitamins, carbohydrates, and calories that they need to stay healthy.

A German shepherds food should contain protein from whole meat like fish or beef. The protein in the food should be the first listed ingredient, because these are listed in order of weight, according to the FDA.

The ideal food for a German shepherd also has sources of grains that are easy for the dog to digest. This includes things like rice and rolled oats, instead of ingredients like corn or soy.

A German shepherds diet should be relatively high in calories and carbohydrates to facilitate the level of activity that they typically have.

If the dog isnt getting this exercise, he can quickly become overweight which will put the dog more at risk for numerous health conditions.

Common Health Problems In German Shepherds

German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions.

German Shepherds are in a group of breeds classed as Category Three by The Kennel Club, which is the highest category of the health concerns due to their conformation. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips.

Some of the conditions German Shepherds may develop include:

This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to.

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Are German Shepherds Hard To Train

German Shepherds are highly-intelligent, super-eager to please their owners and thrive on praise all of which makes them relatively easy to train.

However, they do require consistent socialization and training from puppyhood to ensure proper behavior as adults.

Additionally, some canine behaviorists recommend crate training for GSD puppies to get them used to their own company and keep them safe and out of trouble.

German Shepherd Coat And Skin Care

GSDs do shed, so one of the first things nearly every breeder will tell you is to invest in a good vacuum cleaner! But there are several ways to cut down on the shedding. AKC Breeder of Merit Wendy Wilson of St. Ledgers Shepherds recommends brushing every other day, and says that by doing so, you wont have balls of fur lying around your house.

Wilson advises using a Furminator for this brushing routine, which she likes using for the GSDs double coat because it can reach the undercoat and remove loose hair easily and safely. She finds that a de-shedding brush alone is enough for routine brushing and de-shedding when used correctly. If used incorrectly, the tool can damage your dogs coat.

AKC Breeder of Merit and professional dog trainer Lisa Walsh of Loyalville German Shepherds also recommends the Furminator, which she uses weekly most of the time, increasing in frequency to daily during heavy shedding periods. Like Wilson, she finds the de-shedding tool is enough for routine brushing, although, when she is showing a dog, she will use a slicker brush just before going into the ring.

Wilson advises GSD owners to do the de-shedding outside, due to the amount of fur that will be released from your GSDs coat during a good brushing with this tool. Walsh echoes this sentiment, saying, Its amazing what you can get out in five to ten minutes with a de-shedding tool.

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How Often Should I Feed My German Shepherd Puppy

You now know that a growing German Shepherd puppy has different nutritional needs than an adult dog. But did you know they also need feeding more frequently at different stages as they are growing? So how often should you feed your German Shepherd puppy?

German Shepherd puppies should be fed four meals a day between the ages of 6 and 12 weeks. Puppies aged between 12 and 24 weeks require three meals a day, and from 24 weeks onwards, German Shepherd puppies should be fed twice per day.

Puppies receive all the relevant nutrients from birth by feeding on their mother. However, its safe to begin the weaning process onto a new diet after three to four weeks.

Growing German Shepherd puppies need to take in enough calories, fat, protein, vitamins, and minerals to meet their rapid growth and development that will set them on the right path to a healthy life.

They should continue on a puppy diet until adulthood, which is defined as between 812 months of age in small and medium breeds and between 1016 months in large and giant breeds, according to the MSD Vet Manual.

An adult dog diet, or maintenance diet, contains nutrients suited for pets that have passed their growth stage.

Related:Do German Shepherds Need Large Breed Food?

My German Shepherd was transitioned from her puppy food at just two months old. However, I fed her high-quality food suitable for this.

Heres where you can learn more about bloat in German Shepherds.

What About German Shepherd Training

German shepherds are very intelligent dogs. This means that without proper training, their behavior can become overly hyperactive and seem disobedient.

Its important that training begins in the early stages of a shepherds life so that they learn more easily and quickly.

Your German shepherd only wants to make you proud and complete tasks the way you want them done. For this reason, training is a team effort.

Patience and clarity are as mandatory and crucial from you as obedience and focus are from your dog. But once a German shepherd is trained, that is the set of skills and standard of obedience that they base their behavior on for the rest of their life.

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Final Thoughts The Importance Of Nutrition

You now know what the best diet is for your German Shepherd. Theres certainly a lot to consider in this giant guide, but I hope Ive given you enough food for thought!

The best advice I could give you is

• Choose a type of food that suits your dogs life stage and your lifestyle
• Invest in the best quality dog food you can afford

How To Care For A German Shepherd

A German Shepherd puppy can become one of the best companions a pet parent could ask for, but they dont come work-free. German Shepherds need regular grooming, plenty of exercise and a lot of training. However, these pups are quick studies, and all your efforts will be rewarded.

A German Shepherds grooming needs are rigorous compared to other dog breeds. Their dense double coat protects them from sun exposure and keeps them warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Brush your pup every day with a pin brush to keep the coat shiny, clean and healthy, especially in the spring and fall when they shed the most . Bathing too frequently can strip their coat of its natural oils, so plan on bathing your German Shepherd every three to four months, or when they get really dirty.

During their daily grooming sessions, brush your German Shepherds teeth with a canine toothbrush and toothpaste to prevent tartar buildup, and have your vet professionally clean their teeth once a year. German Shepherds ears do not need to be cleaned regularly, but while youre brushing out their coat, be on the lookout for signs of infection such as redness and ear odor.

About once a month, your pups nails will need a trim if they are not ground down naturally through all that exercise. Youll know its time when you hear them clacking on hard surfaces. Get the how-to here.

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Caring For A German Shepherd

• Haircut

In most common cases, German Shepherds do not need a Haircut. They have a medium-length outer coat along with a thick undercoat.

While their outer coat does not grow very long, the thick inner coat sheds seasonally during the summers.

Therefore, it helps them stay relaxed and comfortable, even when the temperature exceeds. However, the same thick undercoat keeps Shepherds warm in winter.

Many pet parents are tempted to cut their Shepherds hair, especially during the warm months. Some also take trimming and shaving as an option.

However, experts suggest that until your Shepherd has generated some skin condition, refrain from cutting, trimming, or shaving their hair.

Their coat is important to provide them protection thus, owners do not have to worry about its length and thickness regardless of the weather.

• Shedding and Brushing

German Shepherds does not need a hair cut or trim, but that doesnt mean you can rest assured from the department.

Especially when it comes to Shedding, it becomes a great deal with German Shepherds.

Thus, every 3 to 4 days a week, make sure you are brushing your Shepherds coat.

This habit will not only keep their coat sleeky and shiny but will also keep shedding at a minimum.

• Bathing

Unlike several other dog breeds, German Shepherds can go even over a month without bathing. Or until the dog starts to smell bad, avoid giving him a bath.

This will make their skin dry, itchy while their coat will lose its shine and health.

• Nails

• Off-Lease

How Many Exercises Does German Shepherd Need

According to PDSA, German shepherds tend to be very active dogs that means owners need to be ready with plenty of outlets for that energy.

Scheduled exercise and playtime are important factors in keeping a shepherd healthy, happy, and well-behaved.

Lack of exercise for a German shepherd can lead to behavior like excessive barking, chewing household items and furniture, or even aggression.

Ideally, this breed should get at least two hours of activity a day. This time could be anything from walking and running to off-leash exercises like fetch or other games.

Since its also easy to overwork your dog, its a good idea to spread exercise throughout the course of the day.

For anyone who works long hours and would be unable to get these periods of exercise into their schedule, having a hired dog-walker or friend to let your dog run around would be necessary.

This breed loves to work and play with their owner. Their ultimate goal is to make you happy and proud while still having fun.

Training your German shepherd can act as some of their exercises for the day, or you can look into exercises to do together.

In the case of most German shepherds, if theyre worn out, theyre happy.

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Video Answer: German Shepherd Puppies Full Black Long Coat Available

Common French Bulldog Health Complications The French bulldog is high maintenance and is likely to cost more in vet visits than other dog breeds. French bulldogs often incur spinal disorders, heart defects, joint disease and eye problems.

Goldendoodles are healthy dogs with average exercise needs, and they adjust well to a variety of lifestyles and living situations. One of the reasons that people say Goldendoodles are high maintenance is because of their coats Overall, Goldendoodles are low maintenance dogs that are ideal for first time dog owners.

Retired racers are low-maintenance. They require minimal grooming their exercise needs are low to moderate for a dog of their size. They’re compliant and have a personality that helps them adapt quickly to a new lifestyle. Most Greyhounds are naturally laid-back, well mannered, and sensitive.

This amicable pup does not like to be alone for long periods of time and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone too long. The Havanese is a high maintenance dog and requires daily grooming to keep their coat silky smooth. They do not shed much but are not hypoallergenic.

German Shepherd Health Care Costs

• $25$50 per month

German Shepherds are considered pretty healthy dogs. As a result, they arent very expensive when it comes to monthly health care. For the most part, providing your dog a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues.

You will need to buy a dog safe toothpaste, dog safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life.

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What Kind Of Grooming Maintenance Is Necessary For German Shepherd

A German shepherds fur will never exceed a medium length. This means that you save time, effort, and money on trims.

With that being said, their coat is thick, especially in the winter months when it helps to keep them warm. German shepherds need frequent brushing and grooming to prevent knots and dirt in their fur.

Shepherds nails will also need to be regularly filed or clipped so they dont get too long

How Smart Are German Shepherds Compared To Humans

Every dog is different, just like us, and there are several kinds of intelligence. So, it is hard to rank somebodys intelligence as a whole, whether theyre human or otherwise, let alone compare with other species.

That said, we know that humans and German Shepherds make great working companions in the most high-pressure situations so we must be a pretty good match!

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Exercise Requirements Of A Gsd

German Shepherd is a working dog. In India, people still call them the police dog. GSD excels in several roles such as disability assistance, guard dog, protection dog, herding dog, military dog, and search & rescue dog.

GSDs need daily exercise to be healthy. When left alone and under-exercised, they turn to aggression. Bored GSDs can become destructive by chewing anything that fits in their mouth.

If you have a large property or an individual villa, get a pair of GSDs instead of one. Owing two GSDs is double the reward, and the dogs keep each other excellent company.

German Shepherds In India

Before we dwell into details of German Shepherd ownership, it is essential to understand German Shepherds in India. In India, there are several misconceptions about this dog. As owners and fanciers of German Sheperd dog in India, we must distinguish facts from fiction.

Kennel Club of India is the register of pedigree dogs in India. The German Shepherd Club of India is a chapter under the KCI that maintains the pedigree of German Shepherd dogs and conducts dog shows.

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Final Thoughts: Are German Shepherds Good Dogs

Is a German Shepherd a good family dog? The answer is 100% yes.

They are smart, easy to train, friendly, energetic, and protective. They can manage other children and other pets as long as they are trained properly.

Just like any dog, the dogs personality will ultimately be molded by their training. While most German Shepherds are friendly, even this dog breed can turn aggressive if raised by an aggressive owner.

Its a good idea to have plenty of space and time to play with this highly energetic dog.

As long as you give your pup proper obedience training, proper socialization, and the attention it needs, this is a dog that is sure to be a dear part of your family for its entire life.

In this guide, we go over:

• Preparing to adopt a dog
• Dog supplies you will need
• Choosing the right dog to adopt
• & much more!

White German Shepherd/ Swiss Shepherd

The Swiss Shepherd or the White German Shepherd is a GSD with a pure white coat. International Kennel Clubs do not recognize this dog. Hence, there are no standards established for the Swiss Shepherd.

In India, we have come across a few breeders who claim to own a white GSD. In our research, we found them to be crossbred GSDs or large size Indian Spitz.

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If Youre After A Loyal Intelligent And Very Active Dog Then A German Shepherd Could Be The Perfect Pet For You

If you want a great watchdog and a best friend, the German Shepherd could be the breed for you. Bred for herding and commonly used as watchdogs due to their high level of intelligence, German Shepherds make great pets for active households.

Regular training for your German Shepherd is imperative for a well-behaved, sociable pet. They need both mental and physical stimulation daily because they are so clever. These dogs also benefit from large enclosed yard spaces. A popular cross-breed is the very intelligent and active German Shepherd cross Husky.

Fun fact: Two German Shepherds, Strongheart and

Rin Tin Tin, both have a star on the

Hollywood Walk of Fame.

This dog just wants to spend all their time with you and is best suited to households with people at home during the day. They have very high energy levels and are very alert, making them ideal watchdogs. They are extremely loyal and loving to their family, however take care to ensure young children learn how to interact with your pet respectfully.

They have a high level of shedding, but this can be reduced by brushing weekly. The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is between 9-13 years.

How big do German Shepards get?

A German Shepherd is a medium- to large-sized dog, weighing between 30 and 36kgs, with a height between 55 and 60cms.

How much space do German Shepards need?

As large dogs, they need space to run around in. A backyard is ideal.

How much energy do German Shepards have?

Do German Shepards shed?