I Am The Proud Best Friend Of An Amazing German Shepherd For Almost 7 Years Now And It Is For Sure One Of The Best Experiences Of My Life
Id like to share with others a few things that describe very well my life with a German Shepherd, with its ups and also downs.
A lot of people think that getting a dog is just like getting a new Xbox game. You play with it until you get bored and then you throw it in the back of a drawer and forget about it.
Sometimes people are disappointed to find out that having a dog is not what they thought and even consider abandoning or even giving away their pet for that reason.
An average dog lifespan is around 1013 years. When you decide to adopt one, keep in mind that it may be sticking around for a while. Think very well through if you have enough space, financial resources and time for your dog.
Dont get a dog to make you feel better, less lonely, more important or more responsible. Adopt a dog for the purpose of offering that animal a good and happy life.
Here are some things I have experienced and learned about having a dog, a big and fury pal a German Shepherd:
Apartment Living With Any Dog Is All About Management
First, let me say that properly meeting your dogs physical and mental needs is key when it comes to any breed living in an apartment. Whether you have a ginormous Mastiff or a tiny Chihuahua, you have to address your dogs individual needs to give them the best apartment living situation. Exercise, separation issues, mental stimulation all of these things have to be addressed.
But were talking about German Shepherds today, so lets take a look at what it takes to make apartment living with a German Shepherd a success.
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First things first. Youll have to find an apartment that accepts a dog as large as a German Shepherd. Youll have a few things stacked against you on this front. For starters, many apartment complexes have size and weight limits. In addition to that, many complexes put German Shepherds into the aggressive category, which means they wont allow them in any of their apartments. This is ridiculous, but what can you do?
I dont think I have to stress to you how important it is to be upfront and honest about your dog breed when applying for an apartment. Ive known a few people who thought they could just fib a bit and sneak a banned breed in after they signed all the paperwork. German Shepherds are very distinct breeds. No one is going to believe that hes just an overgrown chihuahua! Youll be busted the first time you take him for a walk.
What Is A Miniature German Shepherd’s Habitat
A Miniature German Shepherd is a mix between the purebred dog breeds of a German Shepherd and usually a Yorkshire terrier, Corgis, or Border Collies, developed to become a great companion dog as they are loyal, obedient, and very smart capable of being excellent work or guide dogs as well. The standard breed German Shepherds were working dogs used to herd cattle, but soon, because of their sharp senses, intelligence, extreme loyalty, obedient nature, and wolf-like features made them the second most popular dog breed in the world found as a loving family pet, or as a guide dog to the disabled and even in the police and armies as working dogs or rescue dogs. They are mostly crossed with other herding dogs like a Border Collie which is regarded as the smartest domestic dog breed, or small-size dogs like Yorkshire terriers or Corgis who have a calm and loving nature bred to become great show dogs and family pets. Due to their ancestral history, mini German Shepherds naturally adjust to domestic habitats like houses and apartments, and because of their smaller size, they can do well even in small houses or studio apartments although it is better for dogs to have a large area to run around in as they have high energy and need a lot of exercise. They have a double coat which makes them adjust to extremely cold climates as well.
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German Shepherd Nail Care
The frequency of nail trimming for your GSD will depend greatly on the kinds of surfaces on which your dog runs or walks. For those dogs who routinely walk on pavement, their nails will often wear down to a normal length naturally. Walsh finds that she never has to trim the nails of her dogs who walk on pavement, but those on other surfaces need a trimming at least monthly.
Wilson recommends trimming nails whenever needed, and agrees that it will depend on environment. She has observed, for instance, that her dogs who spend time on carpet and grass need a nail trimming every two to three weeks.
Walsh says the conformation of GSDs feet is wide-ranging, with some dogs having very thick, wide nails that are more difficult to cut and others having thinner, claw-like nails that are much easier to clip. For some dogsparticularly those with thick nailsshe has to use a Dremel tool for nail grinding in addition to clippers.
Regardless of conformation or growth rate of your dogs nails, it is important to expose them to nail clippers and the process of nail trimming early in puppyhood. Walsh begins handling her puppies feet as early as three days of age. Both breeders say that nail trimming, like coat care, can be done at home, and Walsh advises not to overdo it with the clippers: If you never cut their nails too short, they wont get funny about their nails.
Do German Shepherds Need A Big Yard
No, the German Shepherd doesnt need a big yard. A big yard will significantly benefit the German Shepherd, but any yard will do for them to be entertained and release their high amount of energy.
If their yard is small, walks, and trips to the dog park can be used to provide the space to move and roam that they dont receive at home. These will also offer a pleasant diversion and practice in socialization.
If the German Shepherd doesnt want to be inside, can they be kept outside all the time?
If the German Shepherd doesnt want to be inside, they should never be kept outside. Allowing them access to the inside is beneficial for a variety of reasons that include:
- Lack of connection
- Boredom and bad behaviors
- Increased likelihood of health problems
When a dog is allowed to spend some time inside with their owner and the comforts the home brings, they are healthier and happier.
The German Shepherd is a dog breed that behaves best when they have a strong bond with their owner. If they spend all their time outdoors and their owner is inside, they dont develop a relationship with their owner.
If they dont form a secure bond, it can increase the risk of aggressive tendencies and other harmful or bad behaviors on the dogs part.
It is also essential to allow the German Shepherd to have access to the indoors and be with their family because it is physically healthy.
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How Long Do Mixed Breed Dogs Live
For mixed breed dogs, owners can use an individuals weight to help determine how long he or she would be expected to live. In general, small dogs enjoy longer lives than do their larger counterparts. A recent analysis of veterinary records revealed that dogs under 20 pounds had an average lifespan of 11 years while those over 90 pounds typically lived for only 8 years. Medium and large dogs fell in the middle at around 11 years. .
But average life expectancy isnt the whole story. The very definition of average means that many individuals will have shorter lifespans while others can be expected to live much longer than the norm. Perhaps a better way to evaluate a dogs longevity is to convert dog years into human years. In this way, we can understand just when a dog is an adult, a senior citizen, geriatric, or the equivalent of a human centenarian.
Information about a dogs expected lifespan wont help blunt the pain of his or her loss, but it can help owners plan how to best care for their companions during the time we do have together.
A German Shepherd Dog Should Have A Yard
The German Shepherd is quite a big fellow and requires space to move around. He likes fresh air and is also pretty active. Remember that he is used to herd flocks of sheep, so he needs his space.
Bruno doesnt like close spaces. He looks bored and annoyed. He is gliding on the wooden floor and he leave tons of fur on the carpet. If you cannot give him the yard he needs, get a different type of dog, a smaller one.
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Why Does My German Shepherd Attack Small Dogs
If your German Shepherd attacks small dogs then you might be wondering why and if there is anything that you can do about it.
This post will show you a number of reasons why your German Shepherd might attack small dogs and what you should do.
So, why does my German Shepherd attack small dogs? German Shepherds have a strong prey drive which causes them to be aggressive around cats and small dogs. A lack of exposure to small dogs and training from an early age can also worsen the situation.
There are actually a number of reasons why your German Shepherd might be doing it and depending on your specific situation there are a number of things that you can do about it.
German Shepherds Are Active
German Shepherds have high energy levels. They can spend their whole days outdoor. If you love jogging, hiking and hunting, German Shepherds are one of the best companions you can have. If you have children at home, they can play with German Shepherds as long as they can because these dogs don’t get tired easily.
Also Check: What Age Do German Shepherds Calm Down
Teach Them Something New
Its not true that you cant teach an old dog new tricks. This might actually be the perfect time to teach them some new tricks. It will help keep their brain engaged something we all need as we progress into our elder years. Whether you just want to teach your German Shepherd to shake or you are going to refresh some of the tricks that he knew as a younger dog, spend some time each day teaching your dog and rewarding him for his progress and effort.
The Size Of Your Apartment
Living in an apartment does not mean: living in a shoe box overlooking an alley but it is clear that size counts. Large dogs such as German Shepherds will enjoy a space where they can move at ease and rest quietly when they need it. While, even in a small apartment, the tiniest dogs will look like true adventurers due to their size . Your apartment should have enough space for your dog to be able trot freely without too much obstacles in his way .
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How Much Space Does A German Shepherd Needexactly
German Shepherds are one of the most robust yet lovable breeds out there. However, this is one breed that lives to have an active lifestyle. That is the reason why dog parents often wonder if they need a big yard for this energetic dog. In fact, if you are getting home a German Shepherd, one of the most significant factors that you need to consider and think about is space. This is because these dogs are full of charm, wisdom, and wit, but there are also full of energy. Hence, they need a decent amount of space to run around and play around.
However, if you ask how much space exactly would it need? The answer is simple ENOUGH space to burn its energies and carry out routine physical activities. Having enough space certainly does not mean that a German Shepherd sure-shot needs big yards only. As long as your German Shepherd is able to burn its energy well and run and play around well, your GDS will be fit as a flea. This certainly does not mean that a German Shepherd cannot survive without big yards.
But does it mean that they can make do with apartments and places where they mostly have to be indoor?
Top 10 Reasons Why You Would Want A German Shepherd
German Shepherds are a relatively new dog breed with origins that can be traced back to 1899. Although it is a new breed, German Shepherds are now one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide. In the United states, German shepherds ranks as the second most popular dog breeds of 2016. In fact, German Shepherds have many talents and desirable traits which make them the best dogs that every household should own.
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Will Your Gsd Fit Into Your Apartment
According to the American Kennel Club , the German Shepherd dog breed is currently ranked as the second most popular companion canine .
According to Builder Online, two out of every 10 Americans live in an apartment setting.
What does this add up to? It is highly likely there are many, many German Shepherds living with their human keepers in apartments all over the country right at this very minute.
But what is less well known is how comfortable that arrangement is for all concerned.
The AKC considers the German Shepherd dog to be a true large dog breed. The typical adult German Shepherd will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds and stand anywhere from 22 to 26 inches tall .
That is a whole lot of dog to fit into a one-bedroom apartment, for example. Apartment Therapy states that the typical one-bedroom apartment may range from 400 to 1,000 square feet depending on the city.
In many ways, adding a 50 to a 90-pound dog will be the equivalent of adding a small child in terms of the extra space required, especially if you plan to crate-train your GSD .
The footprint of the dog crate alone will take up at least five feet by five feet of floor space about four feet of a crate and another foot of space for entry/exit and air circulation.
If you add a dog bed, you can count on another four to five feet of floor space needed. Plus you will need to plan for where you are going to store your dogs food, treats, toys, and supplies.
Benefits Of Having Your Gsd Live In Your Apartment
The German Shepherd is a breed of dog widely used as a guard dog in all kinds of situations, such as in police tasks, in security companies, in homes and on rural farms.
German shepherds are territorial dogs and they soon become familiar with the boundaries of the area they consider their own, and often patrol this area independently on the alert of intruders, other dogs or any situation they may consider a potential problem. If they see something that alerts them, they will bark and make a fuss, both to inform their owners of the situation they consider anomalous and as a deterrent to possible intruders. So one of the benefits of having a German Shepherds in an apartment is that he would protect it from intruders.
Therefore, if a German shepherd goes to live in a domestic apartment it is vital that the dog be well socialized with people and other animals since he is a puppy, and be well trained on the limits of acceptable behavior when they enter the home. Contact someone or something new.
Read Also: When Do German Shepherd Puppies Lose Their Baby Teeth
What Health Issues Do Miniature German Shepherds Suffer From
Miniature German Shepherd does inherit a few health issues or conditions that they commonly suffer from its larger-sized parent. The common health problems include elbow and hip dysplasia, bloating , epilepsy, perianal fistula , hemophilia, hypothyroidism , megaesophagus , and degenerative myelopathy. Due to deficiency of thyrotropin in their thyroid glands, pituitary dwarfism is also common in the weakest pups of the litter. Most of these problems are curable with the right diet and treatment, whereas some are caused genetically and have no cure.
How Much Mental Stimulation Does A German Shepherd Need
German Shepherds need daily mental stimulation. They are very bright and inquisitive and proper mental stimulation is as important to their overall well-being as physical exercise. If this is lacking boredom sets in and your GSD will resort to poor behavior such as barking, whining, digging, biting, or chewing.
Luckily for dog owners, there are endless possibilities to keep them entertained. Starting when they are young, you should take your German Shepherd to a training school. This also helps with socialization and boredom. GSDs will excel in all of the types of classes available, from agility to obedience.
Toys will be your next benefit, and there are specialty toys for larger dogs that you can buy. Some ideas are puzzle toys, interactive toys, or treat-dispensing toys.
There are even automatic ball launchers which are great if your dog loves to play fetch, and these also keep him guessing when you will launch the ball. I like the iFetch Interactive Ball Launcher from Amazon, and this model is great for large breeds. You can also use it indoors and limit the launch to just 10 feet. Its also rechargeable.
Additionally, healthy long-lasting dog chews are a good choice. Make sure they are made for large breeds, as you dont want your German Shepherd to damage their throat or even worse, choke. If you like to give your dog a bone make sure you check out my article, Can German Shepherds Eat Bones? Heres What People Get Wrong!
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