Do Gsds Like To Play With Other Dogs
This is determined on a case by case basis and is highly dependent on the temperament and training of the dog in question.
In general, you want to provide the opportunity for your German Shepherd to play with other dogs as much as possible.
This is not only great to burn energy and stimulate their mind, but teaches them important social skills.report this ad
Not all German Shepherds are dog-friendly however, so ensure yours is given ample opportunities to socialize to prevent the possibility of fighting or aggressive outbursts.
What Do German Shepherds Eat
It’s crucial that a German Shepherd dog doesn’t pile on the pounds, so don’t give them a single big bowl of food each day. They have a big appetite and they’ll simply wolf it down, in which case it is better to feed them twice a day and keep them healthy with a balanced, high-quality diet that is low on calories. Generally aim for between 1,740 to 2,100 calories a day depending on the age, health, and activity levels of the dog. And be aware that these are muscular dogs that need high-quality nutrition and the best dog food you can find.
A German Shepherd’s diet should include between 18% and 22% of protein found in whole meat, and they should also consume between 5% and 8% fat . It’s also totally fine to feed a German Shepherd with dry or wet food , and we’d recommend food by Royal Canin, which has a specific range for German Shepherds.
Potential For Weight Gain: Low
Nipping Biting And Nose Bumps
Nipping and biting in puppy play is cute but can lead to later problems as the dog matures. If your puppy is constantly nipping and biting to get your attention, it is your responsibility to give your pet obedience training.
Obedience training challenges your pets mental capacities and increases its sense of belonging, and adds value, increasing its sense of security. Once a pet feels secure, it tends to cease undesirable behaviors.
A dog trainer will help train a pet that behaves well and understands its social boundaries. Nose bumps are typically your pets way to request attention. Make time for puppy play to keep your German Shepherd happy.
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What Research Has To Say About Dogs And Music
Theres a science behind dogs relaxing to classical music.
This research observed 117 shelter dogs exposed to classical music, heavy metal and altered classical.
Heres a compilation of the interesting results of the study:
- Dogs exposed to classical music spend more time sleeping and less time vocalizing.
- Dogs exposed to heavy metal display body shaking, suggesting nervousness.
Another study has the same findings. This one observed 2 groups of dogs. One group was observed with classical music. The other was observed in silence.
The study found out that when exposed to classical music, the dogs were calm. Their stress levels decreased significantly.
Not only that. Dogs were in a relaxed state while listening to music.
But why classical music? Whats wrong with hard rock or heavy metal?
The answer lies in the tempo.
Music with long, continuous tones is relaxing. Think of classical, reggae and soft rock. This was proven to relax dogs.
On the other hand, music with short, choppy tones is excitatory. That includes hard rock and heavy metal. These have a faster tempo that caused an increase in anxiety and agitation among dogs.
In addition, heavy metal music has loud percussion that can frighten dogs. Its the same effect that fireworks and thunder have on them.
Brain Training For Dogs
Brain training your German Shepherd is an activity that increases their mental stimulation and is fun for both you and your dog!
You can use brain training to help teach your German Shepherd manners and basic obedience at the same time.
To do this all you have to do is follow a simple online program, full of helpful videos.
- Follow this link to the Official Brain Training for Dogs Program online
- Signup for a free game they email or go ahead and join the program
- Practice the brain games every day
- Enjoy exciting new and fun German Shepherd activities at different levels suitable for your dogs abilities
- Watch your GSD progress and graduate to more difficult challenges
There are so many activities included in the program that I couldnt possibly tell you all of them.
But
You can read more on my helpful review: Brain Training for Dogs Review
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Your German Shepherd May Yawn When You Do And This Is No Accident
In even another incredible research study published in the respected PLOS One Journal, dogs were more likely to mimic a yawn from their owner than from a stranger.
This phenomenon is called contagious yawning. It occurs in a number of species, including some primates.
But as far as the researchers know, contagious yawning only crosses species between dogs and their people.
The researchers hypothesize that the ability dogs have to yawn contagiously when their owners yawn may be evidence that your dog can also sense or even feel your emotions, tapping into your emotional state on a deep level.
Are Playpens Bad For Puppies
As resting is incredibly important for your puppys growth, its likely theyll need several little sleeps throughout the day so you can use the playpen as a daytime alternative to their crate. Your puppy wont need a puppy playpen forever, so dont worry about it being a permanent feature in your home.
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Fun Games To Play With Dogs Outside
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Did you know that your dog’s natural drive to play is no accident?
In fact, studies show that the domestic dog’s playfulness is an adaptive trait selected during domestication.
You might be wondering why humans have carefully selected this playful characteristic over and over for thousands of years
Well, besides making our best friends irresistibly cute, their funloving nature plays an essential role in important areas like bonding and training.
In this study on the welfare of play in domestic dogs, the research points to most types of play improving the social connection between dogs and their owners.
And this study suggests that your dog’s natural playfulness makes training easier. And promotes the formation of an emotional bond between you and your pooch.
To top things off, the same study notes that regular playing with your dog is a big clue to the quality of your relationship.
So in today’s article, I’ll be sharing 9 fun games to play with dogs outside. No matter what breed of dog you have, how old your dog is or the fitness level of your dog you’ll find a game or two that you both will love
What Is A German Shepherd’s Temperament Like
There is no doubting a German Shepherd’s intelligence, but with that comes a high level of confidence and a good amount of aloofness. Since these dogs tend to be loyal and protective, they are generally wary of strangers. That makes them a perfect watchdog, but their suspicious and reserved nature can make them feel unfriendly towards guests. Even so, with training, they make great, loyal family pets, and if you introduce them to other animals and children early they’ll get along extremely well. Those bred in the US tend to be more calm.
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Learn A New Sport Or Game
Sports can help your German Shepherd puppy redirect their excess energy.
If youve got the time, enrol your puppy in dog sports. Think agility, flyball or disc dog. Getting involved together in sports can strengthen your bond.
In addition, these sports provide physical and mental exercise at the same time.
A word of caution, though. Formal training can be expensive and time-consuming. If you dont mind enrolling your dog, then go right ahead.
But if you do, you can do the sports for fun.
Fun And Games As Rewards
One of my GSD’s favorite games is playing frisbee . . . but they also like, Tug of War
This is another one of my German Shepherd’s favorite games. Again, the secret to playing this game with your dog successfully is for you to control it. For this game, choose one particular toy that will be used as your tug toy. Never play tug of war with any other toy.Start this game by picking up the tug toy and encouraging your dog to pick it up too. Give a particular cue that this game has started. Tugging is an instinctive behavior for dogs so your German Shepherd Dog should catch on quickly.
Tug a few times, then tell your dog to “drop it”. This is the second most important part of this game. Without a good drop command you will not be able to stop the game cleanly. You could then reward your German Shepherd for dropping the toy with either a treat or another round of tug Hide and Go Seek This is a very effective way of teaching a GSD to come to you when called.
Fetch
All German Shepherds can learn to enjoy this game with the proper motivation and training. Some dogs are natural born “fetchers” and can do this with little or no effort or dog training, other GSD’s are not. Our dogs favorite toy to retrieve is the jolly ball. Note: an important part of the fetch game is an effective “drop it”. Be sure to teach and practice “drop it” first otherwise your game of fetch can easily turn into a keep away match.
Clean Up Your Toys
Find the Treat
Other Ideas:
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Keeping Things Calm Consistently
One of the most important things to remember about German Shepherds, as well as dogs of a similar size and energy level, is that they require a lot of exercise.
The more exercise dogs get, the more likely they are to behave.
Always make sure your dogs get rewarded for behaving themselves. The more they associate behaving themselves with being rewarded, the more they will be inclined to behave appropriately.
Never use punitive behavior like hitting, shoving, or kicking.
These actions frighten dogs and betray their trust, but might also cause dogs to act out with aggression, something you want to avoid in a big dog like a GSD.
Several breeds make excellent companions for German Shepherds. However, knowing how to make the proper introductions is key to making sure all goes smoothly.
How To Use Positive Reward Based Training
Rewards and positive reinforcement are powerful tools in dog training.
Reward-based training is about setting your dog up for success. Treats are usually the foundation of positive dog training or positive reinforcement training.
Reward-based learning is centered on the dog earning rewards for correct behavior. The rewards are known as primary reinforces and these can be food rewards, toy rewards, play sessions, physical or verbal praise.
Reinforced behaviors tend to be repeated and behavior that is not enforced will eventually die out.
This is a very simplified explanation of reward-based training, there are many degrees and a new GSD owner should further research the subject.
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Home Alone Keeping Your German Shepherd Entertained
German Shepherds are among the most social breeds in the canine world. They just love spending time with you, whether taking a walk or just curling up next to you. So when it comes time for you to leave the house, it can make your Shepherd a little anxious.
For some dogs, the anxiety is so great, it can lead to extreme behavior such as persistent barking or howling, destructive chewing, scratching or digging. These are signs of separation anxiety.
The following tips can help you keep your Shepherd entertained while you’re out.
Confine your dog. Try to keep him in an enclosed area when you’re out, such as a crate with water, toys, and soft flooring . Dogs are den animals, and even large dogs like German Shepherds feel safer in their own small space.
Hire a dog-walker. German Shepherds love peopleand there is nothing better than an extra person to love. A dog-sitter can play with your dog, take him for walks, and provide a welcome break while he’s home alone.
Doggy daycare. The social German Shepherd is a good candidate for doggie daycare. Just make sure that the facility you choose is equipped to handle dogs that are big and active.
Distractions. Distractions such as puzzle-type chew toys, television, or the view from a big window can cure his loneliness. These tricks can help keep your dog entertained and playing long enough so that he may not even remember you’re gone.
Best Games To Play With Your German Shepherd
German Shepherd Dogs are highly intelligent and super-athletic dogs, and they need to be both mentally and physically stimulated to stay happy and healthy. This can be achieved through regular, directed interaction with your pooch through training and games or even better, a combination of both.
While training is an essential aspect of raising a well-behaved and healthy German Shepherd, games are also vital to their health. From physical, athletic activities to mind games for German Shepherds, there are so many to choose from to keep your GSD stimulated. Read on for 12 of our favorite games to play with your German Shepherd!
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What About German Shepherds And Border Collies Being Together
Steve Charnock has highlighted the strong herding instincts that Border Collies possess, making them worthy companions for German Shepherds in your household.
Border Collies athleticism and intelligence are two traits that they have in common with German Shepherds. These dogs have retained a strong herding instinct.
One of the things that come naturally with their strong herding instinct is high energy.
Activities like going on long walks or hikes, and playing Frisbee, are examples of pursuits perfect for both types of dogs.
The boundless energy of a Border Collie will provide the ideal stimulation for a GSD, especially a younger dog.
The Border Collies instinct to herd even other dogs can provide plenty of amusement. However, you want to make sure that the herding attempts dont get out of control.
Otherwise, the dogs playtime might get a little tense!
How To Train A German Shepherd To Be A Guard Dog
German Shepherds will usually take to being a guard dog naturally. It’s important to train them to be obedient. Learn how here.Many dogs are natural watch dogs their bark is sufficient to alert their owner to something unusual, and the alarm they set up is a deterrent. In addition, dogs who will fight if their owner is genuinely attacked do not have to be made aggressive to do so. Training a dog specifically to be a guard dog is hazardous and potentially creates a liability for you. Misguided attempts to make a dog aggressive through abuse will only backfire because the dog will not be loyal to someone who treats them harshly, and if the dog wrongly bites someone you will be at fault. Never train dogs who are basically fearful or out of control. Such dogs may not respond appropriately in non-threatening situations.
A German shepherd dog should not be selected to receive training as a guard dog unless the dog is basically friendly, stable and clear-headed, and has been well-socialized.
STEP 1
STEP 2
STEP 3
STEP 4
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STEP 6
Walk your German shepherd dog on a leash around the perimeter of your property regularly to identify your territorial boundaries. Do not allow your dog to bark at people who are outside your property. Do not allow your dog to chase people under any circumstances.
TIPS & WARNINGS
THINGS NEEDED
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Cleaning Up: Give Your Dog A Task In The Home
We have a basket in the living room where all of the dog toys go. It is on the ground, so if one of the dogs wants a toy, he or she has access to it. This keeps them from chewing on shoes and other things that they know they arent supposed to chew on and keeps the house more organized. Its also possibly one of the cutest things in the world when one of the dogs grabs a toy from the basket, chews on it for a little while, and then falls asleep hugging that toy or using it as a pillow.
As part of her obedience training, we taught Sultan a command to clean up her toys. This is actually a great activity and sometimes doubles as a searching or hunting game, especially if she wasnt the one to remove the toys from the basket.
Run With Your Dog In Two
If you go for jogging or biking, take your German Shepherd along for the company. It will allow your pet to burn some calories that it may have accumulated sitting idle at home.
You can determine the speed and distance as per the stamina and convenience of both of you. If you love skating, you can show your dog your skills on such trips and make him proud of you.
German Shepherd dogs are strong and full of stamina. They can give you company on the jogging trails as well as walk for long distances. While running or walking, teach your pet to keep a distance from you so that it does not collide with you.
Also read: The Complete Guide to Running with German Shepherds
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Coat Color And Grooming
The German Shepherd was originally bred to herd flocks in harsh climates, and their medium-length double coat fits the job perfectly, acting as protection the dog from rain and snow and resistant to picking up burrs and dirt.
The coat types of the German Shepherd are as varied as their color. Some German Shepherds are longhaired. However, the “ideal” German Shepherd has a double coat of medium length. The outer coat is dense with straight hair that lies close to the body, and is sometimes wavy and wiry.
The coat comes in variety of colors and patterns including black black and cream black and red black and silver black and tan blue gray liver sable and white. The American Kennel Club doesn’t recognize white as a color for this breed, however, and won’t let white German Shepherds compete in conformation shows, although they’re allowed in other competitions.
Sometimes jokingly called “German shedders,” the breed sheds year-round, and generally “blows”sheds a lot of hair at once, like a snowstormtwice a year. If you want a German Shepherd, be prepared for hair on your black pants, on your white couch, and pretty much all over the house.
There’s no magic solution to shedding, and we just have to accept it. However, brushing two to three times a week will help more of the hair come out in a brush, rather than on your furnishings. And a sturdy vacuum cleaner doesn’t hurt either.