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What Dog Goes Well With A German Shepherd

My Personal Experience With German Shepherds

Living with a German Shepherd

As with any breed, theres the whole range of different personalities and characters and temperaments that you can come across. But today, I want to share what my general experiences with German shepherds has been like.

I can confidently say that the breed description given to German shepherds is pretty accurate. I have encountered many German shepherds who are physically and mentally strong, courageous, and often have a hard time backing down.

Of course, not all German shepherds fit this description. Ive come across many who are very fearful and nervous. But mostly, Ive seen the confident, strong-willed shepherds.

Whats fascinating to me with German shepherds is that, despite a strong personality, they do seem to want to work alongside you. They all seem to have a deep desire to connect with you, work for you, and do a great job.

Its almost like they want to be your partner rather than work independently. However, this means, if youre not sure what youre doing, they will very quickly step into the driving seat, which is a problem. You really dont want your German shepherd in charge of making the decisions!

Thats where theyre not a dog for everyone, because German shepherds play this game of Whos in charge, me or you? at a very high level. I call it the dog code.

Since then, Ive fallen in love with German shepherds. I could certainly see myself ending up with one in the future. And yes, I would fully trust this breed around my kids, my wife, and my other dogs.

German Shepherd Breed Overview

The German shepherd as a breed originated in Germany. No surprises there. But, believe it or not, their name was changed soon after the war. Before the war this breed was commonly called the Alsatian in Great Britain and parts of Europe.

There are still parts of Europe that refer to the German shepherd as the Alsatian; however, most of the world has converted back to calling them German shepherds.

Pretty interesting, right?

As for life expectancy, German shepherds normally live for around 9-13 years.

The color of a German shepherd can range considerably from gray to black to tan, and even a silvery color.

The males grow to be approximately 24 inches at the shoulder and the females tend to be a little shorter, measuring around 22 inches at the shoulder.

As for weight, males average around 80 pounds and the females are a bit lighter at around 60 pounds. There is no denying that these are big dogs!

Now, as I mentioned earlier, German shepherds are known for their physical strength and intelligence. As working dogs, they were bred to be confident and powerfultwo traits which often scare people away from wanting anything to do with the breed.

Its this combination that makes them quite incredible beasts. They have strong muscles. Theyre obviously large, and yet, in their minds, theyre also very confident, watchful, and alert.

If you have a puppy, I encourage you to check out my Puppy Coach training program.

The Most Important Thing To Think About: Whats Your Gsd Like

All German Shepherds are different; energy levels and desire to play can fluctuate greatly amongst GSDs so its important to consider this before settling on a breed.If your German Shepherd has never been an energetic, rough-housing ball of energy, its not advised to get a second dog that is. This would be unfair on your GSD and he wont want to put up with the new dogs craziness.

Top Tip: If you dont already have an insight into which breeds your GSD prefers, it would be a good idea to start visiting doggy play parks or doggy day centers. Youll see which breeds your GSD naturally gravitates towards, and youll soon have your answer.

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German Shepherds Are Known As A Mouthy Breed

They tend to use their mouths as an appendage thanks to their herding heritage. Its even right there in their name, ShepHERD. This mouthing behavior is natural, so expect your GSD to mouth you and chew anything that will fit inside their mouth. However, that doesnt mean you should allow it. What might be cute in your small puppy will get more powerful as your dog grows up. Training your dog not to bite your hand or the chew on the furniture is essential with this breed. Teach your German Shepherd to channel those instincts safely and appropriately.

Bone And Joint Problems

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A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in German Shepherd Dogs. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend’s bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life.

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Gsd + Siberian Husky = Siberian Shepherd

This dog is also known as;Gerberian Shepsky, German Husky, Husky Shepherd, etc.

The Siberian Shepherd makes a decent family canine who loves to be around the family. He is enormously ready, steadfast, and defensive of his friends and family because of his working canine Foundation.

  • Life Expectancy: ;10 to 13 years.
  • Weight:;45 pounds 88 pounds
  • Height:;20 inches 25 inches

How Do German Shepherds And Labrador Retrievers Get Along

According to Alexander Hunt, Shepherds and Labradors get along very well, largely due to a Labs easygoing personality.

Both breeds have a high activity level that encourages them to explore and engage in other activities with their families. If you have an active family that includes children, this combination will be perfect.

Because both breeds are people-oriented, they do best in a setting where they get a lot of attention. The dogs are best for providing company for each other.

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The German Australian Shepherd

German Australian Shepherds are incredibly intelligent, energetic and job-oriented.

Height: 20 to 23 Inches

Weight: 46 to 65 Pounds

Lifespan: 12 to 15 Years

Overview:

The German Australian Shepherd is a super smart, super active dog. And if youre detecting a theme here now that weve reached the end, youre onto us!

Just like most German Shepherd mix dogs on this list, the German Aussie is as brilliant as they come. This is also a dog that is very work oriented and will require tons of exercise, mental stimulation and training in order to stay happy.

If his needs are not met each and every day, this is a German Shepherd mix that could easily become destructive and distressed.

For this reason, we would recommend the German Australian Shepherd to more active families and experienced dog owners with a basic understanding of working breeds.

Of course, this may go for all German Shepherd mix dogs, which leads us to our next question; is a German Shepherd mix the right dog for you?

Are German Shepherds Aggressive Towards Other Dogs

Things to know as a new German Shepherd owner | Mistakes made by new owners

It is entirely wrong in my experience. Every dog indeed has its personality and temperament, but judging every dog only by Its name is incorrect.

For example, if a German Shepherd Dog is Aggressive towards other Pets, it can be because his owner does not pay enough attention to his training and socialization.

If you socialize your German Shepherd Dog with other pets and humans from the beginning, then there should not be any problem.

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Will Goldens And Shepherds Get Along

Generally, the answer is yes. Golden Retrievers and German Shepherds are similar in size, temperament, and activity levels. This makes them perfect companions for each other with a few caveats.

If German Shepherds are not well socialized as puppies, they can become extremely aggressive when a new dog is introduced.

Also, poorly bred German Shepherds are naturally more anxious and high-strung. Mixing poor breeding with a lack of training and socialization is a recipe for disaster.

Before making your German Shepherd and Golden Retriever roommates, consider the German Shepherds training and breeding. If the German Shepherd was socialized with others as a puppy or is still a puppy, he will probably do just fine with his new pal.;

However, it could be a problem if he was kept in the yard or a kennel for most of his puppyhood and did not spend time with other dogs.

What Is A Good Companion For A German Shepherd Dog

Virgil: What is a good companion dog for a German Shepherd?We have a two-year-old female German Shepherd who is very sociable and loves to play with other dogs. However, we cannot get another dog as large as Luna is because of the considerable damage that she has done to our home already. What is a good type of small to medium-sized dog to pair with a German Shepherd, preferably one that is easily trained and is not too high energy?

Answers and Views:

Answer by Launi Integrity is nEvery dog is different. Go down to your local shelter and pick out some dogs you find with a good temperament.Then take Luna with you next trip and do a ‘meet and greet’. The dogs will let you know.

Answer by CurliJust reading between the lines, if Luna has done damage to your house, it might be a good idea to get her under control before you bring in another dog in. 😉

Assuming that the damage was done in the past and Luna is now under control, try a Basset. Bassets are small, low key and they get along well with other animals. Good luck!

Answer by Campong Tblack Labrador is a good companion for german shepherd

Answer by MoliLabs are really bad dogs, you can’t train them for defense.I used to have Dobermans, they are great.

Answer by GlennAny. Dogs don’t care. It’s more about temperament. If they click they click. Take her to the shelter or Rescue so she can meet the available dogs. See who she gets along with best.

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Border Collie German Shepherd Mix

With this particular mix, you’ll have a beautiful, high-energy, and instinctive pup to enjoy! Working group border collies frequently earn top marks in agility and trick performing competitions, so with a few shepherd genes sprinkled in, you’ll be astounded at how much your new dog wants to do and learn! He’s a great running and hiking buddy, too.

How Old Should A 10 Year Old German Shepherd Be

Pin by James on German Shepherd

10-year-old German Shepherd Unfortunately, a German Shepherds expected lifespan is between 9 and 13 years old, and their time left here is getting short. It is common for German Shepherds to face arthritis, skin problems, decreased activity, dental issues, weight gain or loss, or even cancer at this age and older.

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Get Ready For Negative Public Perceptions

Thanks to the media, history, popular culture, and surely many mishandled dogs, German Shepherd;dont exactly have the best public image. If it hurts your feelings that some people are automatically scared of your dog, a German Shepherd may not be right for you. If you have a German; Shepherd, let this motivate you to make your dog a great breed ambassador and help change negative stereotypes.

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Massage Them For A Super Bond

Want to know the secret to a super bond with your dog?

Put on these special glove mitts that massage your dog gently.

Bonus: it also removes loose hair.

Its actually a triple win since youre also helping increase circulation in their skin to give them a shiny coat, too.

Massaging your dog is calming to them and they will associate you with relaxing affectionate times. The SPCA states that massage helps reduce stress and this means that you are the bringer of good things for them!

Massaging also increases your bond with and teaches them that you love spending time with them!

Quiet time relaxing with your dog also gives you a chance to relax and studies show it can lower your blood pressure when you stroke your dog for at least 5 minutes

Preferably every day.

German Shepherds love training with their person!

Especially positive and fun training, that uses motivation and their drive like in this program that uses brain games that increase their mental stimulation and improves their behavior.

Training a German Shepherd shouldnt only involve all the basic commands, but it should include fun ways to use your breeds exceptional intelligence.

And, thats exactly what brain training does!

Dont teach your GSD to fear you. Instead, show them you are a fun and fair leader full of love and affection for them with games and training.

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German Shepherd + Akita = Shepkita

The Shepkita is a hybrid dog, a cross between the Akita and the German Shepherd dogs. Shepkita also was known as Akita, Akita, and a German Shepherd mix. These puppies are now and again used to serve individuals. The Shepkita is well disposed, great with kids, yet a magnificent defender of the family.

This huge measured, physically intense pup is known for its calm, steadfast nature and has a genuinely hefty worked with broad shoulders and solid components. These puppies are keen, reliable, dedicated, and anxious to work.

  • Life Expectancy: ;10 to 13 years.
  • Weight:;75 pounds 120 pounds
  • Height:;26 inches 28 inches

Where To Buy/adopt German Shepherd Dog

THE CUTEST German Shepherd Puppies Ever!!

The German Shepherd is the most popular breed of purebred dog for its great pedigree and a good reputation for being a loyal and trustworthy companion. A perfect pet can be found at the right price.;

As many pet lovers already know, there are tons of different places you can go to buy a German Shepherd Dog, from a pet store to a breeder to an online pet store.

If youre looking for an exceptional dog, you should go online. And, you can always find them at reputable dog breeders in your state.

In some circumstances, its not always easy to find a German Shepherd Dog in America. If you live in a small town, you may not be able to find a pet store that carries German Shepherd dogs.

However, you can find German Shepherd Dogs on the internet at places like Amazon or Petfinder.com.

Summary:

According to German Shepherd Rescue, German Shepherds are the most common breed of dog worldwide. However, its not easy to find one. Why? Because the German Shepherd Dog price is a lot higher than the average household income.

The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dogs globally, with a vast and detailed fan base. However, this very popular breed is not without controversy.

The German Shepherd is a larger dog than the average family dog and a very active dog that requires a lot of exercise and stimulation. The size of the German Shepherd makes it easier to understand why it is a popular service dog and why it is a popular family dog.

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What You Should Know About Designer Dogs

Designer dogs like a German Shepherd mix are somewhat controversial.

Crossbreeds, hybrids, designer dogs or mixed breeds these terms all mean the same thing. Basically, these terms translate to any dog that is the offspring of two specifically chosen purebred parent breeds.

While we love our designer dogs, and while crossbreeding is an ancient practice, it has come under some scrutiny over the past few years.

In the last two decades, cross breeding dogs for profit has skyrocketed in popularity. Doodle mixes are some of the most popular, but German Shepherd mix dogs and other designer breeds are quickly rising in the ranks.

The reason this is problematic, in some peoples eyes, is because early generation crossbreed dogs like a German Shepherd mix may be deemed unpredictable when it comes to genetic traits like health, temperament and appearance.

For this reason, its very important for anyone considering a crossbreed dog like the German Shepherd mix to know that a crossbreed may be a perfect mix of both his parent breeds, or he may be more like one over the other. This could be by way of health, temperament and appearance.

That said, there are some benefits of crossbreeding. In fact, some speculate that crossbreed dogs like the German Shepherd mix may be healthier than their purebred counterparts thanks to hybrid vigor.

But enough with all the genetics talk.

Avoid Aggressive Or Untrained Dogs

Although its not always avoidable, try your best to keep your German Shepherd away from dogs that arent properly;trained or those that act aggressively towards them.

Not only is that the responsible thing to do to keep you and your dog safe, but any untoward incident that may occur with such dogs is not something theyll easily forget. Chances are, theyll remember that and become skittish around other dogs from then on.

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Your German Shepherd Dog’s Health

We know that because you care so much about your dog, you want to take good care of her. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Shepherd. By knowing about health concerns specific to German Shepherd Dogs, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks.

Many diseases and health conditions are genetic, meaning they are related to your pets breed. There is a general consensus among canine genetic researchers and veterinary practitioners that the conditions weve described herein have a significant rate of incidence and/or impact in this breed. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in German Shepherd Dogs to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. Of course, we cant cover every possibility here, so always check with us if you notice any unusual signs or symptoms.

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