How To Tell What Color Your German Shepherd Puppy Will Be
If youre curious how your german shepherd puppy is going to turn out, then youve come to the right article! In this article, youll find out whether german shepherds can change color, as well as what colors a german shepherd can be!
So keep reading to find out everything you want to know
Do German Shepherds Prefer One Person
German Shepherds will generally attach themselves to one person in the family, but they can still be a good family dog. Although they have their fair share of behavioral issues, these generally stem from a lack of leadership on the part of their pet parents. Three-month-old German Shephard puppy is a delight to behold.
What Does The German Shepherd Breed Standard Say About Coat Color
After watching the videos in the previous section here, you may be understandably curious about how the official purebred German Shepherd breed standard addresses all of this coat color variation!
This is especially the case if you are planning to breed your GSD puppy or you want to enter your German Shepherd into dog shows.
But even if neither of these is of interest, it is still neat to learn more about all the purebred coat colors.
Recommended reading:
According to the American Kennel Club , these are the coat colors that are permissible for German Shepherd dogs in the show ring:
- Bi-color
- Liver
These are all approved show-ring standard coat colors in case you want to show your GSD.
But is there any way to know for sure what coat color your GSD puppy will have when they grow up? Lets find out!
Recommended Reading: When To Spay A German Shepherd
How To Get My German Shepherd To Like Water
If your German Shepherd doesnt like water, making him like water isnt a simple process and requires a lot of time and patience.
Before you start training your German Shepherd to like water, have one thing in mind, be gentle.
Here is how you can make your German Shepherd like water more:
Try to make every time bath time fun and memorable.
If your German Shepherd doesnt like too much water, try to make every bathing memorable and fun. Bring his favorite toys, some delicious treats, and dont be so serious. Be fun and interesting to your dog!
Start with a kiddie pool.
When your German Shepherd doesnt like water too much, taking him on the beach near the lake or sea maybe isnt the best idea. As we mention before, start small, and once your German Shepherd dog becomes comfortable with the kiddie pool, you can move to the next thing.
Be in the water with your German Shepherd.
When things look too scary, every one of us wants someone to stand near us. This step can be crucial. If your German Shepherd doesn’t like water, or even worse, he is too scared, be near him. Show him that water isnt scary at all!
Invite a water-loving friend.
How To Train A German Shepherd Puppy The Ultimate Guide
Fully Qualified COAPE Behaviourist and Registered Training Instructor with The Animal Behaviour and Training Council
In this article:
So you have your new German Shepherd puppy at home, we see.
Glad to hear theyre doing well puppy eyes shining bright, and tail that doesnt seem to stop wagging.
Weve also heard they have gained a special liking for your living room carpet as the perfect place to go for a wee. Oh, and your favourite shoessorry to hear theyve been chewed on. Apologies to your neighbour Alfred too we heard his favourite pair of trousers were left muddy after your puppy showed such enthusiasm to say hello.
Wed love nothing more to see you both become a wonderful duo one that has overcome the hiccups of starting fresh, and only see bright days of licks, treats, and cuddles ahead.
In this training guide, youll learn everything to tackle those first 8 weeks with your German Shepherd puppy and be as well prepared as possible.
Every question youve asked yourself is pretty much covered. What you do need to know is that everything will be just fine only happy days lie ahead of you.
Recommended Reading: German Shepherd Floppy Ears
Physical Activity & Health
Since German Shepherds are active dogs, they need plenty of exercise to stay active and healthy. A German Shepherd puppy needs 5 minutes of exercise every month old they are twice per day.
For example, if your puppy is 4 months old, they need 20 minutes of exercise two times a day.
Since German Shepherd puppies have a fast growth rate, overexercising them can lead to ligament and joint problems.
If your puppy is less than 5 months old, slow walks for the appropriate times are enough. You can introduce trekking and jogging after the age of 5 months.
How To Tell If Your German Shepherd Is Too Skinny
Before needing to determine the cause of their apparent skinniness, its important first to confirm that they are, in fact, underweight. Typically, its pretty easy to see if your dog is malnourished or too skinny visually. Typically, the most direct indication is by seeing their ribs sharply outlined on their body. There should be a small amount of fat for a dog at a healthy weight that softens the ribcage area. For an underweight dog, their ribs will be much more noticeable.
While its typical for their waist to slim out, the rest of their body should be strong and thick. The outline of their body should take on an hourglass shape. However, if they look to be more in a triangle shape with the most significant part of their body at the front, your German Shepherd may be too skinny. In severe cases of being underweight, your dog may also experience other side effects that can severely affect their overall health and well-being.
Recommended Reading: How Much Do You Feed German Shepherd Puppy
Also Check: How To Make Your German Shepherd Grow Bigger
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.
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?
Are German Shepherds good with other pets?
German Shepherd Husky Mix: What To Expect
This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
When you mix together an intelligent German Shepherd and a majestic Siberian Husky, you get a mix also known as a Shepsky or a Gerberian Shepsky.
Most dog owners hope to get an energetic and loyal medium-sized dog that inherits the best qualities of both parents.
While it is impossible to predict exactly how the characteristics of two parents will combine in a mixed-breed dog, experience suggests that you will get a fantastic working dog that will make a great addition to a boisterous family.
The breed does well in cold climates but will need lots of exercise and mental stimulation.
Letâs take a closer look at what exactly you can expect when you decide to adopt a German Shepherd Husky mix.
Looking for a Shepsky?
There are many German Shepherd Husky mixes available for adoption in shelters across the country.
As they are not purebred dogs, it can be difficult to purchase them from a breeder. Why not give a dog in need a happy home and adopt?
- Temperament: intelligent, eager to please
You May Like: When To Start Training German Shepherd Puppy
What Is The Smartest Dog
Check out the top ten smartest dog breeds. Border Collie. Smart, Energetic Dog: This breed is notably known for being high-energy herding dogs. Poodle. A Friendly, Active Breed: A Poodle is one of the smartest dog breeds. German Shepherd Dog. Golden Retriever. Doberman Pinscher. Shetland Sheepdog. Labrador Retriever. Papillon.
Five Main Types Of German Shepherds
There are five main types of German Shepherds that you will come across:
Read Also: German Shepherd Cub
Do German Shepherds Still Grow After Being Neutered
A common question among puppy owners is whether your German Shepherd will continue to grow after being neutered or spayed. The question is not so simple to answer. If you neuter your puppy, your puppy will continue to grow until he is an adult.
However, new science has indicated that if you neuter your puppy before he is fully grown, there is a greater risk that your puppy will develop hip dysplasia, arthritis, and even cancer in some dogs.
So, while neutering your German Shepherd when hes young will not stop him from growing, it might harm them in other ways.
What Color Should My German Shepherds Gums Be
The color of your dogs gums is a vital sign of your dogs health. Youll notice the Veterinarian lifting your dogs upper lip to check their gums at their regularly scheduled checkups. Dog gums should always be a light colored pink. Colors other than pink could mean a variety of medical issues may be present.
Recommended Reading: Simple Easy German Shepherd Drawing
Most Popular German Shepherd Colors
When most people think of the German Shepherd, they bring to mind the common black and tan color. But did you know there are actually a variety of different German Shepherd colors?
The German Shepherd is one of Americas most popular dog breeds, and there are a number of reasons why. Alongside being a loyal and wonderful family companion, the German Shepherd makes an excellent working dog and has exceptional versatility. These dogs are known for being guide dogs, police and military dogs, herding dogs, search and rescue dogs and drug detection dogs!
These pups are strong and muscular and they love to stay active. They are best brought up with a family who likes to exercise so they can join in the fun, otherwise they can become bored and frustrated when not kept entertained. Their personality can be a little aloof and they can be wary of strangers, but when raised correctly this breed is extremely loving and even gets on well with children!
German Shepherds are a medium to large breed of dog. A male will weigh between 75 and 95 lbs, while a female will weigh between 50 and 75 lbs. While they can be prone to some health issues, the German Shepherd has an average life expectancy of between 10 and 14 years.
A German Shepherd has either a medium length or long coat, but did you know that this coat could come in thirteen different colors? Read on below to find out more about this wonderful breed and the different German Shepherd coat colors.
Exercise Burns Off Fat
The GSP is one of the most high-energy dogs in existence.
These dogs are happiest when they are in motion, preferably running outside at full speed.
They are delighted to run through the snow or swim for hours in a body of water.
If there is something for your German Shorthaired Pointer to be doing actively, you can bet that hell be doing it.
Such an active lifestyle is very effective for burning off fat and calories.
The average GSP is intense enough that it is almost impossible to keep any kind of extra weight on the lean muscled body.
This is how the dog is supposed to be and should not cause any kind of concern.
Working Dogs Exercise Even Harder
Working dogs who are actively hunting in the field for at least several days a week are likely to burn off even a very rich diet.
For every step that a hunter takes, the pointer does many laps, so every hunt results in substantial exercise for the dog.
When you take into consideration that hunts are often conducted over lots of obstacles and water, youll realize that your GSP is getting an extreme workout.
Expect your working GSP to appear lean muscled and skinny, especially during the hunting season.
Dont Miss: How Long Will My German Shepherd Be In Heat
Also Check: Pitbull Vs Rottweiler Who Would Win
The Verdict On Shepskies
If you are looking for a fun and energetic dog that will make a great addition to a boisterous and adventurous family, then a German Shepherd Husky mix can be a great choice.
Shepskies are very family-friendly pets that are loyal and highly trainable, but they also need lots of love and attention to keep them healthy and happy.
They have a distinctive wolf-like appearance, but are far from aggressive and are generally very good with children. However, they are known for their delightful wolf-like howl.
Remember that crossbreed dogs are always somewhat unpredictable in their appearance and temperament, so ensure that you meet the dog you plan on adopting first before deciding whether to add them to your family.
Shepskies are best for people who have quite a bit of space for their dog to play and usually have someone to keep them company at home.
You will enjoy training your Shepsky yourself if you have a bit of experience with dogs, but steer clear if you have allergies, as they are big shedders!
Do you have any experience raising a German Shepherd Husky mix?
German Shepherd Feet: Normal Paws Or Not
German Shepherd feet come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and even have their own set of paw problems.
But should you be worried if your German Shepherds paws look a bit odd or unusual compared to other dogs?
Not necessarily
Lets talk briefly about what the standard German Shepherd foot looks like and how you can keep your dogs paws in tip-top shape.
You May Like: German Shepherd Mix Chihuahua
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.
White Swiss Shepherd Dog
This gorgeous breed is quite closely related to the German Shepherd. In fact, you could argue they are one in the same.
The White Swiss Shepherd dog descended from White Shepherds in the 1960s.
Because of their striking difference in appearance their variety was given a different breed name. However, they soon gained popularity in the US, Canada, and Switzerland.
While they share many of the characteristics of a German Shepherd, it is generally said the White Swiss Shepherd is a little bit better behaved. They tend to be more eager to please. However, they may also be more sensitive, and do not respond well to scolding.
Shayla McConnell
Don’t Miss: German Shepherd Neutering Age
How Much Is A Belgian German Shepherd
Belgian Malinois vs German Shepherd Summary Table Belgian Malinois Size Both dogs can grow up to 26 in height, however, a Shepherd will weigh more than the Malinois weighing up to 90 pounds and 60 pounds respectively. Price A GSD puppy ranges from $300 $900 USD whereas a Belgian puppy will cost between $1,500 $2,500.
Why Not Bring Home A German Shepherd Puppy Earlier Than Seven Weeks
If you try to adopt orpurchase a German Shepherd puppy earlier than seven weeks, you will likelyencounter several problems. The first of these problems is like the legality ofpurchasing a dog at such a young age. Most states dont allow potential dogowners to purchase puppies any earlier than eight weeks, let alone seven. TheDistrict of Columbia is the only state or district in the country that allowspuppies to be sold at the age of six weeks.
The second problem thatyou will likely encounter if you try to buy a German Shepherd puppy earlierthan that seven-week mark is a lack of puppy socialization. The American KennelClub states that puppies begin their socialization period at the age ofsix weeks, while an article fromPsychology Today written with help from a prestigious dog breeder suggests thatsocialization begins even earlier as early as threeweeks old in some breeds.
This socialization period is important because it allows puppies to learn essential behaviors from the other puppies in their litter as well as from their mother. When puppies begin to play and bite with their siblings and their mother, they will learn that these behaviors are not okay because their family members will bite at them or bark, which will teach the puppy that those behaviors are not okay.
If your puppy is rehomedtoo young, they will miss out on these important lessons and will be disobedient.
Don’t Miss: Best Collar For German Shepherd