What Were German Shepherds Bred For
German Shepherds a large-sized breed that originated in Germany in 1899 was part of the Herding Group. Known for their courage, loyalty and guarding instincts, their history of herding has meant they are great guard dogs, police dogs, military dogs, search and rescue dogs, and guide dogs for the blind.
“As the name suggest, German Shepherd dogs were originally bred to help shepherds herd animals, but have since become a versatile working dogs, often in the military, police and other emergency services, as well as guide and assistance dogs,” Bill tells us.
Experience Level For Owning A Black German Shepherd
We only recommend these dogs for experienced dog owners. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. A Shih Tzu isnt going to do much to prepare you for a German Shepherd.
These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation.
German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They are quite easy to train, so you dont have to be an expert by any means.
If youre interested in owning a German Shepherd, we highly recommend taking your time to consider just how much work these dogs require. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. These arent dogs for the casual dog owner.
Buying Purebred Black German Shepherd Puppies
The black GSD is a highly sought-after variety of the already extremely popular German shepherd dog breed. However, when compared to other varieties, black German shepherds are quite rare and hard to come by.
Finding a reputable breeder might require a bit of research on your part, but all the extra effort will pay off in the long run.
Since black German shepherds are rare and in demand, be mindful of puppy mills and unethical breeders who just want to make a quick buck.
A reputable breeder will have no problem showing you the puppyâs parents and papers of parentage.
Avoid dealing with any breeder who doesnât want to show you these or claims that the puppyâs coat wonât change color even if the puppy is less than 10 weeks old.
In terms of price, black German shepherd puppies on average cost between $1,000 and $2,500. However, the exact price depends on a lot of factors, namely the breeder, supply and demand in your area, and pedigree and quality of both parent breeds.
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Blue Buffalo Wet Dog Food
This wet diet uses only deboned chicken, together with whole grain rice and barley*. It aims to provide your puppy with the high-quality protein, carbohydrates, and fiber he needs for energy and growth.
This good dog food for German Shepherd puppy also includes sweet potatoes, carrots, blueberries, and cranberries. No meat meal, corn, soy, wheat, artificial colors, flavors or preservatives are used in this all-natural diet.
Why German Shepherds Are Not Good Pets
German Shepherds, like any large breed, are prone to canine hip dysplasia, a crippling and potentially fatal disease. Good GSD rescuers will also be aware of such problems, and whether the rescued dog youre considering has shown symptoms of or has been treated for any health issues while with the rescue.28 Sept 2014
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Breed Restrictions And Your German Shepherd
One thing you definitely want to consider before getting a German Shepherd or moving to a new place with a German Shepherd is where you want to live.
If you plan to rent an apartment , your dog may not be welcome due to breed restrictions for apartments.
Allie and I are lucky where we live, German Shepherds are a popular dog breed. However, because breed restrictions are so widespread, Ive still encountered some places where breed restrictions are in full force.
Thisarticle will go over all you need to know about breed restrictions, includingthe most common places youll encounter them.
As a bonus, Ive included an aggressive breed list for renters to reference when looking for a place to live. While laws vary widely, its good to have a general overview of breed restrictions and how they affect you and your German Shepherd.
Cereals And Grains That German Shepherds Can Eat
All cereals and grains are carbohydrates, and this list contains common carbohydrate foods like pasta and breads that have been made using grains.
German Shepherds do need carbohydrates in their diet, but too much can lead to sugar-related health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, and pancreatitis.
Cereals, grains, and related carbohydrates are good sources of fiber to aid in healthy digestion. However, too much and they will cause your German Shepherd to get diarrhea.
German Shepherds are also prone to bloating, which may be triggered or aggravated by cereals and grains, so you will need to assess your particular German Shepherds reaction to these foods.
Bloating in dogs is not the same as boating in humans. In dogs, it is known as Gastric Dilatation Volvulus, and it is a life-threatening condition in which the stomach can actually twist and cut off the blood supply to the stomach and other organs.
Some people recommend grain-free diets for German Shepherds, and you can consult your veterinarian about the advantages of this option.
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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?
How Much Exercise Does A German Shepherd Need
German Shepherds have plenty of energy to burn. Their need for exercise makes them well suited for individuals, couples and families who lead an active lifestyle and have plenty of space for them to run around in ideally in the form of a large garden.
An adult German Shepherd will need 2 lengthy walks every day, along with mental stimulation to stop them getting bored
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What Can I Do If My Dog Is Banned
Ifyou already have a dog on the aggressive breed list, then there are a few otherthings you can try when trying to rent an apartment. While these arentguaranteed to work, its worth a shot!
- Request a pet interview.
- Provide references to vouch for your pooch.
- Offer to pay pet rent.
- Secure extra renters insurance.
- Use DNA testing if your dog looks like an aggressive breed.
- Make sure your dog has proper training.
- Check into additional coverage through homeowners orrenters insurance.
Another important note: Breed restrictions arent the only laws you should be aware of if you own a German Shepherd.
Check with your apartment community or landlord in case there are size restrictions for pets. Additionally, if you have a dog who loves to bark, you could get in trouble if there are noise ordinances in your city.
Stingy With Physical Affection
German Shepherds are known for their love of affection and attention. They thrive when showered with love and admiration by their owners in return for all of the unconditional love they give!
If you are not up for belly rubs, scratching behind the ears, or doling out physical affection regularly, the German Shepherd Dog is not for you.
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Can We Offer Other Apple Products
We know that its safe for our German Shepherds to eat apples with some precautions. But what about other food products made from apples?
Apple Pie If prepared traditionally, using sugar, cinnamon, and apples, Yes.
Apple Juice Apple Juice will not harm your dog straight away, but the high sugar content will affect them and cause several health issues in the long term. So, No.
Apple sauce You can give them homemade apple sauce made by boiled and mashed apples. This may actually taste better to them than apples.
Apple-based alcoholic drinks NO! Never! Alcohols of all kinds can be extremely harmful and, at times, fatal for any dog and not just German Shepherds. Never offer them alcohol.
To keep it short, it is always advisable to consult your vet before offering any new food item to your dog and also watch out for allergies.
German Shepherds Are Actually Made Of Velcro
It is a little-known fact about German shepherds that they are actually made of Velcro . While not all shepherds are clingy, you can be sure your GSD will never be too far from you, whether you are going to the bathroom, taking a shower, gardening, watching TV, cooking or taking a nap. GSDs take loyalty very seriously.
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You Get What You Ask For
Train daily. Make it fun. Dont stress out if your dog doesnt understand something the first few times.
The first few days offer you lots of opportunities to praise good behavior and establish yourself as a positive leader in your dogs life.
One of the most important things to remember is
Dont punish your dog.
Its too soon to discipline for any behavior since your dog does not understand what you expect of them. Punishment will only cause your dog to fear you and increase anxiety.
Instead, do this to get your dogs attention:
- Whenever your dog focuses their attention on you, either by looking up at you or following you, say their name happily and smile.
- Crouch down to offer them a gentle scratch and pet.
- This connects their name to paying attention to you and marks you as a positive leader, which is important for obedience training and living with their new family.
Always work on rewarding good behavior instead of punishing bad behavior. The goal is to build trust in the first few weeks and months that you have your new dog to create a bond. And dogs are actually happier when they are trained .
When owning a German Shepherd, heres how to start your dogs training:
Read this guide to learn all about the basics of proper German Shepherd obedience training, including a helpful training schedule and the foundation commands.
Getting To Know The German Shepherd
A German Shepherd can make a fabulous addition to the family, but there are certain precautions to consider first. For one thing, with this breed, it appears best to get a young pup that can grow up with the children, and early socialization and training are paramount. In addition to these important points, its always a good idea to get to know the basic information about any breed that you plan to add to your family dynamic. For example, if you want a small dog, a German Shepherd isnt the best choice, no matter how adorable and small he is as a puppy.
Here are some good-to-know facts about the noble and smart German Shepherd:
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German Shepherds Chew Like Beavers
This GSD owner has given their puppy the right thing to chew, a toy instead of their owners fingers and feet!
Sadly, it is often the dog that owners blame or punish when their dogs behavior is inappropriate.
Biting and chewing are natural instincts for dogs and puppies.
These actions provide them with opportunities to investigate the different amounts of pressure to use in relation to the purpose of their biting.
Puppies run into trouble generally because the owner has unintentionally triggered unwanted responses, perhaps by playing rough with their hands or letting their dogs chew their fingers because it was cute . Your job as their new owner is to help your pup understand and educate them on what is appropriate to bite, nip, and chew.
Use these tips to stop a puppy from biting and nipping you:
- When they bite too hard or at all say ouch or anything you usually say when you get hurt. This teaches them your signal and cue.
- This also lets your biting puppy know theyve used too much pressure and should let go or ease up on their bite.
- They should let go or look a bit startled.
- Follow their release with praise or a tasty treat when your dog stops the unwanted behavior.
- Do NOT physically punish your dog! Instead, redirect them to a proper chew toy.
Sometimes puppys teethe and their gums are sore and need something to chew. Other times adult German Shepherds have a desire and natural urge to bite for relaxation and to reduce anxiety.
Instead of your hands and fingers!
Am I Willing To Train Him
Along with physical exercise, a German Shepherd needs to exercise that smart brain. This means, at the very least, basic training. Shepherds thrive on training, however, and many would be happiest in advanced classes such as competition obedience, rally, agility, and/or herding. Shepherds competing in these sports tend to be better behaved house pets because they are getting enough mental and physical exercise to satisfy their needs.
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What Is The Most Expensive Type Of German Shepherd
Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. Special colorings such as the Panda Shepherd, Isabella German Shepherd, black German Shepherd, dogs with one or two blue eyes or the extremely rare Albino German Shepherd can be as expensive as $5,000.
While it is tempting to get a color that nobody else has dont let looks alone guide your decision on your future puppy. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look.
In recent years, a few breeders have produced so-called Miniature German Shepherds. Breeders of Miniature German Shepherds charge extremely high prices for their puppies, starting at $2,000 and ranging up to $4,500 for the smallest dogs. It is important to note that there is no such breed as a Miniature German Shepherd registered with the AKC. These dogs are mutts . Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight.
Reasons You Do Not Want A German Shepherd Dog
Now, wait a minute! youre saying. Of course I want a German Shepherd! Otherwise, I wouldnt be looking at this article! Very good. You have taken the first step towards becoming a responsible purebred dog owner, first by doing your research, and second by taking the time to examine the problems inherent in your chosen breed.
Here are 10 reasons you might want to reconsider your choice of a GSD:
1. Health problems.The GSD is not a dog for those who just want to plunk down cash for the first puppy they see and head home . German Shepherds, like any large breed, are prone to canine hip dysplasia, a crippling and potentially fatal disease. The breed also struggles with or is prone to elbow dysplasia, allergies, cleft palate, degenerative myelopathy, perianal fistulas, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, bloat, panostetis, Von Wildebrands disease, Wobblers Syndrome, heart and skin disease and thyroid disease. Many of the congenital diseases in dogs can be tested for and therefore prevented by responsible breeders. But you must be willing to ask questions of your breeder to find out what problems have cropped up in his or her lines. Good GSD rescuers will also be aware of such problems, and whether the rescued dog youre considering has shown symptoms of or has been treated for any health issues while with the rescue.
If youve considered the above and are still interested in getting a German Shepherd, check out our free guide to Choosing Your New German Shepherd!
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Are There Different Types Of German Shepherds
Officially there’s only the one breed. But I explained in the Temperament section that there are different lines of German Shepherds with different temperaments. Those lines can also LOOK very different from each other.
Show lines
Those of us who admired the strong, noble look of German Shepherds from decades ago are saddened at what has been done to the appearance of modern show dogs.
If you go to a German Shepherd specialty show in the United States or Canada, you’ll see tall narrow bodies, long narrow heads, and such excessive curvature of the rear legs that the dog’s back slopes downward from shoulders to tail. You could roll a ball down that back.
In my opinion, these are misshapen caricatures of a German Shepherd. To make matters worse, show lines produce more than their share of spooky and low-intelligence dogs, which is what happens when you over-focus on appearance rather than temperament and trainability.
In contrast, the West German show line has a more normal shape. Best of all, German Shepherds in West Germany cannot win show ring ribbons or be bred without passing a temperament/trainability test.
There are many West German bloodlines in the United States. So if you’re interested, you can look for show breeders who emphasize West German lines instead of American/Canadian.
Just be aware that these dogs aren’t couch potatoes: they do have plenty of energy and some working drives that will need to be exercised.
Working/protection lines
Pet lines?