Do Some German Shepherds Have Floppy Ears
Yes, although rare some German Shepherds will have floppy ears. It is usually due to the ears being too heavy for the cartilage in the ears to hold up naturally. This occurs when breeders overbreed them with bigger eared dogs trying to make the ears stand out. Unfortunately, it can cause some German Shepherds to have too large of ears resulting in floppy ears that never stand up.
Doesnt mean that there is anything physically wrong with your German Shepherd, but you wont be able to show or probably breed them for money. Other than that there are no issues.
Things You Should Know About The German Shepherd
So youre thinking about getting a new dog or puppy and you have several things on your list that are must haves: loyalty, intelligence, and protection. A German Shepherd certainly fits into all of those categories and more. However, German Shepherds do require a little extra work. Before adding a German Shepherd to your family, its good to become acquainted with their unique characteristics. Here are 13 things that I think any future German Shepherd owner should know.
Before adding a German Shepherd to your family, its good to become acquainted with their unique characteristics.
Contents
Deshedding Once A Week
Deshedding a dog involves removing those loose undercoat hairs using a tool designed to do just that. This will help you get rid of the hair that might otherwise end up on the carpet, furniture, and clothes.
It helps your dog feel comfortable and can be a relaxing experience for you and your German Shepherd as well. The FURminator is a great tool, but be warned – lots of hair comes as a result of using this, so it may be useful to do this outdoors.
You should use a deshedding tool once a week to keep shedding under control. Also, you will get the best results by bathing your dog once a month and deshedding him before and after the bath. Remember to use a high-quality dog shampoo to prevent damage to the coat and stripping it from its natural oils.
Don’t Miss: How Many Vaccinations Does A German Shepherd Need
Why Is My Dog Displaying Nervous Body Language
German Shepherds wear their emotions on their sleeves. Theyre not known for shying away from showing people how they feel as they are very affectionate and social dogs.
If your dog is excited, youll know from his running, tail wagging, and ear position. If hes nervous, he might have his tail tucked or ears pinned back. Coincidentally, I wrote a post on why your German Shepherd has pointy ears and what to do if their ears remain floppy as a puppy.
One reason that your dog might be displaying nervous body language is that theyre worried about you! If you leave him alone too much, he can develop separation anxiety. Sadly, many German Shepherds suffer from this type of stress due to the intense bond they form with their owners. When you leave, hes worried that youll never come back.
Another explanation is that your GSD has heard something outside or around them that causes concern. Many dogs get frightened by loud noises such as fireworks, motorbikes, and thunder. You and I are used to the sounds because we know what they are, but German Shepherds arent at all expecting such an abrupt and unknown noise.
Depression causes nervousness in GSDs, which could be a cause of their body language. If your dog is always panting or pacing, hes probably worried about something. For example, if youre always stressed or anxious, he will use your body signs to determine that somethings wrong.
Some health conditions can cause nervousness. Heres a handful of issues to be aware of:
Spend At Least One Hour A Day With Them
Not everyone has all day to spend around with their dogs.
Youve got work, house chores, errands. And you also have to take care of the kids .
Totally understandable! But remember
You have all those things. While your dog only has you.
Yes, you may be overwhelmed by all those things. But the highlight of your dogs day is the one they get to spend time with you.
They depend on you for their everything.
If your German Shepherd constantly whines for your attention, maybe they just really miss you.
Believe me, keeping that in mind makes me stop from whatever that Im doing and spend quality time with my pooch.
It doesnt have to be a few hours. Sometimes, even an hour is enough.
And if youre not around, you can still keep them entertained.
Give them toys and puzzles that will stimulate their mind and keep them busy at the same time.
Also Check: How To Draw German Shepherds
Should You Be Concerned About Your Dogs Growling
It depends. To determine if the growling is just a harmless way of communication, or if it is something more concerning you should look to the following factors:
1. Look at the situation that is causing your dog to growl?
Were they threatened or someone they love threatening, are they scared, or just playing? If you find the growl was warranted based on the situation there is nothing you should worry about.
2. How often does your dog growl?
The frequency of the growling can also indicate whether it should be addressed.
For example, if your dog growls at you every day randomly, you certainly want to figure out the cause. However, if you play with your dog daily and your dog is harmlessly play growling that is less concerning.
3. What is your dogs demeanor when growling?
You will have to interpret the growling your own, but I know I can clearly tell if my dog is growling in a playful manner vs growling at a deer she wants off her yard.
Look at your dogs body language, does the hair stand up on their neck or are they more relaxed? You should be able to tell if your dogs growl goes from normal to aggressive.
Is The Furminator Good For A German Shepherd
Yes! Brushing your German shepherd not only reduces shedding, but its very good for the dogs skin. The FURminator is not only designed for this, but its such a consistent top-market seller that a number of competitors have stooped to cloning it! We cant attest to the clone models but the original is definitely an excellent grooming tool that is great for your German shepherd.
You May Like: Why Is My German Shepherd So Anxious
They Are Trying To Communicate
Obviously, your German Shepherd cannot talk to you or directly communicate with you. Instead, gestures help to communicate. German Shepherds are a highly intelligent breed and they often develop their way of communicating with their owners.
Head tilting maybe your dogs way of trying to communicate with you. However, it is important to remember that it may be different depending on your dog and the individual situation.
Your German Shepherd Is Trying To Vomit
As Pet Check Urgent Care reports, the most popular theory for why German Shepherds eat grass is because they are trying to vomit.
Why would your German Shepherd want to vomit?
Vomiting might relieve gas or bloat. It could be a way to ease digestive upset. Or it might provide a pathway to get rid of toxins or poisons.
In this way, grass might be the canine equivalent of antacids for people. After all, the grass is pretty much pure fiber, and fiber is what the digestive tract needs to work properly.
However, there is a problem with this theory. The problem is that many dog owners have observed their dogs eating grass and NOT throwing up afterward.
So if your German Shepherd eats grass and doesnt throw up, this isnt a reason to panic. In fact, it could be reassuring because at least your dog probably doesnt have an upset stomach.
Don’t Miss: What Size Dog Crate For German Shepherd
German Shepherds Come In Different Shades
Black and tan variations are the general coat characteristics of German Shepherds, but German Shepherds can also be born entirely black or white. Our article about white German Shepherds discusses in greater detail the unique characteristics of white German Shepherds and some of the common misconceptions. Other color variations include: black and red, gray, and sable. Their coats are mostly a medium length, but some German Shepherds can have longer hair, depending on their genetics.
Why Do German Shepherds Talk
This brings us to one of the reasons why your German Shepherd is very vocal he smells people and animals from afar and barks to warn you and to keep them off. His loud voice is his weapon and it works very well to keep away intruders. It is also possible that your German Shepherd is vocalizing because he is bored.
Why are German shepherds so vocal? Why Are German Shepherds So Vocal Wag! The Daily Wag! German Shepherd dogs are adorable, driven, and energetic companions. They are also quite vocal. According to a test conducted on 26 dogs from different breeds, the bark of a German Shepherd was found to be louder than the sound of a moving truck which emitted 86 decibels of sound.
What is the personality of a German Shepherd? But as German Shepherd Dog owners know well, each dog has a personality all their own. Understanding the body language of German Shepherds and how your dog communicates will help with both bonding and training. While the body language of dogs is a large topic, there are several quick tips you can learn very quickly.
Why cant German Shepherds talk? Understanding your German Shepherd dogs use of body language helps with bonding, training and even identification of medical issues. So just because your dog cant talk doesnt mean he or she has nothing to say. You just have to know how to listen. Heres to excellent communication between you and your four-legged friend.
Read Also: German Shepherd Vs Wolf Fight
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
STEP 5
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
Its Their Special Way To Make You Feel Better
Another reason why German Shepherds whine is because they are empathizing with you.
Have you ever noticed that whenever youre sad, your beloved pet comes to you for a cuddle?
They whine as if they are telling you that you are not alone.
Dogs are very intuitive animals. They sense our emotions so they try to make us feel better with their presence.
You May Like: How Many Cups Of Food For German Shepherd
German Shepherd Dogs Are Known For Their Versatility
If you need any job done, just ask your dog. GSD owners understand their dogs were developed as working dogs. In fact, the ideal German Shepherd has a body and gait suited to the hard work that is considered its primary purpose. This means your dog can excel at almost anything. From dog sports like rally, agility, scent work, therapy work, to service dog work, German Shepherds can do it all. The only thing holding your dog back is the time and energy you can commit to training. Its no wonder people always think your dog is a service or police dog.
Why Do German Shepherds Nibble
Nibbling is the gentle bite your dog will make on your body, especially on your toes! This German Shepherd behavior is generally considered an instinctual behavior characterizing puppies of all breeds, especially during teething.
When young puppies play, you will have noticed that they will display behavior consisting of gently biting each other as part of the game. Your doggo can transfer this nibbling behavior to you or your furniture if no other puppies or pets are around, which is why teething toys such as the KONG Puppy Toy from Amazon are essential. You can even stuff it with treats or peanut butter to keep your GSD entertained.
But German Shepherd Dogs tend to bring this growing up behavior into their adult life. Naturally, newborn German Shepherd puppies will explore their world with their mouths before using their sight and smell. And it appears that this instinct is maintained throughout life for important reasons, as shown by some studies.
A study investigating the meaning and emotion associated with nibbling in dogs concluded that the behavior is not related to negative personality traits. Instead, nibbling has two functions:
Despite these facts, nibbling behavior in German Shepherds can also be triggered by several other factors:
Read Also: Chihuahua Mix With German Shepherd
When Does A German Shepherd Puppy Start Barking
At 2 to 4 weeks old, you might notice your German shepherd puppy trying to vocalize by grunting or whining. Then hell start yipping at around 2 months. When he reaches 4 months old, a German Shepherd puppy usually starts barking properly. Some GSDs may start barking earlier or later than 4 months due to temperament differences.
Your German Shepherd Is Bored
The German Shepherd is a very energetic dog that needs to be played with and get plenty of exercise on a regular basis. A bored dog is surely going to whine because he isnt able to get his energy out, which can ultimately lead to disruptive behavior.
Solution: If your GSD is whining and becoming destructive, it may be a simple matter of not getting enough exercise and fun into his life. The best thing to do to help a German Shepherd in this situation is to provide them with enough exercise and playtime on a regular basis.
A German Shepherd should have a large enough space in the backyard to run around, but that doesnt mean he should be left to his own devices. Here are simple ways to bond with your pet :
- Take him for a walk or run
- Hop in and take your GSD for a swim
- Go on a dog park tour in your town or surrounding areas
- Play tug-of-war or other games
- A simple game of catch with a Frisbee or fetch with a ball
You May Like: Who Would Win In A Fight German Shepherd Or Pitbull
How Do You Know Your German Shepherd Loves You
Common ways that they will show their love for you will include wagging their tails when you come home, bringing you things, looking to you for direction or making eye contact with you. There are actually many ways that a German Shepherd will show its love for you and I will show you 13 of them below.
Do Huskies Shed More Than German Shepherds
No, both dogs are notorious shedders, but tend to have slightly different shedding patterns.
Both breeds have double coats and a lot of fur to protect them in cold climates.
A husky will shed a lot in the spring and autumn, but they tend to shed less in cooler climates. Huskies are a fairly clean breed and like to clean themselves. They dont omit a lot of odour or need too much grooming either, just a lot of brushing. They need to be brushed at least once a week during the year and daily when they are shedding.
German shepherds shed so much they have the nickname the German shedder. The breed sheds all year round so if you have this dog, be prepared to vacuum a lot and have your clothes covered in hair. Twice a year, German shepherds shed so much, their hair literally blows off them. Like the husky, the breed is fairly clean and has little odour and requires regular brushing year round.
You May Like: Why Do German Shepherds Whine So Much
Natural Abilities And Inclinations
German Shepherds are natural protectors, which is why theyre often used as guard dogs and in law enforcement. This natural ability to protect is why theyre often an excellent choice to help with security around the house too. Unfortunately, sometimes a GSDs inherent suspicion of the unfamiliar can lead to unwanted aggressive behavior.
The best way to prevent this is to socialize your dog at a young age. Get your GSD used to being around people and other dogs. Theyll be far less likely to grow into an aggressive animal, although their natural instinct to protect your household will remain only in a far more positive manner.