German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are known for their intelligence, strength, and obedience. If you are thinking about getting a German shepherd or already own one, there are some things you need to know. In this post, we will share 11 things every German shepherd owner needs to know. From feeding and exercising your dog to training them and dealing with behavioral issues, we have you covered. So, whether you are a first-time shepherd owner or a seasoned pro, read on for essential information all German shepherd owners need to know.
Table of Contents
1. They make excellent guard dogs:
One of the things German Shepherds are most famous for is their ability to serve as loyal and protective guard dogs. If you are looking for a dog that will deter burglars and strangers, a German shepherd is a good choice. They are also great protection against other animals if you live in an area with coyotes or wolves. If they hear even the slightest noise outside, they will let you know. Besides, their mere size is often enough to scare off potential intruders.
2. They need a lot of exercise:
German Shepherds are working dogs and were bred to have high energy levels. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, but ideally more. If they don’t get enough physical activity, they can become restless and destructive. A tired dog is a good dog, so make sure your German shepherd is getting plenty of exercise. This can be in the form of walks, runs, hikes, or even just playing in the backyard. Although they need a lot of exercise, German Shepherds are also known for being couch potatoes and love to snuggle up with their owners at the end of a long day.
3. They often have different patches on their skin:
Some German Shepherds have a black coat with tan markings on their face, chest, and legs. Others are all black or all white. Some have a “saddle” of black fur over their back. The most common coat colors are black and tan, but there are many other possible combinations. In some cases, the German Shepherds also have some mole-like patches, which makes people curious about why do German shepherds have moles. But these patches are usually just darker spots on their coat and are not actual moles.
4. They need mental stimulation:
In addition to physical activity, German Shepherds also need mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. This can be in the form of training exercises, puzzle toys, or even just playing fetch. Mental stimulation is essential for all dogs, but it is especially important for German Shepherds. Among other things, it can help prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. This is something all German shepherd owners need to keep in mind.
5. They need a good diet:
A healthy diet is important for all dogs, but it is especially important for German Shepherds. This is because they are prone to certain health conditions that can be exacerbated by an unhealthy diet. For example, German Shepherds are susceptible to hip and elbow dysplasia. This is a condition that causes the joints to develop abnormally, which can lead to pain and mobility issues. A healthy diet can help prevent this condition from developing or worsening.
Some things you should know about feeding your German shepherd include:
- They need high-quality food that is rich in protein.
- They may need more food than other breeds because of their size and activity level.
- Puppies will need to eat more often than adults (up to three times per day).
- Avoid giving them table scraps as this can lead to obesity.
6. They are prone to certain health problems:
Like all dog breeds, German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health problems. Some of the most common health problems seen in German Shepherds include hip and elbow dysplasia, allergies, and cancer. These health problems can be expensive to treat, so it is important to be aware of them before you get a German shepherd. Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about these conditions and how you can best protect your dog from them. You can also ask the breeder about the health history of the parents and grandparents of your puppy.
7. They need early socialization:
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective nature. However, without early socialization, they can become aggressive or suspicious of strangers. It is important to expose your German shepherd to as many different people, animals, and situations as possible when they are young. This will help them grow into confident and well-rounded adults. Additionally, socialization can help prevent behavioral issues such as aggression and fearfulness.
8. You will need to groom them:
German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds year-round. This means you will need to brush them regularly to remove loose hair and prevent matting. You should also plan on bathing your dog every few months. In addition to grooming, you will also need to trim your German shepherd’s nails regularly. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can take them to a groomer or veterinarian. All these things may seem like a lot of work, but the alternative is an unhappy and uncomfortable dog.
9. German Shepherds are working dogs:
German Shepherds were originally bred to be working dogs on farms. This means they have a lot of energy and need to exercise regularly. A good rule of thumb is to exercise your German shepherd for at least 30 minutes per day. This can be done through activities such as walking, running, playing fetch, or going to the dog park. If you do not give your German shepherd enough exercise, they may become restless or destructive.
10. They love to chew on things:
Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs, but it can be destructive if not properly redirected. German Shepherds are known for their strong jaws and love to chew on things. It is important to give your German shepherd plenty of things to chew on, such as bones, toys, and chew treats. This will help redirect their chewing behavior and prevent them from destroying your belongings. Plus, this will keep them happy and occupied.
11. German Shepherds are great family dogs:
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They make great family dogs and love spending time with their human companions. If you have children, a German shepherd may be a good choice for your family pet. Just be sure to socialize with your dog from an early age, so they are comfortable around people of all ages. Apart from this, they are relatively easy to train and make great obedience dogs.
Conclusion:
Owning a German shepherd can be a rewarding experience. These dogs are intelligent, loyal, and protective. They make great family pets and are relatively easy to train. However, there are some things you need to know before you get one. Be sure to socialize with your dog from an early age, provide them with plenty of exercises, and redirect their chewing behavior. With the right care, owning a German shepherd can be a fun and fulfilling experience.
