If you have ever owned a German Shepherd, you will know what wonderful companions they are. Whether fulfilling duties as a police, military or guard dog or just hanging out with its family, the breed is fearless and energetic. They like being able to work and make fine guide dogs for the blind. German Shepherd breeders go to great lengths to breed from healthy dogs that have stable temperaments.
Genetic disorders are relatively common with this breed. Hip and elbow dysplasia affect many. Degenerative myelitis, epilepsy and Von Willebrand disease are also seen. Genuine German Shepherd breeders will have certification to show their stud dogs have been tested for certain degenerative disorders.
Your dog will expect you to be a strong leader. All dogs benefit from obedience training. Mental and physical challenges and plenty of stimulation will keep him happy and fulfilled. Herding dogs are naturally energetic and like to be busy. If they become bored, they are likely to develop destructive behaviors
Perhaps you'd like to show your next dog. In that case, you should contact a breeder who has had success in the show ring. While it is difficult to assess puppies, look for one with an outgoing disposition and an air of quality. He should have straight limbs and a scissors bite. A level bite is not favored in an exhibition dog; neither is an overshot or undershot jaw.
The show ring requires very specific qualities. Adult males should be between 24 and 26 inches high at the shoulder. He should be longer than he is tall. The back should not be too long but be straight and very strongly developed. Hanging ears are a fault. The tail is bushy and curves like a sabre. Unless the dog is in motion or excited, it is carried low and should never go past the vertical.
The head, paws and legs are covered with short hair. The neck has longer, thicker hair and the rest of the coat is dense and harsh. It is a double coat. Black and tan dogs are most common but other colors are allowed, except for white, blue and liver. White dogs will be disqualified. The nose should be mostly black. Regular grooming will get rid of some of the hair which is continually shedding. Too frequent bathing should be avoided as it removes the natural oils. This may lead to the development of skin conditions.
Its natural gait is an elastic trot, a carryover from its herding origins. It has a ground-covering stride at both the walk and trot. Strong hindquarters drive the dog forward and the forelegs have good reach. In the ring, the dog needs to exhibit this typical close-to-the-ground, long-striding action.
Due to the early popularity of the breed, indiscriminate matings resulted in some less than ideal dispositions. Reputable German Shepherd breeders will not breed from suspect dogs. Show dogs should not be timid or nervous. Nor should they be aggressive. Puppies may be a little aloof with strangers but shouldn't cringe away. If you would like a show dog, you should get in touch with a local breeder.
Genetic disorders are relatively common with this breed. Hip and elbow dysplasia affect many. Degenerative myelitis, epilepsy and Von Willebrand disease are also seen. Genuine German Shepherd breeders will have certification to show their stud dogs have been tested for certain degenerative disorders.
Your dog will expect you to be a strong leader. All dogs benefit from obedience training. Mental and physical challenges and plenty of stimulation will keep him happy and fulfilled. Herding dogs are naturally energetic and like to be busy. If they become bored, they are likely to develop destructive behaviors
Perhaps you'd like to show your next dog. In that case, you should contact a breeder who has had success in the show ring. While it is difficult to assess puppies, look for one with an outgoing disposition and an air of quality. He should have straight limbs and a scissors bite. A level bite is not favored in an exhibition dog; neither is an overshot or undershot jaw.
The show ring requires very specific qualities. Adult males should be between 24 and 26 inches high at the shoulder. He should be longer than he is tall. The back should not be too long but be straight and very strongly developed. Hanging ears are a fault. The tail is bushy and curves like a sabre. Unless the dog is in motion or excited, it is carried low and should never go past the vertical.
The head, paws and legs are covered with short hair. The neck has longer, thicker hair and the rest of the coat is dense and harsh. It is a double coat. Black and tan dogs are most common but other colors are allowed, except for white, blue and liver. White dogs will be disqualified. The nose should be mostly black. Regular grooming will get rid of some of the hair which is continually shedding. Too frequent bathing should be avoided as it removes the natural oils. This may lead to the development of skin conditions.
Its natural gait is an elastic trot, a carryover from its herding origins. It has a ground-covering stride at both the walk and trot. Strong hindquarters drive the dog forward and the forelegs have good reach. In the ring, the dog needs to exhibit this typical close-to-the-ground, long-striding action.
Due to the early popularity of the breed, indiscriminate matings resulted in some less than ideal dispositions. Reputable German Shepherd breeders will not breed from suspect dogs. Show dogs should not be timid or nervous. Nor should they be aggressive. Puppies may be a little aloof with strangers but shouldn't cringe away. If you would like a show dog, you should get in touch with a local breeder.
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