German Shepherd: Do German Shepherd Dogs Make Good Pets?
You need to know as much information as you can about any breed of dog before you adopt one. And, since the German Shepherd is a lot of dog, you need to know a lot of German Shepherd information before adopting or purchasing one! Not all dogs are alike. If you’ve never lived with a large dog or a very active dog before, then you are going to be in for a surprise with a German Shepherd. Hopefully, this will be a welcome surprise.
German Shepherds are not a placid, sedentary breed like the cavalier King Charles Spaniel. In order to be healthy, happy and respond to training, they need to be exercised regularly every day – including a walk of at least a half hour, plus a romp in the yard. You live in an apartment? Then you really should consider another dog. Otherwise, they will damage your apartment in boredom and to burn up excess energy.
Let’s look at the biggest reasons for owners abandoning German Shepherd dogs – the dog’s energy, the dog’s intelligence and the dog’s health. First, let’s take a look at how energetic this breed is. Although this will vary from individual German Shepherd to individual German Shepherd, these are dogs bred to be on the go all day.
You will need to brush your German Shepherd every day to keep out tangles and to keep shedding to a minimum. Most German Shepherds have thick, double layer coats, although there are many with single layer coats. Bathing the German Shepherd Dog too often can result in shedding and dandruff production beyond belief so only bathe when absolutely necessary. Train your dog to be still when brushed and do it after exercise.
German Shepherd dogs are highly trainable, providing they get regular exercise and aren’t overfed. Too much food for a German Shepherd is like giving too much sugar and caffeine to a child – they can’t help being a bit hyper afterwards. They are also more trainable and calmer is you have them spayed or neutered.
This also cuts down in incidences of wandering, aggression and cancers of the reproductive organs. Leave the breeding of German Shepherds to the experts.
Another point not usually touted in German Shepherd information from the AKC is that they often have health problems. The German Shepherd Rescue of North Carolina has estimated that care of a German Shepherd Dog costs about three thousand dollars per year, and German Shepherds live into their teens.
Even though many of these health problems can be easily treated, the previous owners do not want to or cannot pay the vet bills and instead abandon the dog. When you get a German Shepherd keep in mind that they may need frequent visits to the vet.
Similar Posts:
- Know Your Breed: German Shepherd Dogs
- Mean German Shepherd Dogs? Don’t Believe The Hype!
- The Noble German Shepherd Dog
- What You Need To Know The Personality of German Shepherd Dog
- The Best Diet For Your German Shepherd
Related Stuff:
Black Plastic I Love My German Shepherd FrameThis listing is for an I Love My German Shepherd License Plate Frame. It is solid black plastic with white lettering and a red heart. It will fit over any standard size US or Canadian state or novelty license plate. They measure 6 inches by 12 inches.
German Shepherd Poses SocksThese thin, flat knit, lightweight socks are made with 75% Sensura polyester to wick away perspiration and 25% stretch nylon for perfect fit and firm ... Read More >
Webkinz Signature Deluxe Plush Stuffed Animal - German ShepherdWebkinz Signature Deluxe Plush Stuffed Animal German Shepherd
The Essential German Shepherd Dog (The Essential Guides)Owning a German Shepherd Dog is rewarding and fun! Get all you need to know about feeding, training and caring for your dog in The Essential German Sh... Read More >
German Shepherd Cotton Puppy Dog Breed Animal Socks 9-11Wheel House Designs has been designing socks since 1989. Right from the start, the cow sock put them on the map as being an innovator in the novelty sock industry. Top quality materials and designs set them apart. You will not find a better quality sock in the industry!
Dinzas Art Dogs - German Shepherd - Coffee Gift Baskets - Coffee Gift BasketGerman Shepherd Coffee Gift Basket is measuring 9x9x4. Contains 15oz mug, BONUS free set of 4 coasters, biscotti and 5 blends of gourmet coffee. Fren... Read More >
German Shepherd - Teardrop Keychain - Laser engravedOur "I Love My German Shepherd" Teardrop Key Chain is solidly constructed from nickel alloy and finished in chrome. Our tag is Laser-Engraved on the premises to ensure the highest quality.
8in1 Excel Time Release Glucosamine with MSM, 120 TabExcel glucosamine supports joint health and function while promoting healthy collagen growth. Contains Vitamin C plus MSM to improve joint flexibility.
Give 1 tablet for up to 25lbs. 2 tablets for 26-50lbs. 3 tablets for 51-75lbs. Over 75lbs give 4 tablets.
