German Shepherd Dog Information

While living in Germany, I was able to witness the German Shepherd dog in its true glory, as they originated from Germany, and learned more than I ever had before. I was lucky enough to attend many dog shows in Europe and watch them move like the wind across the ring. Also, we were part of a Schutzhund Club in Vilseck, Germany, where 90% of the dogs were GSDs. We saw every variation from East German, Czech lines, long coat, short coat to everything in between. Their coloring is usually black and red, tan and black and sable. While the white German Shepherd is frowned upon in the U.S., I did see many white German Shepherds in Germany and they were lovely!

The German Shepherd Dog was designed as a versatile dog and they can do anything! They excel at obedience, service dog work, military work, herding livestock, protecting their family and so on. Most are lighter weight than other guarding breeds, such as the Rottweiler, are able to walk across debris without it caving in and fly like the wind over fences.

Training and Temperament

During my group classes, German Shepherd Dogs excelled at learning new behaviors. Now, they will have fear periods just like any dog, but I feel herding and guarding breeds have a longer or more intense fear period than other breeds. Since these breeds are bred to observe constantly, they may see things a bit different than other breeds. With any fear period, it’s vital they learn positive associations with anything that may cause barking, growling or moving away. I like to play “look at the monster,” which means they look at the scary thing and I click/treat. Make sure you are at a safe distance from the “monster,” which means your GSD will look at you and able to take treats. When in doubt, move further away. This teaches him the “monster” is not that bad because every time you look at it, you get “cheese.” Never force your GSD to walk over or touch anything that causes him to be fearful. This can cause him to be permanently fearful of that object.

They are great family dogs. My best friend and godchildren have owned German Shepard dogs for more than 15 years, and they will sit and walk nicely on leash for my 4-year-old godchild!

Dog Grooming

Now, this breed does shed, especially during spring and fall, as they are blowing their undercoats. I recommend using an undercoat rake to remove excessive undercoat and keep shedding to a minimum.

Exercise

German Shepherds need a minimum of a 30-minute walk per day. Also, feed your dog using interactive food toys, which dispense food as your dog paws, moves or tosses the toy around. This will ensure they receive plenty of mental stimulation.

Learn more about German Shepherd dogs and rescue at German Shepherd Club of America and National List of German Shepherd Dog Rescue Groups.

Tell me about your German Shepherd dog in the comment section below.

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