The German Shepherd: an intelligent and loyal dog
The German shepherd, also known as the Alsatian shepherd, Deutscher Schäferhund or German Shepherd Dog, is a robust, athletic and enduring dog. It has a very harmonious body built for physical effort. For 10 years, he has reigned supreme over the 1st place of the podium of favorite dogs of the French. The German Shepherd is a complete, tireless, docile, vigilant and very attached dog to its owner.
- Origins and Historical
- Physical characteristics
- Behavior and education
- Living conditions
- Health and maintenance
- The German shepherd at a glance
Origins and Historical
It was only from the end of the 19th century and the industrial revolution in Germany that the first German shepherds were high. Then, Captain Von Stephanitz defines the breed. A German shepherd is essentially a work dog. Dog says versatile, the German shepherd is useful for many areas. During the First World War, he accompanied the German army and in particular intended to rescue the wounded soldiers.
Physical characteristics
The German Shepherd is a harmonious and robust dog. Here are some of its distinctive characteristics:
- Hair : Short and hard is very dense. Doubled with a sub-point provided, the hair remains lying along the body.
- Color : The most widespread is black and fire. It can also have black with shades of brown, red brown or yellow to light gray.
- Head : Well proportionate to the size of the dog with a reasonable width between the ears. It is not too heavy or too elongated. In general, the head has a pronounced and powerful muzzle.
- Ears : Medium and wide size at the base. Symmetrical, they are worn straight and end at the forefront.
- Eyes : In almonds and must be as dark as possible.
- Body : Rather elongated and quite straight gives way to a muscular and slightly plunging back. It has a slightly oblique rump. Pure trotter, it has a harmonious look at large movements.
- Tail : Must at least reach the hock. On its inner side, the hair is longer. It is a drooping, but when it is in full action or excited it gets up considerably without going above the horizontal.
Behavior and education
The German Shepherd is very intelligent, faithful and attached to his master. Patient and courageous, it is also a protective dog with children. With a fairly flexible temperament, it is nonetheless lively and quite dominating. Affectionate and naturally, he needs to work out every day. He is a flawless dedication for its owner. It is a very sensitive animal, which appreciates congratulations after a good act.
Compatibility with children and family
The German Shepherd is an excellent family dog. Her soft and patient temperament makes it an ideal companion for children. He loves to play and is always ready to participate in family activities. His affectionate nature and his need to be close to his masters make him very endearing. However, as with any breed, it is important to supervise interactions with very young children to avoid accidents.
The food guide of the German Shepherd
The German Shepherd, with its active temperament and specific needs, requires a balanced diet rich in nutrients to maintain its vitality and its overall health. Here are some essential points to consider to feed your German shepherd well:
- Quality proteins: Proteins are fundamental for muscle development and tissue repair. Sources of protein such as chicken, beef, fish and lamb are ideal for meeting the high protein needs of the German shepherd.
- Healthy fats: Fats provide a concentrated energy source and is essential for healthy skin and coat. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, present in high quality fish and oils, are particularly beneficial.
- Fibers: Fibers promote good digestion and contribute to intestinal health. Warm vegetables, fruits and grains are good sources of fiber.
- Vitamins and minerals: A balanced diet must include vitamins and minerals to support the dog's immune system and general health. Food supplements can be beneficial, but they must be administered under the supervision of a veterinarian.
It is essential to choose a diet adapted to the age, weight and activity level of your German shepherd. Always see a veterinarian for personalized advice.
Treaty recommendations
To complete the feeding of your German shepherd, Marly & Dan offers a range of premium treats adapted to the needs of your four -legged companion. Here are some of the most recommended options:
- 100% salmon skin & coat: Rich in omega-3, they contribute to healthy skin and shiny coat. Perfect for maintaining your dog's immune and heart health system.
- Dental M-L: Help reduce plaque and tartar, contributing to better oral hygiene.
- Snacks joints: Enriched with glucosamine and chondroitin, these snacks support the health of the joints, essential for an active and muscular dog like the German shepherd.
Marly & Dan treats are made in France with natural and high quality ingredients, thus guaranteeing healthy and tasty snacks for your German shepherd. Give him the best by choosing Marly & Dan, a brand dedicated to excellence in animal nutrition.
Living conditions
The German Shepherd is a very happy and playful dog. He remains faithful and attached to his master, patient and courageous, and is protective with children. With a fairly flexible temperament, it is lively and can be quite dominant. Affectionate and peaceful by nature, he needs to spend himself every day. It is a very sensitive animal, which appreciates congratulations after a good act. It is perfectly suitable for family life.
Health and maintenance
Robust, the German Shepherd, like all medium -sized and large dogs, is genetically subject to hip or elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and von Willebrand's disease. Screening and selection of animals during reproduction have greatly reduced risks. Apart from that, his life expectancy is good (12 years old).
The German Shepherd embodies versatility to perfection. Work dog par excellence, it can be educated as a police dog, herd, tracker and as a dog guide. As a pet dog, his suspicious nature with regard to foreigners and his past as a shepherd dog makes him a good guard since he naturally defends his territory. For education, he turns out to be very docile and very intelligent, even if he recognizes only one master. It is important to socialize it and get used to foreigners or public places, because its distrust for the unknown is important to take into account. In addition, this breed can sometimes suffer from the anxiety of separation and you will therefore often have to make most of your trips in his company.
The German shepherd at a glance
Faq
Absolutely ! The German Shepherd is a sweet and playful companion, perfect for children. His affectionate nature and his need to stay close to his masters make him an excellent friend for the youngest.
The German shepherd can be subject to hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and von Willebrand's disease. Early screening and regular veterinary care can help manage these conditions.
The German Shepherd can live in an apartment provided that they receive enough daily exercise and mental stimulation. However, he prefers spaces where he can run freely, like a house with a garden.