El German shepherd It is one of the most popular breeds on the planet. It is a dog. nobleVery intelligent y affectionate He loves exercising with his family. He also gets along very well with children, with whom he shares endearing moments and for whom it shows a strong protective instinct.
Obedient and easy to train, it is one of the most versatile breeds: it shines in dog sports, tasks of search and rescueassistance and service dog. Below you will find its history, behavior, care, health, varieties, and tips for buying and adopting; in short, All about this magnificent breed.
History of the German Shepherd
The German Shepherd originated in GermanIt emerged from the selection of different regional shepherd dogs They had been working since medieval times, herding and protecting flocks. In the countryside, these dogs acted as a kind of “living fence”They patrolled silently to keep the flock within the boundaries, calmly returning any sheep that strayed. unnecessary barking.
With the advance of industrialization, a group of enthusiasts promoted the creation of a specialized club dedicated to setting a standard of functionality and temperament. Among its driving forces were Maximilian von Stephanitz, considered the “father” of the breed, who argued that the dog should above all maintain its usefulness as a worker and not become a mere show dog.
To ensure the survival of the German Shepherd when herding began to decline, its integration into other tasks was promoted. police, army and rescuewhere he stood out for his smell, obedience y equilibriumDuring periods of rejection of "German" things, in some countries it was called "Alsatian"to avoid stigma. Over time, it regained its original name and today it is a symbol of versatility in canine service units and also in many homes.
Specifications:
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The German Shepherd is a dog of big size, with a body strong, elongated and muscular. Males weigh between 30 and 40 kg y Females weigh between 22 and 32 kgThe height to the cross is 60-65 cm in males and 55-60 cm in femalesIts head is wedge-shaped, the snout is elongatethe ears are upright and triangular, and the tail is long and with abundant hair.
It presents a silhouette lupoidwith a solid back that in some lines may be more sloping. It belongs to the Group 1 FCI (Sheepdogs and cattle dogs, except Swiss Cattle Dogs). The coat is double, with a dense cover and undercoat abundant. The most common colors are black and tan/reddish brown, plus solid black y sable grayThere are variations of short hair and long hair recognized within the current standard.
His life expectancy is 13 yearsalthough in population terms It usually ranges between 10 and 13 in function of genetics, carenutrition and lifestyle.
Black german shepherd
Color solid black It is seen more frequently in lines of workTheir character is usually very stable, with great willingness to training, andHigh concentration skills and excellent aptitude for tasks search y protecciónIt maintains the same morphology as the classic black and tan, differing mainly in the coat.
Does the White German Shepherd Exist?
White-coated specimens are not recognized as German Shepherds within the current FCI standard. These dogs belong to the breed Swiss White Shepherd (Swiss Blanc Berger), an independent race. It is not albinism; its white It's a result of coat genetics. Although they share a general appearance and friendly character, They are recorded separately and they follow different standards.
German Shepherd behavior
It's a dog Very nobleAlways careful to its surroundings, with an excellent combination of intelligence, docility y confidenceIt responds quickly to learning and usually shows a strong bond with his familyHis instinct to protección It is noticeable, so it is advisable to channel it through good socialization and positive training.
He gets along very well with children, provided that spaces are respected and the treatment is supervised. It may be vocal if it detects stimuli related to its guardian function; a proper bark control through early education helps to balance their behavior.
Care
The German Shepherd needs daily activitymental challenges and close family life. You can live in an apartment if you have long outings and cognitive stimulation work, but he especially enjoys open spaces where to exercise safely.
You can live comfortably in a house, as long as he is taken for walks and runs oftenIt is also important to play with him daily. interactive games So he can learn and have fun. Just like any other dog. you will need a quality diet and veterinary care.
It is important that He should be educated from day one. At home with basic commands and walks on a leash without pulling. Given its size and strength, training positive It allows you to learn think for yourself and strengthen the bond.
Hygiene and brushing
The double cloak demands regular brushing to remove loose hair and avoid knotsespecially during molting seasons. toilets They are done as needed with dog shampoo To respect the skin's balance. Check and trim. Nails Clean when necessary ears with specific products and promotes the dental hygiene to prevent tartar.
exercise and training
need at least 1-2 hours daily His activity level includes walks, games, and training. He has a very high learning capacity, which he appreciates. obedienceskills, tracking, and sports such as agility, Mantrailing o canicross. The constancy and positive reinforcement are key to channeling their energy.
- To learn: Boost your intelligence with smell games and problem-solving challenges.
- Train: structure short and frequent sessions to maintain motivation.
- To work: Specific tasks (tracking, objects, advanced obedience) fulfill their need for purpose.
- Family company: It doesn't thrive in isolation; include it in daily life.
Food and a sensitive stomach
Many German Shepherds exhibit digestive sensitivityA diet is recommended highly digestiblerich in quality protein and with moderate fiber. keep regular hoursKeep fresh water readily available and avoid large meals just before or after intense exercise to reduce gastric risks.
- High-quality proteins: meat base from reliable sources.
- Fat control: Energy adjusted to your activity level to avoid being overweight.
- Joint supplements: chondroprotective agents under veterinary guidance in active or senior dogs.
- Probiotics: Useful in dogs with sensitive digestion, always with professional guidance.
Socialization and basic education
Socialize from puppyhood with people, Dogs y environments varied. Teach him self-controlAdequate rest and managing stimuli (noise, visitors). Establish consistent rules and use positive reinforcement (caresses, food, play) avoiding punishments that damage the bond.
Mental enrichment and security
Integra interactive toysScent exercises, treat hiding places, and simple tasks like picking up toys. Secure the environment with fencesupdated identification and walks with belt where appropriate. Avoid jumps and excessive stairs in puppies during growth.
German Shepherd Health
As a highly sought-after breed, improper breeding can increase the prevalence of certain problems. Among the most frequent are: hip dysplasia y elbow, eye disorders, gastric torsion y joint pathologiesFurthermore, it is a breed subjected to numerous health checks that help mitigate them when the breeding is responsible.
This dog grows SpeedTherefore, it is advisable to monitor the diet during developmental stages to avoid joint stressAn activity plan age-appropriateveterinary supervision and feeding of quality They are preventative pillars.
- Hip/elbow dysplasia: Screening x-rays in parents, weight management, and low-impact exercise.
- Osteoarthritis and paralysis: They can appear with age or due to overuse; physiotherapy and pain management help.
- Stomach torsion: Divide your meals into smaller portions, avoid vigorous exercise after eating, and consult about preventative fixation in high-risk cases.
- Skin and allergies: Dermatitis and pyoderma require dermatological diagnosis and treatment.
- Sensitive digestive system: highly digestible diets with moderate fiber and probiotics when indicated.
- Endocrine and coagulation: Hypothyroidism and Von Willebrand disease may occur; regular checkups detect it.
Avoid the overweight It is crucial: excess weight multiplies the joint load and accelerates problems like osteoarthritis or arthritis. Always consult your doctor. veterinarian before introducing supplements or dietary changes.
Ideal owner and recommended activities
The ideal owner is assetconsistent and enjoys to trainThis dog is highly adaptable, but it requires close contact with his family and daily time dedicated to physical and mental activity. He does not tolerate well the prolonged loneliness.
Among the activities she enjoys most are excursions (forest, mountain), ball games y search of toys or prizes. It can also excel in obedience, agility, tracking or even in programs of rescue dog, if you have a professional club and guide.
Types and lines within the breed
Within the German Shepherd breed, two main breeding orientations are usually distinguished:
- Work line: somewhat more structures light, great resistancestable nerve and very high learning capacityHighly valued in service and sports.
- Beauty/display line: It usually has a more voluminous and, in some currents, a dorsal line more downward. Even so, it requires health and functionality.
As for unofficial or brightly colored variants, the popular terms can be mentioned. sand, panda or the so-called “German Shepherd Dwarf(The latter is associated with health problems that should not be encouraged.) The color solid black and the long hair Yes, they are covered by the current standard.
Frequently asked questions about the breed
How long do they live? The average lifespan is usually between 10 and 13 yearsconditioned by genetics, care, exercise and veterinary attention.
Are they good family dogs? If with socialization y training, and They are suitable. They are loyal, protective, and enjoy participating in household activities.
Do they work as guard dogs? They have a guardian instinct remarkable. With responsible training, they can be excellent guard dogs without losing emotional balance.
Do they require a lot of exercise? They need daily physical and mental activityLong walks, structured play, and obedience training are essential.
What is the difference between a work line and an exhibition line? The first one prioritizes functionality and task performance; the second emphasizes conformation Physical conformity to the standard. Both must be healthy and balanced.
Buying tips
Would you like it live together With a German Shepherd? If so, you certainly won't regret it. Take note of these tips:
Buy in hatchery
Since this breed is predisposed to certain diseases, in addition to verifying that the breeder is serious y Experience, requests information about the parents' health (official hip/elbow certificates, genetic testing where appropriate) and your with a dash of rebelliousness Keys to recognizing a good breeder:
- Facilities clean and dogs well socialized.
- Dogs healthy y assets, with a verifiable health history.
- The person in charge responds to all your doubts and doesn't pressure the sale.
- Transparency on the family of the puppies and possible history of illness.
- Delivery never before two monthswith proper early socialization.
- Documentation in order (passport y pedigree (if applicable), contract and health guarantees.
Buy from a pet store
If you choose a store, remember that you won't know for sure nor will you have a parents' history pedigree reliable. There is a risk of acquiring a puppy with health or behavioral problems due to poor socialization, although the price may be lower.
Buy from an individual
Beware of online adsSigns of seriousness:
- Clear advertisement in one language and without translation errors.
- Contact details visible (phone and location).
- possibility of visit to the puppies and see the mother.
- Delivery never before two months.
- No request money in advance without guarantees.
Price
The price of a German Shepherd will vary depending on where you buy it. At a specialized breeder, it usually costs around... 800 Euros, whereas in a pet shop or to a private individual it can be placed on 300-400 eurosKeep in mind that an abnormally low price usually implies risks in health or origin.
Adopt a German Shepherd
Despite being a pure breed, is frequent find copies in kennels and animal sheltersoften adults who need a second chance. If you can meet their needs exercise, training, and y companyAdoption is an excellent option. Request an evaluation from with a dash of rebelliousness and advice on home integration (with children or other animals).
Photos
We'll leave you with a few photos about this wonderful dog:
Gallery:
A well-bred, socialized, and cared-for German Shepherd combines customer, intelligence y working capacity Like few other breeds. With daily exercise, mental enrichment, quality nutrition, and veterinary checkups, you'll have a balanced, athletic, and protective companion by your side, capable of adapting to family life and, if you wish, excelling in sports or service disciplines.