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German Shepherd

Breed:

Belongs to the herding breed group. The German Shepherd is a recent breed, it has been in existence as a distinct breed for only about 90 years. The traits of intelligence and trainability have made it arguably the most versatile breed in history. In addition to their traditional roles as police and herding dogs, the breed is used in many jobs including watchdog, leader for the blind, search and rescue, scent identification, guardian, and of course companion.

Origin:

Country/region of origin: Germany

Personality:

• The German Shepherd is intelligent, agile, loyal, alert, protective of his home and property. They are hard-working, fearless, but not hostile.
• These dogs are active, quick to learn and fond of training and challenges.
• German Shepherds should be trained and socialized from an early age. They are very sociable and need attention.
• The German Shepherd does well in any type of house, provided they get plenty of exercise.
• This breed exists on interaction from their owner's family and does not like to be left alone for extended periods.
• German Shepherds are exceptionally wary of strangers.

Home adjustment:

• There will be an adjustment period (days to even months) when you first bring your dog home.
• They make excellent family dogs, although they sometimes pick one person as their special person. They relate well to all members of the household.
• The German Shepherd will do fine in any dwelling as long as they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation.
• They require attention and if treated as a member of the family, one thing is sure, they remain loyal to the end and will be yours or your family's constant companion.
• If they are raised with children, they develop abundant tolerance to the poking of tiny fingers.
• Renowned for their great adaptability, intelligence, and beloved for its devotion and loyalty to its owner.

Care:

• This is a natural breed, meaning that it does not require clipping or unusual grooming.
• German Shepherds are double-coated with a coarse, water-resistent outer coat and a heavy, woolly undercoat. They are heavy shedders, especially in spring, and require regular brushing to minimize loose hair.
• Bathing should only be done rarely, only once or twice a year, using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat.
• They require long daily walks and strenuous exercise.
• German Shepherds are prone health problems as blood disorders, elbow and hip dysplasia, epilepsy, flea allergies, digestive problems, and chronic eczema.
• The German Shepherd requires early and extensive socialization and obedience training to improve their social skills. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. They are obedient and quick to learn.

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