German Shepherds make excellent dogs, but it can be difficult to know how to calm them down. Having lots of energy can get dogs excited and even acting. So, I did some research and found the best ways to help German Shepherds calm down.

How to get German Shepherds to calm down? German Shepherds are high-energy, highly intelligent, and like homework, so the best ways to calm your dog down are to have purposeful walks, reward calm demeanor, and stimulate his intellect with training and games.

German Shepherds are beautiful and highly intelligent animals. They make excellent police dogs, guard dogs, and family dogs. Due to their heritage they can be a bit crazy and energetic, but below are all the best ways to help your German Shepherd calm down.

Getting a German Shepherd to be calm

Throughout the history of German Shepherds, they have been used in difficult and chore jobs. They worked on farms, then worked in the world wars delivering supplies to the soldiers on the front lines.

They are now commonly used as police dogs and search and rescue dogs. To say that they have had backbreaking jobs throughout their history would be an understatement.

Because of this, it is easy to understand why German Shepherds go crazy and get too excited. Because they are programmed to have a lot of energy and to need tasks.

That is why starting training your German Shepherd when they are young is smart and will help control their energy. There are three main things you can do that will help your German Shepherd control his energy and calm down.

# 1 Take them on a purposeful walk daily
Many people may read this post and think “what the heck is a purposeful walk?” Well, German Shepherds need stimulation and they need a job. It helps them fulfill an instinct within them.

When German Shepherds act it is because they have a lot of energy and are not being stimulated intellectually and physically. That takes us on purposeful walks.

Purpose walks are when you make walking with your German Shepherd work rather than for fun.

So what does this look like? Well, for starters, getting your dog to sit up and stay still before putting him on a leash is the first step. The second step is to put on a weighted vest.

These vests come in all shapes and sizes and it doesn’t matter which one you choose as long as it fits your dog comfortably. What the weighted vest does is signal your German Shepherd’s brain that it’s time to work and not play.

Your German Shepherd will apply more energy, focus, and determination to the task that helps them fulfill some of their natural urges to work and use their energy.

While you’re walking, you want to make sure your German Shepherd is walking with his head up, that he stays next to you (not in front of or behind you), and that he is focused.

That means that you, as the owner, must also be calm and focused. Help them keep their heads up and not go around sniffing everything around them.

This walk should take at least 30 minutes and help your dog get a great workout. If you do this, your dog will have better control of his energy and will be calmer at home.

PS: You can still go for leisurely walks with your German Shepherd and family, but you still need to take a purposeful walk that day where your German Shepherd can wear his vest and ‘work’.

# 2 Reward good behavior
The next thing you can do for your German Shepherd to help him stay calm at home and in public is to reward good behavior. This means you should always have a watchful eye and a few treats on hand.

When your German Shepherd is relaxing in his bed and acting calm, walk around and treat him. When your German Shepherd is lying down when the postman passes, give him a gift.

If your German Shepherd sits and waits patiently for food to be served, give him a treat. The more you reward good behavior, the more your German Shepherd will want to replicate that behavior.

German Shepherds don’t respond well to punishment, so dealing with good behavior is MUCH more effective than punishing bad behavior. Most of the time, punishing German Shepherds has no effect on them.

Consistency is great for German Shepherds and most dogs in general, so the more you can consistently reward good behavior, the more the German Shepherd will represent your behavior naturally.

Mix this technique with the technique of taking your dog for a walk with a purpose and you will find that he has a calmer demeanor to reward and less and less frustration from having an overly energetic dog.

# 3 Stimulate their brains with games and training

German Shepherds are intelligent dogs. Like… insanely smart. So one of the best things you can do for your German Shepherd and their energy levels is to let them use their brains and intellect.

There are some really cool brain games that you can play with your German Shepherds to help them feel useful and fulfilled. I have listed some effective and useful games that German Shepherds love .

Treasure hunt

Your German Shepherd has an amazing use of smell and they love to use it, so playing scavenger hunt is a great game for them to use their brains and noses.

Get some kind of treat or food and hide it in a laundry basket or under some kind of overturned lid.

Then take a piece and take it to your dog.

Get your German Shepherd to sit up and then let him smell what he needs to find.
Set them free, let them roam the house trying to find their hidden object.

Once they have found it, let them eat and reward them with lots of love and praise.
When you start playing this game, you want to set your dog up for success.

So you’ll want them to see you hide your gift and then when you’re ready to give them your sign of release and let them get it.

Reward them with lots of praise and love. After a couple of times like this, make it harder and harder until you’ve reached the instructions above.

Note: Once they get good at this, it can be fun to play with you as their treasure. You hide and then someone else will let your German Shepherd go try to find you.

Ring Stackers

To play this game, you must buy it in a store and it is better if you use wooden rings since your dog will be chewing on these toys.

Make your German Shepherd sit up and watch you stack the rings.

Get your German Shepherd closer, give him a ring, and every time he gets close to the stick, reward him.

When he starts to touch the ring with the stick, reward him with a treat and high praise and then help him maneuver the ring onto the stick and tell him to drop.

Once he does, reward him with treats and love and then start over.
Very soon your German Shepherd will be a pro at this game and he will love to play it.

Shell game

This game is really meant to test your German Shepherd’s brain. To play this you will need two bowls and a bag of goodies. German Shepherds really love this game.

Place the bowls upside down on the floor while your German Shepherd is sitting and watching.

Place a treat under one of the bowls and have your German Shepherd come get it.
Repeat this a couple of times

After placing the treat under the bowl, drag the bowls so they have shifted positions and let your German Shepherd come get the treat.

As your German Shepherd becomes more familiar with this set, you can start adding more bowls and more bowl change. Eventually, they should be able to do it with just one ball under the bowls.

The best thing you can do for your German Shepherd is to train them. Enter them. Enter them. Entertain us. The more you train with them, the more stimulated they will feel and the calmer they will behave.

If you use all these techniques, your German Shepherd will be as calm as a sleeping child and you will be able to have as much fun with them. Don’t forget that they love you and the more you help them control their energy, the happier they will be.

Note: They also love attention, so doing all of these things will help them live a long, healthy life.

Related questions:

At what age is a fully grown German Shepherd?

German Shepherds are fully grown at about 2 years, but they can still mature until they are about 3 years old.

How long can I leave my German Shepherd alone?

German Shepherds really shouldn’t be left alone for more than 8 hours and even that is putting you under pressure. If you are going to be away for a long period of time on a consistent basis, you may want to consider hiring a dog walker.

The post When do German Shepherds Calm Down appeared first on Dog Fiesta Online.

If you know anything about the breed, you probably know that they are well known for being land-based working dogs, but does that mean that it will be easy for you to train them? Here’s what you need to know about German Shepherd training.

Is the German Shepherd easy to train? The German Shepherd is one of the easiest breeds to train out there. These dogs are extremely intelligent, highly sensitive, and brave enough to do almost anything for you. A long history of working together with people prepares these dogs to be your companion.

German Shepherds are some of the easiest dogs to train, but what do you need to know when it’s time to get out the treats and do a training session?

German Shepherds are easy to train, but there are a few things that can hurt the process and other tips that make it that much easier. This is what you need to know about training a German Shepherd.

Why are German Shepherds easy to train?
If you are looking for a breed that can do virtually anything you want them to do, the German Shepherd is a great choice.

These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes it easy to train them. Here are some of the main reasons why German Shepherds are so easy to train.

Intelligent
German Shepherds are extremely smart . They were bred for many years to both herd and protect a herd, which required a lot of independent thought as well as careful attention to the handler. For this reason, they are excellent at using their minds both to solve problems on their own and to focus on you and decode your instructions.

These dogs are problem solvers who prefer to keep their minds occupied. You won’t have to encourage your German Shepherd to seek mental stimulation. Your pastor will already be looking for ways to engage that active mind. You just have to provide an output.

Eager to please
German Shepherds are very focused on their humans and desperate for approval. Many German Shepherds can be trained very effectively using few rewards other than praise and happiness from their humans.

Brave
You will be surprised to know that courage is important in the training process, but if you want your dog to act at any time other than when he is comfortable, relaxed and in a familiar environment, you need a dog that is brave enough to advance in training. regardless of the distractions and anything that could be potentially scary.

Form close ties
The German Shepherd tends to form a very close bond with his family. This makes them not only eager to please, but especially in tune with who you are.

Your German Shepherd may appear to know what you are thinking even before you do. This means that sometimes they will perform a behavior that you want before you do not realize that you are asking.

The bond that a German Shepherd forms with its owner can sometimes lead to jealous behavior, which we discussed in the article.

When and how to start training
You should start training your German Shepherd as soon as possible. Good breeders start with basic training like teaching the dog to come when called and potty training when dogs are only a couple of weeks old.

As soon as you receive your puppy, you should continue with the training. However, if you haven’t trained your dog by now or have adopted an untrained German Shepherd, don’t lose hope.

Shepherds are smart and adaptable and they train at any age. Here are some essential training techniques that you can start with your German Shepherd regardless of his history.

Trick training
Trick training is very suitable for German Shepherds because it is fun, active and variable. To train your dog to do a trick, draw them into the posture or behavior with a treat and then mark it with a word of praise and reward.

Start with very simple behaviors, such as sitting, standing, and asking your dog to come to you, and progress to more complicated tricks like jumping through hoops, running in circles around you or between your legs, and performing a series of behaviors. .

Self-control training
One of the most important skills in training a powerful breed dog is the ability to think for itself, which requires some self-control training first. Your untrained puppy or adult dog may have very little self-control and may be unable to focus for more than an instant.

Increase your dog’s self-control by teaching him to stay for a reward and gradually increasing the time he needs to stay.

Socialization
German Shepherds tend to be cautious around new people and animals, so regular socialization from a young age is extremely important for them to develop as well socialized dogs.

Remember, German Shepherds are brave enough to fight for you and smart enough to have their own opinions and make mistakes, so it is essential that they see other people and animals in the right perspective.

Training basics
There are many ways to successfully train a German Shepherd, however there are some fundamentals that are extremely important to maintain regardless of how you decide to train your Shepherd.

Use positive reinforcement
German Shepherds are sensitive dogs and many of them are devoted enough to their people to work out of affection and praise alone. Find out what motivates your dog and use lots of positive reinforcement during his training regiment. Well-motivated German Shepherds will use all their mind and effort to achieve the goals you have for them.

Never punish
In the old days, many German Shepherds were trained to do police work with harsh training tactics. Many police officers found this to be counterproductive when dogs became unpredictable and did not trust humans. Now coaches recommend training pastors only positively and never using harsh training tactics or punishments.

Many short sessions work better
Even for a very focused dog like the German Shepherd, trying to focus on training for half an hour or an hour at a time can be very difficult. It is best to work in small sessions of 5 or 10 minutes per training session, especially when teaching new skills that require a lot of thought.

Common mistakes to avoid
Since so many people have a strong opinion of what this breed is, it should come as no surprise that there are some common mistakes when training the German Shepherd. Here are some mistakes that are important to avoid.

Thinking that your dog is better trained than they are
If you have been in the business of training your shepherd since he was a puppy, by the time he is around a year old you can expect him to be extremely well trained and reliable off the leash and in other difficult situations.

Unfortunately, your dog’s mind is still developing. Most dogs go through two periods of fear, one between eight and ten weeks of age, when most dogs go to their new home, and another between 6 and 14 months of age.

During periods of fear, dogs can react fearfully to things that previously did not bother them and are extremely sensitive to bad experiences.

As German Shepherds are very sensitive, these fear periods often hit them harder than other breeds. If your dog is supposed to be sufficiently trained to withstand stressors and handle difficult situations for about a year, they may be surprised when their fear period kicks in and they suddenly ignore all your commands.

Be repetitive
It is true that in order for your German Shepherd to learn a new behavior, he will have to repeat it many times in a wide variety of situations. That said, if you expect your pastor to sit down to do constant exercises of the same behavior without getting bored, you will be very disappointed.

In order for them to get the most out of their German Shepherd training, they need to keep it fun for them. Disperse the training throughout the day and surprise your dog. If your dog is moving on to the next trick in his routine before you ask him to, it’s time to change the routine.

Related questions
How do I make self-control training fun?
Make self-control training fun by asking your dog to stay in a specific position or by teaching him to “freeze,” when your dog will have to stop moving each time you tell him to and stay that way until you release him.

This type of training may not seem like a lot of fun at first, but as time goes on both you and your dog will enjoy it, and it will soon become clear how important it is.

What If My German Shepherd Doesn’t Comply?
Shepherds are dogs who love to work for you and will lean back trying to understand what you want. If your German Shepherd is not doing something that you want them to do, chances are that you have not explained it well, not that your Shepherd is being stubborn.

The post Easy to Train A German Shepherd? Is it Simple To Train? appeared first on Dog Fiesta Online.

In addition, the German Shepherd is characterized by his good nature , the pronounced protective instinct as well as his loyalty and attachment .

Shepherds are very intelligent , attentive animals that are easy to manage

If the dogs are well socialized , brought up with a lot of empathy, patience and loving consistency , then they are able to fully develop their good-natured nature.

For example, the German Shepherd remains playful throughout his life and likes to guard the house and yard . In addition to sufficient exercise, he not only needs physical, but also mental activity.

So what is typical German Shepherd Dog?

• Loyal
• Confident
• Intelligent
• obedience
• Good watchdog
• Willing to work
• Can be guided well
• Playful
• Good-natured
• Sensitive
• Concentrated
• Needs a meaningful task or occupation
• Strong nerves
• Has a strong protective instinct
• Attentive
• Persistent
• Requires a lot of exercise
• Protection and prey drive
• Classic herding dog
• Balanced

Is the German Shepherd a family dog?

A well-trained and socialized German Shepherd Dog can be used as a working dog for a wide variety of activities, as well as a family dog in a household with children.

Here they particularly benefit from their strong nerves, obedience and their pronounced protective instinct as well as their loyalty and attachment.

As a family dog, however, it should also be adequately occupied , such as through joint sporting activities and an appropriate task. An active family would therefore be ideal for the German Shepherd.

But employment alone does not make a good family dog. In addition to a solid and consistent upbringing , early socialization is also important . Ideally, these take place at the breeder’s and should be continued conscientiously at home. It would be desirable if the German Shepherd puppy already knows people of all ages and does not let small children upset him.

What should I watch out for when I bring a German Shepherd into the family?

The breed is considered to be nervous, loyal and good-natured. Shepherds are also good protectors who would always defend their families in an emergency. So good conditions for a great family dog.

However, children should be instructed in handling the dog. Mutual respect is important and following rules. Parents have to take care of that.

For example, these rules could include:

• If the dog is lying in its resting place, it will not be disturbed.
• The four-legged friend is not to be disturbed when eating.
• Under no circumstances should the children reach into the food bowl or take a chew / snack away from the dog.
• However, it should be practiced early on that the puppy / dog should allow this to happen. Even with toys. For example, children can fill up the food bowl and give a signal when the dog is allowed to eat.
• Explain that the German Shepherd hurts when someone climbs on them, when their ears are pulled, etc.
• The puppy should not be picked up. This can lead to injuries if you fall. In addition, children tend to pull a puppy up by the legs.
• Everyone assumes responsibility and has an age-appropriate task: e.g. feeding, playing balls, training or grooming.
• The dog shouldn’t get anything from the table and possibly not sleep in the beds.

Babies or children should never be alone with the German Shepherd. Unintentional dangerous situations could arise. A toddler who accidentally hits the four-legged friend’s nose or pulls the tail is at best ignored or receives a warning in the form of a growl. But if it hurts too much, the four-legged friend could snap shut. The dog’s threat signals are not yet understood, but should be pointed out to the children at an early stage.

Important: 

A German Shepherd has an instinct to guard and protect. So it can happen that he “guards” your children. He needs consistent but loving leadership without harshness. If you are a novice dog and have small children, a German shepherd is only partially recommended.

But if you pay attention to a few basic things, choose a reputable breeder and socialize and train the dog well, you will be rewarded with a great family dog ​​with which everyone has fun and who stands up for his family.

Short profile: the German Shepherd

German Shepherd Dog Profile: What makes the German Shepherd Dog?

The characteristics of this impressive breed are summarized here in a short profile German Shepherd :

• • Shepherd dog sizeor height at withers : up to 60 centimeters
  • German Shepherd Weight: depending on gender: 22 to 40 kilograms
  • Age: up to 15 years
  • Country of origin: Germany
  • Use: family, utility, guard, companion, service, protection, rescue and herding dog
  • Coors: Different
  • Coat: Close-fitting outer coat with an undercoat. It is weather resistant, easy to care for and defies heat as well as cold and rain
  • German Shepherd character: nervous, balanced, impartial, willing to learn, loyal and self-confident

Prejudice against the German Shepherd

A German shepherd prejudice is its alleged aggressiveness. The German Shepherd is no more aggressive than other dog breeds either.

Despite its many advantages, the German Shepherd wrestles with some persistent prejudices. Above all, this includes:

• aggressiveness
• High dominance
• Disease, especially HD (hip dysplasia)

These and similar prejudices are completely out of place with the great dogs.

An equally well behaved and socialized German Shepherd is neither aggressive nor too dominant.

It is true that some German Shepherds have HD, but this is not a typical disease, it is a disease that can affect all medium-sized and large breeds.

However, since there are many German Shepherds, it seems to some people that this breed is particularly affected by hip dysplasia.

For whom is the German Shepherd the perfect companion?

The German Shepherd is a working dog and wants to be used accordingly. That’s why it’s in good hands with active people who have a lot of time and patience with them. Because the German Shepherd needs good guidance. Therefore he is not necessarily a beginner dog, but canine experience is an absolute advantage. A good education with calm and consistency is extremely important if you don’t want the dog to dance around on your nose.

In addition to dog experience (or at least a lot of ambition), you should also enjoy exercising and working with your dog . Lots of exercise is a must! Long walks are not enough for the German Shepherd. As a working dog, he also wants to exert his hairy head.

So gives him a meaningful task . This can be a dog sport, but also an important task, such as therapy or rescue dog work, or it is used as a watch dog on the home property. In any case, a house or apartment with a garden would be preferable, but is not necessarily a must if there is sufficient occupancy.

If you are looking for a smart and sporty companion who can protect you on top of that and fit in well with the family, you are exactly right with a German Shepherd.

Is the German Shepherd suitable as a therapy dog?

Because of its character, the German Shepherd is often used as a therapy dog.

The shepherd dog breed is even very popular as a therapy dog . One reason for this is their typical willingness to communicate.

But also their firm nature and their pronounced play instinct are suitable for use as a therapy dog ideal .

The German Shepherd is often used in the course of animal-assisted medical treatment. This can take place, among other things, in the context of occupational or psychotherapy as well as in physiotherapy or curative education.

The exact application possibilities within the various measures are diverse. These include, for example:

• Promotion of gross and fine motor skills
• Mobilization
• Developmental disorders
• Relaxation exercises and rest
• Sense of responsibility and self-confidence

What are the differences between a male and a female?

In the German Shepherd, there are usually no differences in character between bitches and males .

However, every German Shepherd, like other four-legged friends, has its own will, likes and dislikes.

However, these are completely normal, individual traits.

The greatest difference between males and females can be seen in the heat of the females.

As a rule, the first heat begins around the age of six to twelve months. As soon as the bitch’s hormonal balance has settled, she usually goes into heat about twice a year.

Here, however, one should refrain from the protective panties available in stores, so that the bitch learns to keep herself clean. Most of the time it works pretty well even after a few heat phases.

Changes in character during heat

The nature of your German Shepherd may deviate slightly from her normal behavior during heat. Some bitches become affectionate and cuddly and need a lot of attention. Other breed representatives, on the other hand, withdraw and want to be left alone. There are also bitches that you would hardly notice if they didn’t lose drops of blood and were clearly in the heat. It is therefore impossible to predict in general how and whether a change in behavior will be noticeable in your bitch.

Once the heat is over, the bitch usually quickly finds her way back to her old self. But at eingen women may experience false pregnancy come, although no mating has taken place. In most cases this is not a concern. Not even if the bitch produces some milk. This is nature’s clever trick. In this way, puppies can still be cared for in packs if something happens to the actual mother dog.

If you observe a few hygiene measures, you will survive the heat without much excitement. Watch out for washable beds and remove drops of blood by moving slightly swiping frequently. Logically, be careful on walks so that there is no unwanted mating . Inform other dog owners that they are in heat, do not unleash the dog and do not leave her in the garden unobserved. A loving male can possibly jump over a supposedly sufficiently high fence and dogs are said to have mated through the garden fence.

Even a male dog often shows a rather untypical behavior when a bitch in heat is within sniffing range. On the walk the nose sticks to the ground and the dog looks nervous or excited. He can also whine and moan for the lady of the heart or even try to run away from home.

Can castration weaken these behaviors?

Yes and no. While some representatives of the breed are actually calmer, no longer roam around and leave the ladies behind in the future, this cannot generally be said for all dogs.

So if you have a dominant or aggressive male dog at home, you will not automatically get a balanced dog after being neutered. The later the four-legged friend is neutered, the less strong is the effect of the neutering on the being. Competitive behavior towards other members of the sexes may therefore remain and it cannot be ruled out that the male will still react to a bitch in heat. So the OP is not a magic cure. Behavioral problems should rather be tackled with a trainer.

The castration must always be viewed critically. It interferes with the hormonal balance, which can have an influence on the dog’s social behavior and development. This is especially true with a very early castration. In addition, there are sometimes unwanted side effects , such as incontinence or changes in the coat.

A bitch should of course not be neutered out of convenience. But the operation is sometimes necessary if, for example, male and female dogs live under one roof or if there are pseudo-pregnancies every time, which may be too stressful for the bitch. If the operation is performed before or after the first heat, the risk of mammary tumors and inflammation of the uterus is significantly reduced.

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I love both dogs and cats and was curious whether they would be able to live in harmony with one another, I did a little research and here is what I found out.

So is it possible for German Shepherds to get along with cats?

German Shepherds have strong prey chasing instincts that may make it difficult for them not to see your cat as a target worth pursuing. However, if you already got to know your German Shepherd properly as a puppy, he shouldn’t have any problem behaving with your cats .

While some German Shepherds can naturally get along with cats, others may shy away from them or even be aggressive towards them, However, with the right training and introduction, German Shepherds can and often get along very well with cats ,

It often takes a bit of work until everything between a GSD and a cat is fun and playful. There are some consonances to be considered, as well as some things that you can do to achieve this , German Shepherds are smart enough to know how to trust and who to chase. However, if you fail to give them the training they need, they may quickly lose control and scold everything that moves on their periphery,

Can dogs and cats get along?

It is a cliche, as old as mankind, that there is great rivalry and hostility between cats and dogs.

Yes, we are talking about dogs and cats . Enemies as old as time.
If anyone crossed the aisle and mended the rift between mankind’s two oldest friends, it would surely be the German Shepherd .

The German Shepherd Dog may be big, but they’re smart enough to know when to be gentle, Anyone who has had a full-grown German Shepherd in the same room as a human baby can attest to this. Irs damn adorable.

But does this gentle behavior extend to our feline friends as well? Can the German Shepherd get along with cats?

German Shepherds are the thinkers of the canine world, but that doesn’t make them less inclined to follow their instincts. If the German Shepherds are not properly socialized, they will chase a cat faster tha n you can say: “Squirrel!’

But that doesn’t mean that German Shepherds can’t learn to overcome their instincts ,
If you really get to know your German Shepherd from the time he was a puppy, he will get along well not only with cats, but also with other dogs and even strangers.

But what does it mean to ‘ socialize’ a dog and how can I do it well?
This is where we will turn our attention next.

The instinct of chasing cats
Have you ever wondered why your German Shepherd likes to hunt cats so much?Why is the
answer simple, it’s in your genes my friend ‘

German shepherds are working dogs and I bet you can guess where their specialties are, Even to day, shepherds around the world will employ German shepherds to help the flock and keep their flocks in check,

German Shepherds run through the herd to make sure no sheep are injured or in danger, They nibble on the ankles of any young lambs who dare to put a hoof out of line, It’s hard work, but they’re damn good at it.

Many German Shepherds have left the rugged, sheep-filled wilderness for a more suburban
lifestyle, but that doesn’t mean they have given up their instincts entirely,

The urge to chase fluffy creatures and choke on their ankles persists, and in the absence of sheep, your cat will be a suitable substitute,

But how can you teach your dog to ignore his powerful instincts that are bothering him? You want him to be a model citizen, but come on even if you have a hard time not bothering your cat.

The answer lies in your dog’s sociability.

Dogs are very similar to people. Some are very happy to meet strangers, while others prefer to keep more to themselves. Everyone seems to enjoy jumping on you as soon as you put on your freshly cleaned suit on the day of your big job presentation.

While some dogs seem to have a natural tendency to get by, all dogs can be trained to tolerate the presence of other animals and humans,

*This training is called “socializing” by breeders.
Socializing your German shepherd is pretty intuitive, Everyone gets nervous about new people and that includes your German Shepherd, The more time you spend doing a new activity or getting to know someone, the less it scares you and allows you to relax. This also applies to your dog,

A German Shepherd who never goes out will not be able to get on well with others, Just like
children who are home schooled never fit in. (Sorry kids who were home schooled.)

To effectively socialize your German Shepherd (and this may also apply to kids at school!) You need to bring them into contact with other dogs, animals, and people so that they become familiar with them.

According to the America n Kennel Club, German Shepherds are most open to learning and
socializing during the first three months. So start early.

You can start by feeding your German Shepherd puppy and cat close by. When feeding, place your puppy on one side of a closed door and your kitten on the other side. They freak out when they see each other, but the proximity helps the animals adapt to each other’s smell,
Before introducing your puppy to your kitten,make sure they know and follow three key
commands:

1. To sit
2. Stand still
3. And the most important. leave it

These three commands should be sufficient for direct interaction,

The first interaction between your pup and kitten should be short and (hopefully) peaceful. Keep your puppy in a kennel and put your cat in front of him .

Let them interact for 5to 10 minutes. If your puppy shows aggression, tell him “no” right away. If his aggression continues, immediately grab the kitten and leave. In this way you are stealing a “good cause” from your dog, Your presence to be the “good”,

Continue these peaceful interactions for a few weeks, gradually increasing the interaction time until your pets are able to spend half an hour in each other’s company.

When your puppy is done, take him out of the kennel and let him interact with your cat while he is on a leash. Repeat the process just as if we were still in the kennel and remove him from the cat immediately if he shows aggressive behavior or does not follow orders.

Let the two animals interact until they are peaceful with each other, then repeat the process, but without the leash. Be sure to keep an eye on your dog.

German Shepherds can be very territorial, so making sure he has his own space is a good idea.

Consider adding a cat flap to a closed door. The space behind can be your cat’s “territory” and the dog can have the rest of the space.

Remember that your German Shepherd will grow over 90 pounds. He can be a huge threat to your poor kitten, even if he’s just playing.

If your German Shepherd looks particularly fierce, send him to a puppy school to help him
socialize. Not only is puppy school a great way to effectively socialize your dog, but it can also teach your dog basic commands and help collapse.

Training tips for German Shepherds

• If you are adopting, ask a shelter worker if the dog was raised around cats. If so, then it is much more likely that he will behave with you.

• Neuter or neuter your German Shepherd before he reaches puberty at around 6 months, This will greatly reduce your kitten’s dominant behavior.

• German Shepherds love to run around and go crazy. Make sure your dog has plenty of exercise and is less of a nuisance to your cat.

• German Shepherds respond well to positive reinforcement with lots of dog treats. Don’t be
afraid to praise them whe n they behave well or don’t reward them when they do something
wrong.

The post Are German Shepherd Dogs Good With Cats? appeared first on Dog Fiesta Online.

If the puppy bites, it is completely normal at first. However, you should stop the puppy from biting because this behavior should not be tolerated. Here you can find out why a puppy bites, what “bite inhibition” means and how you can wean puppies from biting.

What does bite resistance mean?

The so-called “bite inhibition” is a behavior among dogs, which ensures that dogs do not injure themselves seriously from bites. Bite inhibition refers to the dog’s ability to manage and control the intensity of its bite.

This ability is ideally learned through play between the 4th and 16th week of a puppy’s life. The mother and the litter mates are the best teachers here, because their behavior clearly shows when a puppy has gone too far.

Why do puppies bite?

All puppies bite initially because puppies have to learn to bite inhibition first. You have to learn to use your sharp teeth in a well-dosed way. You should deal with bite resistance early on and practice it with your beloved four-legged friend. It is important that neither people nor other dogs are injured.

Even as a puppy, dogs learn very quickly how to use their teeth appropriately when dealing with litter mates. In humans, however, this has to be trained well.

Here it is important that the person can touch his dog anywhere and can interrupt a game with the puppy at any time . Because fun quickly becomes serious. Dogs without bite inhibitors are dangerous. It is therefore important for the dog to learn to accept a clear no.

How can you wean puppies from biting?

You can stop your puppy from biting by giving him clear signals and commandsthat you also consistently implemented. “No” means “no” and not “maybe someday”. If you say no, your dog should stop acting immediately.

This certainly requires patience and consistency, but offers security for the future. A loud AU could also serve as a command to stop the puppy from biting. Within a few days, the dog will learn how far it can go and what hurts you.

This training also spares clothing in the long term. If there is no immediate success with particularly ambitious dogs, it is okay if you give a slight physical reprimand in addition to the sharp no. Holding on and pressing down slightly could then be appropriate.

Tip 1
Use bite resistance and train

Puppies train bite inhibition even among littermates. You should build on this because your puppy needs to understand that human skin is more easily injured than dog skin protected by fur. Think about whether it is basically okay for you for your dog to take your hand in his catch while playing. Of course, that also depends on your environment and whether your puppy is playing with children.

Tip 2
React immediately if the puppy bites and growls

If your puppy snaps, bites your clothes, or your puppy bites and growls, respond immediately with the brightest possible cry. Quit the game and turn away. The outcry imitates the squeaking of an overly abused littermate and encourages the puppy to break off. This is a great way to stop your pup from biting.

Tip 3
Stay authentic so you can stop biting

If you don’t like howling loudly, don’t try to change your disposition. One of the most important rules in dog training is to stay authentic. Your dog will notice right away if you pretend. In that case, think about an interruption signal such as “Stop!” Or “Off!” And use this command instead.

You should avoid this if your puppy bites!

There are still dog owners who speak in full sentences to their dogs when they are raising their puppy . Unfortunately, the dog doesn’t understand the message, so you have to train yourself to give clear commands over and over again. Also, let your puppy play with dogs of the same size and age often. In doing so, they learn for life.

Tip 1
No snout grip
Shaking the neck, snout grip or similar things should be taboo, because the dog cannot meaningfully combine this with the action you want.

Tip 2
No fights
Do not play too wild fighting and fighting games within the family, as something can happen quickly here too. In addition, the dog does not understand why it is allowed to bite the hand once and then not again.

Tip 3
Stop the game immediately if your puppy bites
As soon as your puppy bites you or tampers with clothing, stop the game immediately. If your puppy bites your pant leg as soon as you finish the game, leave the room quickly with no comment and a clear no. You will see that it has an effect.

The puppy won’t stop biting?

If your puppy doesn’t react to the abandonment of the game and keeps trying, give him a short break. Put him in a carrier or keep him on a leash for a short time. This is not meant to be a punishment, just to encourage him to relax. When your protégé has calmed down or he has accepted your abandonment of the game, start the game again and he can further test the dosage of his strength.

Before long, your dog will usually understand how careful he must be with you. If this does not lead to success either, you can consider turning the tables: Scare your puppy! Play theater and mime the alpha animal who briefly pretends to snap. Growl, hold him down briefly (but not too hard), and then turn away after this rebuke.

Is your puppy biting and being aggressive?

No puppy is born aggressively. Only humans or a lack of experience with other animals or situations can lead to a dog becoming aggressive over time. It is therefore important to socialize a puppy well. The easiest way to do this is to have as much contact as possible with a wide variety of people and dogs as early as possible.

Then there is no reason to be afraid of screaming children or tall men. It is precisely such unfamiliar situations that can make a puppy insecure, which can lead to aggressive behavior. The same applies to other pets, a vacuum cleaner, the postman or driving the car. The more situations a puppy gets to know and can classify as harmless, the less there is a risk that it could be aggressive.

The post My Puppy Wont Stop Biting Me What To Do? appeared first on Dog Fiesta Online.

Many German Shepherd owners ask themselves this question. In this article we have explained in detail how long it takes for a German Shepherd to reach its maximum size.

A German Shepherd usually grows 14 to 18 months and is therefore fully grown. A male reaches a size of up to 65 cm with a weight of up to 40 kg. A female German Shepherd can grow up to 60 cm and weigh 32 kg.

That’s how fast a German Shepherd grows

A German Shepherd reaches over 90% of its final size after about 7 months. The weight will be 90% of the final weight after about 12 months.

A German Shepherd puppy will grow the fastest in the first 7 months. During this time, the larger growth spurts take place. The legs often grow faster than the rest of the body and the dog then mostly looks disproportionate. During the growth spurts, a dog is more tired and less resilient.

As a rule of thumb you can say the following: After 6 months, a German Shepherd should have reached 60% of its final weight.

The change of teeth should be completed at 6 to 7 months. A shepherd dog enters paupertät at the age of 7 to 12 months.

From the 16th month he is almost fully grown. Slight growth beyond that is nothing unusual. A German Shepherd should have reached its final size by the age of 2.

Summary: By the age of two, a German Shepherd should have reached its final size and weight. The stature of the German Shepherd changes between the ages of 1 and 3. The dog becomes a little wider and more muscular. The head shape, chest and shoulders change. The fur also develops completely during this time. The growth is thus completely completed in about 3 years.

Size chart male
A fully grown male German Shepherd should have the following dimensions:

Table Values               Min            Max
Weight                     30 kg           40 kg
Shoulder height        60 cm          65 cm
Neck circumference  50 cm          70 cm
Back length              65 cm          75 cm

Size table Female:
A full-grown female shepherd dog should have the following dimensions:

Table Values               Min         Max
Weight                      22 kg      32 kg
Shoulder height         55 cm     60 cm
Neck circumference   45 cm    65 cm
Back length              60 cm     70 cm

Weight gain in the first few months
Here you can see the weight gain of a German Shepherd in the first 24 months. These values are interpolated and can deviate. They should serve as a guide.

Weight male German shepherd
by 3 months the weight should be between 13 kg and 15 kg
at 6 months the weight should be between 20 kg and 27 kg
at 1 year the weight should be between 29 and 39 kg
When fully grown, the weight should be between 30 kg and 40 kg

The post When do German Shepherds Stop Growing appeared first on Dog Fiesta Online.

The German Shepherd Dog lives for about 10-13 years , although there are of course specimens that live significantly shorter or longer.

The different life expectancy within the same breed has various reasons, such as housing conditions , diet , health status , medical care or exercise .

A responsible breeding can contribute much to a longer life span by no further breeding is operated with sick animals or hereditary predisposed dogs.

Selection is therefore an important factor and makes it clear how important a serious and controlled breed is in the constant improvement of the German Shepherd breed.

On the other hand, some hobby breeding or mass production of puppies at the breeder are often not subject to any controls and therefore, unfortunately, more susceptible or already sick dogs are born, which can get problems later.

What happens when my dog ​​ages?

The life expectancy of the German Shepherd is around 9-13 years. In recent years the dog has become noticeably calmer.

The aging dog shows various signs that it is getting old.

Of course, not all signs of age appear together, but the process is gradual and often begins with a reduced performance . The dog gets tired faster, may no longer fetch the ball with full enthusiasm or is very exhausted after long walks .

He also sleeps more than usual and is less active . Allow the German Shepherd these rest periods.

Further indications for seniors are impaired eyesight and, under certain circumstances, the four-legged friend no longer hears so well. Sometimes old dogs are also less patient with other pets or children, have more difficulty adapting to new situations or are more frightened due to their impaired hearing and eyesight.

There is also a slowly graying coat , which can often appear dull, dull and shaggy. German Shepherds in particular also tend to stiff joints with age, become lame or have other musculoskeletal disorders.

While some dogs tend to eat less and lose weight as a result, others become fat because they don’t move enough but still have a big appetite.

In rare cases, some dogs also become incontinent and can no longer hold up as long as they used to. More frequent but smaller rounds of the walk can help, as can a special place to loosen in the garden or dog diapers from the specialist market.

Cancer and other diseases in the old dog

Cancer often shortens the lifespan not only of German shepherds.

Unfortunately, the German Shepherd is one of the dog breeds that are particularly predestined to develop cancer in old age . Bitches have a higher risk of getting sick than males.

One of the reasons for this is that bitches often suffer from mammary tumors as they get older. Especially if they were not neutered early (before or after the first heat).

Other common cancers that can significantly reduce life expectancy are lymph gland and skin cancer. These are found equally often in males and females.

In addition, many German Shepherds suffer from joint diseases in old age, such as osteoarthritis or the dreaded hip dysplasia. Eye diseases such as cataracts or inflammation caused by less tear fluid are also conceivable. Skin diseases or various organ ailments also sometimes occur.

How can I give the German Shepherd a good evening?

You should not only pay special attention to the dog’s health when you are older , but right from the start . This already begins with the selection of the German Shepherd by the breeder .

So better keep the puppies out of the trunk and look for a good kennel that can give you precise information about the puppy’s parents and their health.

You can already influence the life expectancy of your German Shepherd when choosing a puppy. A puppy from a reputable breeder will usually have a longer life expectancy!

Because if hereditary diseases rarely or not at all in a breeding line, the chance of a healthy puppy is significantly higher. With young dogs, you should also ensure that they develop well at home, with sufficient exercise and a balanced diet . In order to prevent joint diseases later on, it is advisable not to let the German Shepherd climb stairs for as long as possible and to avoid jumping (e.g. into the car, on the sofa) as far as possible.

Of course, employment , exercise and nutrition are also important in old age, but should be adapted to the needs of the aging dog.

Walks can be a little shorter, but should still take place regularly and several times a day. When it comes to feeding, it depends on the dog. If he eats less than before, but still moves enough, particularly high-quality feed should be offered.

If the German Shepherd is no longer so active, but continues to eat with appetite, a low-calorie diet makes sense.

Further requirements for a healthy senior dog:

The veterinary medicine rather today offers ways to prevent and cure diseases, as was the case a few years ago. Detected early during preventive examinations , not only diseases but also signs of aging can be treated well and delayed.

Go therefore not only to the vet if you notice anything unusual, but take for example, vaccination appointments as an opportunity to make even perform a general health check. Do not forget your teeth, because tartar can not only be painful, make eating much more difficult and thus cause discomfort, but is sometimes even responsible for heart disease, as well as�liver and kidney damage.

A%Ccastration of Shepherd is well worth considering, for neutered dogs live 1-2 years longer on average and females thus have even a significantly reduced risk of Gesäugetumore.

Shepherd dogs that live integrated in the family have a longer lifespan than sheepdogs in the kennel.

Create a loving and safe home with family connections . Because the German Shepherd needs his pack and doesn’t like to live alone outside or in a kennel. Older dogs in particular have a weakened immune system and can get sick more quickly in cold and wet weather conditions. It is better to have a firm and quiet place in the house with a warm basket, which of course should be washed or replaced regularly. Hygiene must also be observed with drinking and feeding bowls so that germs cannot spread. With old dogs, you should also place more emphasis on safety in the house. For example, stairs are real poisonfor the joints and a protective grille can prevent the dog from changing floors several times a day. If you have glass doors in the house, it can also be helpful to mark them with stickers.

In addition to sufficient exercise , the German Shepherd should still be challenged mentally. Older or old dogs can also learn new tricks and get enthusiastic about small, less strenuous games.

Ideally, the German Shepherd is transported in a large aluminum box in the car.

Pay attention to safety in traffic and when traveling!

Only let the German Shepherd off the leash in safe terrain and buckle him up in the car or transport him in a secured trunk.

The lifespan in comparison with other dog breeds

The German Shepherd has a medium to slightly increased life expectancy when compared to other breeds.

Although it is quite large and heavy, it can reach a lifespan of up to 13 years, sometimes even more.

The smaller and light breeds, such as terriers, Maltese or Chihuahua, usually die of old age.

The huge and particularly powerful specimens, however, often have the lowest number of years of life.

The Chihuahua has the longest lifespan or life expectancy of all dogs.

Chihuahua: 15-18 years
Irish Terrier: 13-15 years
Cocker Spaniel: 12-15 years
Labrador : 12-13 years
Maltese: 12-15 years
Irish Setter: 12-15 years
English Springer Spaniel: 12-14 years
German Shepherd: 10-13 years
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: 9-13 years
Weimaraner: 10-12 years
German Boxer: 10-12 years
Rhodesian Ridgeback: 10-12 years
Basset Hound: 10-12 years
Airedale Terrier: 10-12 years
Bullmastiff: 8 -10 Years
Irish Wolfhound: 6-10 Years

The German Shepherd crosses the rainbow bridge – My German Shepherd is dying – say goodbye

My German shepherd dies and walks over the rainbow bridge

A day that every dog ​​owner fears: The beloved four-legged friend begins his last journey over the rainbow bridge.

For some, this moment comes completely unexpected, while others can take a long time to prepare for this moment, for example if the German Shepherd is already very sick.

Of course, it’s not nice to deal with the subject of the death of the dog.

However, if you know how to deal with the situation in an emergency and what options you have after the death of your four-legged friend, you are prepared and do not have to worry your head in this difficult emotional situation and can make clearer decisions.

When should I consider euthanizing my German Shepherd?

Euthanasia should never be considered because living with your four-legged friend becomes a personal burden or it is uncomfortable and time-consuming to take care of the dog.

Yes, it takes effort and work to care for an old or sick animal and the German Shepherd will require more attention and care. But such reasons for euthanasia are more than selfish and hardly any veterinarian will agree to do so.

However, there is also the reverse case, when it is actually time for the four-legged friend to leave, but the master or mistress cannot let go of him. In order not to lose the beloved dog, pain or suffering is overlooked for selfish reasons. The animal tortures itself and its owner only postpones the inevitable.

As dog owners, however, many years ago we took responsibility for our protégé and should always make decisions for the benefit of the animal and put our own fears, demands and worries aside.

The following factors may help you make a decision:

• The age and general health of the German Shepherd
• Is the dog seriously ill?
• Has his nature and behavior changed significantly? For example, does he withdraw more and more?
• How would you rate the German Shepherd’s quality of life and zest for life? Does he still like to be part of the party?
• Can the dog still eat and move independently?
• Does the dog have severe pain or is it suffering a lot?
• If in doubt, ask a veterinarian for advice. He will of course also examine the dog in detail and can thus provide an assessment.

When saying goodbye to the German Shepherd is too difficult

Having the German shepherd euthanized by the vet is certainly not an easy task.

Not everyone can accompany their dog to the very end. Many just don’t find the strength to do it. Especially when the farewell is to take place in a cold, impersonal and sterile veterinary practice.

Those who find it far too difficult emotionally to witness the last moments of their German Shepherd need not be ashamed of it. You may ask someone else to stay with your dog until he falls asleep.

Someone who knows the German shepherd gur and fulfills this favor for you. However, you can only stay with it until your dog has received the tranquilizer. This lets him relax and fall asleep.

Before he then gets the overdosed and fatal anesthetic injection, you can leave the room and only come back when it’s over.

Please do not leave your dog completely alone with the vet during this sad appointment. If you cannot find anyone to accompany him across the rainbow bridge in your place, please stay with him. Even if it is very difficult.

There is nothing worse for a dog than to be alone in this moment and to be abandoned by his loved one. Many veterinarians also confirm this. The dogs are excited, scared, maybe even panicked. Whereas there is much more peace and relaxation when the two-legged friend is at the dog’s side until the end. This gives him security. Try to talk to your German Shepherd, stroke him and just be there.

Have the German Shepherd euthanized at home

However, you also have the option of asking the vet for a home visit so that the German Shepherd can be euthanized there. For many it is easier to say goodbye, feelings are more likely to be allowed and for the dog this often means less stress.

He does not have to be driven to the practice, there may be sitting in the full waiting room and then lying on the cold examination table. At home in his territory, the German Shepherd feels comfortable and safe, especially when his family is with him and is by his side.

Try to be as confident as possible in order to give your four-legged friend security, even if it is difficult. You can and should stroke the German Shepherd and talk to him when the time comes. And yes, you can of course throw your sovereignty overboard and cry unrestrainedly if you feel like it and the situation is too much for you. This is understandable.

Tips for euthanasia in the veterinary practice

1. Discussin advance with the vet exactly what happens when you euthanize so that you can prepare for it.
2. Make an appointment outside of office hoursso you don’t have to wait in the hustle and bustle of the waiting room for the bad moment. The best thing is to take your day off.
3. So that you can leave the practice quickly after the procedure, you should ask for an invoicefor the euthanasia or pay it in advance.
4. Ask someone to accompanyyou to the vet if you don’t feel up to it alone.
5. Bring a blanketor sheet with you to take the dog home with you later if you want to.
6. Please ask the vet for some time to say goodbye. Usually, you will be given enough time before and after the procedure to say goodbye and mourn. Veterinary practices often provide a separate room for such sad appointments.

How can children say goodbye to the German Shepherd?

The loss of a beloved pet and friend often hits children and young people particularly hard. Sometimes this farewell is even the very first encounter with the subject of death. Depending on their age, you should have a child-friendly conversation with your offspring and give an honest answer to all questions.

Avoid white lies like “The dog is going on a trip” or “He ran away”. This only leads to months waiting at the window for the hairy friend to return.

The sentence “The dog fell asleep forever” can also have a negative effect and the child may be afraid to fall asleep in the evening because it believes it will no longer wake up.

The grief is very great, especially in children, when the dog dies

The following can help children get over the loss of their four-legged friend and say goodbye:

• If the dog was sick, tell them that he is no longer in pain and is in a better and more beautiful place. If you are religious, you can say that he is in heaven.
• It can help children to see that you are sad too and that you miss the dog. Never say something like, “It was just a dog”. This can be very hurtful to children’s feelings.
• Say goodbye together. For example, light a candle or put together a photo of the German Shepherd. You can also let the children draw a picture or write a letter. They could, for example, put both of these in the grave at the burial.
• Some children may express a desire to be present at the euthanasia. You should be able to judge best whether your offspring can cope with this emotionally. In fact, it can certainly help people comprehend death and understand that the dog is never coming back. Alternatively, the children can say goodbye to their dead four-legged friend at home and see and stroke them one last time.
• The children can be present at the funeral and actively help shape it. Make grave decorations, like a wreath or pick flowers together. Inscribe a large stone or paint the ceiling in which the German Shepherd will later be wrapped and buried.

What happens to the German Shepherd after he dies?

There are various ways in which you can proceed after the German Shepherd has died. If you think about it early on and find out more, you can make a suitable and, of course, very individual decision on how to say goodbye to the dog.

Money, personal taste and individual requirements play a decisive role here.

1. Veterinary practice and carcass disposal

Anyone who leaves the German Shepherd in the practice after it has been euthanized puts the responsibility for the disposal of the dead dog into the hands of the veterinarian or the removal of the animal carcase. She picks up the dog there together with other deceased pets and then cremates the carcasses for disease protection reasons. Sometimes, however, the animals are also processed into other products, such as soft soap or animal meal.
Some vets also offer to have the deceased German Shepherd cremated on your behalf and then give you the ashes.

2. Pet cemeteries

If you are considering this option, you can either get in touch with the staff at the pet cemetery directly or visit an undertaker in the vicinity who will do the work for you and take care of important processes for you.

You have the choice between a classic burial or an urn grave. In addition, you have many design options for the grave site, with different stones, lights, jewelry and accessories.

3. Burial in your own garden

Bury my German Shepherd in my own garden. What should I put attention on?

If you want to know your deceased pet very close by, you can have a funeral in your own garden.

Here, too, you can design the shepherd dog’s grave site according to your own wishes and ideas.

However, there are some important prerequisites to meet so that your four-legged friend can find its final peace on your property.

These differ depending on the federal state. So get in touch with the competent authority in good time so that there are no problems afterwards. The following conditions often apply:

• The garden must be private property.
• If the German Shepherd died of a reportable disease, he may not be buried.
• If the private property is in a drinking water area, burial must also be avoided.
• The grave must be deep enough to cover the dog with at least 50 cm of earth.
• Inquire about the minimum distances to neighboring properties and public roads.
• Wrap the German Shepherd in material that can rot easily.

4. An urn for the home?

This is also possible. You can have the German Shepherd cremated and then take his ashes home with you. How you proceed with the remains there is your personal decision.

Perhaps you want to scatter the ashes in the flower bed or in a special place? However, you can also store them discreetly in your house or apartment. There are now many urns that are not recognizable as such at first glance and allow discreet storage: Small treasure chests, picture frames that can be filled, urns in star shape, animal figures, etc.

5. New life arises from death: the German Shepherd becomes a tree

With the bio urn, the ashes are buried together with tree seeds in a compostable urn. http://urnabios.com/

This is made possible by a very special biodegradable urn from urnabios.

In addition to the dog’s ashes, it also contains a tree seed. This is initially stored in a separate capsule, which is opened before the burial and mixed with some earth from the intended grave site.

This causes the seed to germinate and its roots eventually penetrate the lower part of the urn (which contains the ashes) and use it as a nutrient for further growth. You have the choice which tree you want your German Shepherd to grow and you can enjoy this very special keepsake for many years.

6. Jewelry – Animal Diamond

A nice and special idea to carry your beloved German Shepherd very close to you even after his death are unique pieces of jewelry. For example, you can use the dog’s fur to create individual bracelets, pendants or chains. If the dog was cremated, on the other hand, it is possible to keep a small part of the ashes in a medallion or the like, even if the rest has been scattered or buried.

Probably the most expensive variant is the production of an animal diamond. The ashes of the dog are also needed for this. From this a synthetic diamond is produced under great pressure in a lengthy process. You then choose the cut for this rough diamond and of course the piece of jewelry in which you would like it to be set.

Of course, you can have a piece of jewelry made from animal hair while the dog is still alive . To do this, you should keep brushed hair. Depending on the choice of jewelry, i.e. whether you only want to have a few hairs locked in a pearl or a whole bracelet made of dog hair, a different amount of hair is required. You can inquire about this from the respective manufacturer.

7. A paw print from the German Shepherd

A nice memory of the hairy friend is also a paw print . To do this, clean the paw and, for example, press it in clay or take a plaster cast. You can also use an ink pad or paint (e.g. finger paint). If you have children, a joint project can be made out of it while the dog is still alive. In addition to the dog’s paw print, children can also immortalize their hand or foot prints next to it. If you like, you can frame the picture and maybe write the date and name of the dog.

The post German Shepherd Dog Life Expectancy and Lifespan appeared first on Dog Fiesta Online.

The dog will quickly learn that its owner is in charge and will grow up to be a good-natured, playful and loyal companion.

You start with the upbringing when you are a puppy or as soon as the German Shepherd moves into your own home.

In addition to the pure upbringing, a German Shepherd dog needs sufficient exercise as well as mental and physical activity.

Why training your German Shepherd is so important!

You certainly want to live harmoniously with your four-legged friend. This also includes a regulated hierarchy, a species-appropriate home, employment and training. The great basic character of your four-legged friend can only develop if you instruct and train your dog.

Benefits of a good upbringing:

• Achieving training successes and celebrating together is fun.
• Is beneficial for a good bondbetween dog and human.
• The order of precedenceis regulated and clarified.
• The German Shepherd will learn to trustyour skills and your judgment .
• Simplifies communicationbetween four and two-legged friends.
• Ensures a regular coexistence. The dog knows the rules in his family home.
• It is not a problem to take the dog with you everywhere. No matter whether on walks, whether there are dog encounters, whether he should go to the beer garden or to friends.
• A well-behaved dog can enjoy more freedombecause it obeys commands and knows how to behave. For example, a dog that can be reliably retrieved may walk without a leash.
• Dog walks are relaxedand you don’t have to worry that other dogs will be molested, cyclists barked or cars chased.
• Your dog can stay at home alone without a Bell concertand is not a nuisance for neighbors.
• Visitors can be received without any problems.
• Your German Shepherd does not destroy anythingin the house.

Tips for raising your German Shepherd

Every beginning is difficult. It will take many repetitions until the German Shepherd understands you and your commands. Here are a few tips so that the training goes right from the start and there are no obstacles in your way:

Little distraction

You also cannot concentrate when there is a lot of hustle and bustle and it is loud or hectic. Your dog feels the same way. It will be difficult for him to concentrate on you and to work with you. For a puppy who wants to discover everything anyway and finds everything exciting, it is even more a challenge.

Therefore, always train in a low-irritant environment at the beginning , such as the living room, the garden or a quiet dirt road. Slowly increase the level of distraction. Of course, your dog should follow your commands later, even if the distraction is great.

Pay attention to your timing

It is very important to praise or blame the dog at the precise moment when it shows desired or undesirable behavior. It’s actually of little use if you scold him, even though his action may have been a few minutes ago. Because dogs live in the moment and after a few moments no longer remember the wrongdoing or the correct execution of a command.

Keep calm

Dog training can be frustrating . A command that has already been practiced a thousand times still does not work or your German Shepherd reliably switches to pull-through when requested. Setbacks can occur, especially during puberty , and perfectly mastered commands seem to be forgotten again. Stay relaxed. Training will always pay off in the long run. Under no circumstances should you hit the German shepherd or keep talking and scolding him!

Remain reliable and consistent

If you always react the same or at least similarly in similar situations , this strengthens your dog’s trust in you. He will learn that you take the lead in a situation, that he can trust you and that your behavior is predictable. If your dog learns, for example, that he has nothing to do with the sofa, he will not try to do so with the neighbors when he is visiting.

Likewise, all bipeds should think in advance what the dog is allowed to do and what is not. Everyone without exception has to adhere to this.

So clarifies questions such as …

• Can the dog sleep on the bed or sofa?
• Can he jump in to greet us?
• Licking hands is okay?
• Do we allow him to make in the garden or in the yard?
• Should he make a sound with visitors or do we generally prevent barking?

Get to know your own name

The training of the German Shepherd must begin as early as possible. You have to start with the right upbringing on the day you move into the new house.

One of the first things a German Shepherd puppy should learn is their own name.

In order for the dog to understand that it is meant, the name must be practiced over and over

For example, if the dog runs towards its owner, the name of the four-legged friend is called. Then there is praise .

This creates a positive link from name to praise . After a few exercises, the German Shepherd usually understood very quickly that he was meant.

However, you should never associate his name with something unwanted, so that the four-legged friend does not associate it with a punishment.

For example, if the dog has done his business in the apartment, you should%2n’t giv� his name , but rather give a clear command, such as ” No “.

Important: Set Limits

The German Shepherd has to get to know his limits from an early age, so that later no unpleasant behavior has to be laboriously trained again.

In addition to the consequence, setting boundaries is one of the pillars of a proper German Shepherd education.

Here it is always important to be calm but determined. For example, if the new family member is constantly begging at the table, they should not give in.

Again, a clear command, such as “No”, is much better here and you can point to your place with your arm / hand for support.

If the puppy does not comply with this request, you lead him to his place and let him sit down. Then it is praised and you go back to lunch.

The puppy will probably try his luck again and again and beg at the table. Consistency is required here. The scenario is repeated until the dog has learned that he cannot get anything from the table and that he should not beg.

This method can be used in many different situations, such as when the dog is not allowed in the bed or on the sofa.

How do I get my German Shepherd house trained?

In order to get the German Shepherd house trained , patience is also required. It is recommended that for the time immediately after the puppy purchase to take leave so that the project “housebreaking” can be better performed.

If a puppy comes loose in the apartment, it is because he is not yet able to control his bladder: he must be physically mature enough and able to control it. Besides, he doesn’t know that heaps are not allowed in the apartment. He has to learn this and be trained first.

• First of all, it is important to observe the animal closely and pay attention to any signs. If the German Shepherd becomes very restless, squeaks and / or even looks at the door, then this is a clear sign that things have to be done quickly now. Here you usually don’t have any more time to move, for example, because if the puppy “has to”, then it has to.
• After the new roommate has done their business outside of the apartment, they receive extensive praise. So he combines going out and solving with something positive . In addition, the four-legged friend learns here that it is correct to report when he has to do his business.
• If you weren’t fast enough or if you didn’t notice that the animal wanted to get out, then the German Shepherd should never be punished for it afterwards. Because the puppy cannot link the previous act with a later scolding.
• Since puppies usually have to loosen up after sleeping, drinking, eatingand playing, you should go out with them immediately afterwards.
• You should also go out with the puppy in the morning after waking up and in the evening before going to bed. Here is a clear advantage who has your garden or yard. So the puppy can be let out quickly in between times.
• Some prefer a puppy toilet that is set up in a permanent location for the early days or for the night. However, it can later be difficult to train the dog to loosen up in the house or he will still go to this place, even if the puppy toilet is no longer there.

The commands “sit” and “sit down”

The important basic terms that the German Shepherd should learn are ” seat ” and ” place “. It is best to choose a quiet environment for the exercise lessons in which the dog is not distracted. Then proceed as follows for the “Sit” exercise:

• Stand directly in front of the puppy with a treat in hand. Now stretch out your index finger and raise your arm so that the animal has to look up to see the treat. The animal will now sit down while looking up, if only because of the treat.
• As soon as the puppy sits down, “Sit” is called.
• Then you praise the German shepherd and give him his well-deserved treat.
• If the puppy tries to jump up during the exercise, they clearly shout “No”, step back and start again.

Once the four-legged masters the command “sit”, “may place ” to be practiced. To do this, first let the animal “ sit ”. Then you take a treat again and walk on the floor with your flat outstretched hand.

The German Shepherd will make “room” by itself to get to the treat under the hand that is now on the floor. As soon as the animal “makes room”, praise is given again and the treat is given. However, if the dog gets up from the “seat”, start all over again.

In time it will no longer be necessary to bring your hand to the ground. Then the command and possibly the flat hand, which is only brought down a short distance, is sufficient.

“Stay”: stay seated, even if it’s difficult

Especially with such a large breed of dog as the German Shepherd, it is important that the dog can master the basic commands.

If the German Shepherd is supposed to wait at one point, it is practiced as follows:

• First of all, the puppy is given the command ” sit“.
• Then ” stay” is called and slowly a few steps away.
• If the German shepherd stays seated, you go back, praise him and he gets the obligatory treat.
• If he follows, he will be led back to his starting point and the exercise started again.
• If the puppy remains seated but barks, wait until he is calm again and only then go back to him.
• Now the distance is gradually increased according to the same scheme.

“Here”: Come on command

If the German Shepherd has mastered the command “Stay”, “Here” is practiced. The puppy should come directly to the owner from his seat.

• First, the command ” stay” is given and as usual you move away from your dog.
• Now there is a loud, drawn-out shout “ Here” and the command is combined with an outstretched arm and forefinger pointing to the ground in front of you.
• If the dog comes running up, he is immediately praisedand allowed to eat a treat.
• As soon as this step works, the dog can also be given the command ” sit” when it has reached the owner . And here too there is praise and treats distributed. That way, he doesn’t run away straight away, but stays on site.
• However, if the puppy strays along the way, the exercise is repeated.

“Off”: the restoration of the “booty”

Again and again it happens when dogs go for a walk that dogs take something in their mouths that is not suitable for eating, but which they are reluctant to give back or not at all.

The ” Off ” command provides a remedy here . To do this, the dog is first played with, for example with a stick or ball. Now you take a treat in your hand and let your four-legged friend sniff it.

Since the urge to eat is usually far more tempting than the ball or stick, the German Shepherd will drop the toy.

And it is precisely at this moment that you have to shout “Off” and give the treat. Again, patience and repetition lead to the goal.

“No”: a command with a “second command”

Another important command in dog training is ” No “. “No” is best practiced in conjunction with another command, such as “sit”. If the dog does not stay seated, “No” is called out.

If he sits again, the puppy is praised. The command does not have to be pronounced loudly but definitely. As soon as the German Shepherd understands that “No” means that he is not allowed to do something, he will obey the command in other situations as well.

With this command it is important that after the “No”, another command is called immediately and the puppy is rewarded. As an example: If the puppy is about to eat something incompatible, “No” is called out.

Now, as a rule, he raises his head and looks at his owner. At this moment a “here” should follow. The four-legged friend runs back and is praised.

In this way he connects the prohibition, the command “No”, with something positive. In this way, the relationship between the owner and the German Shepherd is further strengthened.

In addition, the puppy is much more likely to obey the “no” when it knows that something positive will come afterwards.

Getting used to the collar and leash

It is relatively easy to get the German Shepherd puppy used to a leash with a few tricks.

For puppies, only chest harnesses or soft and wide collars should initially be used.

The new roommate gets used to the collar very quickly if he has it tied on before he receives his food .

In this way, the collar quickly becomes something really “great”, because: collar means food . If he can easily tie the collar on, the same exercise is repeated with the leash.

The first time out on a leash

Once the German Shepherd has got used to the collar and leash, the first leashed excursion outside follows. If the puppy does not trust this new situation and does not move from the spot, you proceed as follows:

• Often it is helpful to be persuaded.
• If friendliness fails, then you lure with a treat or your favorite toy.
• Under no circumstances should the dog be fooled, as the four-legged friend quickly notices that he is successful with his “not running”.

If, on the other hand, the little one pulls on the leash, a very simple measure helps: Stand still. If the dog moves on, you stay there until it turns around and the leash sags. Now is the time to praise and move on.

However, this exercise must be repeated immediately each time you pull. Otherwise, the animal will certainly pull relentlessly on the leash even in adulthood because it doesn’t know anything else.

Leash aggression in the German Shepherd Dog

A dog with leash aggression is often difficult to handle. Some representatives of the breed make a huge riot on a leash, but fortunately only mob, others would (if they could) even attack. But it doesn’t matter whether your dog is just defensive or would bite:

It is a risk for you and other owners and their four-legged friends. Keep in mind that a German Shepherd pulling on a leash can, in the worst case scenario, throw you off balance. You could get injured, or your dog could run into the street, cause an accident, or get into a bite. All very unpleasant scenarios.

But what are the actual triggers for line aggression:

Your four-legged friend may just be frustrated. The short leash prevents communication via body language with conspecifics. In addition, the German Shepherd may not be allowed to run to every other dog, but would like to. At some point, the frustration turns into pulling and tugging and the German Shepherd is excited and frustrated. Often, such linen rambos are quite peaceful and tolerable in free run .

But it could also be that little emphasis was placed on socializing the four-legged friend in the puppy and young dog age . Here the German Shepherd doesn’t know what to do with his counterpart or has never really been able to learn the “dog language”.

A poor ranking in one’s own pack can also be a cause of aggression. Your German Shepherd may feel that they have to take the lead and regulate encounters with other dogs themselves.

Other triggers:

• Territorial behavior
• Protective instinct
• Bad experiences with other four-legged friends (biting incidents, bullying, etc.)
• Sexual partner (bitch in heat) / rivals
• Nemesis (some dogs just can’t smell each other for whatever reason)
• Pain can lead to a skipping act and the German Shepherd suddenly reacts aggressively. If there were no special incidents and your dog is suddenly aggressive on the leash, please visit a veterinarian to rule out diseases.

What can I do if my German Shepherd is aggressive on leashes?

Stay cool

Your behavior has a decisive influence on how the German Shepherd acts on a leash. A confident dog handler with a confident demeanor and strong personality is classified as reliable by four-legged friends . In other words, if you stay calm, your dog will likely too. Conversely, if you are nervous, tense, screaming, jerking the leash or panicking, your dog does not trust you to lead.

Remember : All four-legged friends have a keen sense of the mood of their owners and also notice hormone fluctuations. So try to be determined and prudent.

Rethink your equipment

Ask yourself whether your four-legged friend is being exercised and exercised sufficiently. Dogs that are physically and mentally stressed develop bad habits much less often. But the way you go for a walk with your German Shepherd is also important. Can he enjoy running freely, does he have contact with other dogs? If it is not available, make sure you work on it and temporarily use a tow line for more freedom of movement. If the German Shepherd is not on a leash and pulls often, work on this problem as well. By the way, it could also help here to switch from a collar to a harness, as this puts less pressure and pain on the neck.

Try “Bribery”

From now on, combine dog encounters with something pleasant. As soon as you meet another four-legged friend, conjure up your dog’s absolute favorite  treats. Hold these under your German Shepherd’s nose to distract him. You are welcome to offer small mini-bites until the meeting is over and the other dog has walked by. A toy works just as well as treats for some candidates.

Avoid dog encounters

You can specifically avoid places where many dog ​​owners are around. Or you can postpone your walks to a time when there are few other dog-human teams outside. For example, very early in the morning.

It can also be useful to determine the individual distance of your German Shepherd. Many dogs only react aggressively when this is not reached. Some wait until the strange conspecific is in the immediate range, while others, when they can see a long distance, rump around and throw themselves on the leash. If you know your dog’s tolerance, you can always keep a certain minimum distance.

Prevent eye contact.

When you meet a dog, push yourself between you and the other four-legged friends. So you’re acting as a buffer. You can also let your German Shepherd go behind you or block the view with your legs.

Also possible: Dodge behind a hedge or wall or use a parked vehicle to avoid eye contact. You can also introduce the command “look” using a clicker. Here the dog should concentrate entirely on you and keep eye contact with you until you give the order to dissolve.

If another dog comes towards you, you can also let your four-legged friend “sit” or “take a seat” with your back to the supposed rival.

Go to the dog trainer

Fast, effective, with individually tailored training . If you want to get a grip on leash aggression in German shepherds as quickly as possible, a dog school or a dog trainer is the best choice. Here you get quick feedback and lots of tips. The trainer can observe you and your four-legged friend and quickly find out the cause of the aggression. You will probably first practice on the training ground before you get down to business together.

By the way : take responsibility if you have a dog with leash aggression. A muzzle not only provides security that nothing can happen in an emergency, but also takes a lot of stress out of the situation. And as already mentioned: If you are relaxed, the dog is usually too.

Leave the German Shepherd alone

You should start at an early stage to leave the puppy alone for a very short time. Daily walks to the mailbox, car or to the garbage cans are ideal for such an exercise.

When the German Shepherd is at some point very quietly in its place, you simply go out the front door without fuss and come back straight away.

Before the puppy knows it, you reward him with a treat. If these short alone phases are accepted without complaint, you can keep expanding the time. If the dog whines, however, you must never come back immediately.

The puppy will judge this as a result of its howling and so will get louder and louder. As soon as the animal is calm, you return to the house.

If the time of being alone is extended, you should take a long walk for a walk in advance, play with the four-legged friend extensively and give him time to loosen up. Tired and relieved, it is much easier to wait for the owner.

More tips:

• Do n’t do a big goodbye or welcome scene. It should become normal for you to come and go.
• Create taboo areas aroundthe house, like the bathroom or kitchen. You can also make rooms inaccessible with a door guard. So the four-legged friend can still see you.
• Do not stay near the apartment / house when you go out. Your dog can smell and hear your presence. If you want to know what your German Shepherd is up to, use a webcamor a special pet camera . The latter will even alert you on your cell phone if your dog barks, because it registers sounds and noises. So you can see what’s going on at home.
• Offer up a chewor treat as a distraction when you leave.
• Of course, it is nice for your German shepherd when he has four-legged company and thus another pack member is present. This makes it a little easier when people are away from home. However, this is not a free pass to leave the dogs alone forever. Even two dogs have needs and need to relieve themselves, want to play and be occupied.
• Create a nice retreatfor your dog. A comfortable dog bed or even a cozy transport box .

How long can I leave my German Shepherd alone?

Some dogs may be lucky, and there is almost always someone at home around the clock. But even in such a case there can be situations where the dog just can’t go along. To the supermarket, to the dentist, to the cinema or restaurant, for example. So you have to get your dog used to being alone every now and then.

Because of course a pack animal will not find it particularly pleasant to look after the house alone and wait for the return of its people. Puppies in particular can panic quickly , which is understandable, because in nature small puppies are at the mercy of predators if no conspecifics are present to defend themselves. Nevertheless, after the puppy has been able to settle in with you for some time, you should start getting him used to being alone at an early stage.

But how long can a dog be expected to be alone? Here the opinions differ significantly and there is passionate discussion. People who have a full-time job explain that 8 or 9 hours is fine if the dog is sufficiently busy and occupied the time before and after. Others, however, are of the opinion that this is too long and that the four-legged friend must be able to loosen up in between. Some therefore limit the time to 4-5 hours.

As always, a case-by-case approach is probably necessary to determine the correct number of hours. However, working people should actually keep in mind that it is not species-appropriate if their four-legged friend is alone all day. It should have a home care be given. So pet sitters, dog day care centers, etc. Another family member, friend or neighbor could visit the dog in between and keep him busy or go for a walk. Maybe you can go home for a short time during your lunch break?

The post German Shepherd Training – Tips for Handling the German Shepherd Dog appeared first on Dog Fiesta Online.

Hardly any other breed has achieved such great worldwide popularity as the former herding dog from southern Germany. Nowadays, the strong-nerved and robust four-legged friend is a versatile working dog and is used in numerous sectors. But the German Shepherd is not only in demand with the police, rescue services and the military.

Active families also know how to appreciate and love the clever and loyal guard dog as a four-legged family member. However, if you are thinking of buying a German Shepherd, you should carefully examine the needs and characteristics of the breed so that there are no unpleasant surprises later. It is not for nothing that beginners are often advised against the breed. Because it is very demanding and needs meaningful occupation
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10 facts about the German Shepherd Dog
1. FCI Standard Number 166, Group 1: Herding Dogs and Cattle Dogs, Section 1: Shepherd Dogs (with working trial)
2. country of origin: Germany
3. Height at withers: male 60-65 cm / bitch 55-60 cm
4. Weight: male 30-40kg / female 22-32 kg
5. The shepherd dog is ideal as a guard, guard, herding and service dog. But is also often kept as a family and companion.
6. Coat variants: stick hair and long stick hair
7. Originally, white was not a false color, but was removed from the standard in 1933. However, white specimens occur from time to time and can hardly be distinguished from the breed of the “White Swiss Shepherd Dogs” (also called “Berger Blanc Suisse”). Since the latter are regarded as a separate breed, white shepherds may not be crossed with the Berger Blanc Suisse or designated as such.
8. The long stick hair variant has been included in the breed standard again since 2008.
9. According to the breeder Stephanitz, the bitch “Mores Plieningen” was a wolf mixed breed.
10. The sloping back, which is still preferred by many breeders, is repeatedly criticized. No wonder: has the German Shepherd achieved notoriety in connection with joint dysplasia and especially HD.

If the German Shepherd is well socialized, he is extremely fond of children and a great family dog.

German Shepherd – History
The German Shepherd’s success story begins, as the name suggests, on German soil. The ancestors of the dog, which is so popular today, were used to herd and drive herds , but also guarded the life and limb and belongings of their owners. The German Shepherd Dog especially comes from the hits from Thuringia and Württemberg. As a herding dog, the clever breed is rarely used today. However, it is very popular worldwide as a service dog and the undisputed number 1.

At the end of the 19th century, such sheepdogs were occasionally crossed with real wolves, presumably to encourage the stick-haired type. However, this practice was soon abandoned as the animals were often too aggressive. One of these mixed wolf breeds was the bitch “Mores Plieningen”, an ancestor of the famous “Horand von Grafrath”.

In 1998 this male came into the possession of the Rittmeister Max von Stephanitz (1864-1936), the founder of the German Shepherd breed as we know it today. Stephanitz was also a co-founder of the “Association for German Shepherds” from 1899 and “Horand von Grafrath” was the first dog to be included in its stud book (number SZ 1). A first standard was drawn up in the same year.

During the two world wars, the German Shepherd Dog was discovered by the military and used at the front. Most of the four-legged friends lost their lives. In the Third Reich, the breed was even used as a propaganda tool and a National Socialist symbol. No wonder that the German Shepherd Dog was not known by its real name abroad for a long time, but simply as ” Alsatian “.

Celebrities with German Shepherds
Certainly the presence of the German Shepherd in films and series has also contributed to its great popularity. Whether as a dangerous and snarling guard dog or a clever colleague at the side of snoopers and police officers: the German Shepherd knows how to put himself in the limelight. Just like some of its prominent owners. Because not a few stars and starlets have come across the (shepherd) dog. Need a choice?
• Chuck Norris (Action Star)
• Burt Reynolds (actor)
• Reese Witherspoon (actress)
• Enrique Iglesias (singer)
• Jake Gyllanhaal (actor)
• Jennifer Lopez (actress / singer)
• Katherine Heigl (actor)

What is typical German Shepherd Dog?
• He hairs all year round. Plan more cleaning effort!
• Consistent parenting is absolutely essential. He must know and accept his place in the hierarchy.
• Not necessarily suitable for beginners.
• Needs a meaningful job and a lot of activity.
• He is observant and very confident. A perfect watchdog.
• As a family dog, the German Shepherd should be particularly well socialized and trained
• He is loyal to his family and develops a very close bond with his caregiver.
• Excellent for dog sports, but also for a serious task (avalanche, guide or rescue dog, for example).

What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd?
The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 9-13 years . Of course, a number of factors influence the actual life expectancy of your four-legged friend. Obesity, illnesses and genetic diseases, for example, can make the life of the German Shepherd much shorter. Fortunately, as the owner, you can do a lot to give your dog a species-appropriate and hopefully long life:

Tips for a long dog life
• Only buy from reputable breeders to rule out hereditary diseases as far as possible.
• Feed good quality and balanced food .
• Overweight should be avoided at all costs
• Provide plenty of exercise and mental activity, this will keep you physically and mentally fit.
• Get your German Shepherd vaccinated.
• Regular worm and flea cures keep the dog free from parasites .
• Don’t wait long to see a doctor if your German Shepherd shows symptoms.
• The German Shepherd Dog loves their people and needs a caregiver. Establish family connections.
• Care for your four-legged friend regularly and pay attention to physical abnormalities and changes in behavior.
• Educate your dog, this can protect him from dangerous situations in everyday life.
• The shepherd dog must be appropriately secured when being transported by car or other means of transport.

Of course, even the healthiest four-legged friend will get sick at some point or at least be afflicted by some age-related complaints in advanced yeaEFs. Adapt everyday life to the dog’s new needs and give him more rest and relaxation.

After a hopefully beautiful and long dog life, your German Shepherd will eventually cross the Rainbow Bridge at some point . It’s nice when you say goodbye to him and want to accompany him on this last journey. Since he was a part of your life, you will certainly want to remember him properly afterwards and maybe even bury him. Nowadays there are many ways to create a creative souvenir of your four-legged friend, which can help children in particular to cope with grief.

Before the puppy moves in with you
If you want to buy a German Shepherd puppy , an exciting time will soon begin with a lot to plan and organize. First of all, a reputable breeder has to be found, because after all you want a German Shepherd puppy that is as healthy as possible and as free from hereditary diseases as possible.

If you have found a good kennel and are visiting the puppies for the first time, do not be blinded by all the cuteness, but carefully examine the mother dog and puppies to get an idea of the health of the animals. Pay attention to the following:

How do I recognize a healthy German Shepherd puppy?
• The dogs are happy to see the breeder and do not appear intimidated or aggressive.
• The pups are lively, active, and playful.
• The coat is clean and well-groomed without bald spots, redness, scales or the like.
• Eyes are clear with no discharge
• Ears are clean and have no strong odor
• The puppies have no bad breath
• You won’t find any adhesions on the hind legs or around the anus region
• No coordination problems, lameness or other impairments of the musculoskeletal system
• The belly should not look round and bloated (worms!)
• The puppies can be touched and also briefly held
• You look forward to visitors, are open-minded and curious

If you have decided on a German Shepherd puppy, the selected candidate will be reserved for you and a deposit will often be made. All you have to do now is wait and prepare your home for the newcomer. After all, the puppies spend the first valuable weeks with their mother and the other dogs in the kennel before they are handed over to their new owners in the 8th week at the earliest.

Until then, you have to make your home or apartment safe for puppies. Move valuable objects out of reach of the dog, as well as poisonous potted and garden plants, medicines, power cables, cleaning supplies and defuse sources of danger such as stairs or balconies. The garden should also be protected against escape and be fenced in sufficiently high.

Most of all, the anticipation increases the extensive shopping for the German Shepherd puppy. Only your budget sets limits when buying the initial equipment. And if you like, you can really let off steam in the pet shop or in the online shop. However, the puppy doesn’t really need much at the beginning. You can also choose accessories that are adjustable and therefore grow with you for a while. The dog bed can also already be adapted to the final size of the German Shepherd Dog, for example. Also, think about a sufficient amount of the usual puppy food for the first few weeks and read through a few specialist books .

Solid upbringing and consistent leadership are a must
Those who would like to buy a German Shepherd often choose a puppy. However, future owners should be aware of the responsibility that comes with the upbringing and socialization of such a furball. The German Shepherd outgrows the puppy age faster than expected and the once clumsy rascal quickly becomes strong and likes to test his limits. If you want a reliable partner for life and a loyal companion, you should be conscientious in training and a good pack leader towards the dog.

Do not put the education of the German Shepherd Dog on the back burner, but start training as soon as you move in. Establish clear rules and make no exceptions to them. Your dog will notice very quickly if you are not consistent enough and will learn to skillfully exploit your weak points. If such small power struggles or bad habits have crept in, they are difficult to train again later.

If the German Shepherd is your first dog at all, you shouldn’t leave upbringing to chance, but get professional guidance from a dog school . This can avoid much later grief and frustration. Here you will learn the important basics of dog ownership, such as basic commands, keeping a leash and many other important basics. The protective instinct should also be steered in the right direction . Fortunately, the German Shepherd Dog is very willing to learn and often happily works with you.

Of course, the puppy should also learn to be house trained, must know its name and should stay relaxed if it has to be left alone every now and then. Be patient and work with a lot of praise and positive reinforcement. In addition, conscientiously continued the familiarization and socialization that had already begun with the breeder and made the puppies familiar with children in particular. Especially if it is to be kept as a family dog.

Why is German Shepherd Training so important?
• Clear rules make it easier for humans and animals to live together
• The dog knows its place in the hierarchy
• A reliable, consistent and level headed pack leader is gladly accepted as such
• A trained dog knows how to behave and is welcome everywhere as a guest
• 40 kg pulling on the leash is no picnic
• Shepherds that bark at the slightest noise or freak out at dog encounters are annoying and sometimes even dangerous
• The dog develops trust in you and your abilities
• Basic commands can protect the German Shepherd from danger if they are followed reliably.
• A well-trained German Shepherd can enjoy more freedom, such as running without a leash, contact with fellow dogs or the privilege of being able to go anywhere.

Meaningful German Shepherd employment
The German Shepherd Dog is a power pack , very persistent, willing to learn and intelligent. He is not a dog for couch potatoes and couch potatoes, but only suitable for active people who have a lot of time and desire to deal with the German Shepherd and his needs, want to occupy him in a species-appropriate manner and repeatedly challenge him according to his nature.

Nice, long and varied walks several times a day are only the basis. In addition, regular training, games and other activities are necessary. In order to promote his intellect, mental challenges should also be on the daily schedule.

You will find an optimal combination of mental and physical activity in dog sports . Brisk agility or calm obedience are ideal for the utilization of the German Shepherd. Or you can try Frisbee, dog dance or pull dog sport for even more fun.

If the fun alone is not enough for you, you can compete with others at dog sports tournaments, but you should first pass the companion dog test with your German Shepherd. It is compulsory for most sports. The very ambitious can also complete training with their German Shepherd. The therapy dog work is very demanding and there are also many challenges to master in a rescue dog team . The main thing is that you give the German Shepherd a task, no matter what type of occupation you choose. Because without meaningful work, the breed cannot be happy in the long run.

Very important: When you are a puppy or young dog, avoid movements that put a lot of stress on the joints and bones. These include, for example, jumps, rapid changes of direction and abrupt braking. Otherwise it can lead to premature wear and tear and further problems with the musculoskeletal system.

Basic rules for working with your German Shepherd
• Motivate your dog! Treats should be as low in calories as possible and only used sparingly. Caresses, extensive praise or a favorite toy do the same
• Don’t force yourself if your German Shepherd doesn’t feel like it or doesn’t immediately understand a task.
• Avoid training sessions and games after eating, in extreme heat, or when the German Shepherd is not otherwise alert and motivated.
• Try something new every now and then to discover your dog’s likes and talents.
• Shepherds learn quickly, but they should not be overwhelmed. Be patient and slowly increase the difficulty of a task
• Supervise the German Shepherd when it comes to new activities and initially only give new toys under supervision.
• You declare a game or training session over, not the dog. So you’d better stop when your Vierbeier is still busy and is not already listlessly looking for other interesting things.

How do I recognize a good German Shepherd breeder?

Since the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds at all, it is not surprising that there are an enormous number of puppy offers and “breeders” of this breed. Not all of them are serious and whoever has the choice is well known to be in agony.

How you can make a good breeder out of the flood of advertisements and offers, we will tell you here:
• Advice to new owners before and long after the purchase
• There are not many dogs or several different breeds in the kennel.
• The interior looks well-kept, as do the animals
• You are not only allowed to see the puppies, but also the bitch and, if possible, the stud dog (if he comes from the same kennel)
• The breeder won’t talk you into a puppy
• He will help you choose the right dog and advise you on the puppy’s personality
• The submission age is adhered to (not before the 8th week of life!)
• All dogs receive high-quality food, are vaccinated and dewormed, have a microchip and have been health checked
• Only dogs that have passed the breeding suitability test are used for breeding
• Health certificates certify harmlessness with regard to hereditary diseases
• The German Shepherd has completed and passed a character test at the ZTP
• The delivery of the puppy always takes place with the purchase contract
• Sometimes you get a starter package with the usual food, a little puppy guide, a toy or something similar
• The breeder attaches great importance to initial socialization and habituation
• You will be asked questions about dog experience, intended use of the puppy, housing and much more. The breeder does NOT care where his protégés go.

The well-being of his animals is very important to a reputable German shepherd breeder . He will not breed according to a modern ideal of beauty (e.g. steeply sloping back), but pay attention to the health and strength of his breeding dogs. He prefers to advise a prospective customer against a purchase if he considers it unsuitable, instead of quickly giving his puppies to the first person to come.

Shepherd dog breeders who belong to an association are also subject to certain conditions, controls and obligations and have undergone training.

What requirements do I have to meet before buying a German Shepherd?
A dog’s attitude is often seen through rose-colored glasses. The German Shepherd Dog in particular can often be seen in film and television, and this can quickly lead to wrong ideas and expectations of the dog. If you are seriously considering buying a German Shepherd, you should think carefully about whether you really want to take responsibility for a demanding living being for 9-13 years and whether you can do justice to your four-legged friend at all.

Am i ready for a German Shepherd?
Before you buy a German Shepherd, you should meet a few requirements:
• You can not only afford the purchase price of the German Shepherd, but also all regular running costs.
• There is a financial cushion for unexpected expenses, such as expensive surgery
• Keeping a dog is permitted in your apartment or house (e.g. if you live for rent)
• Everyone agrees with the purchase of the German Shepherd or there are actually legitimate doubts / objections
• Everyone is ready to work and train the dog
• There are no animal hair allergies and nobody is afraid of dogs
• Do you have enough time for the dog? Upbringing, training, dog school, walks, employment or even care are not done on the side.
• Is your lifestyle and your professional situation compatible with keeping a German Shepherd?
• Who will take care of the dog if you should be seriously ill or if the four-legged friend cannot go on vacation?
• Where do you live? Is the environment suitable for a German Shepherd?
• Puppies sometimes go into the apartment and the remains have to be disposed of on walks. Does it disturb you?

It’s nice when you meet all the requirements. However, this does not mean at the same time that your personality and your expectations are actually compatible with keeping a dog. Unfortunately, the shepherd dog’s urge to move is often underestimated, the amount of work and time involved in keeping a dog or the financial expenses.

The German Shepherd needs a lot of exercise and activity. This is what you should think about before you buy a German Shepherd!

Disadvantages of keeping a dog:
• The German Shepherd needs a meaningful occupation and task. Are you willing to take sufficient care of his needs and meet his nature?
• The breed is willing to learn and willing to cooperate, but of course does not educate itself
• Insufficiently educated dogs or four-legged friends that are underutilized tend to behave in an undesired manner or, in the worst case, to be aggressive
• The watchful and protective instincts must be guided in controlled paths
• The breed sheds all year round, but particularly heavily in spring and autumn. This will be noticeable in your apartment or on your clothes.
• It is due to the popularity of the dog and dubious breeders that the breed is increasingly afflicted by some hereditary diseases
• Raising puppies is not child’s play. Prepare for piles in the apartment, destroyed objects, howling and barking (if the dog has to stay alone) and other surprises
• Older dogs need more attention and sometimes become incontinent
• Spontaneity and elaborate hobbies can fall by the wayside
• Leisure and vacations are planned around the dog’s needs
• From now on there is no more sleep. Several times a day you have to go outside the door with the dog regardless of the weather.
• High running costs

All these disadvantages of keeping a German shepherd just make you smile? Are you well aware of your responsibility and would you like to give your life a new job on four paws? Then many great advantages are waiting for you.

Advantages of keeping a dog:
• You are fulfilling a dream
• It is a lot of work but also wonderful to watch the German Shepherd puppies grow up
• You can train the dog according to your own ideas
• Together you can celebrate learning successes and master new challenges
• You get a loyal companion
• Your German Shepherd will surely make a good watchdog and protector
• With good socialization, your children will have a loyal friend
• Your life gets a breath of fresh air
• Working with your four-legged friend simply puts you in a good mood
• You will be outside a lot more and move around more than before
• Complete an apprenticeship or face challenges in dog sports
• Play, cuddle and a tail wagging greeting every time you come home – wonderful!

Shepherds in need hope for a new home
The German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. A circumstance that unfortunately also leads to the fact that accordingly many specimens are innocently homeless and without rulers, end up in the animal shelter or are simply abandoned heartlessly. The reasons for a German Shepherd in need are varied:

How does a German Shepherd get into trouble?
• He was suspended (during the holiday season)
• Financial costs or the time required were underestimated
• The professional situation is no longer compatible with keeping a dog (e.g. unemployment)
• Keeping a dog is (no longer) allowed / changed living situation
• Its owner has passed away
• Suddenly occurring animal hair allergies
• The German Shepherd had to go because offspring was announced
• In terms of health, the owner is no longer able to do justice to the German Shepherd
• After a divorce / separation nobody wants to have the dog
• Its owners emigrate

Often it is actually the overwhelming demands of its owner that is to blame for the dog’s misery. A German Shepherd was bought with wrong ideas and expectations, without first having thoroughly dealt with the specifics and needs of the breed. But it’s nice if you decide to give a German Shepherd in need a second chance. You make an important contribution to animal welfare and give a battered soul a new and hopefully permanent home.

Be aware, however, that something is not always known about the history of a German Shepherd in distress. As with abandoned dogs or four-legged friends from abroad. Dogs from animal welfare are also not infrequently traumatized, have diseases or are infested with parasites or show behaviors that are more than undesirable. Such shepherds are often nothing for beginners. You need a lot of patience, experience and consistency to get a grip on aggression and other bad habits with the right training.

But of course such emergencies are not always problem cases at the same time. Some sheepdogs may just have been unlucky, are well behaved and eagerly await their new owners.
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Why should I choose a registered and certified stud dog?
When breeding German Shepherds, particular care and caution is required. Because breeding does not just mean mating two dogs and selling the puppies for a profit, but rather the quality of the breed should be maintained or continuously improved. This also includes the ambition to reduce hereditary diseases within the breed to a minimum and to produce stable offspring.

To ensure this, a stud dog must first pass a breeding suitability test (ZTP). Here, not only is his appearance carefully examined in terms of breed standard, but a character test is also carried out in which aggressive or nervous dogs are rigorously sorted out.

In order to be approved for the ZTP at all, the breeder must also have health certificates present his dog’s , which clearly prove that the stud dog is not genetically predisposed to certain diseases, such as HD or ED.

So what makes a good German Shepherd stud dog?
• Health certificates are compulsory for stud dogs approved by an association
• Pedigree available
• Appearance corresponds to the breed standard
• Character test was passed
• The stud dog was found to be suitable for breeding
• Perhaps the offspring of the stud dog can even be examined
• Males that are particularly valuable for breeding can receive a licensing certificate

The stud fee for a stud dog is based on various criteria, such as the male’s experience, his awards, whether he has been licensed, how successfully his offspring was rated and more. In the vast majority of cases, however, the final price is a matter of negotiation .
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The German Shepherd Mix: Do you fancy a surprise?
Shepherd mixed breeds can occasionally emerge from unwanted matings and are seen in this way as “accidents” that were not wanted by their owners. Sometimes, however, with the targeted crossing of two different breeds, a very specific mix (hybrid dog) should be created that combines the advantages of both mating partners.

These can be traits or external attributes such as size, coat texture, coat color or the like. If one of the original breeds is very burdened with hereditary diseases, crossing it with a particularly robust and healthy breed should sometimes eliminate such deficits.

However, it should be clear that this does not always work out. Especially if the two original breeds are very different in terms of character or appearance. If the German Shepherd is a crossbreed partner, this can often be seen in the puppies. At least visually.

Nevertheless, buyers of a German Shepherd mix should be aware that it is usually only with the young dog that it becomes clear how big it will one day, which traits it will show and what the final appearance will be. There is also no guarantee of the puppy’s actual state of health. If you study both original breeds in detail before buying, you can get a good idea of the possibilities.

What Are Common German Shepherd Mixed Breeds?
• German Shepherd – Labrador – mixed breed
• German Shepherd Dog – Bernese Mountain Dog – mixed breed
• German Shepherd – Golden Retriever – mixed breed
• German Shepherd Dog – Border Collie – mixed breed
• German Shepherd Dog – Australian Shepherd – mixed breed
• German Shepherd Dog – Siberian Husky – mixed breed
• German Shepherd Dog – Rhodesian Ridgeback – mixed breed
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Everyday diseases and genetic diseases
Hip dysplasia is very often associated with the German Shepherd Dog. While the breed does indeed struggle with this disease, it is not limited to the German Shepherd alone. Almost all large breeds of dogs can get it. However, HD is not only genetically determined, but can also be caused or exacerbated by environmental factors (e.g. improper diet).

However, since the German Shepherd is still one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, it is not surprising that there are actually some diseases that are more prevalent within the breed. This is often the case when amateur breeders are at work or even multipliers who do not value genetics and care when mating. Incorrect breeder ambition can also favor hereditary diseases in the German Shepherd, for example if more emphasis is placed on appearance than on health.

Typical diseases in the German Shepherd
• Hip dysplasia (HD)
• Elbow dysplasia (ED)
• Congenital Vestibular Syndrome / Deafness
• Enlargement of the heart
• Keratitis
• Pancreatic insufficiency
• Pyoderma
• Degenerative myelopathy

In addition to diseases typical of the breed, the German Shepherd can of course be afflicted by a whole range of other ailments. Some of them can be safely watched at home for a while, others require immediate help from a veterinarian. In the case of mild diarrhoea or vomiting in the German Shepherd, for example, you can quietly observe for 1-2 days and try to help with tried and tested home remedies such as a day of fasting, light food, etc.

When do I have to see a doctor with my German shepherd?
But you should never wait too long. If you are unsure, it is better to visit the veterinary practice once too much than once too little. An appointment is always advisable for:
• Unknown symptoms
• Foreign bodies
• Acute pain
• Lameness or other movement disorders
• Changed eating and / or drinking behavior
• Larger wounds
• Strong bad breath
• Bad smelling ears with dark deposits (mites)
• Fur problems of all kinds
• Noticeable changes in behavior (listlessness, aggressiveness, sensitive to touch, etc.)
• Poisoning (suspected or confirmed)
• Sticky eyes / eye discharge
• Persistent vomiting or severe diarrhoea
• Choking and coughing
• Injured balls / torn claws
• Head tilt / head shaking
• Frequent scratching or licking of fur or paws
• Parastite infestation

Of course, the German Shepherd should also go to the vet at his check-up appointments. For example, for his quarterly flea or worming treatments. Attending a senior consultation cannot do any harm to an old dog either. Age-related complaints are counteracted at an early stage and the vet pays attention to the first signs of diseases typical of the breed. So that your German Shepherd stays healthy for a long time.
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Why should I have my German Shepherd vaccinated?
Opinions often differ when it comes to vaccinations. Not only in the human, but also in the dog world. Unfortunately, this has had the effect that many dangerous dog diseases are on the rise again. Lack of information, uncertainty or false fears have led to vaccination fatigue, which can be particularly dangerous for those four-legged friends who are still too young for a vaccination (puppies) or who cannot receive an injection for other reasons (immunocompromised / sick dogs).

Anyone who has their German Shepherd vaccinated not only protects them from sometimes fatal and very painful diseases, but also makes an important contribution to the health of all four-legged friends. Of course, your dog does not have to be vaccinated against everything that is available on the market. The Vet. Standing Vaccination Commission, on the other hand, issues guidelines as to which vaccine serums should be given to every four-legged friend and which are only considered sensible according to certain risk criteria.

What are the most important vaccinations?
The most important vaccinations include:
• rabies
• Parvovirus
• HCC
• Leptospirosis
• distemper

An annual vaccination has long since been abandoned. Depending on the vaccine and manufacturer, most serums are only given every 1-5 years. This avoids unnecessary stress on the dog.

It is best to discuss with a veterinarian whether your German shepherd should receive any vaccinations in addition to the above-mentioned vaccinations. He will ask you according to certain criteria and, depending on the keeping conditions (kennel), environmental influences (tick area, contact with wild animals) and use of the dog (breeding, rescue dog) may consider further vaccinations to be useful.
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Worms, fleas and other vermin: Parasites in the German Shepherd Dog
They are small, disgusting, and almost every dog comes into contact with them at some point in their life: parasites. Infection is very easy and possible on any walk. Even you as the owner can carry the pests into the house with your shoes or clothes.

If an infestation remains undetected or untreated, this not only affects the well-being of the German Shepherd, but can even make him seriously ill. The symptoms range from terrible itching, tilted head postures, coat problems to starvation and organ damage.

Dog owners are most angry about ticks . They are probably the most common sub-tenants that the four-legged friend brings home. It is advisable to search the dog for the small arachnids after every walk or at least once a day and remove the tick with special tongs or a hook if necessary. If you are lucky, you will catch the tick before it has even started its blood meal.

But there are even more parasites in the German Shepherd that make themselves comfortable in their fur. Mites, for example, or fleas . The latter are often a bit stubborn and can only be completely eliminated if, in addition to a spot-on for the dog, the environment (i.e. the household) is also treated. A flea cure kills all fleas on the dog, but these also colonize sleeping places and other places in the immediate vicinity of the four-legged friend, so that infection is quickly possible again.

A worm infestation in the German Shepherd is easier to treat . A worming cure cannot be administered preventively, but it reliably destroys all unwanted stomach and intestinal dwellers within a very short time.

Regular worm and flea cures should be particularly important if babies and children live in the household, old people or people with immunodeficiency. Because especially with strong infestations, parasites like to settle on humans as hosts. Washing hands after contact with a dog is always mandatory and hygiene in the household should also be observed.
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Healthy nutrition and food for a long dog life
You are what you eat. This applies to humans as well as to four-legged friends. A wrong or unhealthy diet can therefore lead to deficiency symptoms or even an oversupply of certain nutrients. Both are not beneficial to health. Neither is being overweight.

Normally, the active and active German Shepherd does not actually tend to extra pounds, but some owners simply mean it too well and feed too much, give too many snacks and treats or even feed food from the table. All of this should be avoided at all costs. Obesity in German Shepherds can significantly reduce their life expectancy.

But how do you recognize good dog food and what does species-appropriate nutrition mean for the German Shepherd? Most importantly, the dog is getting all the essential nutrients it needs. The easiest way to ensure this is through commercial feed, such as canned feed or dry feed in large bags. Both the dry and the wet feed variants have their advantages. If you like, you can combine both and give the German Shepherd a bit of variety.

Important here: Pay attention to the list of ingredients. It should have meat as the main ingredient, as well as plenty of crunchy fruit and tasty vegetables. If the table of contents is short and sweet, this usually speaks for high quality food . This is not the case with imprecise information, confusing names or very long ingredients. Make sure that it contains few fillers (e.g. grain). Colors, preservatives and artificial flavors are also not optimal, as is sugar.
Anyone who has a dog that is prone to allergies or who simply wants a real alternative to industrial food should read up on the subject of BARF . This is pure raw feeding of all ingredients . Not only tender muscle meat is fed, but all innards, bones, blood and more. A good book on this diet is recommended so that the German Shepherd is supplied with all the important nutrients while BARFING.

Also, keep in mind that puppies need a completely different food than adult German Shepherds or old seniors. A neutered dog also needs less calorie-rich food if his urge to move has significantly decreased after the operation. If you want to offer your German Shepherd dog a different type of feeding (e.g. switch from dry food to BARF), you should always proceed step by step so as not to burden the digestive system too much. This is because some dogs are prone to diarrhoea and other gastrointestinal complaints when they switch rapidly.
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Grooming the German Shepherd: A Hairy Affair
The German Shepherd Dog has a robust and weather-resistant coat . They are very easy to care for and require far fewer beauty rituals than many other breeds. However, attention and care are also important for him to keep him healthy and for a well-groomed and beautiful appearance.

Occasional brushing or grooming once or twice a week is usually sufficient. However, owners should be aware that the German Shepherd Dog sheds all year round and is particularly strong during the change of coat in spring and autumn. In English-speaking countries, the “German Shepherd” is sometimes jokingly called the “German Shedder” (from “shed” = to lose / to hair). However, thorough brushing can help reduce the amount of hair flying around the home. As well as daily vacuuming.

So that the skin can breathe and good air circulation is guaranteed, it is also advisable to comb out the dead undercoat with an undercoat rake or a furminator at regular intervals. However, anyone who believes that the occasional bathing of the shepherd dog is part of grooming is wrong. The breed should only be bathed and shampooed in an emergency . Such care products can actually do more harm than good. They attack the natural protective layer of the skin and cause itching and other problems.

There is more to the holistic care of the German Shepherd Dog than just a beautiful coat. For example, the eyes and ears should be checked briefly every day and cleaned if necessary. Paws and claws also need your attention and should not be forgotten, especially in winter. During the cold season, pads can be dry and cracked quickly, and road salt often causes skin irritation that can be painful when walking.

Daily dental care for German Shepherds is very important and unfortunately often neglected . Keeping teeth healthy is extremely important because inflammation in the mouth can spread to the whole dog and dental plaque can cause heart problems and other organ damage. So it’s better to brush daily or use good dental care toys and chewing items for cleaning your teeth. Incidentally, it helps a lot to get the puppy used to these and other grooming rituals.

Basic equipment for German Shepherd grooming
• Harrow or brush
• Comb
• Tick tweezers
• Flea comb
• Under wool rake
• Claw pliers
• Toothbrush and dog toothpaste
• Alternatively: chews or dental care toys
• Dog shampoo
• Lint-free wipes for cleaning the nose, ears and eyes
• Bale care cream or fat cream (milking fat, Vaseline or similar)

Important : Anyone who also pays attention to changes and abnormalities in his dog during grooming (e.g. injuries, a lot of ear wax, torn claws, etc.) makes an important contribution to keeping his dog healthy.
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Unforgettable holidays with the German Shepherd
It’s not just the family who enjoy spending time together when they go on vacation. The German Shepherd is also happy about the undivided attention of his two-legged friends. In addition, it is simply unthinkable for many dog lovers not to take their dog with them on vacation. Accordingly, most owners are willing to make compromises when planning their vacation and to take the needs of their four-legged friend into consideration.

This also includes easy travel for master and dog . Many choose the car as their means of transport or have discovered camping for themselves. Of course, it is important to transport the German Shepherd safely. The best thing to do is to buckle it in the back seat or to take it with you in the separate trunk. However, the safest place for everyone involved is to stay in a stable and permanently installed transport box , to which the dog should be used to long before the holiday. To make it easier for the dog to get into the car, it is also worth purchasing a dog ramp .

Traveling in a transport box is also necessary if you want to take the German Shepherd on a plane trip. However, this should be carefully considered. The dog is only allowed to fly in the hold, which can be frightening and sometimes dangerous for your four-legged friend. If possible, only fly short distances or make sure to choose a non-stop flight for more distant destinations. Bringing the German Shepherd with you is only recommended if you are planning a long-term stay abroad or if you are even emigrating. Otherwise the dog is better off with friends or in a boarding house.

On the other hand, train journeys with the German Shepherd Dog are less problematic. Think of a muzzle and a stable leash, both are mandatory at DB. Arriving in your own compartment or sleeping car is particularly convenient. Make sure that your four-legged friend is already familiar with public transport so that everyone’s vacation is relaxed.

What do I have to consider when planning a vacation?
• Make sure your vacation destination is dog-friendly
• Find an accommodation where four-legged friends are welcome
• Inquire about entry requirements in good time
• Get the German Shepherd vaccinated early (rabies often compulsory)
• What obligations do dog owners have at the holiday destination (leash, muzzle, dogs allowed on the beach)?
• What should be packed for the dog? What can you possibly not get at the holiday destination (medication, usual food)?
• Is there a veterinarian nearby you can communicate with?
• What goes in the first-aid kit for the dog?
• Which documents are necessary (tickets for train / flight, vaccination card)?

Photos, videos, forum: even more fun and information for German Shepherd friends
Do you own a German Shepherd and need help or do you have questions before buying such a breed specimen? How about a visit to a German Shepherd forum ? Here you will meet many like-minded people, you can make new contacts or exchange ideas with other owners and benefit from their wealth of experience. Even fun is not neglected here and there are always suggestions and tips about posture, occupation, care or illnesses.

Lovers and fans of the German Shepherd Dog will also look forward to our picture gallery, in which there are many beautiful breed representatives to admire. If this is not enough for you, you should take a look at the video section. In addition to compact information about the breed, there is also plenty of curios, cute and funny things to discover about what is perhaps the most popular dog in the world.

The post The German Shepherd Dog appeared first on Dog Fiesta Online.

Hysterical yapping at every sound in the stairwell or barking at the fence. It annoys the neighborhood and puts massive pressure on the dog owner. Why do dogs do this? And what can be done about it?

Why do dogs bark?

While only puppies and very young animals bark at the close relative, the wolf, many adult domestic dogs enthusiastically comment on every sound in their surroundings and often bring the dog owners to despair.

Some dog breeds were even bred specifically for this, because this behavior was used. Certain hunting dog breeds indicate the location of the game through their so-called “ringing” (eg beagle) and Spitz and Hovawart act as bell dogs to inform that someone is approaching the house and yard, to name just a few examples.

People seem to be particularly gifted at understanding barking and its meaning. And you don’t even have to be an experienced dog owner to do this.

In a 2005 study, a research team led by A. Miklósi and Peter Pongràz played various bell forms. All human listeners were able to correctly decode the bell sounds and assign them to the different context categories given by the experimenter. People also correctly judged the emotional context of barking (Pongràz, 2005)

This study explains the astonishing fact that dogs that live with people obviously bark a lot more than dogs that travel independently without the social partner.

Barking seems to change the dog owner’s behavior. It is therefore understandable that dogs often continue to bark stubbornly until the “desired reaction” has been achieved.

“Why is he barking now?” I am often asked by dog ​​owners.

Why does a dog bark in training? Why do dogs bark when the doorbell rings? Why do they bark at strangers at the fence, why do some dogs bark when there is food or when people hug?

It is worthwhile to approach the dog sounds a little “scientifically”.

Barking is not the same barking. If you take the trouble and listen to this acoustic phenomenon in peace, you can quickly hear very different bell shapes.

There are many different reasons why a dog barks and it sounds different each time.

The most common are:

• Stress and excessive demands
• Fear and insecurity
• Warn the social group (family)
• Joyful excitement
• Learned barking (it was consciously or unconsciously intensified)
• Separation anxiety
• Hunting behavior and much more

For each of these situations, the motivation to bark is different and it sounds different.

In order to prevent or stop barking, you will have to deal with it differently in training.

Management is the first choice to avoid barking. Barking can be very rewarding and the respective amplifiers that keep the dog’s barking behavior stable can be controlled poorly or not at all.

So not barking at all is the method of choice. This works best with good management.

• Don’t let stress and overwork arise. Protect your dog! Establish distance to all triggers that your dog cannot handle. Train short and well, don’t ask too much of your dog
• Arousal is a great thing,but I have to protect some dogs from themselves. A dog that barks cannot think. Refrain from games, that excite the dog too much. Strengthen your dog’s self-awareness and don’t expose it to uncontrollable situations.
• Fear and insecurity,protect your dog from all situations that it cannot cope with. Establish distance to all triggers and train below the stimulus threshold on these triggers (e.g. click for look)
• Learned barking is consciously or unconsciously amplified by people. People are very sensitive to the noise that a barking dog makes. Barking, as a form of communication, is used deliberately by dogs and rarely miss their target. Attention is an amplifier not to be underestimated. A sign of learned barking, which is kept stable by attention, is the pause between the barkers. (Woof-woof pause- woof-woof pause)
• The barking is also increased unconsciously when the dog gets exactly what he wanted to achieve. A good example is barking on the fence: the dog barks at passers-by and wants to chase them away from its property boundary ( motivation). The passers-by quickly pass the fence and disappear from the dog’s field of vision ( consequence of the barking). The reinforcement that “people bark at the fence” does not stop is that the passers-by disappear. To train the barking here, the passerby would have to stop and only continue as soon as the dog was calm.
• Separation anxiety: Get a dog sitter. Separation anxiety must be trained carefully
• Hunting behavior: Tow line to the dog to prevent actual hunting behavior. Hunting behavior must be trained carefully

Be generous!

Counter conditioning : a very quick and effective way to defuse many situations in everyday life. The previous trigger stimulus is linked to feed, which gives it a new meaning.

Eating makes you happy, not just most people. Food is a basic need, all dogs have to eat. At the same time, foraging can calm the dog. When sniffing, the dog lowers its head, which relaxes the neck muscles and the whole dog.

Be generous!

We have an apartment in our house. This keeps strangers walking through our stairwell, which our dogs like to comment on loudly.

I am annoyed by the hysterical yapping and I also find it uncomfortable with the tenants.

Now I have started to give every dog ​​a cookie with every little noise. I give the trigger stimuli a new meaning.

The sound that has so far barked to inform the group that unknown persons are moving in the stairwell, the sound now has the meaning: “Run fast and pick up your cookie”.

This has changed a lot in the dog group. Recently my dogs have shown me that someone is walking through the house by looking at me and sitting down in front of me. Which, of course, I am delighted to reward.

All behaviors related to fear and insecurity will improve if you train on the triggers .

Click for a look is an effective method here.

We don’t want to suppress joyful excitement. But we can alternately practice excitement, rest and relaxation.

 Nerves can be trained like muscles .

Abort signal, the diversion for the dog              

Abort signals have a bad past ☹ In the past, training was primarily about punishment. It was physically regulated, threatened and worse. Fortunately, the times are over.

Today you can train termination signal positively. Signals are built up that reliably end the behavior just shown and initiate behavior that is incompatible with the undesired behavior. A dog looking for food in the kitchen cannot bark at the fence at the same time. And the problem is solved. The detour for the dog. This will get the dog out of the situation and barking will no longer be practiced as a strategy.

A few years ago I moved into a house where the garden was right next to a bus stop. In the afternoon, when people came from work and went home from the bus stop, they had to pass our garden.

My three dogs back then thought it was a cool game. Barking, they followed the fence along the entire length of the garden, barking loudly, and immediately positioned themselves to receive the next busload. So it went from 4 to 6 p.m. every 15 minutes.

At that time I didn’t have much experience with positive training and was at a loss. An experienced trainer gave me the advice to set up a signal that I could use as a termination signal. The result was really amazing. After practicing “bingo” for 2 days, I carefully “used” it on the third day in the afternoon when the screaming started on the fence.

Incredible! Once called “bingo” and the whole furry team stood expectantly in the kitchen with shiny eyes.

I was overjoyed to end every bark on the fence. A few days later my three beauties surprised me again. After two “woof” on the fence, all dogs turned around, marched into the house and sat in front of me with meaningful looks. “You forgot” bingo “,” they seemed to want to tell me.

Sure, I was a good mistress and immediately delivered a handful of cookies.

“But isn’t that a reward for barking?”

This question is asked regularly. No, you don’t. Only if the dog barks specifically to get food, would you increase the barking with food.

Which brings us back to the motivation for behavior. The dog owner has to think a little bit about why the dog is barking now.

Try to avoid any situation in advance, in which your dog can bark uncontrollably.

Otherwise he will keep practicing (self-rewarding)

– Once is an attempt – twice is an experience – three times is a strategy –

Bingo – the diversion for the dog

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