The Joy Of A German Shepherd
The popularity of the German Shepherd is international with these iconic police and military dogs, also making a place for themselves as outstanding companion pets. Their training ability, calm demeanor and loyal personality have made them one of the most registered breeds around the world. While most German Shepherds are not used for protection or as watchdogs they have those natural talents that make them trainable for different tasks as a working dog such as Cali, our Frisco PD K-9.
A large breed that weighs in at up to 85 plus pounds and measures 26 inches at the shoulder, they are still a wonderful housedog and companion to the family. The German Shepherd tends to be very inactive when indoors with the family and prefers to sit close by and watch what is going on. They are faithful, loyal, highly intelligent and very sensitive to emotional changes in the people they love. Some German Shepherds are used as therapy dogs, assistance dogs and rescue dogs because of these characteristics.
Hip dysplasia is common; since the dog is a large breed, this can pose a significant problem with mobility as they age. Epilepsy is also seen in some lines so talking your breeder and requesting information on the parents and lines is important.
It is essential to socialize a German Shepherd from a puppy to prevent issues with dog aggression or extreme distrust of strangers. With socialization these are not problems and the German Shepherd Dog is a great companion for walks, trips to the park or in any type of competition. German Shepherds excel at competitive obedience, agility, Schutzhund and tracking. Willing and striving to please their owners the German Shepherd is always trying to anticipate what the owner wants. They will continue to learn new tricks and commands well into their advanced senior years if given the opportunity. Although somewhat reserved they also can be very playful and almost goofy, particularly when young.
Regular grooming is a must for this double coated breed. They are heavy seasonal shedders and tend to blow their coat twice a year. This is period of very heavy shedding of the wooly undercoat. Here in Texas, we sometimes see the shedding extend for longer periods of time so frequent de-shedding and brushing is necessary.