COURAGE - LOYALTY - INTELLIGENCE - VERSATILITY
"The most striking feature of the correctly bred German Shepherd are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability, watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with courage, fighting tenacity, and hardness"
If the German Shepherd dog has been bred correctly, this breed is not for the faint of heart, nor is it recommended for inexperienced or first-time dog owners. The German Shepherd dog is, first and foremost, a utilitarian working dog. This breed is often high-energy, fiercely intelligent, and thrives best when allowed to live among its family or when given a job to do.
First established in Germany, the dog sport of IPO (formerly known as Schutzhund) was developed as a way to test the German Shepherd dog for its strengths, weaknesses, and general working ability outside of its role as a herding dog. IPO consists of three phases: tracking, obedience, and protection. This sport helps breeders, breed enthusiasts, and dog owners thoroughly test their dogs and utilize the animal’s full potential for training, work, and breeding.
The German Shepherd dog is ideal for active homes that can appreciate this breed’s history and its need for exercise, training, challenges, and work in one way or another. This is a strong breed that requires training and socialization. If you are not rescuing, you should absolutely be certain to select a puppy from a reputable breeder who breeds for temperament, health, working ability, and correct and functional conformation.
The German Shepherd dog would be a great companion for an experienced dog owner who is interested in competing in a dog sport, using their dog for work, or has a very active lifestyle.
Care and Training of German Shepherds
Care
German Shepherds require special care to maintain their well-being and happiness:
Early Socialization: Expose them to different people and situations from puppyhood to foster confidence and sociability.
Balanced Diet: Provide them with a diet rich in protein and nutrients to maintain their health and vitality.
Training
Regular Exercise: Give them daily physical activity to channel their energy and maintain their physical and mental health.
Consistent Training: Use positive reinforcement methods to teach them basic commands and desirable behaviors.
Mental Stimulation: Provide games and activities that challenge their minds and keep them mentally active.
Observe their behavior and adjust care and training as needed for a happy and healthy life.
