The German Shepherd Dog
Out of all the breeds of dog available to the German Shepherd is ranked as high as third most popular breed registered with the AKC. Out of all the breeds the German Shepherd very closely resembles its ancestor, the wolf, and originally was bred to be an ideal hurding and guard dog. During world war one the German Shepherd went through a number of different name changes, mostly to do with its German heritage. Officially, in 1931, it was renamed the German Shepherd and recognized by the AKC. Whilst popularity has dipped a bit over recent years the German Shepherd stil ranks as a top choice for a family companion. For watchdog status, training adaptability and protection the German Shepherd scores very highly indeed. Affection and being a playful dog does not rank highly as some of the other breeds but the German Shepherd is still an ideal pet for the family to have around. Having owned a beauty called Oscar for ten years, I can very much attest to that.
You will find that a German Shepherd is very protective towards its home environment and also the members that make up part of its family. They can be a bit aloof and suspicious towards strangers and other people but are extremely trainable and very gently about children and other pets you may have around the home.
Upkeep And Maintenance Of A German Shepherd
As for the upkeep of a German Shepherd they do require physical challenges and mental testing on a daily basis to keep them fulfills and calm. Being hyper intelligent they have all the required abilities to learn all sorts of tricks and can be trained to a very high level of obedience. Long walks and running around outside are ideal for this type of dog.
Health Information Of A German Shepherd
Two main health areas you need to know about with a German Shepherd are CHD and elbow dysplasia. Minor health concerns can occasionally hit a German Shepherd are certain types of skin allergies, hemangiosarcoma, malignant neoplasms, cataracts, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, gastric torsion and hot spots. The average healthly German Shepherd can be expected to live for between 10 and 12 years. This is based on a dog which remains active and healthly through its entire lifetime. Specific health tests suggested by vets for German Shepherds are elbow and hip dysplasia.
To read all about German Shepherds visit click German Shepherd Handbook