![German Shepherd Dog Breed](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium_440x440/public/2022-07/German-Shepherd-Dog.jpg?itok=eQlRJxqe)
Family-friendly: | 5/5 |
Exercise needs: | 5/5 |
Easy to train: | 5/5 |
Tolerates being alone: | 2/5 |
Likes other pets: | 2/5 |
Energy level: | 5/5 |
Grooming needs: | 4/5 |
Shedding: | 5/5 |
The German Shepherd dog is predisposed to a number of problems including:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Gastric dilatation volvulus
- Degenerative myelopathy which is a condition which causes progressive paralysis in a dog's hindlimbs
- Anal furunculosis which is a painful problem that causes ulceration around a dog's anus
- Hereditary cataracts which is a condition where the lens in the eye becomes cloudy and this can result in blindness
- Epilepsy which is a condition where abnormal brain function can lead to seizures which damage the brain
- Pituitary dwarfism which is a serious hormonal problem that affects growth
- Haemophilia, which is a condition which can prevent or impair clotting, a process which is needed to stop bleeding
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency which is a problem where a dog's body is not able to produce the normal amount of enzymes needed to digest their food properly.
Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing:
- Hip dysplasia screening scheme
Agile, well balanced and carrying themselves with pride, the ‘GSD’ is a big dog with a big presence. Coats may be short or long but should not be excessively fluffy. And, as for the German Shepherd colours, they can be black, sable, tan, gold, or any combination of them.
Renowned as a ‘one man (or woman) dog’, the GSD forms a strong, affectionate, and close bond with their handler and will want to be with them as much as possible. Their loyalty is undeniable, however unfortunately over the last few decades, many breeders seeking to promote their natural guarding tendencies have opted for nervous animals who alert faster out of a lack of confidence and who are willing to use aggression first rather than last.
A well-bred, well-reared German Shepherd should be bold, confident, swift and intelligent, and always calm and steady enough to be able to listen to their owner or handler whatever the circumstances. They are eager to learn and easy to train with the right approach, using kindness, positive reinforcement, and patience.
Is a German Shepherd a good house pet?
Yes, given their calm and caring nature, German Shepherds make great house pets. They also can easily adapt to a new environment and there’s nothing more they like than spending some quality time with their owners.
Do German Shepherds have good temperaments?
Yes, German Shepherds make great pets and are known for their calm attitudes, loyalty, love, and intelligence.
How smart is a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are among the top 3 smartest dog breeds, so they are undoubtedly highly intelligent compared with other dogs.
Can a German Shepherd be left alone for 5 hours?
No, they should not be left by themselves for long periods of time as they can get bored pretty easily and might engage in disruptive behaviours like barking, digging, or chewing.