Do you have your eye on beautiful German Shepherd puppies? Are you considering getting yourself one? Are you wondering if a GSD is a right fit for you? Put your search on hold and think why German Shepherd Puppies are Perfect for Owners Looking for a Companion.
Table of Contents
About the Breed
Also known as the Alsatian, the German Shepherd puppies, an American favorite, soon grows into the large, robust, muscular, and agile body that the breed is known for. German Shepherd dogs are widely regarded as a hard-working and brilliant breed with a noble character, which is why they make such great worker dogs, often seen as herding dogs, service or assistant companions, or part of the police or military canine unit.
Assertive, loyal, and courageous, any dog enthusiast will find delight in the German Shepherd. Whether they are family pets, personal protectors, hard-working, or just their owner’s best buddy, you cannot go wrong with the German Shepherd. Although you wouldn’t think it of the playful German Shepherd puppy, one day, he can stand tall and present gracefully with smooth curves and a soft coat or run at incredible speeds.
Energetic, intelligent, and loyal. They have an aloof yet not aggressive temperament. They love and engage with their people and make the perfect family companion when they are properly invested in. It is essential to get this dog from a reputable breeder who can provide health records of the puppy’s parents and grandparents and do the necessary scores and checks for their health and temperament.
How You Can Care For German Shepherd Puppies
It is essential to understand the responsibility of owning a German Shepherd puppy. They need and deserve so much more than food and shelter. It takes over a decade’s commitment, so it is wise to consider the responsibility and dedication required before getting your German Shepherd puppy. Education is the owner’s best tool.
Owners who are well educated on the various needs of their German Shepherd are best equipped to deal with any problems as they arise instead of seeking help only once a situation has worsened. Due to their loyalty and deep connection with their owner, they may be prone to separation anxiety, so they are better off inside the home with their family.
They need care and responsibility, including health checks, proper nourishment, physical exercise, grooming, and training. All of these factors determine the mental and physical well-being of the puppy and the content they bring to its owner and family. They require a financial and time investment and commitment from their owner to get the best possible version of your best friend.
Health Facts
The German Shepherd breed is generally healthy and known for being active and hard-working. They have a lifespan of between 10 and 15 years. Some common diseases are associated with the species, so responsible owners should educate themselves on the symptoms and treatments of these illnesses, should they occur.
These ailments are pancreatic insufficiency, degenerative myelopathy, anal furunculosis, skin disorders, joint dysplasia (mainly of the hip or elbow), spleen tumor, and abdominal bloat, an inflammatory disease of the abdomen. They must have all their vaccinations, dental checks, and annual overall health checkups with their veterinarian. If you suspect illness, it may help the vet diagnose earlier if you provide the relevant family history of your puppy when they get registered at the vet’s office, as family records may suggest the cause or diagnosis.
Feeding
The German Shepherd puppy requires high-quality, age-appropriate dog food formulated for large breed puppies. Many human foods pose a risk of digestive ailments, while some are okay or even beneficial. Owners should continually educate themselves on the kinds of food that are appropriate or not. Human foods that are high in fats, as well as cooked bones, should be avoided. Although high-quality food will contain the necessary minerals and vitamins, small amounts of soft-cooked veggies, eggs, and yogurt may hold some nutritional benefits. For training purposes, dog biscuits or their preferred kibble can be used. If you have any concerns about your German Shepherd’s diet or weight, always consult a vet.
Grooming
These are shedding dogs but are not high maintenance. It is easy to maintain the German Shepherd puppy with its dense double coat, only requiring an occasional wash and brushing for excess hairs every few days. They tend to shed more twice a year, requiring more frequent brushes to control the loose strands in and around the home, like the couches and carpets. To avoid pain and physical structure problems, it is necessary to keep nails grounded. Depending on the environment and the dog’s activity, they may be worn down naturally. If not, nails should be groomed monthly for health maintenance and comfort.
Activity and Exercise
The German Shepherd puppy requires loads of physical activity. This breed is known for being athletic and energetic and needs a lot of exercise for physical well-being and mental health. A lack of exercise can lead to frustration that may present in unwanted or destructive behaviors such as pulling the lead, chewing on furniture, or barking. As a puppy, short walks that increase over time to build stamina and active play sessions in a safe area for running are essential to enjoy daily.
Even as a pup, dogs need to stay on their leash regardless of training or the dog’s size or energy. Even very well-trained dogs may lose focus and stop following commands. A variety of physical activities will be most rewarding to the overall well-being of the dog as well as rewarding for their owner. These activities include tracking, agility exercises, herding, and dock diving. Activities that provide both mental and physical stimulation may consist of hunting for and retrieving objects and training activities with their owner as they are very willing to engage with their people.
Training
Training is best started around the eight-week mark as they will make their own rules if they are trained from a young age. It is also vital for the German Shepherd puppy to be socialized early as they can be defensive or wary of strangers due to their intense loyalty to their owners. The critical socialization window is around 6 to 12 weeks. Socialization training includes other humans, new environments, animals such as cats, and new experiences to make them adaptable.
Along with puppy training classes and ongoing obedience lessons, the German Shepherd puppy will grow into a well-mannered adult. A very hard-working and brilliant breed that makes an excellent companion, this dog is best raised in the home and included in family activities as he is exceptionally bonded to his family. This dog is happiest around his people. They are a delight to train as they are keen to thrill their owners and are sensitive to their reactions. For the best experience, consistent, loving, positive reward-based training works best for this breed.
Conclusion
The German Shepherd is regarded as royalty of canines for many reasons. They would risk their lives for their people as highly loyal, confident, intelligent, and courageous companions and warm, gentle family pets. There is no doubt that getting a German Shepherd puppy is a privilege as much as a responsibility.
