German Shepherd: the black cape sheepdog
Origin: Germany
Weight: 22-40 kg
Height: 55-60cm
Life expectancy: 7-10 years
History
Derived from ancient herding breeds and farm dogs, the German Shepherd was born in Germany, originated initially by the desire to create a hardworking breed capable of leading and patrolling a large herd.
It all started in the late 1800s at a dog show held in western Germany. One of the animals caught the attention of Captain Max von Stephanitz. He was a wolf-like dog, flexible and powerful, with admirable intelligence, endurance, and steadfastness. He exercised the function of controlling and guiding the cattle without any training with only a single teaching: that of the correct direction.
The captain bought the dog that caught his attention and began his efforts to develop the breed. The standard, based on mental stability and usefulness, was quickly achieved. For its creator, beauty was something secondary and he acted strongly to consolidate a lineage that stood out for its intelligence, temperament and efficiency, in order to become useful to man. Later, the purpose of looking after the farm’s sheep was left aside so that the German shepherds worked with the German army.
In 1908, the breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) . Today, it is one of the most popular dogs, as a result of the promotion of specialized clubs around the world, such as the German Shepherd Club of America, in the United States.
Characteristics
german shepherd colors
The German Shepherd has a wide range of colors and combinations, such as black with reddish-brown markings, brown, yellow, and light gray. Dogs of this breed can also be completely black or gray with a darker shading. All colorings come in strong, vivid shades.
It is possible to find dogs with a paler, faded or bluish coat. However, they are not admitted to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard. The same goes for white, both in brands and in the predominant color.
German Shepherd temperament
The fearless and imposing expression marks the unique personality of the German Shepherd. But don’t be afraid of their size or the security and confidence they convey: dogs of this breed are calm, balanced, and very alert when the situation demands it, but never hostile.
Admittedly, German Shepherds do not make friends indiscriminately unless they are trained to accept strangers. Despite being “difficult”, they are very faithful friends of incorruptible character, great companions for the family – although they choose the preferred member among family members – and are always willing to please or to physical activities. They need at least basic obedience training, which will help strengthen the bond with the tutor.
German Shepherd with children, strangers and other animals
Energetic and fun, the German Shepherd is fond of children and uses all his guardian instincts to protect them, as long as a relationship is established between them. Even so, the supervision of your tutor is important to always teach you how to deal with the little ones.
With proper training and socialization work, this breed can also get along well with other animals. In relation to strangers, dogs prefer to maintain a certain distance and are characterized by not making friends easily. However, they are intelligent enough to learn to socialize and be pleasant to visitors.
Does the German Shepherd bark a lot?
It is a very balanced dog and naturally calm, which makes it very quiet, barking only when necessary. The German Shepherd can bark a lot if he gets bored and doesn’t exercise – which also affects the dog’s health and behavior.
Is German Shepherd Destroyer?
It might be. German Shepherds like to chew and demand attention, especially when they are puppies, during the teething stage. This dog’s powerful jaw can destroy most materials, so sofas and chair legs, for example, can be easily damaged. In this way, training is extremely necessary, as well as physical exercises and the teaching of commands to maintain physical and mental health.
When they are without activities, bored and long lonely periods, they can develop a more anxious behavior and seek to occupy themselves by biting furniture, making huge holes in the garden or barking.
Is the German Shepherd fussy?
Yea! The German Shepherd is energetic, active, loves to run and play and requires a high level of physical activity regularly. In addition, they are suitable for homes where they have space to exercise. However, his personality is calm, balanced and very attentive.
– Bathing and brushing: generally this breed tends to be very clean and does not need bathing as often, only when necessary. On the other hand, they need to be brushed at least twice a week, as they shed a lot of hair.
– Teeth, nails and ears: regularly, it is necessary to take care to brush your teeth to maintain oral health, cut your nails so as not to bother them and check the ears, in order to avoid the accumulation of wax or residues that cause inflammation in the mouth. dog’s ear.
