German Shepherd Training and Breed Information

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German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most sought after companion dogs in the world, and for good reason...

GSD's (sometimes called Alsations) were first bred in Germany in the late 1800's. We can thank Captain Max Von Stephanitz for developing this fantastic breed, which has spread to all parts of the globe in recent years. The German Shepherd has proven to be the most versatile of all dog breeds, they are basically good at just about anything!

The German Shepherd Is Suited To Most Climate Conditions

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The GSD's high intelligence, strong athletic physique and silky smooth movement has seen the breed excel at all kinds of duties. German Shepherds are trained and considered invaluable in such jobs as seeing eye dogs, police work, search and rescue, herding, protection, bomb and drug detection and as guard dogs. They also relish activities which stimulate their acute senses such as tracking, agility, flyball, endurance work, schutzhund and German Shepherd obedience training.

It's in their role as family pets that the German Shepherd really comes into its own. When provided adequate puppy socialization, regular exercise and some specific German Shepherd training they make brilliant household companions. German Shepherds love nothing more than to spend time bonding with their human family. They are happiest when included in all family activities like swimming, running, playing, walking through the forest or even just lazing on the couch. German Shepherds are well known and much loved for the close bond they share with their family (for this reason separation anxiety can sometimes be a concern).

German Shepherd Dogs - The All Important Temperament

Unfortunately the quick growth in popularity of the German Shepherd has led to dogs of widely varying temperaments.

At its best the GSD is a wonderful companion for any family. The breed is intelligent, observant, self assured, loyal, courageous, protective and eager to please.

To give yourself every chance of bringing a well balanced, good natured GSD into your life it's imperative to find a reputable German Shepherd breeder. A good breeder will sell you quality stock that is both physically and mentally sound.

The other factors which will come into play when shaping the temperament and character of your dog are your ability to provide proper puppy socialization and German Shepherd training.

Puppy kindergarten classes are a great place for socialization and early training. Your German Shepherd Puppy will need to be exposed to all types of people, dogs, animals and experiences during the socialization period. This process should be started by your dog's breeder and then continued on when your young pup arrives home.

German Shepherd Health

As stated above, a reputable German Shepherd Breeder is real asset when finding your lifelong friend.

Over the years the German Shepherd Dog has encountered more than a few health problems. With good management and responsible breeding many of these ailments have been eliminated or reduced.

Some problems you should at least be aware of are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and shoulder problems. GSD's are also prone to bloat (gastric torsion), degeneration of the spinal cord, haemophilia and numerous skin allergies. It's also important to keep your German Shepherd's teeth and gums healthy - especially as they get older.

German Shepherds Are Wonderful Athletes

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German Shepherd Training - They Love It!

German Shepherds grow to be big, strong dogs who can be fairly stubborn and will display dominance if allowed to get away with it. They require a firm, consistent and always fair leader to guide them, and set them up for success. German Shepherd training provides the ideal constructive outlet for all of your GSD's energy and focus. German Shepherd training establishes the boundaries which will help your dog to be a reliable and well respected member of society.

German Shepherds love the challenge and mental stimulation they receive from obedience training. From German Shepherd potty training right through to advanced obedience training your GSD will prove to be a great student. You'll find that time spent training your German Shepherd is the prime time where you will build and strengthen a strong lifelong bond with your dog.

German Shepherd obedience school is a good choice when training your GSD. Alternatively you can discover all the latest german shepherd training techniques in this comprehensive training resource - Secrets Of A Professional Dog Trainer. This course is a very suitable choice for all of your German Shepherd care and training information.