Other considerations:
● German shepherds are active dogs. They need to be kept busy through playing, exercising or working.
● They tend to be aloof and suspicious of intruders. Owners can prevent this through early socialisation and experiences.
● They make great watchdogs. They look stern and intimidating so they make effective deterrents.
● They should be provided with ample mental stimulation.
How can I take good care of my German Shepherd or German Shepherd Puppy?
Nutrition
The recommended daily intake for a German shepherd is 3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food. This can be split into two or three meals.
Since these dogs have high energy levels, they need meals that have vital nutrients to sustain their energy requirements. It’s also recommended that you give your dog fresh water throughout the day.
Grooming
Originally, German Shepherds were bred to help herd flocks in extreme weather. Their medium-length coat fit the job nicely as it protected them from rain and snow.
On the flip side, this breed sheds constantly, which is why they have earned the title ‘German shedders’. These dogs shed more during spring and fall, so they should be brushed and bathed more often then.
As for the rest year, brushing them two to three times per week is enough.
Recommended grooming tips
● Trim their nails every few weeks.
● Regular teeth brushing is also essential to prevent gum disease.
● Check their ears weekly to prevent infection.
● Provide safe dental chew toys and bones, which help to keep their teeth clean.
Exercise
German Shepherds love challenges. They prefer strenuous activities so long walks and runs are the best form of exercise. They can also take part in ball chasing or Frisbee catching.
Training
The behaviour and response to training differs from one German Shepherd to another. This makes predicting whether this dog breed is easy to train is, a little difficult. The ease of training depends on the end goal.
For instance, German Shepherds trained to be working dogs have intense temperaments. This makes it challenging to train them. But training them for lighter roles is not difficult.
