All about the German Shepherd, possible diseases. Dog intelligence. The problem of homeless animals Interesting unusual facts about the German Shepherd breed

With a lot of positive characteristics, the German Shepherd has won a leading position in the ranking of the best representatives of the dog world.

Appearance

There are two varieties of the breed: a wire-haired subspecies, with short hair that fits tightly to the body, and a long-haired subspecies of shepherd dogs. Color ranges from completely solid black, partly gray or red, to black and white.

All dogs of this breed differ in height at the withers:

for a male 60-62 cm;
in females 55-57 cm.

Exterior of a German Shepherd, if it is a purebred “German”:

medium-sized head and moderately convex frontal part;
the transition from the muzzle to the head is smooth;
black and straight nose;
eyes are almond-shaped and slightly set at an angle;
ears are not cropped, erect;
the jaw is well developed, but the muzzle does not look angry and aggressive;
scissor bite, lips tightly adjacent to the jaw;
narrow chest and toned stomach;
set stand with hanging tail.

Character and intelligence

Initially, the German Shepherd was bred to guard livestock, however, its innate agility and intelligence, strength and devotion were noticed and appreciated. The dog began to be used as not just a guard and a loyal friend, but also for search work in a team with the Ministry of Emergency Situations, to detain and search for criminals.

The German Shepherd has a calm and very accommodating character. Finds a common language with other inhabitants of the apartment from the animal world. She perceives small children as her own and will protect the entire family from the slightest hint of danger.

It lends itself perfectly, there is no need to apply strict measures of restrictions and educational measures. It’s enough to explain to her who’s boss and use a regular dog treat.

The character of an adult pet is calm and balanced. She is an excellent protector, but at the same time she can retain some of the habits of a small and playful puppy.

The peculiarity is simplicity and unpretentiousness, a minimum of bathing per year and combing during the molting period. The most basic eye and ear care does not make her a problematic pet.

As for, it can be both feed and natural food. But when walking a dog, you should devote at least one and a half to two hours of active walks on the street per day.

Advantages and disadvantages

To fully decide for yourself whether it is worth getting a German Shepherd, read reviews from experienced breeders. They will tell you what the advantages and disadvantages of this breed are, thereby helping you make the right choice.

A large torso and working exterior make the German a real defender. This is a service dog breed with superbly developed security and service qualities, which makes it universal in any field.
High level of intelligence and good learning ability. She is easily trained, without any forced educational measures.
Able to adapt to any living conditions and quite unpretentious in care.
Will never show aggression towards family members. Even having chosen the leader of the pack, so to speak, she will love everyone without exception, both people and pets. He does not show pronounced aggression towards strangers, but rather wariness.
Energetic and hardy at work. Adapts well to new living conditions. This is a significant plus when choosing not just a pet, but also a work partner.

High degree of activity and energy. An experienced breeder will point this out to you, so all homebodies and those leading a sedentary lifestyle who cannot pay enough attention to their dog should not get a German Shepherd.
At the peak of rutting activity or excessive irritability, it can bark loudly. And in the absence of proper and timely education, they will bite.
Not suitable for keeping in a small apartment.

In such a matter as whether a dog has pedigree documents, it all depends on what you are taking it for. If you raise it for yourself, do not participate in exhibitions and do not engage in professional breeding, you do not need documents for the animal.

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If you decide to get a German Shepherd, you will be interested in these facts about these dogs:

The ancestors of the breed were northern wolves from the territory of ancient Asia.
The first mention of the German Shepherd dates back to the 7th century AD and in this regard, modern Germans have little in common with their ancestors.
The very first representative of the German Shepherd participating in the official exhibition is a dog named Greif. He was silver-white in color, and was represented in the competition by M. F. Stefanits.
The German Shepherd is one of the three smartest dogs and is extremely popular among sporting and service breeds.
50 years ago, a white shepherd was considered a defect in selection and was not allowed for breeding or exhibitions.

German Shepherds are credited with many human qualities - they know how to feel sorry and compassionate. As an example, in one of the zoos in China, one tigress fell ill and recently lost 3 cubs. It was the shepherd dog who became their foster mother, cared for the babies and fed them along with her puppies.

Photo gallery

Video “Interesting facts about the breed”

You will learn even more facts about German Shepherds from the following video.

In fairy tales, myths, legends and real stories, the personification of evil is often the wolf. He did a lot of bad things to people, brought a lot of troubles, fear and suffering. But there is another side to the coin. After all, it was thanks to the wolf that man got a dog: reliable, faithful, devoted, no match for the gray predator. In the appearance of many dog breeds, wolf features are still clearly expressed; the German Shepherd is a clear representative of this. But the Germans have completely lost the spirit of freedom; they are no longer free birds, like, for example, huskies. The German Shepherd needs a person, a master, a companion, and, thanks to its character, today it is one of the most loyal dogs.

History of the breed

The breeding of the breed was started by the German Max Friedrich von Stefanitz, interestingly, he attached secondary importance to the exterior. His interest was focused on the dog's intelligence, character and behavior, and he sought to breed an intelligent, intelligent, responsible and reliable breed. We can say that he succeeded. According to Stefanitz, a German shepherd could be called any dog in Germany that had a certain set of qualities.

In 1899, the breeder von Stephanitz and his assistant presented the first breed standard. Before this, several dogs took part in exhibitions and enjoyed success. This attitude to selection was new, and to this day it is rare when polishing the exterior is not paramount. Stefanitz wanted to get a good shepherd dog, but he bred almost a genius: balanced, intelligent, malleable in training, courageous - the list of strong qualities of the breed could take a long time.

And if earlier the Germans were used exclusively as shepherds, then later they showed themselves brilliantly in completely different areas. German Shepherds are considered the best service and guard dogs; they, like humans, carry out activities in various spheres of life and take part in combat operations. The Second World War almost destroyed the breed; by the end of 1946, very few individuals remained. German Shepherds were almost on the verge of extinction, but the breed was revived. The division of Germany contributed to the different development of the breed and the formation of separate species.

The first exhibition was held in 1925, and in 1968 the European Union of German Shepherd Fanciers was organized. Subsequently, the union acquired the status of World Union.

It is believed that the ancestors of German shepherds are Asian and northern wolves.

The German Shepherd and Collie are close relatives; the same line was used to breed these breeds.

The first mention of the ancestors of the German Shepherd dates back to the 7th century, but the dogs of that time have little in common with today's Germans.

The dog Greif is considered the very first German Shepherd. It was grey-white in color and was exhibited by Max Friedrichvon Stefanitz at an exhibition in 1882.

The German Shepherd is one of the world's three smartest dogs.

This is the most popular breed of working and sporting dogs in the world.

The dog from the famous cartoon "Volt" is a German shepherd, or rather a white German shepherd, a very rare species. Forty years ago, such coloring was considered a defect, but today these dogs take full part in exhibitions.

German Shepherds are often credited with having "human" qualities. For example, these dogs can be compassionate and pity. Once in a Chinese zoo, a tigress fell ill after giving birth; the cubs were alone. The shepherd "adopted" them and cared for them as if they were her own puppies.

There is an opinion that the breed is gradually degenerating and its physical qualities are deteriorating. As an example, comparisons are given that in the middle of the last century a dog could freely reach a height of 3-4 meters, but now, due to the croup being too low, its limit is 2-2.5 meters, which undoubtedly negatively affects its performance. and security qualities.

Breed standard

There are two varieties of the breed - wire-haired (short, dense coat) and long-haired (relatively long, dense coat). The colors of German Shepherds can be as follows: black and white, partly gray or red, black and white.

Among Germans, the average height at the withers for a male is 62 cm, for a female - 57, fluctuations of 2-4 cm are permissible. The body is elongated, with developed muscles, strong, powerful. The position of the hind legs is of great importance; any deviation from the norm reduces endurance and physical qualities. According to the standard, the length of the body should be greater than the height of the dog at the withers. The chest is developed, but not wide, the stomach is tucked. The tail is straight, lowered, the tip curves slightly outward upward, long hair is present up to the middle.

The head is medium, the forehead is moderately convex, the cheekbones are rounded, the lips are tightly closed, the bite is scissor, the canines are large. The nose is black, straight, the transition from the head and forehead to the muzzle is smooth. The ears are medium in size, set high, vertical. The eyes are almond-shaped, medium-sized, set at an angle.

Personality of the German Shepherd

German Shepherds are used as guard and service dogs, and they are also good as guide dogs and companions. Germans are considered easy to train, but the owner should be persistent and act systematically. A lazy or poorly trained dog can be aggressive. German Shepherd puppies are not always diligent in their studies, sometimes they require the help of a training specialist.

The German Shepherd is vigilant; a stranger will not pass by it. He is wary of strangers and always controls the situation.

A dog of this breed needs daily exercise. You need to not just walk with her, but also train her. She loves outdoor games and just running. It is not suitable for keeping at home due to its size, activity, shedding and characteristic odor. You can wash your German Shepherd no more than once a year, otherwise the protective coating on the surface of the coat will be destroyed. A pet (that does not live outside, in a kennel, or in an enclosure) needs to have its nails trimmed regularly. Poor hygiene can lead to lameness.

This is a well-known and popular dog breed all over the world. German Shepherds are famous for their intelligence and endurance, they are easy to care for, but require time and attention from the owner. After studying a detailed description of the German Shepherd breed, you will learn how to choose and raise a hardy, healthy and non-aggressive family friend, companion and faithful guardian.

Shepherd dogs have been accompanying humans for centuries, helping herd animals, guard homes and serve in law enforcement agencies. You can get a shepherd both in a private house and in an apartment.

German Shepherd: description of the breed

German Shepherds are a large, but not gigantic, breed of dog. All common subtypes of this breed have thick hair with undercoat, a powerful chest and an easily recognizable stance with a low pelvis. The following are considered general standards for the breed.

Weight. From 25 to 40 kg.
Height at the withers. 55 - 65 cm.
Color. The saddle color predominates - that is, the classic combination of black and tan for the German Shepherd. But due to the variety of subtypes in the breed there are shades of red, brown, black with and without tan, zone gray color, also called “wolf”. There are shepherd dogs of sable color, when black hairs predominate in the fur of a red animal. At the same time, the coat itself can also be different: among the types of shepherd dogs there are both short-haired and long-haired.
Lifespan. The lifespan of a German Shepherd is 10 - 14 years.
Character. Dog experts describe him as self-possessed and calm. Representatives of this breed are not prone to aggression, except in cases considered by the animal as an attack on the owner or penetration into the territory that the dog considers its own. The reaction to this depends on the individual perception and upbringing of the pet. In addition, it should be remembered that young dogs are characterized by self-will and a certain “rebellion”, which is usually eliminated by training.
Intelligence. Highly appreciated by dog handlers. Thus, in 2013, the American Kennel Club included German shepherds in the TOP 3 smartest breeds, noting their “extreme intelligence.”
Security and guard potential. It is appreciated by security and law enforcement agencies in most countries of the world, which use these dogs for security, patrolling, and searching for explosive and prohibited items.

Most dog experts agree that German Shepherds are one of the most intelligent breeds, easily trainable from just a few weeks of age. Training a German Shepherd at home is quite possible for a person without special training. In addition, the German Shepherd and children get along well, so the breed is considered suitable for the whole family.

But before you adopt a puppy, it is worth remembering that an adult German Shepherd dog is of considerable size and, accordingly, needs sufficient space in a house or apartment. And since the breed was bred as a working and service dog, the owner will have to devote considerable time to walking the dog, and at the same time raising it.

Origin history and interesting facts

According to archaeological scientists, the ancestors of German shepherds lived in Western Europe 4 thousand years ago. The remains of dogs, similar to an even more ancient animal - the small Indian wolf, were discovered in Austria during excavations of an archaeological layer of the Bronze Age. It is believed that it was these animals of the Bronze Age that became the ancestors of the domestic shepherd dogs widespread in the Middle Ages, from which the German shepherds known to us later descended. By the way, the very name of the breed clearly speaks of the breed’s agricultural past – grazing and protecting sheep flocks.

Why, in fact, “German”

By the 16th century, shepherd dogs were already widely known and popular (primarily due to their guarding qualities) both among the nobility and among simpler people. The surviving documents of that period note the ability of these dogs to protect not only the owner, but also his property. In the 18th century, the breed became widespread in Europe. Germany becomes the center of shepherd breeding, which, obviously, added nationality to the name.

In fact, at that time, two types were developed in the breed.

Large build. Red or black long-haired dogs with floppy ears and a calm disposition
Medium build. More active and aggressive, with a color similar to that of a wolf.

A variety of types of “Germans” appeared in the 19th century, when breeders, in an attempt to obtain an optimally controlled, non-aggressive guard, began to additionally cross German shepherds with herding dogs.

Breeding in Russia

In Russia, German shepherds have been bred for only 100 years. They were first brought to the Russian Empire in 1904 and immediately put into service. The first representatives of the breed were sent as ambulance dogs to the Russian-Japanese War, where they proved themselves to be excellent. Also, several representatives of the breed ended up in the police departments of St. Petersburg, Riga and Kyiv.

After the revolution, the need for service dogs only increased. Large batches of German shepherds, which marked the beginning of the widespread dissemination of the breed in the USSR among government departments and amateur dog breeders, were imported from Germany in the 20s of the last century.

War period

According to historians, about 60 thousand four-legged soldiers served in the official units of the Soviet army alone. The dogs were assigned to sapper, reconnaissance and sabotage units, served in medical units and sacrificed themselves by blowing up enemy equipment.

Of course, among the dogs that served on the fronts there were not only shepherd dogs. But the breeding of German shepherds (which, let us remember, had just gained popularity in the country before the war), had a hard impact on the pets’ performance of combat missions. In fact, Soviet dog breeders had to restore the population from just a few dozen purebred animals. Moreover, the war also affected the breeding kennels of European countries, so it was no longer so easy to import dogs en masse, as was done in the 20s.

Another difficulty for dog handlers was the different requirements for dogs in the Union and in Western Europe. If abroad the main goal was a balanced character, then in the USSR service dog breeding was focused on the animals’ abilities for guard and search work. It was also necessary to make allowances for the climate, which in most of Russia is very harsh.

As a result, until the 70s, the Soviet Union relied on the East European type of German Shepherd. And only in the late 80s, after the first All-Union Exhibition of German and East European Shepherds, DOSAAF abolished the Standard of the East European (German) Shepherd, which gave new breath to the breeding of the German Shepherd in Russia.

Today, in almost every city there are official clubs or simply circles of lovers of this breed; thousands of Russians cannot imagine life without a faithful four-legged friend, and hundreds of German shepherds serve in law enforcement agencies and carry out important tasks.

Shepherd dogs and their handlers took part in the legendary Victory Parade along with other branches of the military. And one of the four-legged servicemen, Dzhulbars, who had not recovered from his injury at that time, participated in the Parade in the arms of the country’s chief dog handler, Lieutenant Colonel Mazover. This portion was given to the dog for participation in battles and detection of 468 mines and 150 shells during mine clearance. According to one legend, the officer carried a fighting dog on the overcoat of Joseph Stalin himself.

Varieties

The variety of types of German Shepherd was simply predetermined by the long origin and long history of the development of the breed. Today, among the types, experts identify the following.

West German. The main breeding species. A classic German Shepherd that best meets the international standards of this breed.
East German. Brought out after World War II in the GDR. It differs from its West German relatives in having a more powerful build.
Eastern European. The result of the post-war work of Soviet breeders. It is distinguished by an even larger bone structure than that of East German Shepherds, and at the withers it can reach 70 cm.
Belarusian. The USSR has another type of shepherd bred - the Belarusian or so-called black German shepherd. True, experts do not include it among the main types of breeds. Belarusian Shepherds were bred by crossing German Shepherds with a number of breeds characteristic of Russia to give the animal resistance to cold and large dimensions. Dogs were successfully used in the KGB system. Representatives of the breed can reach 90 cm at the withers. These are often dark or black animals, but there are also pure white or spotted ones. In other lines, black or white color is considered a sign of non-compliance with breed standards, but for the Belarusian Shepherd this is the norm.
Long-haired. The long-haired German Shepherd is another example where dog breeders are “crowded” within the standards. As in the case of the “black shepherd,” it’s all due to a recessive gene that is present in all lines, but manifests itself only in some representatives. In the homeland of shepherd dogs, Germany, smooth-haired representatives of the breed are considered the standard, and other dogs cannot take part in exhibitions. In response, long-haired pet lovers are developing a species called the Old German Longhair, but without official recognition or specific genetic lines for breeding.
Dwarf. The dwarf German shepherd is also not formally considered a separate line, since its significantly smaller size is the result of a genetic malfunction that can affect the health of the animal. But these dogs fully retain the working qualities of the “Germans”, protective instincts, learning ability and the ability to get along with children. And this, together with their compact size, makes dwarfs attractive to those who want to keep a dog in an apartment.

Selection, maintenance and nutrition requirements

The main decision that determines the entire subsequent life together with a German shepherd is made by the future owner when choosing a puppy. Or better yet, his parents. Even if you decide to get a dog solely as a family friend and are not thinking about a show career or further breeding, the health of your future pet depends on how healthy the puppy’s parents are and whether they match each other according to breed standards and genetic parameters.

Therefore, before you go for a new family member, be patient and collect as much information as possible about breeders and nurseries working in your city, and if possible, consult with dog handlers or experienced dog breeders.

According to international breed standards, a breeding female can whelp no more than once a year and can raise up to ten puppies at a time. If the dog gave birth more often or there were more puppies, then the offspring may turn out to be weaker, so you should ask the breeder not only about the litter from which you are offered to choose a German Shepherd puppy, but also about the previous one.

When you arrive at the nursery, pay attention to the conditions in which the puppies are kept. The cleanliness and well-groomed appearance of the babies indicates that the breeder spares no effort and money on his pets, and they have been fed properly since birth, received the necessary care and primary education.

The advantages of the German Shepherd breed described by experts are inherent specifically in purebred purebred animals. By purchasing a German Shepherd of dubious origin, you may end up with an animal with unpredictable problems, both with health and character.

Boy or girl

A German Shepherd, regardless of gender, will be a reliable watchman and friend. But there are gender differences in dogs (they are described in the following table), and they should be taken into account when choosing.

Table - Comparison of the pros and cons of keeping German shepherds of different sexes

German Shepherd	pros	Minuses
Male	- Often larger and more massive than bitches; - no heat; - with a good pedigree, it is interesting to breeders; - mating can occur much more often than for a female (once every 2-4) months; - the owner of the male dog is not responsible for raising the puppies	- Requires more attention when training, as it may try to “dominate the pack”; - more prone to aggression; - can mark the territory, including in the house; - can get out of control when meeting a female in heat
Bitch	- More friendly; - becomes attached to the owner; - better amenable to training; - the choice of males for mating is always greater than that of females	- Fewer and lighter males; - there is a heat; - possible unwanted pregnancy; - responsibility for a successful pregnancy and childbirth, as well as caring for puppies, lies with the owners of the bitch

Ideal puppy: breed standards

When choosing a puppy, try to watch him not only in the enclosure, but also on walks. This will allow you to fully appreciate the build of the future pet, as well as notice the traits of the future character: determination, or vice versa, passivity, curiosity or phlegmatism. Also note the following:

the puppy – (like the place where it is kept) should be clean and smell nice;
skin – without irritation and bite marks;
eyes should not water;
the coat is not long, since elongation or curling may later become a deviation from the breed standards;
bones – even at a young age, the puppy must have strong bones;
shoulders and hips are wide;
back – short;
croup – ideally sloping;
paws – straight, with a long bend at the knee joint;
tail – without kinks or rounding.

German Shepherd puppies develop ears between the ages of one and four months, so it is likely that your new friend will still have ears at the time of purchase. But the eyes change color from blue to brown within a month. Please note that the puppy should have a scissor bite with the upper jaw slightly pushed forward.

Vaccinations

The optimal age for moving a German Shepherd to a new owner’s house is one and a half to two months. By this time, the breeder should have already given the puppy his first vaccinations and provided you with information about the date and vaccine used. In total, German Shepherds are vaccinated against seven diseases, including:

infectious hepatitis;
parvovirus infection;
arboviral enteritis;
rabies;
leptospirosis;
carnivore plague;
parainfluenza.

During the first year of life, the puppy is vaccinated three times. Vaccination is best carried out in specialized clinics under the supervision of specialists.

Preparing a home for a dog

In the new home, the dog should have a place to sleep and eat. German Shepherds are large dogs, the optimal place for which would be an enclosure with a good insulated booth. If you intend to keep a dog in an apartment, then, as in the case of small children, it is better to make the housing safe for the puppy in advance:

remove the wires;
rearrange valuable and bulky items;
Put simple locks on the doors of “forbidden” rooms that open inward.
stock up on special toys.

Toilet

Be prepared for the fact that at first the puppy will go to the toilet wherever he has to. Firstly, he still doesn’t know how to endure. Secondly, he will be allowed to walk in public yards and on dog parks only after all the necessary vaccinations. And thirdly, even after the start of regular walks, the puppy will learn to relieve itself outside by about six months. To toilet train, the dog should be taken for a walk immediately after eating, and rewarded with a treat for every puddle outside the house.

Experts recommend starting walks from five to ten minutes, since small puppies should not be subjected to significant physical activity. As the animal grows, the duration and distance of walks should increase to two to three hours per year.

Diet

At first, feeding a German Shepherd is the same as what the puppy is accustomed to from the breeder. Puppies have a higher metabolic rate than adult dogs, so they are fed small portions, but much more often. The frequency of feeding depends on the age of the pet:

at two months – the puppy eats six times a day;
by six months – the number of meals is reduced to three or four;
from ten months– The German Shepherd is already fed twice a day.

The diet may consist of prepared feed or natural food. The main requirement for it is balance, the presence of all necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals. Milk and dairy products, especially cottage cheese, will be a useful addition to your puppy’s menu. From two months, the baby can be given 100-200 g of raw meat (except pork) and cartilage; later, boiled offal, eggs, and fish are added to the range of baits. For porridges, you should use buckwheat, rice and millet, boiling until tender. You can also add vegetables and fruits to the food, except citrus fruits. It is important to remember that the German Shepherd is still a carnivore, and cereals and vegetables should not be the main ingredient.

Proper nutrition is the basis for the full development of a German Shepherd puppy and its long and healthy life. When choosing a feeding method, remember: saving on food almost always leads to increased costs for veterinary services.

Training issues

All descriptions of the German Shepherd breed traditionally emphasize the trainability of these dogs. But training is a long process that requires effort, will and patience on both sides. It is extremely difficult to instill real working skills in a dog without the help of professionals, but practicing everyday necessary commands at home is quite possible.

Education begins from the first days of communication with the puppy. Experts recommend not initially pampering your baby by establishing strict taboos, for example, prohibiting him from climbing into bed or on the sofa. You should not allow your puppy to beg for treats from your plate, chew your shoes, etc. It is also not recommended to pet the puppy too much, pick it up and accustom it to excessive affection. Don’t forget, in the first year he will grow into a large dog, which will be much more difficult to wean from inappropriate habits.

It is worth moving directly to training when the dog has become comfortable and accustomed to the owner, vaccinations have been completed, and walks outside have been going on for a relatively long time. The first lessons are often devoted to simply active games with the owner, which allows the dog to learn how to interact with humans.

To practice commands, it is better to go outside before feeding, so that reward in the form of treats is perceived as doubly pleasant. At this stage, you will have to be patient and feed, teaching the dog to complete the assigned tasks. In addition, do not forget that if, after practicing a command, for example: “Sit,” you move on to the next exercise, then in a few days without repetition, the dog may forget what it has learned.

German Shepherds have been bred for centuries as service dogs, so success in training a pet, with due patience and diligence, can be achieved at home. But it would be optimal for the newly-made “German” owner to take at least a few lessons from professionals. At a minimum, this will help you communicate correctly with your dog and better understand your pet.

Diseases and treatment

In addition, do not forget about regular preventive treatment against fleas and worms (carried out twice a year).

Among genetic diseases that are inherited, doctors pay special attention to hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Both diseases are pathologies of bone tissue and are accompanied by pain and lameness in animals. At an early age, symptoms may not be noticeable, but as body weight increases, the disease will manifest itself. Dysplasia can be diagnosed after the completion of skeletal formation at 10-12 months.

According to reviews from shepherd dog owners, it is worth paying attention to the dog’s appearance and behavior. If she is active, eats well and relieves herself regularly, the animal is most likely healthy. Also, its fur, eyes and ears can tell about the condition of the dog. In case of lethargy and apathy, skin rash or purulent discharge from the eyes and ears, diarrhea or vomiting, you should contact your veterinarian.

TOP nicknames

Choosing a name for a pet is no less significant than choosing food and maintaining a walking schedule. Pedigree puppies, after inspection and confirmation of compliance with breed standards, are given a name by the breeder. But often it is used only for documents, and for direct communication with the animal, the owner chooses something to suit his taste. Among Internet users, names associated with history, mythology and astrology, aristocratic titles and the color of the dog are popular. Foreign first and last names of celebrities and names of movie characters are also common.

The most popular nicknames for the German Shepherd “boy”

Rex;
Mars;
Zeus;
Caesar;
Kurt;
Graph;
Lord;
Adolf;
Gray;
Alex.

The most popular nicknames for the “girl” German Shepherd:

Alpha;
Wendy;
Sherry;
Hera;
Athena;
Gerda;
Kira;
Daisy;
Chelsea.

When choosing a name for your pet, you should remember that you will have to address it in public places, so it is better to avoid common human names in your region, as well as expressive phrases that may be perceived by others as addressed to you. Also, you should not give the dog a name that is consonant with commands.

Photo review

In the photo of puppies and adult dogs of the German Shepherd breed, their aristocracy and power, strength and graceful posture, noble features and high intelligence are clearly visible.

Cost and where to buy

You should only buy a German Shepherd puppy from trusted breeders and official kennels. The price of a dog will vary based on a number of factors, including regional. But first of all, how much a German Shepherd puppy costs is determined by the purity of the line and pedigree. In addition, the class to which the puppy will be assigned during the breed examination plays a significant role.

Show class. The price for a show-class puppy (that is, a potential participant and winner of exhibitions) can reach up to $1,500. For example, such a puppy in Moscow can be purchased from 40 thousand rubles (data as of November 2017).
Breeding class. The cost of a breed-class puppy that is promising for breeding is lower. Moreover, only “girls” are valued in this class. The price of a breeding bitch starts from $300 (data as of December 2017).
Pet class. The cheapest. This includes puppies that, for some reason, are recognized as not fully meeting the breed standards. These animals do not participate in exhibitions and are considered unsuitable for breeding. But we are talking only about defects in the exterior, bite and other nuances of breed standards. Otherwise, this is a healthy puppy, which will not be prevented from becoming an excellent guard or companion. Such a friend in Moscow can cost about 10 thousand rubles (data as of December 2017).

German Shepherd Kennels

There are German Shepherd kennels in most major cities in different countries. Here is a list of just a few of them.

"Oliris" (Moscow)- http://www.ovcharki.com;
"Balaris" (Krasnodar region) - http://www.balaris.ru;
Zilber Wasserfall (Petrozavodsk)— http://zilberwasserfall.com;
Ukrainian-Austrian kennel of black German shepherds “Everblacks” (Kyiv)— https://www.nemeckaya-ovcharka.com;
Kennel of black and black German shepherds “Marisol Marie” (Minsk) – http://www.marisolmari.com.

The above characteristics of the German Shepherd breed, as well as reviews from the owners, will help you choose “your” puppy.

As cuddly as a teddy bear to those who care for them and as cold as ice to those who don't, German Shepherds love people, fun and food. They don't like days that are too boring, and they don't like what's knocking on the door. They are often eager to please, but even more so they are eager to see what's hiding in the bushes.

Careful with strangers

German Shepherds love their owners, but shy away from strangers. Properly trained Shepherds are not aggressive towards strangers, but they do not want to allow someone unfamiliar to them to enter their territory.

Smart

German Shepherds have exemplary intelligence and are ranked as the third smartest dog in the world! They are easy to train, learn many simple commands, and only need about 5 repetitions.

Energetic

German Shepherds need a way to burn off their abundant energy. They will need daily walks and play. If your Shepherd has too much energy left, it can lead to destructive results such as running around the house and general bullying.

Defenders

In addition to being reserved around strangers, Shepherds will bark aggressively when someone knocks on your door. And they will not hesitate to protect those who love them if danger arises.

Curious

A German Shepherd will not be able to stay away for long from something that interests it. They love to explore their surroundings and test the boundaries of their yard. Their curiosity is especially noticeable at a young age, when shepherd puppies explore literally everything they can with the help of their nose and paws.

Agile

Shepherd dogs can reach their maximum speed almost instantly, and even on sharp turns they do not trip over themselves or over any objects. This is one of the many reasons why they are often used as a police and military dog.

Hip dysplasia

German Shepherds are prone to quite a few diseases, but especially hip dysplasia. The debilitating disease is often the result of poor breeding practices. Therefore, if you want to buy a shepherd puppy, always ask the breeder about such problems from its parents.

Three colors

The combination of beige and black colors is the most common in German Shepherds, but, nevertheless, there are also completely black and white Shepherds. But if you are planning to get a white puppy, then you should know that the American Kennel Club will disqualify it.

Large

Although shepherds remain quite thin during the first two years of life, they quickly gain weight later. These are large and powerful dogs that typically weigh between 30 and 40 kg. If the shepherd is not properly trained, it can easily knock an adult to the ground if it collides with him.

Shedding

Sheepdogs are notorious shedding dogs. The only way to prevent shepherd hair from accumulating in your home is by brushing and combing it daily.

Height at withers: 55 - 65 cm

Weight: 22 - 40 kg

Wedge-shaped, proportionally developed. The distance between the ears is wide. The profile is clearly defined.

Narrow bone. Tight build. Deep chest. Straight and strong back. The stomach is strongly retracted.

Teeth, jaws and cheekbones

Scissor bite. Powerful and well developed jaws. The cheekbones are longitudinal, rounded at the sides and do not protrude forward.

Straight and elongated. No hump. The nose should be black.

Hind legs

Powerful thighs. The stand is slightly set back. The pads on the fingers are hard.

Front legs

Straight, round and powerful. Well developed musculature. The pads on the fingers are hard.

Black with red-brown, brown and gray markings. Solid color options are also common: black and gray.

Almond-shaped, medium size. Eye color - as dark as possible. The view should be meaningful and clear.

Straight and hard coat with developed undercoat. There are “pants” on the hind legs.

Covered with thick hair, the minimum length is not below the knee joint.

Medium in size, quite wide at the base, placed high on the head, standing upright, the shells of the ears are directed only forward.

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Introduction

German Shepherds are the true Teutonic Knights of the dog world. This is a breed of universal working dogs that can do any job. They serve alongside military personnel, rescue workers, firefighters and police officers, displaying incredible intelligence and intelligence. German Shepherds are ideal for training; they are attentive, resilient and incredibly beautiful. Their physical strength is ideally combined with sensitivity and intelligence.

Story

According to the most common version, the German Shepherd breed began its history in the middle of the 13th century in southwest Germany. These lands have always been famous for well-developed cattle breeding. The German Shepherd was bred by farmers specifically for full control over sheep and other livestock. The dog had to not only protect the crops, but also protect his charges from wolves. Of course, to perform numerous duties, the German Shepherd needed a number of important qualities - endurance, efficiency, a sense of discipline and intelligence.

The first shepherd dogs were completely different from our contemporaries. Their characteristic features were large floppy ears and long shaggy hair. Of course, there was no talk about the fundamental purity of the breed. In the 19th century, the Germans decided to begin work on breeding a purebred breed. The most important emphasis in the idealization of the German Shepherd was the change in its appearance.

The German Shepherd became what we see in today’s photos thanks to hard work. legendary dog handler Max von Stephanitz. The scientist believed that the German Shepherd was one of the future symbols of mighty Germany. While working on purely visual aspects, he also concentrated on the physical and psychological aspects of the reformation. Stefanitz created an innovative system of education and training. Shepherd dogs, under the strict guidance of a dog handler, have turned into perfect service dogs. Their obedience and intelligence played a key role in this, which is why German Shepherds are now used by all government agencies during the most dangerous and responsible missions.

Shepherds became the main fighting dogs during the First and Second World Wars. They were awarded orders, monuments were erected to them, films were made about them. Having experienced a sharp drop in population after the events of the war that were devastating to the entire world, the Teutons gained even greater popularity.

Adolf Hitler was a great connoisseur of the German Shepherd breed. He considered these dogs to be the personification of the best Aryan qualities and got several animals. The most famous dog was called Blondie. She was with the German dictator until his death in a bunker under the Reich Chancellery in 1945.

Adolf Hitler was a great connoisseur of German Shepherds. He considered this breed to be the personification of the best Aryan qualities. Hitler had several shepherd dogs. The most famous of them was called Blondie. The dog was with the German tyrant until his death in a bunker under the Reich Chancellery in 1945.

Intelligence

According to a number of tests and studies, the German Shepherd is one of the smartest dogs in the world. In terms of the level of intellectual development, representatives of this breed are only a few points inferior to the recognized giants of thought - border collies and poodles.

The mental abilities of German Shepherds are extremely diverse. They can be trained in both search and security skills. But you should not assume that this working breed is not suitable for home keeping. Quite the contrary, Teutons love comfort, a friendly atmosphere and communication with people. Contact with humans (conversations, walks, training) is necessary for shepherd dogs to develop properly psychologically.

Character

The character of the German Shepherd is the true pride of the owners of these dogs. Teutons are characterized by devotion and love for their owners. Representatives of the German Shepherd breed retain these qualities (as well as a sharp mind) until old age. Their temperament is even and strong. If a dog has been properly trained as a puppy, its behavior will always be relaxed and unchanged, no matter what happens. They know how to control their fear and other negative emotions.

Socialization

German Shepherds are very sociable and are always happy to be in company. But due to their “service” genetics, they are always very wary and vigilant of strangers in the house. They may scare your guest by barking. Some time must pass for the German Shepherd to study the person and understand that he is not dangerous.

Their character and level of socialization depend on two cornerstone features: the shepherd is a loving, gentle pet and a reliable bodyguard at the same time.

They can easily make friends with felines, other dogs and, of course, children. If the child is very small and is just learning to walk, the shepherd will gladly offer its strong, straight back as a reliable support.

Education

Training for this capable dog must begin at an early age. The owner needs to be consistent and patient in order to overcome the initial rejection of the Teutonic before executing commands. The dogs whose genotype formed the basis of the German Shepherd breed were Great Danes, so some persistence in terms of learning is present in them even at the genetic level. But centuries-old selection has made it possible to develop high adaptability in their character.

Walking and exercise

German Shepherds are real athletes who need physical activity. Even if you don’t want to professionally train your dog, you still shouldn’t forget about jogging and active games. Regularity of intense and long walks (preferably at least forty minutes) - three times a day.

Do not forget that at least once a week, shepherd dogs need to feel spacious. Go with them to the forest and fields, armed with sports equipment (although a classic stick can be a game object) - Frisbee and balls, and let your pets throw out all their energy. If you love sports and go for morning jogs or bike rides, a German Shepherd will be happy to be with you. Like Labradors and other active dogs, Teutons are designed for exciting mountain hikes. They will happily carry your equipment on their back. The main thing is not to overdo the weight of your travel bag.

There are many films dedicated to German Shepherds. According to the editors of Glorypets, one of the best thematic films is an action-comedy straight from childhood - the wonderful and kind film “K-9”, which tells about the friendship of a good-for-nothing cop played by James Belushi and his devoted shepherd named Jerry Lee.

Care

It is usually not easy to understand from a photo of a German Shepherd that its short coat needs careful care. That is why people who are superficially familiar with the breed, but admire it and want to get a “German” for themselves, often encounter unexpected troubles. The fact is that the Teuton needs to be thoroughly combed about twice a week. This will protect the dog’s fur from tangling (especially the thin undercoat on the belly) and protect your apartment from falling tufts and tangles. Once every few months, it is necessary to carefully trim the long hair over the entire surface of the thighs, including the inner thighs.

You need to wash your dog with a stiff brush as needed. You will need special shampoos and soft towels. After water treatments, you should not allow the shepherd to lie on its side until the coat is completely dry.

German Shepherds should have their nails trimmed twice a month. You need to brush your teeth every day. This will kill bacteria in your dog's mouth and give him fresh breath.

German Shepherd in your apartment

The first thing worth noting is that if you decide to get a German Shepherd, you cannot do without a powerful and high-quality vacuum cleaner. No matter how you comb your pet, hair will still be present in the apartment, which is harmful to health - both yours and the dog’s.

When arranging a personal place for your pet, it is important to remember that the German Shepherd is an exceptionally large dog. Therefore, in this case you will not get by with a bedding or a bed. The shepherd's place should be spacious and comfortable, not too soft, but not hard either. Lying down, the animal should not feel discomfort due to dangling paws. You should also remember that there must be sufficient visibility from the dog's area. The Teutonic feels uncomfortable in blind corners and walls. A dog's natural calling is to protect its owner. Therefore, it is highly desirable that your pet can watch you and your family members.

What to feed a German Shepherd dog

Most veterinarians advise feeding animals of this breed with premium, balanced dry food. It is moderately high in calories, will provide the German Shepherd with protection from pancreatic diseases and diarrhea, and will support the immune system.

If you still decide to stick to a natural diet, 30% of the diet should be fresh pieces of meat (beef, horse meat). Sea fish, boiled offal and eggs, cottage cheese and kefir, thick porridges (rolled oats, buckwheat, rice) are recommended. Raw vegetables and herbs are finely chopped. Any spices, baked goods, potatoes, legumes, smoked meats and sausages, and tubular bones are prohibited. Crackers and dried fruits are ideal as treats.