German Shepherd Information German Shepherd Training
The German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog is handsome and very strong. Characterized by its great adaptability and physical prowess, the German Shepherd Dog is respected, admired, and utilized throughout the world. One of the most easily recognized and one of the most popular of all breeds, it is admired for its versatility, intelligence, and beloved for its devotion and loyalty to its owner. The German Shepherd breed is also known as the Alsatian.
The color of the German Shepherd's coat varies but often comes in black with tan, sable or all black. In the past white was not an acceptable color for the German Shepherd, however they are now recognized as a separate breed, called the American White Shepherd.
Surprisingly, the German Shepherd dog has been in existence as a distinct breed for only about 90 years. The breed traces its ancestors to a widely diverse group of sheep herding and farm dogs in Germany. In the late 19th Century, informal breeding groups of sheep herders banded together through a common interest in their dogs and attempted to produce dogs with the desired working attributes.
German Shepherd Temperament:
In the past German Shepherds have often been used as working dogs. German Shepherds are dauntless, alert, bold, obedient and eager to learn.
Because of a desire to have a family protector, many German Shepherd puppy buyers think they need a aggressive alpha dog -- not a good choice for a family. Sound German Shepherd Dogs are naturally protective of their homes and families.
Puppies will begin to show a desire to warn of approaching strangers and an awareness of their family at about five or six months of age. German Shepherds have a very strong protective instinct, so they should be extensively socialized to prevent over-guarding when they are an adult.
Aggression and attacks on people are largely due to poor breeding, handling and training. A well bred, well-adjusted, and trained dog is for the most part generally good with other pets and great with children in the family. They must be firmly trained in obedience from an early age.
German Shepherd Information
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