Article From SubmitYOURArticle.com: German Shepherd Dog Breed Profile

Description: Also known as the Alsatian, the
German Shepherd is a large dog weighing between
77 and 85 pounds. The dog will measure 24 to 26
at the withers, and the bitch 22 to 24 . German
Shepherds are agile and muscular dogs and well
suited to all forms of energetic work. Three
kinds of coat may be found on these dogs:
straight-haired coarse (the most common kind),
long straight-haired coarse, and long-haired
wavy. The usual coat colors are tan and black or
all black. Less seen colors are liver, blue, or
white.

History: During the 19th century in Germany,
breeders began to develop a specialized dog from
local sheep herding dogs. Led by Captain Max von
Stephanitz, the effort to produce a highly
intelligent and trainable dog resulted in what we
know today as the German Shepherd. It is believed
by some that wolves were bred, either
deliberately or accidentally, to area dogs to
help form the breed. The German Shepherd was well
established in Germany by 1899 and had made its
way to America by 1907.

Temperament: The German Shepherd is well loved
for its loyalty and attached to its owner and
family. It is one of the most popular breeds in
America. They are very protective of those they
love. German Shepherds are good with children,
especially when properly socialized. This is a
brave and cheerful dog that enjoys being around
its human family.

The German Shepherd is sometimes considered to be
an aggressive dog. However, it should be
emphasized that any large dog that is untrained
and unsupervised can be characterized as such.
This is a very active dog that wants to work,
German Shepherds need something to do. Training
for this dog should begin, in a positive manner,
as soon as the puppy is brought home.

Health Issues: The most frightening and
life-threatening condition these dogs may
experience is bloat, or stomach torsion. Any dog
that becomes extremely sick with this must be
taken to a veterinarian immediately. As a large
breed, German Shepherds can suffer from hip
dysplasia and problems with the elbow. Because
these dogs have been selectively bred to have a
sloping back, spinal problems can develop. As a
good deal of inbreeding was necessary to refine
the breed, Von Willebrand's Disease, a type of
hemophilia, can occur. Carriers of this disorder
can be detected by a blood test.

Grooming: Although the German Shepherd will shed
year round, minimal grooming is required.
Brushing the dog's coat several times a week will
keep it in good condition and keep shedding under
control.

Living Conditions: Evolving as it did from
rough-living farm and shepherding dogs, the
German Shepherd is certainly able to be kept
outdoors year round. However, as this dog becomes
very attached to its human friends, it is better
kept in the house. The German Shepherd can live
in an apartment as long as it is given plenty of
exercise. This dog has a high energy level and
this must be burned off daily to maintain the
dog's mental and physical health.

----------------------------------------------------
For more information on the German Shepherd,
Training and Puppies for sale visit the page
below.
http://ezinearticles.com/?German-Shepherd-Dog-Bree
d&id=3749995

EasyPublish this article: http://submityourarticle.com/articles/easypublish.php?art_id=86929

>