What Dog Breed Is Best For Me - Part VII

In my continuing series, “What Dog Breed Is Best For Me?” we’re going to talk about a large dog breed that is popular, highly intelligent, and can be a devoted companion - if it is trained properly.

This is one dog breed that needs strong leadership and discipline from its owner.

This breed is not for everyone. In fact, some dog trainers advise against - and do not recommend - it as a family dog because it is assertive and has a strong protective instinct that must be controlled and channeled early to prevent serious or fatal accidents.

It comes in various colors including black, white, gray, and sable.

German Shepherd - Brave Working Dog

When you think of the German Shepherd, you might immediately think of a guard or protection dog.

With early and proper German Shepherd Dog Training the German Shepherd can make a fine pet that is loyal and protective.

Because it is a large and active dog, it is only suitable for larger homes where there is plenty of space for exercise and needs an owner who can devote time to firm dog behavior training.

The German Shepherd is an athletic dog that needs plenty of exercise. Long, fast-paced walks and activity are necessary to burn off excess energy in this agile dog.

The German Shepherd was originally a herding dog which means it’s a “working” dog - it needs a job or a challenge to keep it occupied and happy.

German Shepherd Training

The German Shepherd is a breed that trains well. It can, however, display temperament problems which can lead to dog behavior problems.

The German Shepherd is a smart dog breed which bonds closely with its owner.

Dog behavior problems with the German Shepherd can include separation anxiety, fear biting, destructiveness, and aggressiveness towards strangers.

If you happen to be considering acquiring one through a “free German Shepherd to a good home” advertisement, do your due diligence - especially about health, temperament, and early socialization - and be sure to check out our suggestion for German Shepherd Dog Training.

Training a German Shepherd puppy early is highly recommended since an out-of-control or inactive German Shepherd can lead to serious dog behavior problems including dog aggression, dog biting, dog chewing, dog barking excessively, fear biting, and more.

You might be wondering how effective this German Shepherd Training program is.

Well, Adam G. K. - a professional dog trainer - tells the story of one German Shepherd dog owner who came to him for help because her 160 pound German Shepherd was barking, lunging, and pulling at its leash.

With proper direction from the trainer, the dog owner was able to quickly control her German Shepherd simply by learning how to communicate with it properly.

Of course, the dog owner had two advantages - she had individualized training with the dog trainer and she was already familiar with this dog trainer’s methods from his dog behavior training program. So she was able to understand and implement his instructions quickly to get the results she wanted.

But obviously his training worked since she couldn’t believe it was the same dog after using his dog training techniques.

The German Shepherd has a life span of up to 13 years and can suffer from several medical conditions including hip malformation, skin problems, eye problems, and allergies.

Intelligence, athletic ability, low grooming requirements are a plus. Strong protective instinct, size, health concerns, and need for exercise and to be kept occupied could be a minus.

Buy from a reputable breeder and socialize and train this dog breed early. Ensure your lifestyle and commitment to owning this breed are compatible with the dog’s specific needs.

If you’re thinking of getting a German Shepherd, be sure to request our FREE List of Cool, Clever, Popular, and Unique Puppy and Dog Names.

Training Your German Shepherd
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