Breed History: 

As their name suggests, German shepherds, also known as Alsatians, are a dog breed that originated from Germany. This canine companion has long served as both companion and servant for humans. In the late 1800s, they originated from the hybridization of prolific herding breeds. It was subjected to rigorous selection and evolved rapidly. This dog breed was bred by Max von Stephanitz in 1899 with the use of many traditional German shepherd dogs but was bred as a herding dog for herding sheep.

In the early 1900s, worldwide interest in the breed grew, and then in 1908, it was officially sanctioned by the AKC (American Kennel Club). During the First and Second World Wars, the 'German' word was dropped, and the dog breed became known as the Shepherd Dog or Alsatian. The popularity of the German shepherd has led to cross-breeding, such as the growth of the King Shepherd, a mix of the Shiloh Shepherd and the German shepherd.

Size – Medium-Large 

Life Expectancy: 9 to 13 years

Breed Appearance:

Muscular and big with a mark square bushy, muzzle tail, and typically black mask are the notable features of German Shepherds. They usually come in a variety of colour combinations – black or red, tan, or single black, most probably with blanket and saddle staining around the back. 

Rare colours, including liver, sable, panda, and silver can also be seen. Even the complete white and black German shepherds are also out there.  Many German shepherds usually feature a dense double coat, having an outer layer that is water-resistant and a thick coat beneath. However, most shepherds possess either a long or medium-sized coat. 

Breed Type - Family/guard:

German shepherds are loyal, protective companions. They are considered to be a great family pet. They enjoy loving and pampering their family unit and owner but can be cautious around newcomers and strangers, and thrive on the attention and care of their family.

If you are rarely at home or do not have enough time to care for your pet, or you live in a small space lacking a large yard, this is not the right breed of dog for you. Simply put, this dog breed requires ample attention and companionship to help it thrive and overcome annoying or destructive behaviours that arise from boredom and anxiety. Due to their guardedness of strangers and curiosity, your German Shepherds will be excellent guard pets, but plenty of socialization and training are required.

Training:

German Shepherds can sometimes behave aggressively or anxiously, especially if they have not been adequately handled and trained. These dogs feel proud when they act like play. The dog breed's willingness to work and intelligence should make training quite easy. Also, with socialization, your German Sphered does not become afraid or stressed when exposed to new animals or people, as well as seeing new places.

Many German Sphereds go on to become unbeatable service dogs. While some have the potential to become rescue and detection pets, they also perform well in other working activities, including watchdogs, guard dogs, and guide dogs. Since they love to stay busy and learn, trick training makes them happy.

Health & Care:

As with other various dog breeds, German shepherds can have numerous health issues. Most health problems are caused by inbreeding early in the breed's life. The most common health problems associated with the breed are elbow dysplasia, hip dysplasia, degenerative spinal stenosis, degenerative myelopathy, and von Willebrand's disease.

To prevent and address joint disease, consult your veterinarian about supplements and care for your dog's health.  Your German shepherds needs to play, explore, and run to prevent boredom, pent-up power, and frustration. An alone pet may resort to chewing, digging, and barking. Therefore, it is important to give your pet plenty of attention.

Living Condition:

It is worth mentioning that German Shepherds are not suitable for living in small houses, flats, or places that lack yard or garden space. The country or city will be fine, but ample space for training, walking, and running freely is the best living situation your dog will enjoy. In conclusion, the perfect home for a GSD would be one with a large garden to roam and run around in.

Exercise:

Speaking of GSD's exercising needs, these dogs should be incorporated into 2 hours or more exercise regularly. What's more, they should be given plenty of variety in route and location. If you're opting for a puppy of this breed, be sure to provide them exercising carefully to avoid damaging still-growing joints. 

Puzzle-solving games and lots of training will keep your German shepherd sharp-minded and engaged productively. Since German shepherds are active dogs, they enjoy running at fast speed across a yard as much as you will let them. They typically require space to run and enough outdoor time.

Grooming:

This breed has medium-length hair that should be brushed every couple of days to combat the relatively high amount of hair shedding. Happily, the German Shepherd coat also resists debris and dirt, meaning you don't need to bathe your pet very often, bathing it once a month is enough. 

When providing proper care, don't forget to trim your pet's nails to help them move around comfortably. Additionally, help maintain good oral health by brushing your pet's shiny white teeth twice a week.

Advantages:

• Easy to train

• Loyal dog

• Versatile dog breed 

• Best guard dog

Disadvantages:

• Needs a large garden space to play and plenty of exercise 

• Not get along with other pets

• Extra training required  

• Sheds every other day