Selecting Your German Shepherd: What To Look For

Each and every one of us is attracted to other people based on a sometimes subconscious preference for appearance and personality. As your personal relationships deepen and you commit to a long-term form of friendship, or choose a partner for life, you often begin to realize that a person’s personality far outweighs any other quality. No matter what the chosen companions look like, it is far less important in the long run than their trustworthiness or sense of humor.

The same is equally true when deciding which German Shepherd you want in your family. While every dog ​​buyer (and breeder) may have a certain set of preferences when it comes to physical appearance, the main concern you should keep in mind is finding a compatible dog that will be happy and well-adjusted for the long term. . buddy.

Real “good” (ie non-profit) breeders spend a lot of time with their puppies. During these extended periods of socialization, the intelligent breeder will notice certain personality traits such as dominance, friendliness, and determination (not to mention gait, topline, and angulation). If it comes down to it, you’d be much better off giving up the “perfect” look for a dog that’s compatible with you and your lifestyle. They will be able to help you find a perfect “match”, as they realize that when an owner is happy, the dog is too.

Word to the wise, though. A German Shepherd Dog is definitely NOT for everyone. If you are looking for a lazy, bored and apathetic breed that is absolutely submissive and will always obey your every command, don’t bother with the German Shepherd. If you work 12 hours a day and are too tired to spend an hour or so at night playing with his furry friend, don’t buy a shepherd. If you plan to chain your dog up in the backyard and commit him to a life with little to no human interaction, don’t buy a shepherd. German Shepherds are “man’s best friend” approval. They want and need a social life and will suffer greatly, both emotionally and physically, without it. Treat them like your best friend and they will bring more joy to your life than you can imagine!

Decision time: puppy or adult?

If you’re like 99% of the dog-buying public, your initial response is “a puppy, of course.” As in the world of human adoptions, the vast majority of people want to start their relationship with their new family member early in life.

However, don’t overlook the advantages of an adult dog. When you adopt an adult German Shepherd, you often forget about the early “trials and tribulations” that new dog owners must “go through” (breaking down the house, etc.), not to mention the “chewing” stage that a dog will invariably go through. puppy that is teething. via. If you’ve been gone most of the day and have already experienced the ‘delights’ of having a new puppy, then an adult dog may be right for you (check with your local shelter or rescue agency, they often have a “diamond in the rough”). “waiting for someone like you!)

Male or female?

Both genres have their pros and cons. There is a slight size difference (males are an average of two inches taller and about 20 pounds heavier than females) in that males sometimes appear to be a “taller” than females (not always true, of course). The females, of course, have a heat cycle, which can be a headache until you spay them (always recommended).

That said, a German Shepherd’s personality characteristics are much more determined by heredity and environment than gender. As with any breed of dog, a loving home with caring and caring owners works wonders in raising a dog that is happy, fun-loving and a joy to all who meet them.