Best Dog Food for German Shepherds & Proper Care Tips

How to Care for a German Shepherd:

1. Many pet owners are initially drawn to the charming contrast of the German Shepherd, only to find themselves on a challenging journey. It's important to note that raising a German Shepherd requires more dedication than a typical dog. If you're a busy professional, it might not be the best choice for you. As a longhaired breed, German Shepherds need daily grooming to prevent mats and tangles. Their thick, luxurious coat can become a mess in just a few days without proper care, and it's prone to dirt, which can lead to skin issues. Given their large size and the amount of hair, grooming can take about two hours each session, making it unsuitable for impatient owners.

2. As a large breed, German Shepherds have hearty appetites, which can be quite costly to maintain without a stable income.

3. These dogs are energetic giants, requiring regular exercise. When out on walks, they have a tendency to be overly exuberant and may leap at people without regard for familiarity. They also have a habit of picking up random objects to eat and can be unpredictable with their behavior, especially around children or other small animals. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are often gentle giants. However, they can be quite mischievous when left alone, turning into the ringleader of chaos.

4. German Shepherd puppies are prone to illnesses, and purebreds are even more susceptible, particularly to parvovirus, which can have a high mortality rate. Additionally, their unique leg joint structure can lead to arthritis as they age, requiring ongoing care and potentially more expensive veterinary treatments. While they are lively and may seem wellbehaved when you're home, they can become quite the handful when you're not around.

5. Watering a German Shepherd can be problematic, as they tend to get water in their facial hair, which can lead to a dirty appearance and black muzzles over time.

6. Hygiene is key with German Shepherds. Regular trimming of the hair around the buttocks is necessary to prevent it from getting caught in feces. Daily cleaning of the mouth and eyes is also essential. Additionally, trimming lower hair can prevent slipping.

By now, you might be thinking that German Shepherds are difficult to care for, but they do have their merits. They are not barkers, are highly intelligent, and are incredibly loyal to their owners. The key to successful dog ownership lies in embracing both their flaws and their strengths.

Pet Doctor's Tip: For more information about German Shepherds, check out our article "Characteristics of German Shepherds" for a deeper understanding.