The German Shepherd is an extremely loving and devoted breed that requires its owner to reciprocate all the love and care. All German Shepherd dog owners and those who are considering adopting one need to be aware of a few tips that will aid in a healthy and wholesome lifestyle for the companion dog.
The first step in caring for the animal begins right at the time of adoption: it is always a good idea to have the puppy checked by the vet for any illnesses once it leaves the breeder’s premises. Adopting a puppy from an animal loving family/breeder would mean a mentally and emotionally stable dog. Therefore it is always a good idea to inquire about the breeder’s credentials.
Disciplining a German Shepherd puppy
Your German Shepherd learns quickly… with the right teacher.
To discipline a German Shepherd, first, create an environment that sets them up for success by making sure the area is dog-proofed. If your dog has unwanted nipping and biting or destructive chewing, redirect the bad behavior by distracting your pup and offering him a more interesting chew toy. Focus on positive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviors with treats, toys, games, or praise and love. If the redirect doesn’t work, consider taking a short break to calm them down.
How to train a German Shepherd puppy the right way for fast results
At 8-12 weeks your puppy is just a baby who isn’t mature enough to know he’s misbehaving .
You may think your German Shepherd puppy behavior at 8-12 weeks is on purpose or because it’s misbehaving. But in reality, a 12-week-old German Shepherd still doesn’t have the maturity to fully understand their bad behavior.
You like everything to stay in place
The GSDs were created to perfection!! Their tail is the perfect height to sweep across your coffee table and, of course, your cup of coffee too. Kitchen tables are the perfect height to rest your head on while you eat. They also require the oversized poop bags for cleaning up after. Leaving them alone in the yard with your latest purchase isn’t so smart either. So, if you like putting things down and being able to come back later to pick them up, then maybe a GSD isn’t for you.
Dogs are pack oriented and German Shepherds are no different. They can get separation anxiety from being separated from their pack (and that includes you). They are happiest as a family unit and being left out unattended only leads to trouble. If you don’t want to share your interior space with a GSD, then they’re not the ideal dog for you.
Healthy lifestyles for German Shepherds
Home environment and training
Their wariness of strangers and defensive instincts, along with their size, strength and intelligence , make early and ongoing training essential for German Shepherds, and they take it well. Bred to be herders and working dogs, this dog requires plenty of exercise, social stimulation, and direction. Basically, German Shepherds consider themselves a member of the family, so they should live indoors and participate in daily activities. Socialization in your dog’s early days, especially the first 16 weeks, is crucial for healthy behavioral development.