The German Shepherd is a natural dog. It was first named the Alsatian Wolf-Dog but it was not truly bred with a wolf or even in Alaska. The German Shepherd was developed in Germany in the 1880s as a herder.
The German Shepherd Dog is a strong, agile dog- and possesses one of the keenest noses in the dog world. Unsurpassed as a working dog, German Shepherd Dogs are the original drug dogs, and can easily adapt to both protection and police work. The German Shepherd is exceptionally trainable and works well as a police, guide, search, rescue dog.
Smart and protective, the German Sheperd Dog truly bonds with its family and can suffer separation anxiety when boarded. Early obedience training and socialization are recommended. There is a distinction between the show and working lines. Show line dogs look great but have little ability for obedience. The working line dogs are more active and stable temperamentally. Larger dogs in general are slow to mature typically taking three to three and a half years.
Life Expectancy: 11-13 years.
Learning Rate: High.
Litter Size: 5 to 10.
Size: Large.
Weight
Dogs: 77-95 pounds.
Bitches: 75-85 pounds.
Height
Dogs: 24-26 inches.
Bitches: 22-24 inches.
Other Names:
Alsatian, Deutscher Schaferhund.
Country of Origin:
Germany
Groups:
AKC Herding Dogs, FCI Group I.: Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs), TKC Pastoral.
Price: German Shepherd's price in India varies by and large depending on the breeder and place you are buying from. The average price of a German Shepherd in India comes around Rs. 15000 to Rs. 20000.
Food:
Arden Grange:
Arden Grange, of course, is one of the top, reliable dog food brands, especially counted on for large dog breeds. Rich in value and nutritional supply, breeders often recommend this one, and opting for Arden Grange will be an important investment you make in your dog’s health. Moreover, there are hardly any customers upset with Arden Grange!
Arden Grange product range for different stages:
Arden Grange Weaning Puppy up to 3 months of age.
Arden Grange Puppy Junior from 4th month to 15th month.
Arden Grange Adult 15th month onwards.
Royal Canin:
Another well-reputed dog food brand is Royal Canin. Well the best thing here, is that they have products specifically manufactured for some specific breeds as well, including German Shepherd dogs.
Royal Canin products for different stages:
Royal Canin Maxi Starter up to 3 months of age.
Royal Canin German Shepherd Junior from 4th month to 15th month.
Royal Canin German Shepherd Adult range 15th month onwards.
Pedigree:
Relatively economical, you can also consider Pedigree for your pooch. However, the product may not be a make-up for Arden Grange or Royal Canin.
Pedigree product range for different stages:
Pedigree Mother and Pup range up to 3 months of age.
Pedigree Puppy Large Breed range from 4th month to 15th month.
Pedigree Active Adult range 15th month onwards.
Temperament:
The German Shepherd Dog is a highly intelligent, responsive, solid temperament, consistent behavior, territorial dog breed. Initially suspicious of strangers, the German Shepherd Dog is an excellent watchdog. Often used as working dogs, German Shepherds are direct and fearless, eager and alert. Bold, cheerful, obedient, and eager to learn.
Known for their tremendous loyalty and courage. Calmly confident, but not hostile. Serious and almost human in his intelligence. They have a high learning ability. German Shepherds love to be close to their families, but they are very wary of strangers. This breed needs its people and should not be left isolated for long periods. They only bark when it is necessary. They are generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family.
Colors: Black, black & tan, and grey (wolf sable).
Coat: Length is medium, straight and hard, and close-lying with a dense undercoat, which protects against temperature and bugs, as well as a straight outer coat. Their coat requires regular brushing.
Living Environment: Country or city living is fine, but only as long as adequate attention and exercise are given. A fenced yard is essential to stop the dog from wandering. The owner of a German Shepherd should be strong and confident to control this powerful and forceful breed.