How to Care for a German Shepherd

According to the German Shepherd Dog Club of America, the profile of a good German shepherd is that of a strong, agile, well-muscled animal, alert and full of life. Follow these steps to care for your German shepherd.

Things You'll Need

• Dental Kits (for Dogs)
• Dog Bones
• Dog Brushes
• Dog Dishes
• Dog Food
• Dog Leashes
• Dog Shampoo
• Dog Tags
• Hand Vacuum Cleaners
• Nail Clippers For Dogs
• Reduced-calorie Dog Food

Instructions

1. Keep your shepherd's weight down. Overweight dogs will have more health problems, including heart trouble and arthritis.

2. Learn what health problems are associated with this breed: Von Willebrand's disease (a blood disorder), glaucoma, torsion (stomach bloat, a very serious emergency), cataracts, calcium gout, chronic pancreatitis, hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, hemophilia, slipped discs and retinal atrophy.

3. Brush your German shepherd daily if possible. This breed sheds year-round and heavily twice a year when the undercoat comes out.

4. Bathe the dog infrequently; shepherds don't require special grooming and can be washed at home.

5. Make sure to trim this dog's nails regularly - every two weeks - to prevent foot problems.

6. Remember that German shepherds are eager to please and very intelligent. You must be consistent and firm while training them.

7. Keep your shepherd indoors or out. Remember that she'll be much happier indoors with the family, since these dogs prefer to be with their pack.

8. Be prepared to enjoy a good 10 to 13 years with your shepherd, as this is the average life expectancy for a German shepherd.

Tips & Warnings

• Get a portable vacuum if you plan to keep your shepherd inside. They shed constantly.

• Keep your shepherd in a secure yard.

• Make sure you or someone in your home is willing to spend 30 to 60 minutes a day playing with and exercising the dog.

• Note that shepherds shed a lot. The No. 1 reason people give up their German shepherds is because the animal sheds too much. (The No. 2 reason is that the dog got bigger than expected.)