The German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian or Schafer(hund)) is an intelligent breed of dog. Because they are eager to please they are easily trained in obedience and protection. The German Shepherd Dog is a large strong substantiallooking dog.

Ever since Rin Tin Tin became a famous television personality the German Shepherd has gone from an already popular dog breed to one of the most well known breeds on earth. This versatile dog breed seems to be everywhere that a dog can be of help from war torn countries to areas where natural disasters have occurred. The powerful German Shepherd will strike terror in the hearts of criminals one minute and endure the overly affectionate attention of little children the next.

German Shepherds were bred to be guardians and the breed still has a very strong protective instinct. A dog that is high strung or nervous should never be bred as the resulting puppies can be untrustworthy. However most German Shepherds are wonderful dogs and devoted to their families including children and other pets.

The German Shepherd is a fairly large dog weighing from sixty to seventy five pounds and standing twenty two to twenty six inches tall. This breed has erect ears dark intelligent eyes and a graceful tail. The German Shepherd is most commonly black and tan although gray and tan or black and gray dogs are also available. A striking all white dog commonly called an Alsatian is popular with many people. If you like the look of the Alsatian be sure you meet the puppys parents as these white German Shepherds can sometimes be a bit high strung.

Although German Shepherds are high energy animals they can live in the city. Just be aware that you will have to exercise your dog frequently and that he will be miserable if you leave him alone for long hours without giving him a job to do. Of course a house with a big yard in a rural area is ideal.

Since your German Shepherd will rapidly grow into a big powerful dog you may want

to enroll him in obedience classes while he is a puppy. It is much easier to control a small puppy than a full grown untrained dog. In addition puppy obedience classes also help provide another important benefit for your German Shepherd puppy socialization to other dogs and people. Many people who own these intelligent dogs make the unfortunate mistake of thinking that their dogs need to be trained as guard dogs. However this training can lead to aggression if your dog is not trained properly. Since German Shepherds are naturally protective they do not need attack dog training to guard your home.

The German Shepherds coat requires very little grooming. The dense coat is coarse and does not mat easily. Brush your dog once a week to remove dirt and debris. If you live in the city concrete will probably wear down your Shepherds nails. However if your dog lives in a rural area he may need to have his nails trimmed several times a year.

German Shepherds need to eat a nutritional food that is formulated for large breed dogs. If your Shepherd is a working dog you may need to feed him a high protein food. A good dog vitamin is also a smart idea.

This loyal smart breed commonly suffers from hip dysplasia or epilepsy. To see one of these dignified dogs suffering from either disease is heart breaking. Please be sure that your puppys breeder has had the parents tested to be sure they do not carry these diseases.

German Shepherd Dogs are often used as working dogs in many capacities including search and rescue military police or guard dogs. They are also used as assistance dogs or service dogs (such as guide dogs).

If you want a dog who will be protective and loyal then a German Shepherd may be the right dog for you and your family.

Clive Chansa writes for the Dog Care Guide at

http://www.dogcarehelp.com/ and

the Pet Care Supplies Uk website at

http://www.petcaresupplies.co.uk/ which offers a wide range of pet

products and supplies.