Owners of German Shepherd dogs (GSDs) agree that giving the best treats for german shepherd puppies is a great factor in raising this popular breed of canine. Yet many also found out that there is more to learn about raising this breed as pets. GSDs have certain traits that present unexpected challenges while keeping them as house pets.
While German Shepherds are well-loved for their intelligence, affectionate nature, loyalty and courage, they are prone to exhibiting negative habits and behaviors when not satisfied with their lifestyle and living conditions. Their protective nature and ability to blend well in a household can be negated in a multi-pet environment since the breed has a strong tendency to dominate.
Actually the contradictions in caring for GSDs usually stem from breed-related traits and habits that require proper and adequate physical and mental exercises. That is why obedience training and social orientations of this breed must start early, right from the puppy stage.
Two Critical GSD Traits to Know Before Deciding on Becoming a German Shepherd Parent
Families planning to add a GSD as a household member should have awareness that caring for a German Shepherd requires more than just the average pet-caring processes. Mainly because this type of dog is highly energetic. It’s also protective to the point of being too aggressive and demanding.
Heavy Fur Shedder
German Shepherds are athletic and naturally good-looking in form, but be in the know that this breed sheds a lot of fur. What’s even worse is that heavy shedding can lead to stress, skin allergy, dehydration and poor diet. It’s best to take note of the factors that trigger heavy shedding as some GSDs experience shedding all year round.
Still, GSDs have a double coat, which means they have another layer of soft, wooly fur that serves as an undercoat that protects against infection and injury.
Strong Prey-Drive
Not many are aware that German Shepherd canines are descendants of grey wolves. Although they can be trained to develop affectionate relationships with their human companions, a GSD can still exhibit its strong prey drive by pouncing or attacking smaller animals or strangers.
To avoid this trait from becoming a problem, expert GSD breeders give advice to parents not to reward their GSD, every time they come forward with a small prey in their mouth. It’s important to redirect its high predatory instinct to activities that act as recall and impulse control, while still keeping the dog mentally stimulated.