how much exercise for labrador puppy

how much exercise for labrador puppy - German Australian Shepherd Video Temperament and Behavior Known for their intelligence, alertness, and loyalty, the Australian German Shepherds are extremely devoted to their family members, spending time playing. They get along well with the kids provided they are socialized when young. As in the case of most herding dogs , they are reserved and unresponsive with strangers. Being protective by nature, they do a great job watching and guarding their house and family. Because of their kind and loving behavior towards their family members, they are considered good family pets. However, they need confident and firm leadership and are thus not suitable for the timid or first-time owners. Care Exercise As a lively dog, it needs a minimum one-hour of daily activities including running, playing, and agility exercises. Keep your pet occupied and mentally stimulated by providing it with puzzle toys. Long walks are also recommended for avoiding boredom and inactivity. Grooming Routine maintenance will ensure a shinier and healthier coat. Utilize a slicker brush to stroke its hair in the direction of its growth. This will keep dead hairs from coming on your clothes as well as furnishings. Do not bathe your pet too often as it might strip its skin of all its natural oils. Trim its nails occasionally to prevent them from growing too long. Keep its teeth and gums healthy by brushing them with a gentle toothbrush and vet-recommended toothpaste. Health Problems These dogs might be prone to common health conditions including food and contact allergies, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye disorders, as well as some other diseases affecting its parent breeds. While adopting a puppy, it is advisable that you check the health clearances of its parents from the breeder. Training Let your pet know that you are its leader and it should follow your commands. Enforce strict and positive training methods, but do not be too harsh. You may reward it by praising its good behavior, offering foods, or playing with toys. This will encourage your pet to listen to your commands and accept training. Feeding Keep an eye on the quality as well as the quantity of food you provide your pet. A low-calorie diet with small amounts of fat and protein is necessary to keep it in good shape. Do not offer more than cups of dog food a day. Origin Story of the Aussie German Shepherd Mix It might not be a shock to hear this about mixed breeds, but the origin story of the Australian Shepherd mixed with the German Shepherd is somewhat unclear. What is known about the German Shepherd Aussie is that the breed was developed sometime between the s and s. However, like other mix-breeds, the only way you can really decipher what this dog is all about is by understanding their purebred parents. Von Stephanitz did this by using a selection of the best shepherd breeds that were scattered around the German countryside. The German Shepherd dog also referred to as GSD has quickly proved to be capable of far more than just herding. Nowadays, these dogs are synonymous with police work, bomb and drug detection, and personal protection. While the breed was refined in the outback, this purebred got its actual start working the hills and countryside of Europe. In the last hundred years, the Aussie Shepherd transitioned to the Australian West, rounding up livestock for farmers and ranchers. They, too, are astute and will often try to outsmart their owners. So, be prepared to remain on your toes at all times. Australian Shepherd The Aussie Shepherd is an emotionally supportive dog but can, at times, be reserved and independent. At heart, the Australian Shepherd loves the company of its owners. Australian Shepherd and German Shepherd Mix Appearance Whenever you get a designer pup, you can never fully predict what physical traits the dog will adopt from either parent. These dogs are mostly well-proportioned with strong athletic bodies. Their sloping back and long legs give this half German Shepherd half Australian shepherd the ambling gait of a GSD with the pep-in-step of the Aussie. This hybrid will most likely have a fluffy, plumed tail that can be long or short. This will be dependent on which parent breed they take after. Their almond-shaped eyes are very expressive. With these dogs, their eyes are truly the windows to their soul. Eye colors vary from dog to dog. Typically, you can see them with brown, blue, or hazel eyes. In some cases, the German Shepherd Aussie can inherit Heterochromia , a condition that causes two different eye colors. Males tend to be at the heavier end of the scale. These dogs tend to sport a solid color, while a few might have a combination of colors. Some are even speckled or spotted dogs with a tricolor or tinges of silvery gray or brindle. It really depends on the parents and who has the dominant gene. Therefore, grooming these dogs can take a bit of time and concentrated effort. Grooming this hybrid requires plenty of brushing and trimming to keep their coats in top shape. Since their coats are primarily straight hairs, you can use a dog comb and a dematting brush at least twice each week. Baths should only be given when necessary using a mild dog shampoo. This will help to avoid irritating the dogs skin or drying out their fur. Doing so helps them avoid ear infections. And to finish off a full grooming program, keep their nails down with some quality dog nail clippers. If your dog gets enough exercise, it is less likely that they will need their nails clipped each month. If you run on asphalt or hike with them, their nails will naturally wear down. This designer mix, however, is a moderate shedder with half the grooming needs of their parents. This occurs in the Spring and Fall seasons when the dog will lose clumps of hair and shed much more than usual. During this time, it is best to take them to a groomer to effectively get rid of the shedding hair. Shaving is never the solution for dogs with a double coat. Shaving a double-coated dog can actually make it harder for them to cool off. This part of their personality is thanks to their German Shepherd heritage. However, both the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd are amazing problem solvers and can work as police or service dogs. German Aussie puppies have a very high energy level, and without consistent exercise, they will make their boredom and frustration known. They will bark all night and day, chew on things and dig, dig, dig. Essentially, all this dog wants is to play with its family. They can be a little wary of strangers but are overall still very confident dogs. Their wariness of strangers makes them great guard dogs, though, so you can expect some barking from them when strangers approach. Are They a Good Family Dog? The German Shepherd and Aussie mix is a great addition to any family. They adore human attention and would fit best in an active family — they are a breed that enjoys going on long walks or hikes with their owners. This breed can get along with other pets. The most significant factor in their acceptance of other animals is their socialization when they are puppies. Both parent breeds are known for being quite relaxed as properly socialized dogs. They can even get along with cats and other small animals if introduced slowly and correctly. Well, it all boils down to the breeding business. Some breeders are well-established and have pedigree dogs in their kennels. Breeding is an expensive business, and very few breeders make any profit at all. To make matters worse, you could get your heart set on an unhealthy pup. These documents should include more than a standard vet checkup. The best breeders care just as much about their puppies as their clients do. When it comes to rescuing a German Shepherd Aussie mix, there are several benefits to adopting one. For starters, you can save quite a bit of money. You can also have the option of bringing home an older dog and avoid the highs and lows of potty training a whining puppy. One or two other breeds may be thrown into the mix. Take the time to observe if the breeders or rescue staff have an evident bond with their pups. If the adult dogs or puppies at one of these breeding or rescue facilities seem detached or fearful, this is a huge red flag. As both parent breeds were bred to be obedient working dogs, their cross also has that focus and obedience during training. With plenty of positive affirmations and repetition, you will have a wonderful, well-trained dog in no time. Exercise for German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd Mix As previously mentioned, this breed is highly energetic, so it needs plenty of exercise. The German Shepherd Aussie will need about 2 hours of activity spread throughout the day. But you will probably have to walk with them twice a day to fulfill their exercise quota for the week. Diet and Nutrition for the German Shepherd Aussie As an active breed, your German Shepherd Aussie mix needs a diet high in protein to keep its body and muscles strong and healthy. This is an estimated 1, calories a day. Divide this amount into two meals to discourage overeating and bloating. You should also check if your German Shepherd Aussie mix is gaining too much weight by doing a touch test. This is where you run your fingers through their coat and feel for their ribs. Being overweight can be a sign of illnesses like insulinoma a tumor of the pancreas and hypothyroidism an underactive thyroid condition. As for the Aussie Shepherd, this dog enjoys a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years. It is suggested that the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix could live for between 13 and 15 years, adopting its Aussie genetics. Sometimes, unsound breeding practices in their parents can contribute to a greater risk of hereditary conditions. Joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia are possible in German and Australian Shepherds. However, below are some potentially serious health conditions affecting the half Aussie half German Shepherd breed. Hemophilia An inherited condition that stops blood from clotting. Dogs with this condition can have prolonged, spontaneous bleeding from injuries or even from the nose and eyes. Epilepsy Seizures can be caused by trauma or sickness, but in many cases, the real reason is unknown. Luckily, this can be managed with lifelong medication. A visit to the vet may prescribe eye drops to reduce inflammation, but surgery to remove the cataract is the most effective treatment. It usually occurs after the dog has eaten or drank excessively, often just before or after exercise. The stomach starts to fill up with gas, then twists around on itself, cutting off the blood supply to the organs and rupturing the stomach lining. Without emergency surgery, the dog will not survive. Collie Eye Anomaly This is actually a group of eye problems affecting Collie-type breeds. They range from mild to potentially fatal, and some can cause blindness in one or both eyes. Your dog must be checked regularly for any sign of eye problems of this nature. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a disease of the spinal cord that stops the brain from communicating with the hindquarters. It is a progressive disease that almost always results in complete paralysis of the back legs. In many cases, their front legs are weakened, and they become incontinent. The only good news here is that the dog is not in pain while experiencing this disease. They do, however, require a diligent owner. Novice pet parents or those with packed schedules should think twice before bringing one of these puppies home. The primary consideration you must make with these pups is their need for space and attention. As long as you make the effort, they will be an excellent addition to your home. Intentional breeding likely started in the recent past, probably in the United States. For over years, these dogs have roamed the American West, rounding up livestock for farmers and ranchers. While the breed was refined in the Outback, this purebred got its actual start working the hills of Europe. Needless to say, the modern Aussie comes from a long line of herding champions! German Shepherd? More like canine bodyguard! Brave and powerful German Shepherd dogIn the 19th century, German officer Captain Max von Stephanitz sought to create a German herding dog like no other. Through careful crossbreeding, the modern German Shepherd Dog emerged. Shortened to GSD, these canines quickly proved capable of far more than herding. One even became a famous movie star named Rin Tin Tin. DRA does. Most have well-proportioned, athletic bodies. Set up high on their well-proportioned head are triangular ears with rounded tips. It could still range anywhere from upright and alert to floppy and folded. Their almond-shaped eyes have that observant and intelligent expression. Eye color varies from dog to dog. Most often, we see them with brown, blue, or hazel eyes. Your pooch might even inherit heterochromia from their Aussie side, a condition that gives them two different eye colors! Muzzles can be medium or long that slightly tapers and have a rounded tip. Your Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix is likely to have a fluffy, plumed tail that can be long or short, depending on which parent breed they take after. They sport a solid color, while others have a combination of black, tan, red, cream, golden, white, blue merle, or red merle. Some might even be tricolor or have tinges of silvery gray or brindle, with speckled or spotted markings. How big will a German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix get? Full-grown Aussie German Shepherds usually have a height of 19 to 26 inches tall 48 to 66 cm and weigh 45 to 80 pounds 20 to 36 kg , where males tend to be heavier than females. This is assuming that your pup has a standard-sized Australian Shepherd parent. If your pooch comes from a Toy or Miniature Australian Shepherd, they could be much smaller. Their energy is far too boundless for anything but a spacious home with a large yard. Farms and ranches would also make a great home for this mixed breed. Do Aussie German Shepherds make good house dogs? With this crossbreed, you get a skilled guard dog and family companion, all rolled into one. Because this pooch is quite aloof and a little wary of strangers, it makes them a reliable watchdog. Exposure to different people and situations is essential for this hybrid. To keep them engaged, include plenty of praise and tasty treats. You might even consider muzzle training your hybrid friend, especially if he joins your pack as an adolescent or adult. This might seem harsh, but muzzles can be an excellent tool for keeping your dog and other people safe. If this crossbreed is starting to sound a little intimidating, keep in mind that they are completely devoted to their families, and they love to play! Take a minute to watch this video of Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix puppies playing with their littermates and toys. Your kids will enjoy this hybrid, too. Both German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds are known for their patience and friendliness toward children. Think of their crossbreed offspring as a canine nanny of sorts. You should also exercise caution if you have other pets in the home—especially pets that look like food. Confident, experienced owners who can spend a good portion of each day bonding with and training this pup will undoubtedly reap the rewards. Well-trained German Aussie mixes are capable of some amazing feats. You should still consider providing mental enrichment at home by giving your German Aussie Shepherd mix puzzles, interactive toys, as well as clicker and obedience training. Owning an Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix Every dog needs some assistance when it comes to general care and maintenance. One of the first things you need to consider when raising your Aussie German Shepherd is that they have moderate tolerance to heat. Do Australian German Shepherd mixes shed? Their crossbreed offspring is considered a moderate shedder with average grooming needs. But like other double-coated canines, they shed profusely during their bi-annual blowout — spring and fall. We recommend using a slicker brush and a rake while moving in the same direction as the hair growth. Baths should only be given when necessary using a mild dog shampoo when washing your pet to avoid irritating her skin or drying out her fur. Ears that are upright can quickly accumulate dirt and dust. Cleaning can be done once a week with a damp cloth or an ear wipe. Not only do sharp talons take the fun out of playing with your dog, but long claws can splinter and break. Most pups can do with a pedicure once a month or so, but this varies from dog to dog. Exercise: how much activity does a German Aussie Shepherd need? Plan on a full two hours of daily exercise for this fireball of a canine. Ideally, this time will be split between strenuous activity and play, training, or casual walks. To keep them and yourself happy, think outside the proverbial box. Walks are great, sure, but have you ever seen a GSD Aussie mix dock dive? What about flyball? This is one clever pooch, so they can learn to do just about anything. And for them, learning is half the fun. Combining exercise with mental exertion is a fantastic way to wear out your pup. It also strengthens your bond. You can teach your fur buddy to catch flying discs with this Kong Frisbee, which is well-loved by active fidos. For a satisfied Aussie German Shepherd tummy, aim for 2. Divide this amount into two meals to discourage overeating, bloat, and keep your canine friend fueled. Being overweight can be a sign of illnesses like insulinoma and hypothyroidism. Are Australian German Shepherd dogs healthy? Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mixes are generally healthy dogs that could enjoy a lifespan of 9 to 15 years! But like any dog, owners will still need to watch out for some health problems. Joint issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia are possible in both German Shepherds and Australian Shepherds. A few other health issues to look out for are hemophilia, degenerative myelopathy, epilepsy, drug sensitivity like MPR , EPI , and cancer. How much are Australian German Shepherd puppies? Wondering if you can afford one of these remarkable dogs? You might find one for a lower price, but expect to pay somewhere in this range. Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix breeders Picking a breeder is just as important as picking out your puppy. To make matters worse, you could get your heart set on an unhealthy pup. Keep in mind that these documents should include more than a standard vet checkup. The best breeders care just as much about their puppies as their clients do. Furthermore, breeders should have an evident bond with their pups. If the adult dogs or puppies at a breeding facility seem detached or fearful, this is a huge red flag. You might be able to find one of these pups through a rescue. For starters, you can save quite a bit of money. You also have the option of bringing home an older dog and avoiding the more trying aspects of puppyhood hello, potty training. Perhaps the most joyful part of doggy rescue is providing a needy pooch with a loving, stable home. One or two other breeds may be thrown into the mix. Temperament: Work-oriented, people-pleasing, and intelligent. These differences among parent breeds mean that your mix will certainly be unique. They will typically be smaller than a standard German Shepherd but larger than a standard Australian Shepherd. Although both the parent breeds are herding dogs, there is still a lot of differences in their appearances. Height and Weight You can expect a fully grown Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix to weigh anywhere from pounds. Males tend to be at the heavier end of the scale, with females being at the lighter end. As for height, anywhere from inches tall. Colors and Coat We all know that German Shepherds are typically black and tan with a double coat. And Australian Shepherds come in a variety of different colors and mixes with a medium-length coat. This means that the Australian German Shepherd mix can come in many different colors and mixes of whites, blacks, tans, silvers, blues and greys. With both parent breeds having a medium-length double coat be prepared for grooming and shedding. These mixes will shed profusely twice a year during their bi-annual blowout. During this time you will need to brush the undercoat to remove the extra dead hair trapped. This will need to be done every day or so. This hybrid will excel at agility competitions. They can be wary of strangers which makes them amazing watchdogs. Do not be surprised if the Australian German shepherd tries to herd small kids. Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix Personality and Temperament One thing to keep in mind with this breed is that they need huge amounts of both mental and physical stimulation. Daily exercise will keep your German Shepherd Aussie mix happy and entertained, and prevent any destruction that can result from boredom. Their intelligence needs should be met by consistent training sessions to keep their mind sharp. Agility, herding, and tracking are a few sporting activities that this mix excels at. Whether or not you choose to compete in these events you should still consider some form of obedience training. They are hard workers and should be provided with enrichment to combat boredom. Because of their self-confidence and nearly unmatched intelligence, they excel in high-pressure jobs. They are amazing problem solvers and thus both the German Shepherd and Australian Shepherd can be used as police dogs or service dogs. Again as both their parent breeds were bred to herd flocks all day they have a very high energy level. Without consistent exercise, they will make their boredom and frustration known. A bored Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix will let you know by barking, chewing, and digging. Their high energy levels are almost as high as the affection they have for their family. This dog wants nothing more than to play with their family. They can be a little wary of strangers but are still an overall very confident dog. Their wariness of strangers makes them great guard dogs and you can expect some barking from them when strangers are near. However, this is not ideal for the sort of family who consistently has guests over and wants them to feel welcomed. The good thing is since the Australian German Shepherd mix is so easy to train this can easily be stopped by socializing them as a puppy. The Australian German Shepherd is a good family dog because of their loving nature. They enjoy human attention and would fit best in an active family — they are a breed that enjoys going on long walks or hikes with their owners. Caring for an Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix Remember these dogs require a great deal of physical and mental stimulation. This may be a mixed-breed dog but for the most part, they are still working dog. Be prepared for lots of exercise and mental stimulation. Also, their undercoat will need consistently raking out during shedding season. Training should begin early on so that they knows their boundaries — when properly trained they will make a great companion. Exercise Requirements This point can not be stressed enough — This crossbreed requires plenty of exercise and stimulating games. They are not ideal apartment dogs because of this and do best in a home that has a large yard or garden. A fun exercise that your Australian German Shepherd mix would enjoy is being in water. Both of their parent breeds are known for excelling at dock diving competitions so your mix should be no exception. They would appreciate a long walk each day and then some time to play in addition to this. They should be left off leash while in an enclosed backyard for playtime. Remember they do have prey driven instincts so while walking around the neighborhood it is important to keep them on leash. Grooming and Shedding Grooming and shedding are also important things to consider when getting an Australian German Shepherd mix. They will have a medium-length double coat that will require at least weekly brushing throughout the year. This mix will shed moderately all year long therefore if you suffer from pet allergies this will not be an ideal dog for you. Twice a year in the spring and fall they will shed their entire undercoat which will require daily brushing to avoid matting. At this time, you should expect to rake large clumps of undercoat from this dog. Their ears stand upright and naturally collect a lot of dust and dirt. This can lead to ear infections therefore it is crucial to clean their ears at least once a week as well. Bathing should be done as needed to avoid irritating the skin. Feeding and Diet When choosing what type of food to feed, you should look for a high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age. Food that is low in carbs is also ideal. You should also consider the activity levels of your dog. Active dogs will need lots of protein to keep their muscles and body healthy. Some common health problems to watch out for are:. White, blue, silver, red, brown, gray, black, sable, cream Suitable for: Active families and singles, those with large outdoor spaces Temperament: Loyal, happy, obedient, loving These dogs are somewhat adaptable, but more than anything, they need plenty of exercise and prefer plenty of room to roam. That is why they are not good apartment dwellers. Overall, these dogs make excellent pets, especially if you want to train a working dog. If you are interested in adopting a German Australian Shepherd, read on to learn all you need to know about the breed, their history, and caring for them properly. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Both parent breeds are expensive, especially if they have a pedigree. If one of the parent dogs used in the cross to produce a German Australian Shepherd has a good family background and high-quality breeding, your puppy is bound to be more expensive. Hybrids are almost always less expensive than the average price for a purebred puppy. This fact stays true when you look into the price of a German Australian Shepherd. Since their parent dogs are relatively common in North America, there is a chance that you might find this mixed breed at a shelter. It is best to adopt an abandoned dog from a shelter instead of breeding more puppies. There are many positive aspects to getting a pup from a breeder, though. If you decide to go this route, ensure that you support a breeder that treats their dogs well. Ask to get a tour of their facility before adopting to ensure that the dogs are kept in a proper living space. German Shepherds have quite a few joint and back issues. They are energetic dogs but have down-to-earth personalities. That often translates into a sort of understanding of indoor and outdoor behaviors, knowing when to be rambunctious and lively and when to settle down. These dogs are loyal and can be trained to protect if you need them to. They tend to be good around and accepting of strangers if they have been appropriately socialized. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Since this dog is a medium to large breed , it is best to keep them around families without small kids, since their size alone can be damaging if they get rowdy. This breed can get along with other pets. The most significant factor in their acceptance of other animals is their socialization when they are younger. If they were not socialized much, they are likely to be more protective and territorial. Both parent breeds are known for being quite relaxed as properly socialized dogs. They can even get along with cats and other small animals if introduced slowly and the right way. They need about 3 cups of food divided between three meals during the day. It is best to find them food with a high protein level. This way, they can build muscle during their activities and stay in top shape instead of wearing out. The German Australian Shepherd is considered a high-energy breed. That means they will need about 2 hours of activity spread throughout the day. You can do things like go on walks with them, hike, swim, take them to the dog park, run, or work. If you prefer to walk with your dog more often than any other activity, you should try to walk them for about 14 miles each week. Another reason that they make such wonderful pets is their trainability. Both parent breeds were bred to be obedient working dogs. That makes their cross also easy to train. Use plenty of positive affirmation and repetition, and you will have a wonderful, well-trained dog. They have a double coat that they inherit from both of their parents. That means you will need to do plenty of grooming to keep their coats in healthy shape and mitigate the amount of fur that falls out. Since their coats are primarily made up of straight hairs, you can use a wide variety of combs without worrying about curls getting stuck and causing them pain. We suggest using a comb and a de-matter at least twice each week. Try to get out both the shedding top hairs and the dense undercoat. They will lose gobs of hair and shed much more than usual. It is best to take them to a groomer at least once during this period to most effectively get rid of the shedding hair. Use a damp, soft towel to get in their ear and clean out any dirt inside. Doing this helps them avoid ear infections. Finally, keep their nails clipped down using a nail clipper. If your pup gets enough exercise, it is less likely that they will need their nails clipped each month. If you run on asphalt or hike with them, their nails will naturally wear down. The German Shepherd in particular suffers from many bones and joint concerns, like hip dysplasia, because of their sloping back. There are still a few things that you want to watch out for, though. Minor Conditions. Applies to all dog food recalls in the U. The German Shepherd mixed with Australian Shepherd dogs weighs from 46 to 65 pounds. Its parent breeds are notably medium to large-sized dogs. The height of this crossbreed could range from 20 to 23 inches. Its coat is remarkably dense. You should be wary about warm places due to the coat of this dog. The colors of their coat can come out as a combination of white, black, blue, red, cream, silver, and sable. The Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix makes a very energetic dog, suitable for owners and families with an active lifestyle. This dog also loves going outdoors and exploring nature. The German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs are intelligent dogs. They can be trained well to become service and therapy dogs. High intelligence causes less worry and more pride to the owners. The trainers would require less training time for this crossbreed. The mixed puppy has a clingy nature. Its affectionate nature may also contribute to a fearful state, often leading to separation anxiety. This condition may be averted by employing effective obedience training and socialization. Overall, this crossbreed is a dependable and wonderful companion. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Puppies for Sale Finding a breeder for a crossbreed tends to be more difficult than going into a pet store and purchasing a new pet. The quality of the crossbreed is drastically high when the dog is acquired through reliable breeders. One place where you can spot potential professional breeders is at a dog show. Certified breeders often attend this event. You can gauge the temperament and disposition of some dog breeds during the dog show as well. This event could help you decide better on what breed to get. There are designated and verified parent clubs that you can access and reach out to. These parent clubs provide support for breed-specific studies, along with the help of AKC. You can seek out public opinion regarding some breeders. There are breeders with website and comments. You will see disappointed owners or prospective buyers if the breeder has pending issues on the environment and health problems of the dogs. There is no accessible list of substantiated breeders for the Australian Shepherd German Shepherd Mix dogs at this time. These places are good grounds for acquiring your new family member. Following these steps will assure that your dog will be in top appearance throughout all the seasons. Brushing is an essential part of grooming this mixed breed. The German Shepherd Australian Shepherds shed heavily throughout the year. Brushing is beneficial in developing your bond with your dog as well as its aesthetic value. I recommend two to four times of brushing per week for this crossbreed. Another function of brushing the coat is providing proper insulation for the dog. Some owners prefer this step. This may or may not reduce the insulating property of the coat. There is a possibility that the coat will not grow as well as before it was shaved. While you are brushing its coat, you should also check for tick and flea infestations. You may also need a pair of thinning shears. You need to do minimal trimming of the feet, tail, ears, britches, and legs. With the use of a slicker brush, you will gently brush the hair from the toes toward the leg of the dog. You will cut the hair sticking above the foot and the lengthier hair surrounding the foot. You can use the shears to cut a vertical line at the end of the tail. You only need to cut the hair with excess length. Trimming this part involves following the natural curve of the coat. The special spot to notice is the coat on the ear. If you lack the basic grooming tools or enough time, there are dog wash salons that may also offer grooming services. You can also contact and find professional groomers to help you with the activity. The risk factors and genetic mutations in the parent breeds affect the disposition of the offspring. The Australian Shepherd parent breed is relatively healthier than the other dog breeds. It suffers less skin, coat, and bone problems. It manifests as spontaneous bleeding. Dogs could have internal bleeding in muscles or joints. Hip and elbow dysplasia: This malformation can spontaneously occur to the dog. It leads to joint inflammation at a young dog age. The cartilage in the hip socket is greatly affected in this disease. This degenerative disease ultimately ends in blindness. Epilepsy: It is a serious neurologic disorder that can be triggered by infections and injury. This may have structural or idiopathic causes. For German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs, this health issue has an idiopathic origin. Collie Eye Anomaly: This is a group of eye issues that may be minor to fatal. It may cause unilateral or bilateral disturbances. If you established enough rapport with the breeder, you can contact him more about the proper management of the dogs. Professional breeders will gladly inform you about the health hazards, genetic and non-genetics, and other things you need to watch for. They made the effort to subject the parent dogs and the offspring to screening tests. A regular appointment with a reliable veterinarian can help you a lot in maintaining the health of the German Shepherd Australian Shepherd mix dogs. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Food Requirements You will need a great diet plan to sustain the energy of this agile crossbreed. This mixed pup could grow to a helpful working dog, so it is crucial to maintaining a steady and strong development. A healthy quantity of the dog depends on some variables. It is advisable to divide the food servings into two meals each day. Some essential minerals for the development of puppies are chloride and sodium. They affect the cardiac and skeletal muscles. They also contribute to the correct functioning of the nervous system. Below is a list of the recommended dry food for the Australian Shepherd crossed with German Shepherd dogs. These ingredients contribute to building strong muscles and giving energy to the dog. It is gluten-free. The formula has Omega-3 and Omega-6 for a shiny coat. It also includes minerals for the optimal function of the joints and strength of teeth and bones. Orijen Dog Food: This well-known formulation has a high content of protein, amounting to 75 to 80 percent. The recipe for this dog food is patterned on the diet of the wolf ancestors. Canidae Life Stages: This is quite a one-size-fits-all dog food. It can be suitable for dogs of all ages and kinds. It is equipped with antioxidants, fatty acids, and probiotics. It contains chicken, turkey, lamb, oatmeal, potatoes, brown rice, white rice, and cracked pearled barley. It can be digested easily. It has a healthy source of fat called flaxseed. It is important to know the benefits of this dry food, like its advantage to the brain and eye development. It has vitamins C and E that provide help to the immune system. This is a vet-approved formulation without any artificial flavors and colors. It has whole grain wheat, whole grain corn, whole grain oats, and whole grain corn. Giving proper nutrition does not end in providing the food. You need to monitor if the diet contributes to the good development of the dog. You can check for possible weight gain by touching his spine and ribs. There is a breed standard that the dogs need to achieve. If you are able to feel the ribs, the dog is less likely to be overweight. Owners should be cautious with the possibility of obesity because it may be a manifestation of a systemic disease like hypothyroidism, insulinoma. Your inquiries can be addressed by setting up an appointment with a veterinarian. The professional can also create a detailed diet plan for the dog. There are also some brands that you should keep off of their food bowls, such as the worst dry dog food. Dogs pass on the genes to their puppy pups, and thus they can develop a different taste for food, which is why you can try your luck with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. If you own a puppy, scan through the best puppy food brands, and for gray-coated grandpa doggos, chose something from the best senior dry dog food list. All changes in nutrition should be made after discussing it with your vet. The crossbreed inherited the athletic nature of its parent breeds. The duration of vigorous physical activities should be at least one and a half hour. Different techniques to gain the attention and interest of the Australian Shepherd German Shepherd mix puppies are required to avoid irritability and aggressiveness from manifesting. You can involve the dog in physical activities such as long walks, jogging, hiking, tug-of-war, and fetching. Tug-of-war may intimidate some new owners because it could lead to increased aggression. This has great benefits if done properly, such as teaching about rules and boundaries and bonding with your dog. For fetching activities, the Legendog Flying Disc Rubber Catcher is a great toy that can fly higher than the average flying discs. It has edge bulges to let the dogs bite firmly. It keeps the dog fairly occupied. It has no preservatives, salt, sugar, or plastic. You can give it to dogs of all ages. Australian Shepherd Crossed with German Shepherd Training The German Shepherd crossed with Australian Shepherd dogs has a high possibility of being hailed as service dogs, involved in search and rescue, and therapy dogs. These dogs are highly trainable and willing to learn. The owner has a role in supporting and keeping a level head during the training process. The emotions of the owners could confuse and distract the dogs. Choose particular tasks: You can heighten the productivity of the dog if you choose to train it with specific tasks. These tasks may involve fetching the newspaper or loading the dishwasher. Never hit your dog: This action will affect your bond with the dog. The dog could see you as a threat and attack you. It may develop antisocial personality traits. Basic commands: The breeding instinct of the Australian Shepherd may manifest in their offspring. Invest in obedience classes: Your dog will benefit greatly with knowing the basic commands through formal classes. You can have fewer frustrations as well because another person is responsible for the training. It is important to allow time for the dog to process the commands and avoid unnecessary pressure. Training will also contribute to better mental health for the dogs. If you are hesitant of the proper training techniques for your dog, you can refer to an experienced dog trainer. It is affectionate and loyal to its owners. An important factor in building a good family dynamics with the Australian Shepherd German Shepherds is making the dog feel that it can be part of the family, even if it is still new. You must do early socialization. This will contribute to their potential in becoming therapy dogs, service dogs, or herders. Aside from its benefit to family dynamics, socialization allows the dog to be friendly to your friends. They are also friendly to children. With the proper training and early socialization, you can be assured that these dogs will exhibit minimal herding behaviors with your little children and other animals. You need to be careful in dealing with boredom in these crossbreeds. They could manifest with destructive behaviors if left unattended for a long period of time. These behaviors may include excessive barking which may affect your relationship with your neighbors.

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how much exercise for labrador puppy - Knowing what to do to help your dog with misbehavior is half the battle. Are you making any of these disciplining mistakes? Do not use negative reinforcement Negative reinforcement is causing discomfort or worse, pain, to your dog to get them to perform a behavior. Other common negative reinforcers include a choke chain and prong collar. Negative reinforcement is about turning off something negative, or uncomfortable, at the least, and painful at the worst. But take note… Negative reinforcement has been scientifically shown to lead to an increased risk of aggression of 2. Instead, use lure and reward GSD puppy training Do not use physical correction Just as when using negative reinforcement, physical corrections cause your dog anxiety and fear and lead to aggression. When you got your dog you wanted him for life as your best friend and companion. If you find yourself about to engage in physical force for punishment with your German Shepherd, step away from your dog immediately. Ask someone for help. Call a friend or family member and tell them you need help with your dog. Even withholding food, water, or shelter is cruel and must be avoided. And demeaning them by calling them names and speaking to them in a critical tone can cause fear and aggression in German Shepherds. Not to mention, your continued shouting could stress your dog to the point they shut down and withdraw from you. They will no longer be the sweet, lively dog you dreamed about. Instead, learn how to use your voice to communicate effectively with your German Shepherd. Keep your voice calm, clear, and confident. Unfortunately, this type of training only makes his house training take longer since he begins to fear going potty anywhere. So, instead, he begins to sneak off and hide to potty indoors to avoid punishment. Preferably, always have your puppy tethered to you when potty training, never letting them out of your sight. When not tethered to you, place them in a puppy-proof area to prevent potty accidents. Reward your German Shepherd when they potty outdoors in the area you want with praise and treats. Learn more about how to quickly potty train a German Shepherd to start off on the right steps to house training. Or, what about when your tiny puppy sinks his little teeth into your hand in play and you laugh out loud? Why does your German Shepherd misbehave? Take a look. There are a few common factors in dogs that cause them to misbehave. Even if you think your dog is trained and should know better, these are the top reasons they might have bad behaviors. Separation anxiety If you spend a lot of time with your puppy, then begin to leave him alone for long hours he may start to misbehave. This is especially true if you are busy and tend to leave him in a crate for far too many hours. This could mean chewing inappropriate things, digging, or even excessive barking and howling. Under exercised An under-exercised dog is not getting his basic needs met. German Shepherds must have at least 2 hours of physical exercise per day. See — Fun Jobs for German Shepherds at Home for more ideas Before you leave the house give your dog a long walk with plenty of time to sniff. Inconsistent Discipline Another leading cause of needing to discipline a German Shepherd is a lack of consistent training and discipline techniques. Do you make sure your puppy always has 4 paws on the floor to greet guests? While many owners remember to obedience train their dog they overlook the importance of mentally stimulating games to reduce boredom. Decreasing boredom is shown to give your dog a more enjoyable day, which lessens their desire to participate in unwanted behaviors, such as chewing and digging. Start with a few minutes a day using mind games to help keep their mental health in check. Need more help disciplining your German Shepherd the right way? Do you wish there was a German Shepherd monthly guidebook? There is! Disciplining your German Shepherd puppy is most effective when you focus on teaching your German Shepherd what to do, rather than punishing him for unwanted behaviors. The wrong type of punishment can cause irreparable harm to your companion, but discipline when used properly actually reinforces positive behavior. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Because they are so smart and energetic, they require a physical and mental outlet for all their boundless energy. German shepherds also require a loving yet firm owner to help guide them into adulthood and beyond. This is a breed that gives and demands respect. Without training, they can easily develop bad habits that get harder to break as they mature. The best way to prevent problem behavior is to stop it before it starts. Some common problems that can be solved include: 1. Food guarding One easy way to prevent food guarding is to hand feed your puppy. Puppies that are accustomed to having their food handled rarely develop food guarding behavior. Placing your hand into the bowl to deliver food also prevents guarding because the puppy is happy to receive food from you and perceives it as a reward. Benefits of hand feeding also include teaching your dog to be gentle when taking food or treats, learning to be calm at mealtimes, improved impulse control, building trust, and the food can also be used as training treats. Start with once or twice a day and as the dog learns and matures, try a few meals a week. As long as food guarding never begins, you probably will never have the problem. Resource guarding Resource guarding or possession aggression also includes food but here, we have listed them apart. As the name suggests, resource guarding is simply guarding a possession such as a toy, bed, item of clothing, personal space — anything the dog finds valuable. Any lunging, growling, snarling, stiffening, or growling to prevent you from coming near their treasure needs to be nipped in the bud before it escalates. To prevent resource guarding, when the dog is a puppy, offer them and handle their toys, beds, food bowel, and more. Whatever they love, take ownership of it and share it with them, rather the other way around. As far as toys and chews, teach young pups that it is fun to share by trading high value items for a reward. Teach the puppy to drop the item in exchange for a treat and then give the item back so that the dog can enjoy it. The idea is taking items are not to punish and should not be perceived by the dog as such. If a dog begins guarding behavior that gets out of control, call a professional trainer. Play biting Herding dogs tend to play bite or mouth more than other breeds. German shepherds are notorious for play biting with their razor sharp teeth. As young pups, they love to herd and nip hands, feet, shoes, pants, and whatever else that moves. German shepherds need to be taught bite inhibition through redirection. Appropriate chews are also really important for this breed. Durable rubber chew toys for aggressive chewers, bully sticks, food puzzles that can be stuffed with treats and chews that can be frozen for teething pups work well. Destructive chewing German shepherds have amazingly strong jaws and love to chew. Preventing destructive chewing includes trying to determine why the dog is chewing. If the dog is lonely, bored, frustrated, anxious, or teething? Identifying the cause will help you come up with a solution. A basic guideline to prevent this type of chewing in puppies is to not leave temping items out where the dog can find them in the first place. Next, be sure that the dog has plenty of appropriate chew toys, is getting plenty of exercise, and has their emotional and mental needs met. German shepherds need regular exercise, training, play time, nurturing, grooming, healthy food, and lots of fresh water. They are very loyal and bonded dogs who need to be close to their family. When all these needs are met, chew toys, treats, and bones should be adequate for their chewing needs. When they begin to dig, tell them no and redirect them onto something else that is stimulating, such as their toys. The best way to stop the behavior is to prevent it from escalating and making sure the dog is getting plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. If your sheppy just lives to dig, you can create a digging pit or appropriate place to dig, such as a sandbox. Separation anxiety Separation anxiety can happen because German shepherds share such close bonds with their family. The best way to prevent this is establish a routine from the beginning. Start by teaching your puppy that you will come back by returning after a very short time and slowly increasing your time away. Crate training can also be helpful. Also establish a schedule that your puppy gets used to, including meals and potty breaks. A radio or TV being on can be helpful. Jumping German shepherds grow up to be powerful dogs so jumping is something that should not be encouraged in puppies. Fortunately, teaching a puppy not to jump is not difficult. Start by never petting the dog when they jump up. Tell the dog down and turn away. Once four paws are on the floor, lavish the pup with all the love and attention you want. In conclusion The good news about German shepherds is that they want to work alongside you and have a deep desire to please. Despite being strong willed and willing to look for their own job to keep themselves busy, they rather connect with and be near you. When you bond with them and direct their energy into positive things, such as training, exercise and playing games, they make the most remarkable pets in the world. Please share these tips with other German shepherd lovers. They are also intelligent and have their own unique personality traits. Many of their behaviors develop due to how they are raised, their training or lack thereof, the environment they live in, other dogs in the house, and their breeding. However, some dog behaviors are more innate and instinctual, such as these: 1. According to Jill Goldman, Ph. Leading the way German shepherds are working dogs bred to herd and guard sheep. It is natural for them to be out in front to lead and protect the flock, or you, their owner. When they walk in front of you, they are doing their job and staying between you and any threats that may come along. The stare can signal that the dog is ready to bolt toward something, bite, or that they are in guarding mode. This intense stare may be the only warning they give before taking action. Softly gazing at you When your German shepherd gazes at you, they are reading your body language, watching you for clues, and communicating how much they love you. It can mean they are desiring attention yet at the same time, are relaxed and not going to do anything. Dogs can open their eyes wide like this when they are nervous, stressed, or anxious. If you see your dog looking at someone or something with whale eyes, it means they are highly uncomfortable and you should intervene in the situation. Next time you take your dog to a new place, to meet new people, or to the vet, notice if they begin yawning. Butt scooting If your German shepherd starts scooting their butt along the ground it could mean they have full anal glands, an infection, an itch, irritation, worms, or that want to wipe their butt. Spinning before going poop If your dog is picky about its spot then spins before going poop, you can look to science for the reason. Apparently, dogs use the magnetic field of the earth to determine where they go. According to the study published in the Journal Frontiers in Zoology, dogs prefer to poop in a north-south axis. The study examined 37 dog breeds, urinations, and defecations before coming to this conclusion. Sleeping on your clothes German shepherds are fondly called Velcro dogs for a reason. They love being close to their owners. Following you to the bathroom German shepherds like to follow their owners everywhere, including the bathroom. Twitching when they sleep German shepherds can dream when they reach REM sleep, much like humans. When they begin to twitch or move their paws in their sleep, they are probably dreaming. Licking you German shepherds are very loving and often give their owners kisses. It can also be their way of grooming you or licking salt or lotion off your skin. Some biologist believes this licking behavior is an instinct left over from wolves, whose young will lick them to cause them to vomit up a meal for the pups to eat. Curling up in a circle when they sleep If your German shepherd sleeps in a donut shape also known as the fuzzy bagel, they might be cold and trying to keep their vital organs warm. They also may instinctively be protecting those same organs from predators, while they sleep. These dogs also are prone to separation anxiety and their destruction of furniture or their crate can be a sign that they need more from their owner and their needs are not being met. Bringing you gifts If your dog brings you a toy or bone, they are giving you a gift. Howling When a dog howls, they are communicating or responding to a sound. They can also be trying to attract your attention because something is amiss or they need help. They may also howl when they hear a siren because siren sounds are on the same frequency. Sitting on your feet When your German shepherd sits on your feet they may be just trying to be close to you. However, they might also be sending a signal to other people and dogs that says, this human is mine, go get your own. Licking lips or flicking tongue If your German shepherd starts licking their lips or flicking their tongue for no apparent reason, you need to pay attention. Sighs and huffs German shepherds are super smart and great at communicating. Rolling in the grass Have you caught your German shepherd rolling in the grass after a nice bath? The grass may also be scathing an itch and when the ground is warm, it feels good. Hunched over German shepherds are confident, bold dogs and not usually found hunched over. If you suddenly find your shepherd is hunched over, it could mean that they are trying to make themselves appear smaller, are feeling shy, are scared, or are feeling abused. Eating poop If your German shepherd eats poop, it may mean they need something in their diet. It can also be behavioral. Dogs that live in squalor are also more likely to eat poop. Please pass them along to your German shepherd loving friends. He can also put himself at risk especially if he would dig under the fence and escape out into the street. That can be dangerous since they can knock over the person who is opening the door and escape out into the street, where they can hurt other people or injure themselves. It can also be brought about by separation anxiety, a desire to get your attention, and feelings of loneliness and isolation. You might also want to read this: Dogs That Look Like German Shepherds: Types and Breeds,… 7 Disobedience German Shepherds are naturally self-assured and independent, and they find it easy to disobey their owners. GSDs respect authority and will want to follow your instructions. So, when you get one, he immediately thinks of your family as a pack and instinctively wants to become the alpha. However, this behavior has no place in a home. Signs of aggression include chasing other pets while continuously barking, snapping at you when you try to correct his behavior, and growling at you when you attempt to touch him. That can mean snapping at the mailman or charging at the people who visit you. With enough patience and effort, you can help your dog correct his negative behaviors and transform into a well-mannered pet. The information is very specific in technique and theory, and there is a thorough background on the history of the German Shepherd Dog, as well as modern standards and practices. You might also want to read this:. Different causes make your furry friend chew destructively on couches, surfaces, and shoes. These include: Poor obedience training from when your dog was a puppy Loneliness from being left alone for too long Lack of exercise and mental stimulation Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior Excessive stress in the home environment How to Stop Destructive Chewing in Adult German Shepherds As with the causes, the remedies for excessive-destructive chewing in an adult GSD can be diverse. These will include: Retrain your dog if you think basic training was poorly done during puppyhood. You may want to consider the services of a professional trainer. Find ways of keeping your dog busy when you are not around. You can consider giving your dog a bone to chew on. If you do, go for natural or synthetic ones that will not break into pieces and risk choking your dog while he is alone. Ensure your GSD has the recommended 2-hour exercise daily, which could be distributed into walks and runs in the morning and evening and play and games at other times. That means he finds a replacement for his wild mates in his human family. Besides, the GSD is also a friendly and affectionate dog that loves cuddling time and spending time with family. As such, leaving your German Shepherd alone can cause excessive loneliness, otherwise referred to as separation anxiety , when it gets to the levels of an undesired psychological condition. The German Shepherd is among the top 10 breeds most predisposed to separation anxiety. This suggests that it could also be a breed thing, and you must take extra precautions. Dogs with this behavior problem find something to relieve their nervousness and stress, so most will turn to destructive behavior. Typical forms of destructive behavior include excessive chewing, house soiling, getting into the trash can, digging, destroying furniture and other items, and increased aggression toward family, strangers, and other pets. I would never leave her in her crate for more than hours. However, I got delayed in traffic for another 30 minutes on this occasion, and she clearly got bored! I only wanted one cushion! Remember that destructive behavior can be caused by factors like lack of exercise or a stressful home environment. Three solutions can be highly effective in stopping separation anxiety in your German Shepherd. Suggestions include finding someone to keep them busy and staying connected with them while you are away. Find a way of keeping your dog occupied while you are away Keeping your dog mentally and physically engaged can be achieved by employing a professional trainer or a dog walker. There are also doggy daycare facilities where you can take your GSD. Find a way of staying connected with your dog while you are away In an ever-changing technology era, staying connected with your GSD using dog cameras is easy. Take, for example, the Furbo Dog Camera from Amazon. Its main features can offer many ways to stay connected with your German Shepherd. You can toss a treat to your dog to reward him for good behavior. You can talk to your GSD to calm him down, especially when the barking alerts come in. Urine-Marking in German Shepherds Urine marking is an instinctive dog behavior that usually starts during sexual maturity. They will urinate on objects to leave a message for other dogs. For example, male German Shepherds will spray on the walls of a building where there is a female GSD in heat to tell fellow males to stay away. Generally, females only spray when they are in heat to attract any male dogs that happen to be in the area. However, urine marking becomes inappropriate inside the house, making it a behavior problem. The original herding and protective roles of German Shepherds make them quite territorial. As pack dogs, GSDs can also be highly dominant. Territory marking you welcome your partner at home, and your dog urinates on their backpack to claim ownership of you. Your dog has noticed a new dog in the neighborhood and wants to mark the house as his territory. How to Stop Urine Marking in German Shepherds To prevent or stop urine marking , consider one of these remedies — depending on the cause. Keep new and unfamiliar items in the house out of reach. Clean places where your GSD has urine marked to remove the smell and prevent your dog from remarking them. I like this one as you can use it on any surface. Help your German Shepherd become friends with new persons or dogs in the house. Eliminate anxiety-causing situations in the home. Confine your dog in his crate for a couple of hours. Consult a canine behaviorist if the behavior is out of hand. German Shepherds with ADHD will portray behavior problems such as hyperactivity, inability to pay attention, being easily distracted, impulsiveness, poor social skills, aggressive responses, fear, and sensitivity to noise. The consensus seems to reign about the interaction between genetic and environmental factors in ADHD. Hyperactive German Shepherds may be uncontrollable during walks, manifest excessive leash-pulling, become overly excited when removing the leash or returning home, and be challenging to engage in obedience training. Experts have used human ADHD questionnaires to detect the condition in dogs since; it seems hyperactivity has similar body chemical markers in dogs as in humans. This explains why testing ADHD in dogs entails observing changes in respiratory and heart rate and behavior. Consequently, solving hyperactivity in German Shepherds entails countering self-stimulation with external stimulation. As often repeated, the test for ADHD is to give your German Shepherd a prescribed stimulant in a controlled clinical situation and then observe the change in its respiratory rate, heart rate, and behavior. The levels for these markers will reduce in dogs with ADHD. Avoid self-diagnosing your dog, especially with self-made remedies. Excessive Barking in German Shepherds Barking is a typical communication behavior in dogs, and German Shepherds are known to be naturally vocal. Nonetheless, when barking becomes excessive, it can become a nuisance for both the owner and the neighborhood. Excessive barking means your dog will start to bark for any little stimulant and go on and on and on. It could be a doorbell, a passing stranger, or even the rustling of leaves in the backyard. If your GSD barks excessively, this may be the first sign of underlying issues and that he is sensitive to specific triggers. Triggers of excessive barking include: Boredom — your German Shepherd is home alone most of the time. Insufficient exercise — both physical and mental. Territorial behavior — your dog is overly protective of you, your home, or your possessions. Attention seeking — your dog has been reinforced to receive your attention when he barks incessantly. Medical issues — your German Shepherd has a medical condition that causes them pain and discomfort. How to Stop Excessive Barking in German Shepherds Sadly, people re-home their dogs every day due to excessive barking. If you have this German Shepherd behavior problem, below are the methods that are incredibly efficient in stopping excessive barking in dogs: Using positive reinforcement. To do this effectively, you must understand your German Shepherd and what makes him bark in the first place. Desensitization and counter-conditionin g : desensitization means exposing your GSD to the stimulus that causes excessive barking at a level lower or similar to the actual trigger. Eliminating the triggers: this might be a bit difficult, especially if they are beyond your control. For example, you cannot stop strangers from using a path near your house or leaves from rustling. Avoid gimmicks such as bark collars and sprays designed to teach your German Shepherd not to bark, as these only address the symptom and not the cause of the behavior problem. You have to lure them to the bathtub and put up with their crazy shaking and splashing unless you have managed to train them out of it! But bathing your dog becomes an extra hassle if covered with awful-smelling dirt! So, why do German Shepherds roll in the mud? Many speculative theories are used to explain why dogs roll in the dirt. Here are some of them: In the wild, wolves disguise their smell with dirt History has it that wolves disguise their scent by rolling in the dirt. Since dogs have their ancestry from wolves, it is speculated that they will roll in the dirt for the same reasons. Dogs love to leave their smell around Dogs have the instinct to leave their smell around to claim dominance or mark their territory. The pungent smell of dirt pushes them to want to claim their dominance with their odor, even when strong smells would overpower it. It gives them a sensational feeling As animals that predominantly use their sense of smell to interact with the environment, dogs enjoy extra sensory stimulation and may look for it excessively, such as lying in a pile of dirt. German Shepherds have innate behavior dispositions unique to the breed, like all other dogs. This can include behaviors like mouthing or destructive chewing. Think of their instinctual protectiveness towards their loved ones and how that can cause them to be aggressive toward strangers via nipping or jumping at strangers. But German Shepherds grow to be the dog you train them to be. And if that is not done correctly, behavior problems like howling will occur. However, that is not the only reason why your GSD may be misbehaving. German Shepherds have behavior problems such as howling, mouthing, jumping, and nipping due to poor or incomplete socialization and training, letting your dog have his way, insufficient exercise, hormones, health reasons, and using aversive training methods. Genetics can also cause poor behavior, which is easily solved by training. Genetic Disposition to Bad Behavior It has been scientifically proven that behavior, including howling and jumping, has both genetic and environmental determinants. This fact is recorded in a study on the genetics of behavior traits in German Shepherds, which confirmed that multiple genetic and non-genetic factors influence canine behavior, such as mouthing and nipping. In simple terms, your German Shepherd may inherit genes predisposing them to aggression from their parents, which does not mean you cannot tame the behavior through training. Poor Puppy Socialization Poorly socialized puppies grow into badly behaved adult German Shepherds exhibiting undesirable behaviors like jumping up and biting. If a German Shepherd is not socialized well at this age, he will become an unapproachable and untrainable adult. Proper socialization training for your German Shepherd means exposing them to different environments where they learn how to interact with other people and pets positively. This makes them more confident and calm than anxiety and aggression in unsocialized and badly trained dogs. Incomplete Obedience Training Obedience training is crucial in helping your German Shepherd understand your expectations. This includes managing behaviors such as play biting and improving the overall trainability of your pet. Many new dog owners think a week of training after bringing their dog home is enough. Not so! This is also key to ensuring your dog feels confident when interacting with visitors. Miscommunication can result in undesired behaviors like play biting, especially when your pet meets visitors. I have two helpful guides to help you with obedience training using positive reinforcement techniques. These guides incorporate strategies to improve trainability and build confidence in your dog. It has been confirmed that positive reinforcement training produces the best behavior in dogs because it boosts their confidence. Alao, you encourage your pet to repeat it by constantly rewarding him. Instead, research suggests that aversive training methods may be less effective in teaching good behavior to your dog. This can also negatively affect their interactions with visitors. Hormonal Effects and Gonadectomy Testosterone is often associated with aggression in male dogs. This research study discovered that other hormones could be the underlying causes of play biting and aggression in dogs. Oxytocin OT , a hormone associated with social bonding and sexual reproduction, and Vasopressin AVP , which regulates the volume of extracellular fluid volume and renal handling of water, can negatively impact dog behavior. Gonadectomy is the generic term for the surgical removal of the male testes or female ovaries. However, research results from a large sample of over 13, dogs show this is not entirely true. Scientists still do not know the reason for this. Would you call that a well-behaved dog? This is especially notable when visitors come to the house and the dog exhibits poor behavior. Not setting boundaries with your dog can be another reason your German Shepherd has behavior issues. Such a dog will show aggression when someone tries to set boundaries, such as at the vet or the dog park. The German Shepherd is a high-energy dog requiring at least two hours of daily exercise. This means more than leash walks! In addition to this, he will need lots of interactive play and mental stimulation to manage his health and build confidence. If you try to make your GSD a couch potato, he will have behavior issues, manifesting primarily in destructive behavior, negatively affecting his play-biting habits and behavior around visitors. Zak George , the well-known dog breeder and trainer, often emphasizes this point in his teachings. For example, a study revealed that dogs involved in physical activity and those who practice agility shows are less likely to show aggressive tendencies than those living a more sedentary life. Medical Conditions A final reason your German Shepherd will show behavior problems is if he has medical issues. These could be both physical and psychological. For example, dogs with Obsessive-Compulsive Behavior are often linked with self-directed aggression and self-mutilation, primarily through biting. A study on clinical features in dogs and cats with OCB indicated self-mutilation as the most recurrent of these features. Such practices are often seen as a sign of distress in dogs. Other medical conditions that may cause behavior issues in dogs include injury and post-operative pain, which can trigger aggressive behavior. In this case, having a breeder or vet advise on handling the dog can be beneficial. The causes of German Shepherd behavior problems are lack of socialization and exercise. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and social dogs and must be exposed to various people, animals, and environments to develop correctly. They are also active and energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. What other resources can help me deal with German Shepherd behavior problems? Many resources are available to help you deal with German Shepherd behavior problems. The most important is a qualified and experienced dog trainer. A good trainer can help you identify the source of the problem and develop an effective plan to address it. Another great resource is books and online articles written by experts on the subject. Final Thoughts Owning a German Shepherd is both exciting and rewarding for most owners. However, behavior problems associated with the breed can sometimes make owning a GSD a challenge altogether. What is most important is knowing that you can manage these behavior problems. Exercise, training, eliminating cues to behavior problems, and seeking a canine behaviorist are all possible ways to make your German Shepherd overcome his behavior shortcomings. Remember, though, that the job of a dog behaviorist or trainer is to train the dog and the human too! Related Posts You May Like:. Breed Info German Shepherds can be one of the best breeds of dogs to own. They are exceptionally smart, filled to the brim with personality, and incredibly affectionate to people they love. German Shepherd Behavior Problems German Shepherds tend to develop behavior problems when their needs are being met either mental or physical. Some of the most common German Shepherd behavior problems are jumping, destructiveness, OCD, hyperactivity, separation anxiety, excess barking and whining, mouthiness, dominance, and defensive aggression. This is not because they are inherently problematic dogs but because it takes a compatible lifestyle and handling style to enjoy the best traits of the breed. However, GSDs are instinctively protective of their family and defensive of their home. When not directed properly, this positive trait could easily turn into aggression. Dominance Dominance can emerge as disobedience or assertiveness towards humans or other animals. Being confident and headstrong dogs, German Shepherds might try to assert themselves and see what they can get away with. While GSDs are naturally clingy to their humans, distress from being separated must be address through methodical training. Mouthiness German Shepherds are naturally mouthy. They use their mouths to interact with the world. Additionally, as puppies, German Shepherds are prone to nipping and play biting as that would be how they interact with their littermates. Excessive Barking German Shepherds are generally very vocal. And because they are so large, their bark tends to be quite thunderous. Generally, they will bark because they want to communicate something, like alerting you to the presence of a stranger or because they sense a threat. However, they could also develop the bad behavior of barking excessively due to boredom or getting attention. Nevertheless, you need to be aware of them as well as how to manage them. Here are different ways to address German Shepherd behavior problems that might develop without proper training, handling, and socialization: Whining Like barking, whining is a means for dogs to communicate. Unfortunately, GSDs tend to whine excessively. This is a loud, high-pitched noise that could become aggravating when left unchecked. However, you can keep it at a minimum through proper reinforcement. Hyperactivity German Shepherds are working dogs developed in the fields where they worked long hours and ran great distances. Destructiveness German Shepherd destructiveness is related to hyperactivity. Often, this can include chewing, digging, and destroying things at home. Giving them ample mental and physical stimulation will help address this. Additionally, you can redirect their chewing to things of their own. Jumping Dogs often jump up at you as a means of greeting you excitedly. Try to address this at puppyhood by redirecting the behavior. For example, teach them to sit in front of you. Ignore them and gently push them off when they jump on you, and only fuss over them and give them attention when they sit. OCD Like humans, dogs can develop obsessive-compulsive disorders. Unfortunately, some GSD lines have this genetic predisposition. This can emerge as unwanted behaviors like excessive licking, pacing, or chewing. Often, this can be addressed by deterring behaviors ex. In more extreme cases, medication may be needed to treat OCD in dogs. Urine Marking Urine marking is common among male German Shepherds. It is a means to communicate with other dogs and typically a way to claim their territory. Even properly housetrained dogs will sometimes do this indoors, especially when there are other male dogs at home. They lack the confidence to be out in the world and might act out when presented with unfamiliar experiences. Reaching sexual maturity will make them more prone to mood swings and scent marking males. Additionally, this is the time when your puppy is most likely to develop stronger responses to strangers and might play more roughly with other dogs. Six months up to the time they reach about one year old is a critical time in their puppyhood where they will learn to be bolder and independent. It is a critical time for you to teach them proper manners while also enabling them to develop their own personality and confidence. This includes jumping and play biting. Even so, GSDs might also develop new behavior issues at this stage, and most of them stem from having excessive energy and drive. To mitigate these issues, make sure you give them plenty of opportunities to exercise as well as stimulate their mental faculties. How to Avoid German Shepherds With Behavior Problems Knowing that German Shepherds are consistently among the top 3 most popular breeds to own, they are undeniably incredible companions. But if you can, select a breeder with responsible practices and has a reputation for producing healthy and confident dogs. Socialization Start socialization as early as you can. Expose your pup to all sorts of experiences so that they may build their confidence and interact properly with their environment. Make sure they know how to engage with other people and animals. Leadership Throughout their puppyhood and sometimes even beyond, your GSD will test how you respond to disobedience. Stimulation Too much energy leads to boredom and the development of bad behaviors. Make sure you give your GSD plenty of exercise so that they can expend the excess energy they have in productive ways. Additionally, they need opportunities to use their intelligence and natural canine abilities through mental exercises. Final Thoughts All breeds have dogs with behavioral problems. However, such issues are much more of a concern with large dogs like German Shepherds. To those of you that are wary of the German shepherd dog breed, I understand where you are coming from, too! Aggressive German Shepherd behavior — a common association with this breed — terrifies some people because they feel that German Shepherds are dangerous dogs to own. First off, they are very large dogs and can come off very intimidating. They can become very protective, aggressive, and scary dogs. The key word here is untrained. Any untrained dog—regardless of breed—can have the same behavioral problems. Understanding German Shepherd Behavior Better German Shepherd behavior has always been portrayed in the media as one filled with aggression, disobedience, and unpredictability. In fact, I have personally fallen in love with this breed. Their personality is terrific! If you are someone who fears this breed, are one of the pet parents looking for help and direction with your dog, or you know someone who is wary of German Shepherds, then this honest truth about this lovely breed might change your mind. The German shepherd breed originated in Germany. No surprises there. But, believe it or not, their name was changed soon after the war. Before the war this breed was commonly called the Alsatian in Great Britain and parts of Europe. There are still parts of Europe that refer to the German shepherd as the Alsatian; however, most of the world has converted back to calling them German shepherds. Pretty interesting, right? As for life expectancy, German shepherds normally live for around years. The color of a German shepherd can range considerably from gray to black to tan, and even a silvery color. The males grow to be approximately 24 inches at the shoulder. Females tend to be a little shorter, measuring around 22 inches at the shoulder. As for weight, males average around 80 pounds and the females are a bit lighter at around 60 pounds. There is no denying that these are big dogs! The German shepherd dog breed does not only come with a big size; they have big, complex personality traits that can fascinate and overwhelm pet parents. The German Shepherd breed can be classified as guard dogs and working dogs. These dogs are bred to be confident and powerful — two personality traits which often scare people away from wanting anything to do with the breed. Physical Characteristics of the German Shepherd They have strong muscles. All dog breeds require proper training and daily handling. This is especially true when your dog is a puppy. Proper training can prevent a lot of behavior issues down the road. If you have a puppy, I encourage you to check out my Puppy Coach training program. German Shepherds can turn out to be incredibly beautiful, gentle, and loving family pets with work and effort! But today, I want to share what my general experiences with German shepherds have been like. I can confidently say that the breed description given to German shepherds is pretty accurate. I have encountered German Shepherds who are physically and mentally strong, and courageous! They all seem to have a deep desire to connect with you, work for you, and do a great job. Training your aggressive, confident dog? They possess a strong desire to learn and excel in various tasks. Understand that their intelligence needs to be channeled through training and mental stimulation. Provide them with consistent training sessions, engage them in interactive games, and offer challenging tasks to keep their minds engaged. Personality 2: German Shepherds Are Naturally Protective German Shepherds have a natural instinct to protect their family and territory. This protective nature can manifest as alertness, watchfulness, and sometimes even suspicion of strangers. This prevents excessive guarding behavior and promote a well-rounded and friendly temperament. Originally bred as working dogs, they excel in various roles such as search and rescue, police and military work. Some also work as service or therapy dogs. Engage their intelligence and energy by providing them with tasks, training exercises, or even participation in dog sports. This helps them feel fulfilled and prevents boredom-related behaviors. Personality 4: They Require Socialization and Proper Introduction While German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and strong bonds with their families, they can be reserved or aloof with strangers. Early and positive socialization is crucial to ensure they develop good manners and friendly behavior towards unfamiliar people and animals. Gradual exposure to different situations and positive reinforcement will help them become confident and well-adjusted in various environments. They require companionship, attention, and quality time with their family members. Make them an integral part of your daily life! Involve them in activities, and provide regular opportunities for interaction, training, and play. This bond and sense of belonging are essential for their happiness and well-being. These dogs have a natural inclination to follow a confident and assertive leader. Establishing yourself as the pack leader through consistent rules, boundaries, and clear communication allows your German Shepherd to feel secure and reduces behavioral issues. A strong leader provides the guidance and structure that these intelligent and loyal dogs need to flourish. Debunking Myths About German Shepherd Behavior The strong, intimidating build of the German Shepherd breed often comes with myths and misconceptions that might stop you from really knowing these amazing dogs! However, with proper care, training, and socialization, German Shepherds can be gentle, loyal, and loving companions. Myth 2: German Shepherds Are Only Suitable As Working Dogs Debunked: While German Shepherds excel in various working roles, such as police and military work, search and rescue, and service dogs, they are also wonderful family pets. They can adapt to different environments and thrive with proper exercise, mental stimulation, and social interaction. They have a strong desire to please their owners, making them quick learners. Consistent positive reinforcement training methods, such as reward-based training, can help them excel in obedience, agility, and various other activities. Early socialization and supervised interactions are key to fostering positive relationships between German Shepherds and other family members, including children and other animals. Early training, positive reinforcement, and gradually increasing alone time can help prevent or alleviate separation anxiety in German Shepherds. While they are often described as loyal and protective, each German Shepherd may have its unique characteristics and temperament. They have a code or a set of rules, which they follow. He was ready to hand him over to another family because he felt that his dog had tasted blood and that was the end of him as a good dog. We both knew his beloved family pet was great — giving up was not an option that time! I decided to step in and explain a little bit about why his German shepherd had actually bitten another animal — a sheep he owned — that he decided to keep the dog. He basically had the German Shepherd and a sheep—believe it or not—almost feeding from the same bowl so it was a recipe for disaster. Definitely made sure to remind him that he needed to pull his socks up as a dog owner and start putting into place some really simple training techniques, and it was very effective. He was still an amazing dog deep down, but you needed to know what you were doing! I could certainly see myself ending up with one in the future. I would fully trust this breed around my kids, my wife, and my other dogs. And yes, I have proven the German Shepherds also make the perfect family pet! Like I said, with proper training and boundaries put in place, German Shepherds are beautiful, friendly dogs. Here are some common German Shepherd behavior problems you should catch on early. Why The German Shepherd Breed Is Protective Over the last century, German Shepherds have been used for tracking, search and rescue—especially as police dogs— and protection and guarding. This dog breed produces most military dogs! Their strength, size, intelligence, and confidence make them excellent police dogs and military dogs… but the same qualities can also trigger potential German Shepherd behavior issues. German Shepherd Behavior Problem 1: Fierce Aggression One of the first common problems for German Shepherds revolves around aggression and the need to protect. They will continue to do problematic stuff, until you step in! Yes, Yes You Can! German Shepherd aggression can be untrained. German Shepherd Behavior Problem 2: Leash Pulling Another German Shepherd behavior problem —which I think is probably due to the determined nature of the German shepherd and their size—is pulling on the leash. When a German Shepherd wants to pull, they are very strong, obviously due to their physical design. My dog experience made me realize that you can effectively address leash problems in German Shepherds through basic training and a good sturdy harness. German Shepherd Behavior Problem 3: Nipping and Biting The third most common issue I come across with this breed is biting and nipping, especially with adolescent German Shepherds that are around 6 or 7 months of age. Here are some ways you can follow to prevent this problem from escalating! German Shepherds are big dogs, so this issue might seem scarier with this breed. I totally understand that. Make it clear from the get-go that biting hands, arms, legs, etc. And for those of you that are wondering, nipping and biting should really stop at or before 4 months of age. When this breed is left alone, they can become very stressed with separation anxiety. The number one cause of German Shepherd separation anxiety their fierce loyalty to their humans and their desire to stay close to and protect their pack. When a German Shepherd is stressed out due to separation anxiety, he may show a variety of different behavioral problems like digging holes, trying to escape, or barking. You have to remember that these problems related to separation anxiety are caused by anxiety. These problems are annoying, frustrating, and should not be acceptable, but they do happen out of love. Once again, many dog breeds suffer from separation anxiety and will show the exact same behaviors when left alone. This is where the training comes in. And like wolves, all dogs have a family pack mentality and a desire to protect and look after and love each other. I would say the German Shepherd follows that dog code to the letter of the law. So, if you want to have a good German Shepherd, you really need to understand the rules of the dog code—and you need to learn those rules quickly. A lot of people know how to play chess, but there are masters and then there are grandmasters, and it just seems to me that German Shepherds are the grandmasters of this dog code. They will take you to the next level, and you make your move, and they will do something else to outwit you. If you are looking for a comprehensive training program for your German Shepherd pup or a comprehensive training program to stop any of the above listed issues, then be sure to check out my online training program—The Dog Calming Code. In the program, I give you solutions to a bunch of different dog trainer problems, from fixing aggressive behavior and leash training to recall training and puppy training. I hope that you now know a little bit more about their history and why they behave the way that they do. Please share your story in the comments below! His goal is to continue to share his unique approach to dog training with like-minded people who wish to make a difference in the world of dogs. His training methods focus on creating and building the connection between dogs and dog owners, and are shared and used around the world. My next-door neighbor had two that they left in the backyard to their own devices. They would dig up their backyard, bark agressively at anyone who walked by and sometimes even get out of their yard which was scary. Why German Shepherds develop behavior problems, and how to solve them. The number one thing I see all the time is, German Shepherds, developing behavior problems from a young age. Understanding German Shepherd Behavior: 1. What age should you start training a German Shepherd puppy? Training should start when you bring your dog home. Eight weeks and beyond! A lot of people are led to believe, that they cannot start working with their puppy at eight weeks of age, The imprint age is so important which would be eight weeks, to four months, and actually, your dog can be in the imprint age right up until … Six months is when they start coming out of the imprint age. So, you are missing the train ride. From eight weeks is a great age to start your training so your puppy will bond with you. Man, that is far from the truth. If I was to tell somebody that contacted me for training a dog. I would tell them what they need to start doing right now. You should be doing your crate training, and your house training. Teaching it the proper rules and boundaries in the house and outside the house. You got your housebreaking, you got your leash training. You can go out and teach your basic commands, come, stay, sit, and down. Pet dog owners, There are a couple of other things I want to talk to you about. This is for pet owners. That is far from the truth. My back German Shepherd Val just passed away 30 days ago. I had to put her down for a brain tumor. It sucks. Things happen. We got to do it for the right reasons. I took Princess a couple of times, just because I knew some people were going to be there, and they wanted to see Princess and wanted to buy a couple of puppies from me. I took her there so they could see how she would get along with other dogs. Top-quality German Shepherd puppies, or older German Shepherds, do not develop these behaviors on their own. You cannot change bloodlines. You cannot change your dogs temperament. But for insecure German Shepherds, you can build their confidence. If we had more dog owners that would take responsibility, we have fewer dogs being euthanized every day, for behaviors that can change by hiring a good dog trainer that knows German Shepherds and has years of experience working with the breed. The only way that any of this stuff will change, is for you to get started with training your dog. Another thing is, people have a fenced-in yard. They think a fenced-in yard is the answer to having a trained dog. Just my personal feelings, for over 30 years in the business. German Shepherds, and Border Collies, are the number one breed I love to train. Princess is now nine and a half years of age. She gets along with any dog. Having a fenced-in yard for a dog. In my fenced-in area, my dogs will protect their domain. All dogs are going to protect their house. So, this can make a dog aggressive too. Train your dog, Learn how to get off and on-leash control so you can go out, and burn them out before you leave the house for work. Not doing crate training the right way, Another reason is, most people think they should just use a crate when their dog sleeps at night. Guys, my earliest, youngest German Shepherd, had total freedom of the house at 16 months of age. Examples, You go into this room, and the dog follows. You go into the kitchen, and the dog follows you, you go to the bathroom, and the dog follows you. You go in the shower, and the dog follows. I got people telling me all kinds of stuff. If you do, you raise them insecure. If you did that to your kid, what would happen? I will be honest and authentic with anybody. Why you need to walk your German Shepherd dog, Another big thing I want to cover is about walking your dog. A lot of people develop behavior issues from free feeding. Some dogs will become very aggressive, so if you bring another dog into the house. Because they were free feeding for so long, now their dog is guarding the water bowl and guarding the food bowl and guarding dog bones, and any other toy that they use of having to themselves. When you leave toys down, some dogs will start guarding their toys too. Dogs do not need a toy box. They are not kids, but to some people they are, and those are the people who have a lot of aggression issues with their German Shepherds. The dog is leading you. These are some of the most important reasons why they develop bad behaviors. Any German Shepherd can learn at any age. Hire somebody you know that owns the breed and has enough knowledge about the breed, to go with you and help you pick out the right temperament puppy or older dog. I recommend you read the article I wrote on seven things you need to know about rescuing and adopting a German Shepherd. I did a video two years ago on this. If you are going to buy a dog, you want a sound temperament dog, that has a nice temperament and strong threshold. You want to get a strong nerve puppy. Strong headed. Lightning, gunfire, noises, nothing bothers her. Want to learn more about East German Bloodlines? This is a great website to review. If you have a dog that has a weak tendency in that nerve, your job is to do a lot of positive, confident-building training. A lot of food rewards-based training. Introduce that dog to real-world surroundings, cars, noises, bicycles, anything. Get out there, introduce your dog, and teach him how to get over those challenges. You can do it. I hope this video helped, germanshepherdbehavior. I just love this bloodline because of the way they bond with you and are so loyal to their owners when trained and raise right. Dennis loves black German Shepherds. I wish you guys the best of luck on your German Shepherd journey. If you have any questions, please post them below in the commons. Thanks for stopping by. About the author: Dennis is the founder of German Shepherd Behavior. I have owned this breed for over 25 years and looking forward to sharing my German Shepherd journey with you. They are a very smart, bold, and determined breed. To ensure that your German Shepherd is a happy, well-adjusted member of your household, your dog must receive the attention and exercise they need. They are also very strong willed with a dominant nature, so they also require a lot of training. For your family and children, a German Shepherd is an excellent choice as a caring companion. They are loyal, friendly, smart, and naturally protective; however, German Shepherds also need lots of socialization and good training to become obedient. If they do not get proper behavioral training, they can develop overly protective behaviors and neurotic habits. Because they are so protective, excel at many dog sports, and are exceptionally loyal, the military and police choose them protect and serve their communities and country. You might be wondering: what characteristics should I be looking for in my German Shepherd? Well, the answer may vary between different buyers, but generally speaking, you should look for a smart, loyal, and healthy dog. This is the reason that they are used in police work such as search-and-rescue, or sniffing out bombs and criminals. But their intelligence can sometimes lead to problematic behaviors. However, if they receive proper training at a young age , then they will not exercise this type of behavior. Over-Protectiveness German Shepherds are typically protective dogs, and they always make sure to care for their family, but sometimes this protectiveness leads to bigger problems. For instance, they might aggressively bark at everyone you come in contact with. It is also crucial to give your dog time to socialize with other people and dogs early on, as this will get them comfortable being around others. Giving them time to interact with others at a young age will help them learn how to handle certain situations later on. North Mountain Kennels can do all these things for any prospective buyer! Territorial Aggression Your German Shepherd not only protects you, but they also protect their territory. They are very territorial animals, which is why they are often used as security dogs. Because they are so protective of territory that they believe to be theirs, it may lead them to act out, which can cause an unsafe environment. German Shepherds can also become territorial over food, and toys. They will show aggression by growling, lunging, and barking at other animals and people. There are plenty of ways to prevent this aggressive behavior from developing, but the most common way is to gratify them for calm behavior. Digging or Destructiveness German Shepherds need rigorous physical and mental exercise. These dogs get bored easily, and this can lead to destructive behavior. You can help your dogs by playing with them, or giving training that will help them to reduce their boredom in less destructive ways. Nipping Puppies usually start nipping between five and nine months old. This is considered normal behavior for young dogs; however, German Shepherds are very strong, so it might hurt a lot more than a smaller dog. The solution is as simple as giving your dog some toys. Separation Anxiety Separation anxiety is common in dogs that are close to their owners. They do require a lot of attention, and being gone for long periods of time can stress them out. Leaving them lots of toys is one way to help, but it also comes down to them adjusting to you being gone. Showing Dominance German Shepherds are known for their alpha male behavior. To prevent this type of behavior, you need to teach them obedience. Being aggressive with them is the worst thing you could do. Not only is it wrong to mistreat your dog, but it will also teach them that aggressive behavior is okay. Conclusion German Shepherds absorb information like a sponge. They are quick learners, especially as puppies. As they get older, it is harder to break bad habits. Here at North Mountain Kennels, we have been raising some of the smartest and healthiest German Shepherds for years. We have a team of professional trainers who are experienced in what they do. Our team of experts is the best around, and know everything when it comes to training German Shepherds. Recent Posts. German Shepherds are smart, loyal, naturally protective, and friendly. Without proper training and socialization, German Shepherds can develop nervous habits and overly-protective behaviors, just like most breeds. You might be wondering: What traits should I be watching for in my German Shepherd puppy? This intelligence, when left to its own devices, can lead to problematic behaviors. With early training and socialization though, you can help to prevent some of these common issues from coming up. A few of the most common include: Over-Protectiveness — German Shepherds are naturally protective. They want to protect the family unit. This protectiveness can become problematic if it manifests as aggression towards strangers or other animals. Examples include lunging at the mailman, or aggressive barking at passers-by. Introduce them to new people, new situations, and new noises. Socialization helps your puppy develop confidence and to learn what types of people and situations are non-threatening. Unfortunately, when they become over-territorial, this can be unsafe for visitors. Often, too, Shepherds can become territorial over food, growling, barking or lunging at anyone or other animals that come into their space. Exercise, obedience training, and rewarding calm behavior can all help to alleviate territorial aggression. Digging or Destructiveness — German Shepherds, require rigorous mental and physical exercise. They get bored very quickly, and often, this boredom manifests itself in destructive behavior. When bored, your pup might try to seek attention too, another common reason for the destructive behavior, like digging excessively or chewing up a shoe. Providing daily physical exercise, as well as training mental activity can help prevent boredom. Nipping — Many young dog breeds nip starting at around 6 to 9 months old. This is fairly typical behavior, but with Shepherds, it can be a bit scarier as get bigger. Separation Anxiety — German Shepherds, love you and want to always be by your side! Unfortunately, work and vacation make that impossible. You might also start with shorter trips when you first bring your pup home. Obedience training is imperative, and you should include your whole family in the training process. This will help your dog learn that he is not the alpha. Ultimately, the best way to weed out problematic behaviors is to start a training regime very early. German Shepherd puppies want to learn and put their intelligence to good use. Owners must be consistent in their training. Using the right cues, rewarding the right behaviors, and communicating with your dog properly is very important. The best way is to learn the right way to train a pup is to seek the help of a German Shepherd trainer. Taking a course teach you how to properly communicate with your dog and provide you with techniques to redirect negative behaviors. It starts with the breeder. Find a breeder that breeds for temperament and health. The best breeders take great care to produce animals that are calm, confident and loving. It requires careful pedigree planning and selecting the right sire dad and dam mom who show well-adjusted temperaments. Similarly, the best breeders will also be happy to provide a pedigree for the animal and are glad to answer the phone when you have any training concerns. For more information or if you may have questions, please contact us here.

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