Instructions
Make sure you have your German shepherd dog checked for hip problems, weak bones, blood and digestive problems and epilepsy, as these are common hereditary problems inherent in German shepherd dogs. When it is a puppy, be sure to not let him play extensively on hard pavements to avoid damaging his young bones. It is also important to choose food that is especially made for large breed puppies because those are formulated for the bones. If you still have concerns about his bones, you can supplement his food with calcium.
Keep a careful eye on your adult German shepherd as he is prone to bloat. This can happen to large breeds that are fed only one large meal a day and drink plenty of water afterward. Then they exercise vigorously either by running or playing with family. You must avoid this situation by not letting the dog exercise too much before and after his meal. After each exercise session, withhold water for at least 15 minutes. Educate yourself on the facts about bloat and keep an eye on your dog for signs of bloat.
Groom and brush your German shepherd dog weekly. German shepherds have a very heavy undercoat and they shed heavily. It is important for those that are allergic to animal fur to avoid this breed because the shedding is so heavy that your home will be covered in dog hair everyday. However, if this is your breed, brush him weekly to keep your home a little cleaner and your air a little clearer.
Train your German shepherd dog when he is young. This breed is highly intelligent and trainable but has some serious muscles that can be used on the wrong person or object when training is not done correctly. Socializing is just as important because the German shepherd dog is by nature on its guard with strangers. Be sure to train your German shepherd dog when he is a puppy and not when he is a full 85 pounds and hard to handle.
How to Properly Care for a German Shepherd Dog
German shepherd dogs are among the most popular breeds in the United States and around the world. The breed is very intelligent, versatile and used in many different situations as working dogs. The German shepherd dog is a large breed and is prone to several health problems of which the owner must be aware. The German shepherd dog is energetic and fun-loving. He is also great with children once he has bonded with them. He is a loyal family dog if you raise him well.