German Shepherd & Its Basic Care Tips

Pet Care

oi-Amrisha

By Amrisha Sharma

Thursday, September 22, 2011, 18:14

German Shepherd GSD, is a large sized dog breed which originated in Germany. GSD because of their strength, intelligence and abilities in obedient training are often found in police and military roles around the world. German Shepherds can be a variety of colors, the most common of which are the red, tan, brown, black, tan/black and red/black varieties. Also known as Alsatian, GSDs are one of the top 5 dog breeds in US. Here are few tips on German Shepherd or Alsatian care.

German Shepherd care:

• To get rid of over shedding of German Shepherds, brush them daily if possible. This breed sheds year-round and heavily twice a year when the undercoat comes out.

• Control your shepherd's weight. Overweight German Shepherd dogs are more prone to health problems such as heart trouble and arthritis. The general weight of GSD is between 55 and 65 centimetres.

• Cataracts, calcium gout, chronic pancreatitis, hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, hemophilia, slipped discs and retinal atrophy are common health problems of German Shepherds so care for them.

• Alsatians require exercise for healthy care. Take them out and play with them to keep them active as they are very energetic.

• GSDs don't require daily bathing. Give them bath 3 times in a week and brush the hair everyday to reduce hair shedding.

• Cut the foot nails in every two weeks to avoid foot infections and skin allergies, a common health problem of German Shepherds. They like to dig the ground so it is best to clean their foot after coming from outside.

• As they are well known for their intelligence, train them pleasantly. It also helps control their aggressive behavior.

• German Shepherds enjoy playing and chewing dog toys. Keep some for their entertainment.

• Set a schedule to train German Shepherd dog in potty training, walk, food etc to make them disciplined.

• Clean the ears once in a week to avoid ear infections. Clean the teeth regularly.

• Care for your Alsatian dog by making the dog friendly with other members as they love to be a member of the family. Don't over pamper them. This will increase their temperament.

• For German Shepherd diet care, give them nutritious food such as meat, carrot, celery to keep them healthy and active.

These are the simple tips for German Shepherd care.