The German Shepherd is a particularly active, intelligent and loyal large breed dog. To live well and for a long time, he needs careful care and constant training: he must follow a correct diet, live in an adequate environment, receive the right medical care and get plenty of exercise. By giving it your time and attention, you can ensure your German Shepherd has a long and happy life, so that he will remain your trusty companion for many years to come.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Power
Step 1. Make sure you feed him properly
The German Shepherd is a large, active dog known for having fragile hips. It is therefore essential that he receives a healthy diet throughout his entire life. Buy quality food that isn't filled with filler ingredients; for example, make sure it contains animal protein rather than corn.
- You can give it dry, wet, or a combination of the two.
- If you decide to prepare the food yourself, talk to your vet first to find out exactly what ingredients you need to use to ensure your dog has a balanced diet.
- Resist the temptation to give him your leftovers, especially if he asks for them. Our food can be harmful to him and distract his interest from the foods he should eat instead.
Step 2. Feed him according to his age
As your dog grows, he needs different nutritional supplies. Give your German Shepherd an age-specific food: for puppies when they are still very young, for adults once they have reached maturity, and for older dogs when they have aged.
- There are also specific recipes to consider in certain cases, such as ad hoc foods for large breeds or for overweight dogs.
- Consult your veterinarian to find out which nutrition is best for your dog. Knowing in depth the state of health of the animal, it will be able to tell you what its specific needs are from a nutritional point of view.
- When it is time to switch from one type of food to another (for example from puppy to adult), it is important not to do it abruptly. Introduce the new food by mixing it into your usual meal, then increase the amount and decrease the amount of the old food gradually over several weeks.
Step 3. Dose your food according to size and age
Check the packaging to find out what the recommended servings are, which should be based on the size and age of the dog. You can also consult your vet for advice on how much they should eat.
Step 4. Have him eat small meals throughout the day
It is best to divide the daily amount of food into two or more meals: this will reduce the risk of gastric dilation, which can degenerate into stomach torsion - a serious and potentially fatal condition.
- Keep in mind that the dog will need to shed shortly after each meal.
- Do not make him exercise immediately after eating, as this would increase the risk of gastric dilation.
Step 5. Offer him some healthy treats
In addition to the main meals, occasional snacks also have an impact on the dog's health and must be of quality. Choose low-calorie treats that still give him satisfaction, such as crunchy vegetables; you can also put treats into a feeding toy to make them eat less quickly.
The morsels should only make up 5-10% of his daily calorie intake, so keep an eye on the amount of snacks you give him throughout the day
Step 6. Make sure she always has water available
Dogs drink a lot, which is essential to prevent dehydration. Fill the bowl with clean water every day and leave it in an easily accessible spot for the dog. If possible, check the water level several times a day to make sure there is enough.
- German Shepherds should drink small amounts of water throughout the day instead of a large amount in one go. Gradual hydration helps prevent gastric dilation.
- Dehydration represents a danger that should not be underestimated for the health of the dog. The main symptoms are excessive panting, loss of appetite, dry nose or gums. If you notice these signs, immediately give him water.
Part 2 of 4: Health
Step 1. Get him to do an annual check-up
When caring for a German Shepherd, prevention is key. By having it checked by a vet every year, many health problems can be avoided and early-stage ailments caught early. Usually, the veterinarian performs the following procedures at the annual check-up:
- A general visit: the vet will check the dog's health conditions, also checking for any common ailments, such as ear infections.
- A trim on the nails: if they are too long, it becomes very painful for the dog to walk, so the vet will arrange to cut them.
- Deworming and dilofilaria testing: All dogs should be dewormed approximately every month to prevent worms from appearing; the vet will test first, then prescribe a medication to be taken monthly. If the German Shepherd already has worms, you will be given medication to treat them.
- Vaccination: Ask your vet what vaccines are needed and which diseases they protect against.
Step 2. Spay or neuter your dog
Doing so will help keep the pet population in check. Unless you are planning on having your German Shepherd mate, ask your vet when is the best time to spay her, if she is a female, or neuter her, if it is a male. Generally, the operation is done between 6 months and one and a half years of age, although waiting until the dog is one year old is healthier for his joints.
Spaying or neutering can also help prevent aggressive behavior in the future
Step 3. Treat your health problems as soon as possible
For example, if you notice that your dog is having difficulty walking or not eating as usual, take him to the vet right away. German Shepherds tend to have hip problems as they begin to age, so it's important to keep an eye on any physical or behavioral changes and take action as soon as possible.
In particular, observe the way he walks and moves his paws; such changes may indicate joint problems, such as hip dysplasia, a condition that may require prompt medical treatment
Step 4. Wash and brush it regularly
It is quite easy to care for a German Shepherd's coat - you should brush it once or twice a week and only wash it when it needs it. Do not bathe it more than a couple of times a month, as the soap can alter the natural hydrolipidic film of the epidermis and hair.
- You can wash it at home or take it to a dog grooming shop.
- Bathe him more often if he is particularly active; it will protect him from irritation and other skin problems, especially in summer.
Part 3 of 4: Exercise
Step 1. Make sure it has enough space
Remember that German Shepherds are large dogs; they need space to live well, both at home and in the garden. For them, a home in which they can move freely is more suitable than a small apartment or a cramped environment.
It is important that the dog has access to a space in which to run around without problems. Make sure the garden is accessible, tidy and free of hazards
Step 2. Exercise it
Depriving a German Shepherd of physical activity means trapping his incredible strength and energy, preventing him from letting off steam. Ideally, you should spend 1-2 hours a day with him playing fetch, taking him for a long walk or run, or chasing him around the garden. An inactive German Shepherd is at increased risk of developing joint problems, such as hip or elbow dysplasia, and falling into depression or destructive behavior.
- However, you should not overdo the exercise if the dog is very young, as his joints and bones are still developing. Don't take him jogging with you until he's at least one and a half years old.
- To keep it in the garden, you need to make sure the area is completely fenced off.
- If you don't have a very large garden, go to the park or any open space near you where it is possible to bring dogs.
Step 3. Don't make him do strenuous physical activity on a full stomach
Since the German Shepherd is one of the breeds most prone to gastric dilation, it is important to keep him calm before and after meals. He should avoid strenuous exercise, such as running, just before eating and for several hours after eating.
While running is out of the question after meals, it's not a problem to take him for a leisurely stroll
Step 4. Keep it cool
German shepherds, especially long-haired ones, suffer a lot from the heat. If you live in a hot or muggy region, make sure it has plenty of water and the ability to stay in the shade when it is outside. Also, don't involve him in strenuous activities during very hot days.
- Symptoms of hyperthermia in dogs include wheezing, thirst, lack of coordination and extremely red gums.
- Dogs of this breed thrive best in cool or cold climates, as their coat insulates them well from low temperatures.
Part 4 of 4: Socialization and Training
Step 1. Get him to socialize as a puppy
A German Shepherd should be exposed to a variety of people, places, and other dogs while still young to get used to interacting peacefully with anyone they meet. If he is not encouraged to socialize properly in childhood, he can develop aggression problems in adulthood.
- You must teach him to socialize even if you intend to train him to become a guard dog, because it is essential that he has a good character as well as knowing how to protect the territory.
- An important part of the socialization process is physical contact, which the dog has a great need from a puppy. Touching him regularly, especially on his face and paws, will teach him that there is nothing wrong with having his nails clipped or his mouth checked.
Step 2. Train it
The German Shepherd is an extremely intelligent and loyal animal, which makes the dogs of this breed perfect for learning and training. However, it is important to use positive reinforcement, accompanying the commands with compliments, caresses and cuddles; this will allow you to build a good relationship of trust with your dog.
When he is still a puppy, educate him for short periods of time, as you would a child; As it grows and improves in responding to commands, you can lengthen your sessions
Step 3. Keep teaching him new tricks and commands
Not only is a well-behaved dog easier to manage and looks good, but dedicating time and energy to constant training helps create a deep bond between animal and human companion. The more your bond strengthens, the more your German Shepherd will be happy to obey you and have you as their master.
The German Shepherd is an excellent guide, guard, rescue and police dog. If your dog is particularly intelligent and needs a lot of mental and physical stimulation, consider training him for a specific activity
Step 4. Fill it with love and attention
To develop a lasting bond with your dog, it is important to give him lots of physical affection, such as petting and cuddling. Show him friendship and love every day, and he will reciprocate a thousand times over!
- You can't fake affection, not even with a dog. You need to show him how much you adore him with expressions and gestures, so that he feels lovable and loved. Between you there must be a mutual, sincere and genuine affection.
- You must never hit him or yell at him. Don't scold him unless you catch him doing something wrong, otherwise he will associate the punishment with you and you may lose his trust.
