German Shepherd Dog
This medium to large working dog is certainly a crowd favourite. They are loyal loving dogs who excel in training and obedience. It’s no wonder they are a worldwide favourite amongst dog lovers.
German Shepherd At A Glance
| Lifespan | 9-13 years |
| Temperament | An intelligent loyal breed who is known for their protective nature. |
| Suitable | Active families who have the time to invest in training. |
| Health | A generally healthy breed but they can be predisposed to some health concerns. |
| COMMON CLAIMS | MAXIMUM CLAIM |
|---|---|
| Tissue Damage or Fracture | $7,042.92 |
| Ear Conditions | $1,629.15 |
| Gastrointestinal Condition | $3,700.50 |
| Muscle/Skeletal Conditions | $2,525.01 |
| Arthritis | $6,269.00 |
| Neoplasia | $6,971.42 |
| Mass Lesion | $5,538.44 |
| Neurological Condition | $4,617.52 |
| Allergies | $3,095.30 |
| Skin Conditions | $2,987.90 |
*Pet Insurance Australia Data 2022/2023
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Trainability
It’s no surprise the humble German Shepherd excels in training. Their use in Police, Search and Rescue and assistant dog work has seen this breed happily taking up many important doggy job positions. They simply love to work alongside their beloved owners making them a hot favourite to work with handlers in high energy Police work. Like with any breed, training should begin the second you bring your adorable bundle of fluff home. They respond well to motivational and positive reinforcement. But training is a must. The untrained powerful German Shepherd will drag you down the road and be an unstoppable force. They respond well to crate training which is not only a great tool for toileting, but it also teaches your dog that it is OK to spend time alone. German Shepherds do not like being away from their pack (AKA you), so teaching them this from a young age is invaluable to ensure your pup grows into a confident and happy dog.
Grooming
Just looking at the German Shepherd you can appreciate why grooming is important. These dogs shed, so keeping a daily regime will help reduce the masses of hair around the home and also keep your dog’s coat in tip-top shape. However, two to three times weekly will suffice if you can live with the shedding and tumble-hair-weeds around the home. Remember that the German Shepherd will shed all year round so routine is a must. They have a medium-length double coat that, despite its look, doesn’t require too much bathing. These dogs are not a smelly breed and will only need a bath when required, normally after a romp in the mud or rolling in something unpleasant.
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Common Health Complaints – German Shepherd
With their unique long bodies and adorable short legs, they can be prone to certain health conditions.
- Hip Dysplasia: The German Shepherd dog breed can be prone to Hip Dysplasia, a condition caused by the misalignment of the hip and thigh bone that can lead to pain and lameness. This mostly genetic condition can also cause arthritis. Depending on the severity of Hip Dysplasia surgery is normally recommended to correct the malformation, alongside medications, physiotherapy, exercise restriction and weight management.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia is a hereditary condition of the elbow joint that can cause lameness and pain. Treatment can include weight loss to take any pressure off the elbow alongside medications and joint supplements. Surgery may also be required in severe cases.
- Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): Being a deep-chested breed the German Shepherd is also prone to bloat. This life-threatening condition is caused when the stomach fills with gas or food causing it to twist. Emergency surgery is required to correct this condition. Preventing exercise before and after meals, and encouraging slow eating is paramount to prevent bloat from occurring.
- Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): This is a progressive neurological disease that affects the spinal cord, leading to hind weakness and eventual paralysis of all limbs. There is no cure for this disease, treatment involves weight management and careful veterinary monitoring.
- Pancreatitis: An inflammation of the Pancreas that can cause severe abdominal pain and digestive issues. This condition is more prevalent in German Shepherds than in any other dog breed. However, with good veterinary monitoring and treatment, the condition can be managed.
- Allergies: Like many dog breeds, the German Shepherd can also suffer from allergies leading to digestive problems, itchy skin and discomfort. Treatment will involve controlling exposure to the allergen, a diet change, medication and medicated shampoos - depending on the allergy.
- Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): A condition caused by the pancreas not producing enough digestive enzymes, leading to malnutrition and weight loss. Common in older German Shepherds, this condition is controlled with prescription diets and medication.
- Ear Conditions: Those lovely large ears can come with a higher risk of ear infection and problems. Regular cleaning and inspection are paramount as too, correctly drying your German Shepherd's ears after bathing or swimming. Treatment involves antifungal or antibiotic treatment.
- Diabetes: A common issue that affects German Shepherds, Diabetes is due to the body not producing sufficient insulin. Treatment involves veterinary monitoring and prescription diets alongside medication.
- Epilepsy: A genetic and incurable condition, German Shepherds can also show signs of epilepsy and will often begin to have seizures between six months and four years of age. Treatment involves lifelong medication and veterinary monitoring.
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Exercise Requirements
This breed is highly energetic. The most destructive behavioural problems seen in German Shepherds can be down to the lack of exercise. They are first and foremost a working breed and need to be kept in top condition to ward off behavioural problems and encourage good well-being. However, care must be taken when they are pups as over-exercising can lead to bone problems. Speak with your breeder about the correct level of exercise for your growing pup. The breed loves to chew, particularly when pups. Providing ample chewing opportunities will prevent them from chewing undesirable ones such as your shoes or the chair legs of your best furniture. They will need daily exercise to burn off energy. Not having the correct amount of exercise needed, your fully grown Shepherd may exhibit highly entertaining habits such as excessive barking, chewing and other unwanted behaviours.
Intelligence
These dogs are super-intelligent, this is why they make such wonderful working dogs. They love to have a job to do, so this is important to remember when considering owning one of these breeds. They also do not like being alone for long periods, so if you do not have the time to train, or you are away from the home for extended lengths of time, this breed may not be the right choice. They make excellent watchdogs and simply adore their owners. This level of intelligence needs to be flexed to avoid problematic behaviours.
Family Friendly
The German Shepherd is a very loyal and loving breed to those who own them. They make great family pets, however, like all breeds, socialisation, training and breeding will play a role in the type of dog you will own. They love to be around people so thrive in busy households full of those who will love and entertain them. Being incredibly playful, they seem to be a top favourite with children. Their strength and pure size make them tolerant of young children, but like with all breeds, teaching your children how to behave around dogs is vital.
Indoor/outdoor?
Their impressive coat is extremely weather-proof meaning this breed does well in cold climates. During the warmer weather though, your German Shepherd may need some additional help to keep cool. Providing ample cool areas and shelter is paramount in keeping your German Shepherd happy.
Responsible Breeding
It is very important to only source your German Shepherd from a reputable breeder who understands the importance of hereditary conditions and genetics in their chosen bloodline. When considering a breeder ensure you ask all the important questions about hereditary problems and if possible, view Mum and Dad. Contacting your local breed club can also help with the research into your preferred breeder. Ask to view testing paperwork regarding genetic screening in your puppy’s bloodline. This may take a little more time than a quick purchase, but it can save you and your family unimaginable heartache and pain that can be caused by a sick puppy or dog.
Contact PIA to Get Pet Insurance for German Shepherds
PIA is a family owned pet insurance company for Australia, and we have a long and successful history of helping owners care for their German Shepherds. Contact us today to learn more about our range of simple, flexible and affordable cover options.
