Temperament and Health Issue of German Shepherd Dogs

While attempting to play with a cat, a shepherd's teeth are displayed. Well-bred German Shepherds have powerful jaws and strong teeth, can develop a strong sense of loyalty and obedience, and can be trained to attack and release on command. Poorly bred German Shepherds such as those from puppy mills can be fearful, overly aggressive, or both. German Shepherds (like Pit Bulls, Rottweilers and Dobermans), are often perceived as inherently dangerous, and are the target of Breed Specific Legislation in several countries.

If a German Shepherd is violent or aggressive, it is often due to the combination of poor breeding (bad nerves) and the owner's lack of control or training. GSDs are often used as guard, attack and police dogs, which further contributes to the perception of being a dangerous breed. However, many GSDs function perfectly well as search dogs and family pets, roles where aggressive behavior is unsuitable.

German Shepherds' sense of loyalty to, and emotional bond with, their owners is almost impossible to overstate. Separation trauma is one reason they are now used less often in guide dog roles, since guide dogs are typically trained from puppyhood by one owner prior to final placement with their employer.

 

Temperament Differences Among Lines

The different types or lines of GSD display differences not only in appearance but also in ability and temperament.

Dogs from working lines have very high energy, and have been bred to have a natural drive for protection, tracking, and obedience. They are bred primarily for consistent temperament, working drive, and intelligence. These dogs can be used as pets, but will be unhappy if not exercised daily or trained to do a job of some sort. These dogs are more commonly seen in rescues in North America due to their high prey drive and owner's inability to control or train them.

German and Eastern European lines tend to be stockier, with shorter snouts and more muscular chests, and typify the working lines.
 

[ GSDs can make loyal and obedient pets. ]

North American lines have a tendency towards a longer croup, longer back, higher wither and more stable temperament ideal for companionship. They do not require something to do constantly to keep them from becoming bored and without an outlet, destructive.

These dogs can make excellent pets, provided that an responsible breeder has not sacrificed consistent temperament or health in the quest for popular standards for good looks.

Health

As is common in many large breeds, German Shepherds are prone to elbow and hip dysplasia. Other health problems sometimes occurring in the breed are von Willebrand's disease and skin allergies. German Shepherds are also prone to bloat. They have an average life span of ten to twelve years.

 

German Shepherd Dogs Breed Information and Pictures

History of and Famous German Shepherd Dogs

This article is licensed under the GNU Free Documentation License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "German Shepherd Dog".