German Shepherds FAQ’s
German Shepherds are a very popular and much-loved breed of dog, and many people have questions about this breed before they make the decision to bring a German Shepherd home as a companion animal. These common questions and answers will help you decide whether the German Shepherd is the right pet for you.
Q: What health problems do German Shepherds often have?
A: One of the most common health problems in Shepherds and other large dogs is hip and elbow dysplasia, which are problems with joint development that cause a very painful condition. Bloating is another common Shepherd problem, and many German Shepherds are prone to skin problems. Overall, German Shepherds are not incredibly much more prone to health problems than any other breed, but they do have some breed-specific risks.
Q: Are German Shepherds dangerous dogs?
A: The German Shepherd breed has a reputation as a “dangerous” breed, but this is quite unwarranted. German Shepherds are chosen for police and military uses for the same reason they’re chosen as guide and service dogs–because they are calm, well-mannered, and very intelligent and obedient. Can a German Shepherd be dangerous? Sure, if it’s trained to attack and triggered to attack. Any dog can be dangerous if it’s trained to be dangerous, but in general, as a breed, the German Shepherd is no more dangerous than any other breed.
Q: Who have been some famous movie and celebrity German Shepherds?
A: You may remember Rin Tin Tin, Bullet the Wonder Dog, Charlie the German Shepherd from the movie ALL DOGS GO TO HEAVEN, and Jerry Lee, a police dog in the movies K-9 and K-911, as well as President Kennedy’s dog Clipper and President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s Major.
Q: If I’m planning to show my German Shepherd, what are the disqualifying faults?
A: Each country and governing body has different standards for shows, but there are a few faults which are common disqualifiers in most shows, including floppy ears, which are not genetic and are caused by a cartilage injury, a vertical tail that exposes the anus, and a muzzle that is not predominantly black. In many shows, German Shepherds with white fur are disqualified, as well. If you are unsure, check with the governing body of the shows you are interested in.
Q: Are German Shepherds good with children and other animals?
A. As a breed, German Shepherds are very mild-mannered and even-tempered, and are great with kids and other dogs. Individual dogs vary in temperament, of course, but most German Shepherds are very loving and friendly dogs, and they make great pets for families.
If you are considering a German Shepherd as a companion for your family, you have made a very good choice. German Shepherds are among the best dogs for pets, especially for families. They’re intelligent, loyal and loving, and they’re very eager to play and be part of the family. If a large dog fits your family needs, there are few large dogs as great for companionship as German Shepherds.