About German Shepherds:

An extremely smart breed. Widely heralded as an excellent watchdog and guard dog. It can be trained to perform almost any task. It is reserved with strangers, but completely devoted to its family, including the children. The German Shepherd looks stern and has an imposing presence, but it is loving toward those it knows. It can be sharp with strange dogs, especially small ones. It must receive thorough obedience training early. It is very responsive to instruction and attention. This breed loves physical activity and interaction with its family. This is a very loyal breed. A native of Germany, the German Shepherd traces its ancestry to the early herding dogs of Europe several hundred years ago. In England and other countries in the United Kingdom, it is called the Alsatian, because the English wanted to protect the animal from anti- German sentiment following World War I. The German Shepherd loves working with people. It has been used as a police dog, a guide dog for the blind, an army patrol dog, and a guard dog. American soldiers returning from Europe brought German Shepherds home. The breed is now the most popular herding dog registered with the American Kennel Club.

Care and Exercise:

Coat tends to shed and should be brushed 3 times a week for 10 minutes each session. Exercise is very important: this breed needs daily exercise of long walks on a leash at the very least. Daily runs in an open area are even better. Because of its energy and keen mind, dog can become troublesome if inactive. Idle dogs can become timid, nervous, or even dangerous. Continual contact with people from the time dog is a puppy will make a wonderful pet. Start obedience training early.

Recommended Households:

The German Shepherd can be a most loyal and intelligent companion if trained properly. It must have regular companionship with people and plenty of room to be active. This breed should not be left alone for long hours with nothing to do, nor should it be tied up or restricted. A pet should not be trained to attack or to be more territorial than it is naturally.

Click here to view all available German Shepherds at Uncle Bill’s Pet Centers.