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Being a German Shepherd owner is a wonderful and rewarding experience in itself. These dog breeds are extremely loyal to and bond well with their owners and family members. Owning a German Shepherd can be beneficial for your family as they can be exceptional family dogs and watchdogs. Additionally, they can develop a strong connection with their family and can make excellent companions even in working environments.
However, owning a German Shepherd is a big responsibility as they require a lot of attention, care, and training. You should work on addressing their unique needs and ensure they thrive in a positive and healthy environment. Before adopting one, you should be aware of its characteristics, personality, health considerations, and other requirements. In the end, we will answer your question: “Are German Shepherds high maintenance?” So, keep reading!
8 Things You Must Know Before Owning a German Shepherd
1. Personality and Temperament
German Shepherds are known for their protective nature and loyalty. They are extremely obedient and can learn and perform commands quickly. In other words, GSDs are highly trainable, and they are great with kids or other pets, especially if you socialize them properly. However, adults need to supervise their interactions with young kids because of their large size and high energy.
However, German Shepherds may feel bored if left alone for a long time, and they need continuous mental stimulation. They have high energy levels and, therefore, they need regular exercise. GSDs can survive in playful environments, where they can engage in games and activities, such as fetch, running, obedience trials, and agility training.
2. Training
All dogs, including German Shepherds, benefit significantly from early socialization. Grow the habit of introducing your pet to your friends, family, and colleagues, as well as other pets. It will help them become more self-confident and well-adjusted to different environments and people. Furthermore, German Shepherds that receive good training in learning commands develop good leadership and socialization skills. Without proper training, GSDs might become stubborn and dominant. Also, never opt for harsh training methods as it may affect your pet’s mental well-being.
3. Exercising
German Shepherds require a lot of exercise and physical activity. Ideally, these high-activity working dogs need at least 1–2 hours of exercise or other play activities every day. These activities may include running, walking, hiking, or playing outdoor games. Therefore, German Shepherds are most suitable for active families who can offer them the exercise requirements they need.
While physical exercise is necessary for German Shepherds to stay active and healthy, they need mental stimulation, too, to provide them with a happy environment. To keep your pet’s brain sharp, invest in puzzle toys, scent games, obedience training, or agility courses. And refrain from leaving your German Shepherd alone for a prolonged period, as it makes them feel bored or even aggressive.
4. Grooming
German Shepherds have thicker and fuller coats, and they keep shedding their hair year-round. Your GSD will usually shed more during the season changes, that is, in fall and spring. Brush your pet at least 2–3 times weekly, and during the shedding season, you must brush your Shepherd daily to remove loose hair and debris.
And the first thing every GSD owner needs is a vacuum cleaner! That’s because they are soon going to see furry carpets and loose hairballs around every corner of the house. Therefore, vacuuming your living spaces becomes necessary.
Besides brushing, your German Shepherd needs more care and attention. For instance, you must clean your furry companion’s ears and nails. Make your pet bathe every 6–8 weeks, and trim their nails regularly to prevent difficulties while walking or running.
Similarly, you must take care of your dog’s ear care by cleaning them regularly to avoid eye infections. It’s a common issue that occurs due to upright ears. German Shepherds are prone to developing ear infections. Regular cleaning and ear checks are mandatory to improve their optimal health.
5. Health Requirements
German Shepherds have an average lifespan of about 9–13 years. However, they are exposed to the risks of developing a range of health conditions. For example, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, gastrointestinal problems, degenerative myelopathy, etc., are common among German Shepherds. They are also prone to growing skin problems, including allergies, which require immediate treatment and special care.
6. Nutrition and Diet
German Shepherds require high-quality and well-balanced dog food, which ensures that your pet is getting all the necessary nutrients for their high energy and big size. Feed your fighter meals rich in high proteins, added vitamins, and healthy fats. Avoid offering them human food, especially the ones that are toxic for them, including onions, chocolates, and grapes. However, avoid overfeeding your GSD as it may lead to other health issues.
7. Ownership Cost
The initial cost of a German Shepherd is between $500 and $3,000. However, make it a point to purchase your dog from a reputable center, verify the pedigree, and perform a few health screenings, if required. The ownership and maintenance costs of a German Shepherd will also depend on your purpose of adopting it. The expenses will be higher if you wish to train your dog for specific purposes, like protection work or service in the police department or the military.
Apart from the ongoing costs of German Shepherd grooming, food, and clothing, your pet also needs vaccinations, vet checkups, and pet insurance. Health issues may incur higher costs, especially if your German Shepherd is suffering from hip dysplasia or other health conditions. Seek immediate medical help when you feel your dog is showing peculiar symptoms.
8. Interaction and Socialization
German Shepherds are social dog breeds that love human interaction. They are highly responsible to their family and friends, who offer them the companionship they need. They crave such pampering and love to socialize with their family and other individuals with whom they share a good bond.
It’s interesting how German Shepherds stay aloof to strangers and, on the contrary, can become excellent family-friendly dogs. While they enjoy their owners’ company, they face challenges dealing with separation anxiety. They are sensitive dogs, and, therefore, when they lack human interaction for a long time, they may start showing behavioral changes, so much so that they may even grow destructive.
Are German Shepherds High Maintenance?
German Shepherds are often considered high-maintenance compared to other dog breeds. However, it depends on the specific requirements of the individual dog and the owner’s ability to cater to their needs. If you are planning on adopting a German Shepherd, here are some pet needs you might need to fulfill.
- Engage your GSD in regular physical activities and vigorous exercise to improve their physical health and boost mental stimulation. To improve mental health, you can make them play with puzzle toys or engage in obedience training.
- Regular grooming and brushing are necessary to improve your furry friend’s optimal health and well-being.
- German Shepherds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, in which case, you should seek urgent veterinarian care and treatment for their health issues to provide them with a better quality of life.
- German Shepherds are known for their loyalty, and they bond well with their owners. Therefore, ensure they are not left alone for long periods; otherwise, they may suffer from separation anxiety.
- Give your GSD adequate play space in the yard or any other open space, allowing them to run, exercise, and engage in their favorite outdoor activities. Playing outdoors promotes adequate physical and mental stimulation.
Conclusion
Owning and caregiving your furry companion is a long-term responsibility and commitment. These dog breeds are loyal, intelligent, and enthusiastic. They are best suited for zealous and active households, which can provide them with a positive and playful environment for the pet.
So, if you wish to get a watchdog for your home, employ a German Shepherd to improve your home’s security, especially if you have very young kids. Therefore, we suggest you get a German Shepherd who will protect and safeguard your home, little children, pets, and valuables.
