Help your German Shepherd to love life!

With their pricked-up ears, soulful gaze and eagerness for outdoor adventures, a well-trained German Shepherd will be your loyal protector, fearless friend and sofa buddy.

“German Shepherds are fantastic dogs and it’s easy to see why they are such a popular breed,” says veterinary charity PDSA, adding: “However, their size and strength mean they aren’t suited to all families and need a lot of space to burn off their energy. You’ll need to make sure you have a lot of time to spend with these dogs and you are committed to providing for their exercise needs every day.”

Originally bred for herding, German Shepherds – also known as the Alsatian dog or GSD – are renowned for their loyalty and intelligence. The first breed club was formed in 1881 to develop and promote the GSD as a herding dog, and later as a working dog used by the police and the armed forces.

The Kennel Club says: “From the First World War, the bravery and temperament of the German Shepherd has gained the breed worldwide recognition and praise.” What’s more, the first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds.

If you’ve got the time, I’ve got the energy!

As an intelligent, high-energy dog, GSDs require owners who are prepared to put a great deal of time and effort into their human/canine relationship.

Pet Plan says: “With a dedicated and trainable temperament, these talented dogs make great family pets if you have the time to invest in them.”

“These dogs are highly intelligent and will show undying devotion to their master – but they are dogs that need company and stimulation to be at their best,” say the breed experts at rehoming charity German Shepherd Dog Rescue.

“It is, however, important to remember that this is a working breed and that they do have certain characteristics that some people might find difficult to live with,” adds the charity. “The German Shepherd dog truly is a wonderful animal, but if you haven't had one before, please do some research first and talk to people who know the breed well. A word of warning though. Once you have had a GSD you will be well and truly hooked!”

What’s the best food for a German Shepherd puppy? Sensitive puppy food is suitable for feeding German Shepherd puppies from 6 weeks to 12 months old >>  

Essential tests and health screening

Like any purebred dog, German Shepherds can suffer from some breed-related health problems. These include joint conditions such as hip dysplasia (where hip joint that doesn’t fit together perfectly, which will eventually lead to arthritis), elbow dysplasia, along with skin disorders and allergies

“There are certain health conditions that affect German Shepherds more frequently than other dog breeds,” advises Pet Plan. “Allergies can be caused by many different items, including things that are inhaled (such as pollen or dust mites), items that are eaten (for example, wheat), items that the dog comes into contact with (for example, washing powders), or bites from parasites such as fleas.”

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Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of them being affected. For example, The Kennel Club has a tailored German Shepherd Dog Breed-Specific Package (with DNA profile included), giving you the information you need about potential health risks.

Dogs Trust advises: ““Whatever the breed, all dogs need basic preventative health care like vaccinations and flea and worming treatments. You’ll also need insurance to help cover the cost of vet bills.”

Understanding what makes your German Shepherd tick will help you give them everything they need to love life! Read on to discover more about:

• GERMAN SHEPHERD PERSONALITY PROFILE
• IS MY HOME SUITABLE FOR A GERMAN SHEPHERD?
• HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A GERMAN SHEPHERD NEED?
• WHAT SHOULD I FEED A GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG?
• HOW MUCH GROOMING DOES A GERMAN SHEPHERD NEED?
• WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TRAIN A GERMAN SHEPHERD?
• GETTING A GERMAN SHEPHERD

GERMAN SHEPHERD PERSONALITY PROFILE

One of the cleverest breeds in the world, the GSD is described by The Kennel Club as: “Steady of nerve, loyal, self-assured.”

PDSA adds: “Be prepared – German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Lack of exercise and stimulation can cause behavioural problems in any breed, but German Shepherds have a reputation for being especially highly strung, so they need extra attention to make sure they’re kept active.”

“The sensitive and devoted German Shepherd is a dog of many talents and a true all-rounder,” says Your Dog, adding that while they are “very versatile and adapt well to most living situations” GSDs “need a knowledgeable owner.”

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“They are naturally protective and territorial, which is something to bear in mind if you have lots of visitors to your house, when careful introduction may be required to assure your pet that the visitor is not a threat to his family,” adds German Shepherd Dog Rescue. “German Shepherds invariably hate postmen and window cleaners, so you will have to put him out the way if you are expecting either of these to call.”

Elaine Fox, of South Wolds, Lincolnshire, who has Lily, an 18-month-old sable German Shepherd, advises: “Speak to other German Shepherd owners and try to meet their dogs. Remember that each dog is different, and socialisation is a very important factor with Shepherds. And get used to sharing your bed and sofa with a big furry lump!”

Whatever the breed, every dog is unique

While each breed has certain identifiable traits, it’s important to remember that every dog is unique.

Dogs Trust says: “There’s lots of doggy behaviour that comes naturally to all breeds of dog, including German Shepherds, from digging and chasing to searching and retrieving. Just like you, every dog is an individual with their own personality and prior experiences. As dogs grow from puppies, they learn all about the world. They develop their own likes and dislikes and learn to respond to situations in different ways. For example, some dogs might like meeting other dogs, and some may not. Some might like new experiences and others may need to go slowly.”

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IS MY HOME SUITABLE FOR A GERMAN SHEPHERD?

Versatile GSDs suit either a town or country setting, as long as it has a large garden, advises The Kennel Club.

And, as they become so devoted to their owners, these sensitive dogs require someone to be home most of the time. Pet Plan says: “German Shepherds are incredibly loyal and sociable animals who crave the companionship of their owner. For this reason, they can be prone to separation anxiety and do best in households where someone will be around for most of the day.  If you do have to leave your German Shepherd alone for a few hours make sure they have plenty of toys to keep them occupied and consider asking someone to check in on them.”

Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long,” adds PDSA. “You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours.”

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GSDs and children – and other pets

“Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation,” says PDSA. “Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. German Shepherds can be nervous of strangers so make sure they’re never left unsupervised. Be careful if you are introducing a German Shepherd to younger children or adults unfamiliar with the breed as they often don’t know their own strength.”

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“Like many other dog breeds, German Shepherds can be trained to get on well with cats as long as they are introduced properly from an early age,” advises Pet Plan. “German Shepherds are highly trainable, intelligent and loyal dogs who tend to form bonds with any person or animal they perceive as part of their ‘pack’, including cats.”

“German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with,” adds PDSA. “If they haven’t grown up with a cat or other smaller pets, though, they may have the urge to chase them, so any introductions later in life should be done very carefully.”

Can cats and dogs be friends? >>

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A GERMAN SHEPHERD NEED?

German Shepherds need active owners who love a good long trudge in the great outdoors every single day.

“Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day,” advises PDSA. “This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go.”

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German Shepherd Dog Rescue adds: “This is a breed that requires a lot of time, stimulation, training and exercise – you will never wear them out, they will always be ready for more. If you are a couch potato a GSD is not for you. Get a GSD and get yourself a good pair of walking or running shoes and find some nice big open spaces to exercise your dog. Be warned that they tend to like water especially the filthy, muddy stuff which sticks beautifully to their nice dense waterproof coat.”

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Be aware that exercising young German Shepherds needs to be managed carefully. Your Dog recommends: “Be careful exercising your GSD pup and limit it in the first 12 months to allow healthy bone development. Once he's reached one year old, build up exercise slowly.”

WHAT SHOULD I FEED A GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG?

“The amount of food a German Shepherd needs depends on their age, size, activity levels, fitness and weight,” advises Dogs Trust. “You can use the information on dog food packets as a guide, taking your dog’s individual needs into account. Your dog's body condition is helpful for deciding how much food to give your dog. You can find more about body condition scoring from the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WVASA).”

“You’ll need to feed them a complete, balanced dog food to keep them slim and healthy,” adds PDSA. “Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. Treats shouldn’t make up more than 10% of their daily calorie intake as this can unbalance their diet.”

Try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine and remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising.

How specialist nutrition can help

As German Shepherds are known for having sensitive stomachs and allergies, choosing an appropriate dog food can help manage these conditions.

Burgess in-house vet, Dr Suzanne Moyes MVB MRCVS, who oversees recipe development and product production, says: “Dogs with a delicate digestion or skin issues can benefit from sensitive and hypoallergenic dog food that’s made without many of the typical ingredients known to cause upset tummies. These ingredients can include beef, eggs, dairy, wheat, maize, and soya.”

Dr Moyes stresses that feeding food specially designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs can make a real difference to their health and wellbeing.

She advises: “Your dog’s digestive system is crucial in ensuring that the nutrients that they consume are absorbed and utilised efficiently. If your dog has a delicate tummy, they will benefit from a sensitive dog food to ensure that they still receive the nutrients that they need, and to help prevent any discomfort. Sensitive dog food is simply food made up of the right ingredients, in the right balance, to ensure that this happens.”

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HOW MUCH GROOMING DOES A GERMAN SHEPHERD NEED?

If you have a German Shepherd then, thanks to their dense, fluffy coat which protects them from the elements, grooming will be part of your regular routine.

“German Shepherds have thick coats so they shed a lot,” says Dogs Trust. “You'll typically need to brush your short or long-haired German Shepherd a few times a week. To help your dog feel comfortable with handling and grooming, introduce it in a positive way, one step at a time. Teaching your dog to feel relaxed and confident will make grooming more enjoyable for everyone.”

“If you don’t like dog hair around the house or are allergic to dogs then they might not be the breed for you,” adds PDSA. “Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair (especially if they have a longer coat). You won’t need to bathe your German Shepherd too often though unless advised by your vet, as their skin can be sensitive to this. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size.”

Check out our top dog grooming guide >>

WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO TRAIN A GERMAN SHEPHERD?

High intelligence complemented by a desire to work and please their human means that German Shepherds can be a joy to train. In fact, positive, reward-based training is an absolute essential for these large, powerful dogs.

“German Shepherds are a member of the working breed group. Like their other working dog counterparts, German Shepherds are intelligent and highly trainable, with an eagerness to please,” advises Pet Plan. “Because of this, German Shepherds can be sensitive and respond best to positive reinforcement methods with lots of praise but need set boundaries to keep their behaviour under control. Because the breed’s loyal nature can make GSDs defensive around strangers, it’s important to prioritise socialisation. Puppies should be introduced to new people, places and experiences early. It’s also much easier to teach German Shepherds to walk on the lead politely while they are still small!”

“German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours,” adds PDSA. “To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older, but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. If you’re having issues with your German Shepherd around other pets, the best thing to do is get advice from a trainer or behaviourist.”

Dogs Trust advises: “It’s all about positive learning. Find out what your dog loves so you can use this to reward them after a success. Whether it’s treats, toys or lots of praise, training with rewards is the best way for your dog to learn. As dogs are clever animals, they need suitable mental and physical exercise so that they don't get bored. Learning useful life skills as recall, loose lead walking and settling are just as important. This ensures that you and your dog can spend enjoyable time together, both at home and out and about.”

For expert advice and practical training guidance, visit Dogs Trust Dog School >>

GETTING A GERMAN SHEPHERD

“Do plenty of research before you get a German Shepherd,” advises PDSA. “Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. In the right hands, German Shepherds are very easy to train, but make sure you’re absolutely ready before taking one on.”

“It’s important to get your GSD puppy from a reputable German Shepherd breeder so you can meet the puppy’s mum and check she has the temperament you’re looking for,” adds Pet Plan. “‘Lucy’s Law’ dictates that new puppies or kittens must be bought directly from a breeder or adopted from rescue. Third party sellers are now illegal.”

The comprehensive puppy checklist >>

Alternatively, there are a number of rescue organisations around the country, including The Kennel Club's Find a Rescue, Dogs Trust, and breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds, such as German Shepherd Dog Rescue, German Shepherd Rescue Elite and Garbo’s German Shepherd Dog Rescue who would love to hear from you.

Staff will seek to match you with the right dog for your home and lifestyle and provide you with support and useful information about the breed. By choosing a rescue German Shepherd, you’ll be giving one of these loyal, loving dogs a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life.

The best breed of dog is rescue >>

Need more advice?

If you’re at all unsure about the best way of feeding your dog or have any concerns about specific nutritional requirements, ask your local veterinary practice for advice. You can also call our expert team, available 9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, on +44 (0)1405 862241 who’ll be happy to help. Alternatively, use our online contact form to get in touch.

CARE MORE Find useful advice on caring for your dog from Burgess, the pet experts >>

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Why choose Burgess Sensitive? Because it’s super-premium nutrition for dogs with sensitive skin and tummies at an affordable price!

A growing number of dog owners realise the benefits of feeding a balanced, nutritional diet that’s formulated to be gentle on dogs’ tummies.

With this in mind, Burgess Sensitive is made without ingredients that are known to cause common food allergies. Dogs tend to be allergic to proteins (meat or dairy), most commonly beef. Some dogs will be allergic to other ingredients, such as wheat, eggs and soya. That’s why none of these ingredients are included in Burgess Sensitive recipes, which are available for puppies, adult and senior dogs.

Good to know

• COMPLETE NUTRITION Each of the recipes in the Burgess Sensitive Dog Food range are complete, providing all the nutrients dogs require in the right proportions.
• PORTION CONTROL With dry food, it’s easy to measure out the right sized portion to help your dog maintain a healthy weight.
• HEALTHY AND SAFE The thorough cooking process ensures that any harmful bacteria, such as salmonella, and viruses are destroyed, and the dry food stays fresh inside the pack.
• TEETH FRIENDLY Dry dog food has the added benefit of exercising your dog’s chewing muscles and provides a mild cleaning effect on the teeth.
• MADE IN BRITAIN Crafted at Burgess Pet Care’s own factory in the heart of Yorkshire, Burgess Sensitive Dog Food contains high-quality ingredients that meet stringent specifications, locally sourced wherever possible to support British farmers.

With a whole host of 5-star reviews, Burgess Sensitive customers have told us:

* “Affordable quality for pups with sensitive tummies.” * “Dogs with sensitive stomachs love it. Really suits them and helps their digestive system.” * “My dog cannot digest wheat or cereal products; this food gives her no problems.” * “Empty bowl – a paws up from the hound.” *My dogs like this, they are fussy eaters, but they will eat this, and one also has a sensitive stomach and thankfully I have found a product that cause no messy poos.” * “My dogs love all the flavours they do for hypoallergenic they have had the salmon and now they are trying the chicken my next order will be the lamb.” * “Dogs love it, and it suits their sensitive stomach, great value would recommend.” * “Bonnie is nearly 7 and she thrives on the Burgess Hypoallergenic food... all her tummy probs cleared up!! Thank you, Burgess Hypoallergenic Sensitive food xx.” *

Lamb? Turkey? Salmon? Your dog can try them all with our Burgess Sensitive Bundle >>

Is your dog a Burgess dog? Join the Burgess Pet Club for exclusive offers and rewards.  

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