The objectives of the German Shepherd Dog Club are to promote responsible dog ownership, and promote interest in the German Shepherd Dog and ensure appreciation and recognition of its place in society.
Puppy enquiries Judy Eppinger t: 5968 3320
About German Shepherd Dog
Background
The German Shepherd dog did not exist prior to 1899. The founder of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, aspired to breed dogs which were truly utilitarian in their ability to work. This is still a priority with many breeders today, coupled with the need for a sound body, along with the trusted and loyal temperament that makes the German Shepherd Dog such an ideal companion.
Average Lifespan
When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. German Shepherds live up to 10 years of age.
Breed Personality/Characteristics/Temperament
The German Shepherd Dog is known throughout the world for its loyalty, trustworthiness and multiple uses. As a working dog it is able to act as a guardian, herder, tracker, guide and most importantly as a trusted companion. It is in every sense a most capable working dog and loyal companion. The German Shepherd Dog should never be nervous, over aggressive or shy.
Compatibility with other pets
With proper introduction and discipline, German Shepherd Dogs do get on with other pets. The secret is early socialisation. It is most important that puppies be exposed to new experiences from as early as eight weeks of age.
Care Requirements
The German Shepherd Dog does not require attention. The breed is active and needs some mental stimulation, so a daily walk coupled with some thinking exercise, be it obedience training or a simple "fetch the ball" routine, will greatly enhance your dogs quality of life. Grooming on a weekly basis will suffice.
Please Take Note
The Australian National Kennel Council recognises breed improvement schemes as initiated by the German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia and the Australian Veterinary Association. Potential purchasers of the German Shepherd Dog should ensure that both sire and dam of their puppy have been accredited with an "A" stamp for being screened for Hip Dysplasia. The German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia has in place breed improvement schemes that also screen the breed for haemophilia in male dogs and Elbow Dysplasia. Additionally, breeders are able to identify their puppies by participating in the German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia Tattoo scheme. Some breeders are also having their puppies microchipped. Both identification methods are able to help reunite you with your dog in the event of it being lost.
Ideal Owner/s
The ideal owners of German Shepherd Dogs are people who are able to be assertive and command respect from their dog - while respecting the dog back in return. These people are usually very active and enjoy the company of their dog without making a fuss or expecting lap dog behaviour. The ideal owner will treat this breed firstly as a dog - any elevation to human-like status can and invariably will cause behavioural problems. It is important to keep the human-dog relationship in balance. The beauty of the breed is its ability to initially greet you with gusto on your return home, and then act with independence around you until summoned. The ideal owner will also join the German Shepherd Dog Club in their State or an obedience training club, where weekly lessons coupled with daily exercise will greatly enhance the owners ability to understand and train their dog to a level of acceptable behaviour. Potential owners should be prepared to seek advice and view more than one litter before purchasing, plus ensure a pup is properly socialised - especially from the age of 8 to 16 weeks of age.
In Conclusion
Now you know a little about the German Shepherd Dog and have decided this is the dog for you or you want more information, make contact with the breed club or your State controlling body for purebred dogs. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs.
