All You Need To Know
Owning a German Shepherd
German Shepherds are one of the most beloved dog breeds worldwide, celebrated for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility.
Originally bred for herding, these remarkable canines have proven themselves as exceptional working dogs in various roles, including police, military, search and rescue, and service assistance.
Known for their striking appearance—muscular build, erect ears, and a noble demeanour—German Shepherds possess a personality that combines confidence with a gentle nature. They are highly trainable, eager to please, and form strong bonds with their families. With playful quirks, like their love for a good game of fetch or herding family members, they are affectionate companions. Often nicknamed “GSD,” “Shepherd,” or “Alsatian,” these dogs are renowned for their protective instincts and unwavering devotion, making them both admirable guardians and cherished family pets.
At Petchef, we believe that it is the pawrent’s responsibility to prepare the best living conditions for their furkids. Read on to know more about the history, physical traits, personality, care requirements, and reasons why the German Shepherd dog may be the dog for you.
Breed overview
Personality | Intelligent, loyal, energetic |
Weight | 30 kgs - 40 kgs (60 to 100 pounds) |
Size | Large |
Coat length | Coarse, medium-length double coat |
Coat color | Black, tan, red, silver, gray |
Coat patterns | Bicolor, saddle, mask, sable, solid |
Eye color | Brown |
Lifespan | Up to 13 years |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Origin | Germany |
Personality & Characteristics
German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. They are protective yet affectionate, making them excellent family pets and guardians.
Highly trainable, they thrive on mental and physical stimulation, often excelling in obedience and agility activities. Their playful nature shines through, especially in games of fetch or herding. With a strong instinct to bond with their families, they are both devoted companions and reliable working dogs, known for their bravery and eagerness to please.
Affection level | High |
Friendliness | Medium |
Kid-Friendly | High |
Pet-Friendly | Low |
Exercise needs | High |
Playfullness | High |
Energy level | High |
Trainability | High |
Intelligence | High |
Tendency to Vocalize | High |
History & Origin
German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century, primarily developed by a man named Max von Stephanitz. He sought to create a versatile herding dog that could work in various capacities, including herding sheep and guarding livestock. Von Stephanitz began by selecting and breeding different types of German herding dogs, focusing on their intelligence, strength, and temperament.
Through selective breeding, traits such as loyalty, bravery, and trainability were emphasised, resulting in the German Shepherd we know today. Their unique combination of intelligence, agility, and adaptability made them popular for various working roles, including police, military, and search-and-rescue operations. Over time, their exceptional qualities solidified their status as one of the most beloved and respected dog breeds globally, cherished as both family pets and working companions.
Grooming & Care
Here are some grooming practices to help keep your German Shepherd healthy and looking their best:
Common Health Issues
German Shepherds are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to certain breed-specific health issues, including:
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, adequate exercise, and maintaining a stress-free environment can help mitigate these health risks and ensure a dog’s overall well-being.
Diet and Nutrition
German Shepherd dogs require a balanced diet to maintain their large size and overall health. Here are some dietary considerations:
Starting from only RM75 a month (or RM2.50 a day), Petchef’s team of vets and chefs can curate the perfect meal plan for your furkid! Each meal contains quality meat (chicken, duck, beef, buffalo, lamb) or fish (salmon, tuna) and vegetables to ensure your furkid fulfils all their nutritional needs. No preservatives, no additives, no fillers or grains; only food they were born to eat.
PS: Here are the answers to all the questions on Petchef’s meals you might possibly have. 😉
Lifestyle and Living
Living with a German Shepherd adds joy and energy to daily life. Here’s what to expect in terms of various aspects of their care:
Where to Adopt or Buy in Malaysia
In Malaysia, there are several options for adopting or buying a German Shepherd:
- Animal Shelters and Rescues: Check local animal shelters and rescue organisations. While German Shepherds might not be as common in shelters as mixed breeds, there’s still a chance of finding one in need of a loving home.
- Breeders: Look for reputable breeders in Malaysia and ensure they are registered with a recognized dog breeding association, follow ethical breeding practices and have done the necessary tests to screen for genetics-related health concerns. You can find breeders through online directories, dog shows, or recommendations from local veterinarians.
- Online Platforms: Websites and online forums (like Mudah.my) dedicated to pets often have listings for dogs or puppies available for adoption or purchase. Be cautious and verify the legitimacy of sellers before making any commitments.
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook or Instagram may have local groups or pages where breeders or individuals post about dogs available for adoption or sale. There are also some reputable pet adoption pages like My Forever Doggo, Ruff Love, My Pets Haven, and Woof my Roof who have a myriad of doggos looking for their furever homes.
Use Diligence
When adopting or purchasing a dog, always prioritise their health and well-being. Ensure the seller provides health records, vaccinations, and proper documentation. It’s also essential to visit the dog in person, if possible, to assess its temperament and living conditions.
Conclusion
Having a German Shepherd in your life brings unwavering loyalty, intelligence, and companionship. These versatile dogs are not only excellent family pets but also protectors, known for their strong instincts and ability to bond deeply with their humans. Their playful nature, combined with a strong desire to please, makes them highly trainable and adaptable to various activities. With their loving demeanour and commitment to family, a German Shepherd can enrich your life, providing joy, support, and lasting memories.
| Pros of German Shepherds | Cons of German Shepherds |
|---|---|
Active and energetic | Frequent grooming needs and shedding |
Loyal, intelligent and protective | High energy levels |
Adaptable and affectionate | Aggression due to protective instincts |
FAQs
Most common questions about German Shepherd dogs asked and possibly not covered by the above sections.
How much is a German Shepherd in Malaysia?
Prices can range from RM2,500 to RM7,000 especially for puppies with desirable traits or from champion lines. If adopted through shelters or rescue organisations, adoption fees can be much lower, typically ranging from RM200 to RM1,000, which often includes vaccinations and initial health checks.
Are German Shepherds good with kids?
Yes, German Shepherds are loyal, playful, and gentle, making them great family pets. Supervision and training ensure positive interactions with kids.
What makes German Shepherds special?
German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, versatile, and protective. Their strong bonds with families and adaptability to various roles make them exceptional companions.
Are German Shepherds high maintenance?
Yes, German Shepherds require regular exercise, grooming, and training, making them moderately high maintenance, but their loyalty and companionship are worth it.
Article sources:
- Obesity in cats: VCA Animal Hospitals
