Wednesday, January 16, 2013

For Your Next Show Quality Dog Contact Reputable German Shepherd Breeders

By Charlotte McBride


Owners of German Shepherds know how devoted and affectionate they are. They are also energetic and fearless. They are happiest when engaged in a task of some sort. This might be guiding the blind or being on guard duty with military or police units. Genuine German Shepherd breeders will take every precaution against breeding from unsound dogs. Just as important will be an equable temperament.

Genetic disorders are relatively common with this breed. Hip and elbow dysplasia affect many. Degenerative myelitis, epilepsy and Von Willebrand disease are also seen. Genuine German Shepherd breeders will have certification to show their stud dogs have been tested for certain degenerative disorders.

Do not take on one of these dogs unless you are prepared to be a strong leader. They should be given obedience training. Plenty of challenges and stimulation, both mental and physical, will keep him happy and contented. Having been developed as a herding dog, they like to be busy. Bored dogs will become restless and destructive.

If you are looking for a dog to exhibit, you need to contact a breeder who has been successful in the ring with his dogs. Look at puppies from prize-winning parents. Although assessment will be difficult in young dogs, look for a confident attitude. The best dogs have an air of quality about them which is hard to define. The legs should be straight. The jaws should meet in a scissors bite. Over and undershot jaws or a level bite are not desirable.

The show ring requires very specific qualities. Adult males should be between 24 and 26 inches high at the shoulder. He should be longer than he is tall. The back should not be too long but be straight and very strongly developed. Hanging ears are a fault. The tail is bushy and curves like a sabre. Unless the dog is in motion or excited, it is carried low and should never go past the vertical.

The double coat has a dense, harsh outer coat with longer, thicker hair on the neck. The hair on the legs, paws and head is short. The most common color is black and tan. Other colors are acceptable except for white, blue and liver. White dogs will be disqualified. The nose should be predominantly black. This breed should be groomed regularly to reduce the amount of hair shed. Only bathe them occasionally. Removing the natural oils can result in skin conditions.

As a herding dog, the natural gait is a ground-covering, elastic trot. Strong hindquarters create good impulsion which drives the dog forward with long strides. The forelegs stay close to the ground. True, straight action is very important in any dog which is to be exhibited.

The temperament of the breed is sometimes suspect. Show dogs must allow their teeth to be inspected and should stand confidently. It may be aloof but should show no signs of timidity, aggression or nervousness. Look for a puppy that doesn't cringe away. The breed is slow to become familiar with strangers. However they make loyal and affectionate companions. To find your potential prize-winner, contact German Shepherd breeders for help and advice.




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