German Shepherds are often utilized as working dogs due to their intelligence, alertness, obedience, keenness, and fearlessness. They’re also loyal and make terrific family companions for experienced dog owners. Examine the dog’s coat and other physical traits to determine if it is a German Shepherd. You may also enquire about the breed or have a DNA test done to establish the species of the dog.
1-Examining the Dog’s Fur
Step 1:
1-Look at the coat. The coat of a German Shepherd may be one of three types: double skin, plush fur, or long-haired coat. The double coat, which comprises thick, straight, short hair that rests close to the body, is the breed standard. German Shepherds who are kept as household pets have a long hairy coat.
German Shepherds shed all year and need to be brushed regularly.
Step 2:
2-Look for tan and black pigmentation. A German Shepherd’s most prevalent colouration is black and brown. However, the breed may also be entirely black. The coat is usually brown, with black markings on the face and saddle.
Step 3:
3-Colour variances should be recognized. German Shepherds may have white, blue, or reddish-brown coats in rare cases. The breed standard does not accept these colours, although they appear on occasion. The white German Shepherd is classified as a different breed known as the American White Shepherd in specific locations.
Panda Shepherds are German Shepherds with black and tan coats and white markings. The white colouration makes up around 35% of the dog’s skin.
2-Observing Additional Physical Characteristics
Step 4:
4-Examine the dog’s muscular physique.The German Shepherd belongs to the working dog category and has a well-balanced body. The German Shepherd is typically 22 to 26 inches (56 to 66 cm) tall and weighs 50 to 90 pounds (23 and 41 kg). [5] It has a thin, deep chest and powerful, sloping front legs and shoulders. From the shoulders to the rump, its body is somewhat longer than deep.
After the first month, German Shepherd pups should weigh 7-9 pounds (3-4 kg) and will continue to develop gradually over the next year. They will weigh between 50 and 57 pounds at six months (22-26 kg).
Step 5:
5-Look for pointy ears. German Shepherds have upright ears with a pronounced tip. They are long at the base and face forward, forming a triangular shape. The ends of the ears may fall over little as pups, but as the dog grows older, they will straighten.
Step 6:
Take note of the bushy tail. The tail of a German Shepherd is long and bushy, and it hangs down while the dog is resting. The curvature of the seat is emphasized, and the bottom is slightly lifted when a German Shepherd is attentive or in motion.
Recognizing Characteristics of Behaviour
Step 11:
Take note of the dog’s devotion. German Shepherds might be a little distant and reticent when meeting new individuals. Once a dog has created a bond with its owner, they are highly devoted. German Shepherds are generally amiable and dedicated to their families, but if they feel threatened, they may become aggressive.
Step 12:
Recognize the energy level of the dog. German Shepherds are energetic canines that need plenty of daily exercises. When a German Shepherd is left alone for an extended time, it will get bored and destructive. For instance, the dog can begin barking, gnawing, or digging. Make sure your German Shepherd gets at least 1 hour of daily exercise.
Step 13:
Check to see whether the dog can be trained. This breed is clever and easily trained. They like having a job or task to complete, and you may teach a German Shepherd to perform several tasks. German Shepherds, for example, are often employed as “working” dogs, assisting in search and rescue, narcotics detection, and security, as well as providing support to the visually impaired.
Take your German Shepherd to obedience courses to teach him to obey directions and do various duties. For the dog, this is entertaining and exciting.
Step 14:
Check to see whether the dog has a feeling of ownership. This breed is recognized for herding, counting, and protecting sheep. This feeling of ownership qualifies them to preserve a family. When a pet understands what belongs to him and what does not, he can defend himself. This capacity aids a German Shepherd in distinguishing between an adversary and family members. This breed is inherently protective, so they are often known as police dogs.
German Shepherds are excellent with your children, but they might be weird with strangers and other children.
Inquiry into the Breed
Step 7:
Inquire with the owner. If you encounter a dog that looks like a German Shepherd and wonders about the breed, approach the owner and inquire. For instance, you may remark something like, “Is that a German Shepherd you see there? It’s an adorable puppy.” You might also use the phrase, “Which breed of dog do you own? I’m thinking about acquiring one.”
Most dog owners will be delighted to inform you about their pet and breed.
Step 8:
Make an appointment with your veterinarian. Contact your veterinarian for assistance if you’re unclear about your dog’s breed or pedigree. Most dog breeds have breed standards that veterinarians are aware of. They’ll be able to quickly study the dog’s physical attributes to aid in breed identification.
Step 9:
Inquire with the breeder. If you’re buying a German Shepherd puppy from a breeder, ask about the puppy’s ancestry and pedigree to ensure you’re receiving a purebred dog. A qualified breeder will be able to offer you documents proving that the American Kennel Club recognizes both parents as German Shepherds.
Always use a breeder that is a member of the American Kennel Club. This will also enable you to make sure you’re getting a purebred dog.
Step 10:
Install a dog breed identification app on your phone. A variety of apps are available to assist in identifying various dog breeds. To use the software, take a dog’s picture, and the program will recognize the species.
Try utilizing the Microsoft app Fetch, for example.
Although these applications aren’t usually 100% correct, a German Shepherd has certain distinct traits.
The Dog’s DNA was examined.
Step 15:
A DNA test kit may be purchased online. Look up “dog DNA test kit” on Google. These kits range in price from $80 to $100 and may be purchased online.
Step 16:
Read and follow the directions carefully. When you get the DNA test kit in the mail, please open it and read all the instructions carefully. The instructions will walk you through taking a DNA swab and then sending the results to the lab for testing.
Each kit is only intended to test one dog’s DNA.
Step 17:
Swab the cheek of the dog. Two swabs are likely to be included in the set. Both should be used on the same dog. Swab the inside of your dog’s cheek with the swab after opening his mouth. Carry out the same procedure with each sample.
Step 18:
Send the package. Place the swabs in the included plastic baggies. Then, in the pre-paid return envelope or box, deposit them. Mail the findings to the lab for testing after they’ve been sealed.
Step 19:
Recognize a German Shepherd
Examine the outcomes. You will get comprehensive DNA findings three weeks after completing the test. Your dog’s DNA will be matched to that of 200 other breeds. A DNA test may quickly determine the breed if you have a German Shepherd.
The findings may even determine if your dog is a mixed-breed German Shepherd mix.
Warnings
Due to their popularity as security dogs, German Shepherds may be prohibited in specific locations.
Make sure you’re aware of any breed restrictions in your area.