Since they first came into existence in the late 19th century, the German Shepherd dog has evolved to encompass many different coat colours and lengths and can vary in size from compact and spry to leonine grandeur. A man named Max von Stephanitz set out to create a perfect herding dog that had intelligence, work ethic, strength and strong protective instincts. Somewhere along the line, the breed evolved to become the most loyal and affectionate known breed. But their wolfy fangs, long faces and expressive eyes can be menacing and perceived as a threat. They are formidable and legendary for their service with military and law enforcement. At the same time, they are gentle and goofy, and very loving towards everyone from babies and kittens to the blind and the elderly.
German Shepherd Dogs, or GSDs, are not for everyone or every environment. GSDs can smell fear and stress, they can detect emotions and will react to them, swiftly and accordingly. A GSD will offer her soft fur for pats to a crying child and just as soon bare her teeth and growl at an intruder. These sensitive temperaments start with sound breeding practices and proper training in the early stages of life.
Life Stages of a German Shepherd
The Wonder Phase (0-1 year): Like most puppies, they are born blind and deaf and wiggle about using their paws and snouts to make sense of the world around them for the first few weeks. It can be a little boring (but also adorable) watching a new litter function in a cycle of sleeping and suckling, looking like tiny dark seals for the first few weeks. If you see a newborn puppy and it looks jet black, that doesn’t mean the dog will be solid black when it is older. In a few weeks, they become noisier and more curious and seem to change into something resembling a plush toy. German Shepherd puppies are known for their boundless energy and curiosity, and this is a crucial time to gently socialize and train them. They need to eat several times a day and once the mama dog is done feeding them, they need to be fed a high-quality puppy food that is rich in protein but also gentle on their tummies.
The Teenage Years (1-3 years): During adolescence, German Shepherds continue to grow and develop both physically and mentally. This stage can be challenging as they test boundaries and may exhibit stubborn behavior. Consistent training and mental stimulation are essential to keep them engaged. GSD owners joke about these being the “velociraptor” years. There can be a lot of mouthing with teeth to rival an alligator’s, selective deafness, and pure defiance. This is also a time when they grow in leaps and bounds and grow bulky lean muscle out of thin air. One day, you’re swooping your puppy up into your arms while playing, the next, they’re towing you down the block, chasing after a scent or a squirrel, while you hold on for dear life trying not to lose your balance. Regular exercise and training is paramount to ensure your dog’s physical needs are being met and they are mentally stimulated. Training sessions, puzzle toys, and interactive games help keep their minds sharp and engaged. They love a routine, so establish one for the both of you very early on.
Adulthood (3-7 years): If you got the early years right, this is where you finally get to see your pet evolve into that nice doggie on Hudson and Rex, all shining attentive eyes, Batman ears and graceful movements. A well-behaved dog is a pleasure to bring to farmer’s markets, patios, and school-pickups. You can trust your dog to be friendly and feel unthreatened by the stimulating environment, squealing, running children and the tsunami of scents which humans cannot detect.
The Golden Years (7+ years): As GSDs age, they may experience a decline in energy levels and mobility. Technically, your dog is considered a senior around 7, but all of my girls were well past 10 years old and still chasing after their balls. Senior dogs benefit from a diet formulated for older dogs that is easily digestible, which includes joint supplements and essential fatty acids, or EFAs.
Diet and Nutrition
The GSD diet should be tailored to their life stage, activity level, and any specific health concerns. Puppies need a diet high in protein and fat to support their growth, while adults require a balanced diet to maintain their muscle mass and energy levels. It’s important to avoid overfeeding, as German Shepherds are prone to obesity, which can exacerbate joint issues and other health problems. There is also a danger of stomach torsion, or bloat, which is a rare, but very serious, condition. My personal rule of thumb is to wait at least a half hour before or after vigorous exercise to offer a meal. Carefully check the ingredients on any treats and provide these sparingly. Always, always make sure the dog has plenty of fresh drinking water.
Grooming
German Shedders (IYKYK!) have a double coat and require proper, frequent brushing. In addition to an arsenal of combs and brushes for the dog, GSD owners require a powerful vacuum cleaner and a drawer full of lint rollers and brushes for the grooming aftermath. Yes, you can remove armloads of fur in a single grooming session, but please do not be tempted to repurpose the hair you remove as extra stuffing for your sofa cushions or fashion pet toys. Brushing can be a nice bonding activity for you and your dog, and depending on how large and furry your dog is, you can skip Arm Day at the gym.
Brushing, bathing and nail clipping can be drama-free when introduced early in the dog’s life. Teeth brushing and ear cleaning are other essential parts of your dog’s grooming regimen but should be administered gently and less frequently.
Conclusion
They say diamonds are a girl’s best friend, but it’s your GSD who rocks in a time of need. They will offer love and, literally, support, and not leave your side. When I fell and hurt myself really badly some years ago, my dogs would offer their backs for support so I could get out of my chair. They slowed their gait to match mine on the walks, they watched my every move around the house attentively (they do that anyway) and played quietly, resting close to me at all times. Is that not the truest friendship there is?
About the Author: Since finding her soul dog as a tiny puppy almost 20 years ago, Judy DeCosta rescued and foster-failed her way to having two more German Shepherds and an American Bulldog. Judy is a freelance writer living in St. Catharines. She enjoys writing about dogs, food and wine and volunteers with the Niagara SPCA.