German Shepherds are an intelligent and loyal breed, but raising them comes with its own set of challenges. As a new owner, it’s important to understand the needs of your German Shepherd and provide them with proper care. Here are some common mistakes new German Shepherd owners should avoid, brought to you by Wustenberger-Land, a trusted breeder of German Shepherds.

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Neglecting Exercise Needs

German Shepherds are active and energetic dogs that require daily exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. Neglecting their exercise needs can lead to destructive behavior, anxiety, and even aggression. As a new owner, it’s essential to provide your German Shepherd with sufficient exercises, such as daily walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard. A tired dog is a happy dog!

Feeding Inappropriate Foods

Proper nutrition is crucial for a German Shepherd’s health and well-being. New owners should avoid feeding their dog’s inappropriate foods, such as table scraps or high-fat diets, which can lead to obesity, digestive issues, and other health problems. Instead, they should choose a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs and consult with their veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. At Wustenberger-Land, we offer guidance on the best diet for your German Shepherd puppy. You can see litters that are available for sale.

Skipping Training and Socialization

German Shepherds are intelligent and trainable dogs that require early socialization and training to prevent behavioral issues. New owners should not skip training and socialization, as this can lead to problematic behaviors such as aggression, anxiety, or excessive barking. Consistent and positive reinforcement training can help your dog learn basic commands, manners, and good behavior. At Wustenberger-Land, we offer comprehensive training programs to help your German Shepherd become a well-behaved and obedient companion.

Neglecting Grooming Needs

German Shepherds have thick, double-layered coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting, shedding, and skin issues. Neglecting their grooming needs can cause discomfort and health problems for your dog. New owners should make sure to brush their dog’s coats regularly, trim their nails, clean their ears, and bathe them occasionally to keep them clean and healthy. At Wustenberger-Land, we offer grooming services for your German Shepherd to keep them looking and feeling their best.

Ignoring Health Issues

German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and allergies. Ignoring health issues can lead to chronic pain, discomfort, and even life-threatening conditions. New owners should schedule regular veterinary check-ups and seek medical attention if their dog displays any unusual symptoms or behaviors. At Wustenberger-Land, we offer genetic testing and health screenings to ensure our puppies are healthy and free from genetic disorders.

Conclusion

Raising a German Shepherd can be a rewarding experience, but it requires responsible care, patience, and effort. As a new owner, it’s important to avoid bad habits such as neglecting exercise needs, feeding inappropriate foods, skipping training and socialization, neglecting grooming needs, and ignoring health issues. At Wustenberger-Land, we are committed to providing our clients with the guidance and resources they need to raise happy and healthy German Shepherds. Click here to learn more!