Long Haired German Shepherd: What To Know Before Buying

Common Health Issues

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Genetic Predispositions

Long Haired German Shepherds, like many purebred dogs, are prone to certain genetic predispositions that can affect their health and well-being. These may include:

• Hip Dysplasia: A common inherited condition in large breeds, hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to joint instability and potential arthritis.
• Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a developmental abnormality affecting the elbow joint, causing lameness and discomfort.
• Degenerative Myelopathy: This progressive neurological disorder affects the spinal cord, leading to weakness and paralysis in the hind limbs.
• Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): In EPI, the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes, resulting in poor nutrient absorption and weight loss.
• Von Willebrand Disease: This inherited bleeding disorder impairs the blood’s ability to clot properly, leading to excessive bleeding and bruising.

Orthopedic Concerns

Long Haired German Shepherds are particularly susceptible to orthopedic issues, given their large size and active lifestyle. Common orthopedic concerns include:

• Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease characterized by the breakdown of cartilage and inflammation, causing pain and stiffness.
• Cruciate Ligament Rupture: The tearing of the cruciate ligament in the knee can result in lameness and instability.
• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): This condition affects the spinal discs, leading to pain, paralysis, and neurological deficits.
• Panosteitis: Commonly known as “growing pains,” panosteitis causes lameness and discomfort, particularly in young, rapidly growing dogs.

Skin and Coat Issues

While the long, luxurious coat of the Long Haired and fluffy German Shepherd is undoubtedly stunning, it also comes with its own set of skin and coat issues, including:

• Dermatitis: Allergies, parasites, and bacterial infections can all contribute to dermatitis, causing itching, redness, and skin irritation.
• Hot Spots: Also known as acute moist dermatitis, hot spots are localized areas of inflamed, infected skin that can be caused by underlying allergies or skin trauma.
• Pyoderma: This bacterial skin infection can occur secondary to other skin conditions, resulting in pustules, redness, and hair loss.
• Alopecia: Some Long Haired German Shepherds may experience hair loss or thinning, which can be attributed to genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, or underlying medical conditions.

Tips for Maintaining Good Health and Preventing Common Issues

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Proper Nutrition and Diet Recommendations

Ensuring your Long Haired German Shepherd receives a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for maintaining optimal health. Consider the following diet recommendations:

• High-quality, protein-rich dog food formulated for large breeds can support muscle development and overall well-being.
• Avoid overfeeding and monitor portion sizes to prevent obesity, which can exacerbate orthopedic issues.
• Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants into their diet to support joint health and reduce inflammation.

Regular Exercise and Mental Stimulation

Long Haired German Shepherds are highly active and intelligent dogs that require plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation to thrive. Follow these tips:

• Provide daily opportunities for vigorous exercise, such as brisk walks, jogging, or interactive play sessions.
• Engage their minds with training exercises, puzzle toys, and obedience training to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
• Ensure they have access to a secure outdoor space where they can run and play safely.

Veterinary Care and Health Screenings

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are crucial for detecting and addressing health issues early on. Here’s what you can do:

• Schedule annual wellness exams with your veterinarian to monitor your dog’s overall health and well-being.
• Stay up-to-date on vaccinations, parasite prevention, and dental care to prevent common illnesses and maintain oral hygiene.
• Consider health screenings, such as hip and elbow evaluations, genetic testing, and bloodwork, to assess your dog’s risk for hereditary conditions and address them proactively.

Training and Socialization

Importance of Early Training and Socialization

Early training and socialization play a pivotal role in shaping the behavior and temperament of Long Haired German Shepherds. Here’s why it’s crucial:

Behavioral Development: Early exposure to different people, animals, and environments helps puppies develop confidence and resilience, reducing the likelihood of fearfulness or aggression later in life.

Bonding: Training sessions provide an opportunity for bonding between you and your dog, fostering a strong relationship built on trust and mutual respect.

Prevention of Problematic Behaviors: Proper training and socialization can prevent common behavioral issues such as excessive barking, chewing, and leash pulling.

Positive Reinforcement Techniques

Positive reinforcement is the most effective and humane method for training Long Haired German Shepherds. Here’s how it works:

Reward-Based Training: Use treats, praise, and play to reward desired behaviors, such as sitting, staying, and coming when called.

Consistency: Be consistent in your training methods and expectations to avoid confusion and reinforce desired behaviors.

Patience and Persistence: Training takes time and patience, so be prepared to invest the effort consistently over time to see results.

Addressing Breed-Specific Behaviors

Long Haired German Shepherds exhibit certain breed-specific behaviors that require attention and management. Here are some examples:

Herding Instincts: German Shepherds have a strong herding instinct, which may manifest as nipping or chasing behavior. Channel this instinct into appropriate activities such as obedience training or agility trials.

Protectiveness: These dogs are naturally protective of their families and territory. Proper socialization can help prevent overprotective behavior and ensure they remain confident and well-adjusted around strangers.

High Energy Levels: Long Haired German Shepherds are energetic and require regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Engage them in stimulating activities such as fetch, hiking, or agility training to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

The Cost of Living With A Long Haired German Shepherd

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Initial Purchase Price from Reputable Breeders

When acquiring a Long Haired German Shepherd from a reputable breeder, expect to pay a premium for a high-quality, healthy puppy. Factors influencing the purchase price include:

Breeder Reputation: Reputable breeders who prioritize health, temperament, and breed standards typically charge higher prices for their puppies.

Pedigree and Bloodlines: Puppies from champion bloodlines or with exceptional pedigrees may command higher prices.

Health Testing and Guarantees: Breeders who conduct health screenings and offer health guarantees may charge more for their puppies to cover these expenses.

Ongoing Expenses for Food, Grooming, and Healthcare

Owning a Long Haired German Shepherd comes with ongoing expenses to ensure their health and well-being. Consider the following expenses:

High-Quality Dog Food: Long Haired German Shepherds require a nutritious diet tailored to their size, activity level, and age.

Grooming Supplies: Regular grooming is essential to maintain their coat health, including brushes, shampoos, and grooming tools.

Veterinary Care: Budget for routine veterinary visits, vaccinations, parasite prevention, and emergency medical expenses.

Consideration of Potential Unexpected Costs

In addition to routine expenses, Long Haired German Shepherd owners should be prepared for unexpected costs such as:

Emergency Veterinary Care: Accidents, injuries, and sudden illnesses can result in costly veterinary bills.

Behavioral Training: Addressing behavioral issues may require professional training or behavior modification programs.

Unexpected Expenses: Factor in miscellaneous expenses such as boarding, pet insurance, and unforeseen circumstances when budgeting for your dog’s care.