German Shepherd is a kind of breed that caused different oppinion among different peple. While some see it fierce and threatening, some others, especially who had a German Shepherd look at it much more tenderedly.

The German Shepherd is often aloof – they don’t often walk right up to a stranger but size them up, as if silently figuring whether you are worth their time. Some dogs take longer than others to warm up and create a bond, but once that bond is made is a dog that will face any threat imaginable to protect their family.

It is this loyalty and sense of duty that has made the German Shepherd a dog that willingly guided the blind, works as law enforcement, herds livestock, competes not only in shows but in dog sports, is a friend to the military and performs countless duties in homes throughout the world.

In the late 1800s cavaly officer Capt. Max Von Stephanitz sought to perfect a dog for farm work. As with many animals bred for function, what was needed locally was different than the dogs available. The breed today takes the look of a defined breed but not all are the same. A dog developed as a show dog might look very different from one developed for police work, which may have a different body type from one working on the farm.

American soldiers brought the breed to the US after being introduced to the breed in the military. The breed is still today used to assist soldiers throughout the world.

By the standard, the male should be 24-26 inches at the shoulder with females 22-24. They should be longer than they are tall, with an image of power and grace. Disqualifications from show include: cropped or dropped ears, nose not mostly black, undershot jaw, docked tail and all white dogs. There are many many dogs that are larger than the standard, or all white dogs, as well as all black dogs, that are still fully German Shepherd. For those interested in details of show conformation requirements they can be found at http://www.akc.org/breeds/german_shepherd_dog/

In early development it was felt the GSD should be above everything utility and intelligence. The breed is still today a working machine…functional in the ability to cover ground easily whether after a loose cow or an escaped criminal. They are distinctive in appearance and although known by different names are the same breed throughout the world.

The GSD is one of the breeds some pet food companies have developed special formulas for. They are also many people who feed a raw meat and bones diet. An important factor in feeding German Shepherds is food selection. Do not feed for fast growth – it does not necessarily mean a bigger adult but can mean a weaker adult. High energy food that boosts fast growth should be avoided especially in the rapid growth time of 3-8 months of age. This reduces the chances of displasia later. While selection of breeding dogs and testing hips and elbows before breeding is certainly a factor, equally is diet.

Many things vary within this breed. One GSD charges fearlessly into a conflict that includes gunfire while another trembles in a thunderstorm. Some have been guilty of biting while others would never except under extreme threat threaten a human. Some are bold in any circumstance, some are borderline fearful. Handling and breeding can make an immense difference in this breed. Additionally the breeding and genetic markers for disease can affect an otherwise suitable working dog. Genetic issues affecting the eyes, skin, heart, neurological system, digestive and skeletal systems are all possible within the breed – and most are found by testing before breeding.

It is this testing and the maintaining of healthy, tested clean lines that makes a good GSD an investment. A few health issues to watch for besides the hip and elbow displasia include thyroid disorders, skin allergies, Addisons, vonWillebrand’s disease, heart murmurs, cardiomyopathy, epilepsy, wobbler syndrome and spinal bifida can all affect the breed. Many problems show up at under 2 years old. A condition called EPI, Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency, is another issue that can be overlooked.

A more complete list of the health issues that can affect the breed is at http://www.awsaclub.com/healthgenetics/caninegen.htm – and remember that although it can look like they are prone to every disease known to canines, many of these can be eliminated by genetics.

Although not genetic, owners of GSD should be familiar with the danger of bloat. Like many deep chested dogs, GSD is susceptible to this critical emergency that needs immediate medical attention. This condition is fast-striking and fatal.

Do not be deterred by the list of health issues in the breed – instead, use that to choose your dog wisely. Understand that without testing you have the risk of losing a dog you’ve become attached to – and it may well be worth $ 700-800 for a dog that has a healthy genetic family rather than getting one of unknown background for $ 150 then spending thousands treating problems that are lurking unseen. For a tested, working and show type dog bred for temperament, trainability and soundness do not be shocked by prices $ 1,500 or $ 2,000 and up. Many of these come with health and soundness guarantees.

Dogs of 12-15 years are not uncommon. With a reported average litter size of eight, it’s important to choose mates wisely.

The trainability of the German Shepherd is well documented. The movie “K-9” and it’s sequels revolved around a German Shepherd, as did the infamous Rin Tin Tin. The first seeing-eye dog in 1928 was a German Shepherd. The GSD is one of the most intelligent dogs in the canine world, in one test just behind the border collie and poodle. John Kennedy, Roy Rogers and Franklin D. Roosevelt kept GSD.

Schutzhund, a competition not for the faint of heart, is but one thing the GSD excells at. This competition tests the dog’s intelligence, soundness, tracking abilities, willingness to work, courage and trainability. While photos from these competitions show dogs scaling obstacles and making spectacular leaps to latch bites onto the arm of a “suspect” it’s important to remember these dogs are highly trained. They are not vicious…they are trained to get to a suspect, restrain them and ideally get them on the ground for the safety of their handlers.

No dog, German Shepherd or otherwise, should be teased or mistreated to induce aggression. The difference between an aggressive dog and a trained K-9 is extreme. A K-9’s training is based on play – an aggressive dog is based on survival, and this difference is critical to understand. It drives an aggressive dog to unspeakable acts and reflects poorly on the many great dogs of the breed that are highly trainable.

A good dog with obedience training doesn’t need special training for protection. These operate from a position of defense of the home – and the bark of a GSD is often enough to change the minds of someone who thinks they want to do harm. The natural protection instincts of a good GSD is normally sufficient to deal with a threat.

It is no surprise that there are many heroes in this breed. Ceasar, a K-9 handled by Corporal Mark Sarna of the Shaker Heights Ohio Police Department, had a resume that included drug detection, tracking suspects as well as being a certified therapy dog and friendly with children. Griff, a K-9 with the Summit County Sheriff’s Department, and his handler Deputy Kathy Wilmot is another awarded dog and a great illustration as to the unknown these dogs and their handlers can face. Called to a domestic disturbance where the suspect was threatening to burn down the house of a girlfriend with her and her kids in it, Griff tracked the suspect through freezing rain. While he wanted to continue, the humans insisted on returning to the command unit and before long a second call came in. The suspect returned to the home and was becoming violent. A very dangerous situation evolved with the suspect assaulting the dog and handlers, attempting to kill the dog hands on despite being tazered. Griff not only never gave up but never shifted position – he put himself between the suspect and his handler, willing to lay down his life if need be. After the incident was over it was learned the suspect had commited an armed robbery just hours before, was out on bond and had a previous stint of 13 years in prison.

In the dangerous work of police and military work many German Shepherds have paid the ultimate price for their instincts and training. They serve faithfully and have confronted the worst of humanity, not only on a daily basis but also in events such as the World Trade Center and Oklahoma City bombing.

Because these are bold, intelligent and trainable dogs they must have a home that will TRAIN them. Select a good, healthy dog and put the time into training them. This doesn’t take 6-8 hours per day…it’s teaching things in small ways on a day to day basis. Left to their own devices they will be unhappy and find their own means to entertain themselves, and you probably won’t like it. A bored, untrained dog can destroy vehicles, homes and lives. Once trained then you can sit back and enjoy your beautiful, functional, intelligent and well mannered dog.

For the right home the German Shepherd is a wonderful companion and security that doesn’t fail with power outages. If yours is the right home, do your homework and find the best dog for you. They’re a wonderful breed with a big heart.

Just as every new human member of a household must be trained to behave properly, so must dogs. Everyone in the household is better off if the dog conforms to the behaviour expected of it. That applies to the dog, too. By nature, your dog wants your approval. It wants to please you (most of the time, anyway!). But it cant do that without being taught what you expect of it. During your dogs life you may decide to teach it to perform all manner of impressive tricks and tasks. Those are optional. But the following types of training should be considered as absolutely essential for every dog owner. TOILET TRAINING If your dog spends any time indoors, toilet training is an absolute necessity for very obvious reasons! Toilet training is often a time of trial and stress for everyone involved. But be patient, use the proper training techniques, and theres sure to be a happy outcome. Start when the dog is young about 3 to 4 months of age. Any earlier, and your puppy probably wont yet have sufficient bowel and bladder control. And if you start later, the training period is likely to take much longer. When you begin the training, start by confining the puppy to a fairly restricted area a single room, the length of a tethered lead, or even a crate. As your puppy begins to learn that business is to be conducted outside, you can gradually expand the area that its allowed to roam. Here are a few tips for effective toilet training: Regular mealtimes. Keep your puppy on a regular feeding schedule during toilet training. That means no snacking between meals! If its not mealtime, food shouldnt be available to the dog. Offer frequent potty opportunities. Give your pup plenty of opportunities to take care of business outside. Go outside first thing in the morning, and then every 30 to 60 minutes throughout the day. And also take your puppy outside after it wakes from a nap or finishes a meal. Familiarity breeds comfort. Take your dog to the same spot outside every time. Your dog will recognize its scent and more readily do its business. Stay out with your dog. When you take your dog outside for a potty break, stay with it until it has taken care of business, or until it becomes obvious that it doesnt need to just yet. Dont just turn the dog out in the yard by itself. Praise success! When your doggie does its duty, praise it! Offer a treat, or something the dog really enjoys, like a walk. OBEDIENCE TRAINING Teaching your dog basic obedience is also a necessity. While an obedient dog is a pleasure to be around, the opposite is also true a disobedient dog can be a real pain! You can take your dogs training to a much higher level if you choose to, of course. But at the very minimum, your dog should learn to respond to the following basic commands: Sit. This basic command helps you to keep control of your dog no matter the situation, and is a good command to teach first. Drop. This teaches your dog to instantly drop whatever is in its mouth. (Could save your dog from harm if it ever picks up something dangerous or toxic.) Stay. Teaches your dog to remain still, calm, and in one place. Heel. Teaches your dog to stay close to you as you walk, with or without a lead. Come. Teaches your dog to immediately come to you upon your command. You should begin to teach this command to your puppy as soon as it recognizes its name. This command could potentially help you protect your puppy from harm. There are a number of dog-training methods available for teaching your dog these commands, but the Australian Veterinary Association recommends positive reinforcement as the best method. Positive reinforcement rewards wanted behaviour rather than punishing unwanted behaviour. This method of training makes learning more enjoyable for your dog, and will help to strengthen the bond between you and your pet. START WITH THE BASICS Teaching your dog the basic commands of obedience will make your household a much more pleasant place. Your dog

Colorado State University-Global Campus (CSUGlobal.edu) is proud to announce it has donated $ 10,000 to non-profit organizations in the communities of its dedicated employees as part of its Community Relations Grant program.

In addition to the incredible contributions our staff members make to our university and its students, they are actively involved in a wide variety of activities that make a big difference to their families, neighbors, and communities at large, stated CSU-Global President, Dr. Becky Takeda-Tinker. We created the Community Relations Grant program to give them the opportunity to accomplish even more, and truly recognize their hard work and efforts.

CSU-Global staff memberslocated in Colorado and across the U.S.nominated local charity events and organizations for the grants, and the universitys Community Relations Committee selected 12 deserving non-profits to receive funds in support of their causes. This years recipients were:

The Gathering Place – a daytime drop-in center for women, children, and transgender individuals who are experiencing homelessness and poverty. First Tee of Denver – provides the opportunity to children to have a fun, engaging sport alternative. Sprout City Farms – works with communities to create sustainable farms that meet the food access and educational needs of surrounding residents. Larry Silver Memorial Golf Tournament – raises money to support children and families dealing with cancer. Commanders Youth Sports – provides athletic opportunities to kids that promote sportsmanship, leadership, community, team effort, and life skills. Literacy Coalition of Colorado – promotes and fosters adult literacy in Colorado through professional development, volunteer training and referrals, and other projects. Westernaires – encourages self-respect, responsibility, and leadership in children through horsemanship and family participation. Judis House – helps children and families who are grieving the death of a loved one find hope and healing. Big Brother Big Sister Colorado – provides children facing adversity with strong and enduring one-to-one relationships that will change their lives for the better. Colorado Pug Rescue – works to improve the welfare and quality of life of homeless pug dogs. Elevation Blueprint – provides affordable English, financial education, computer literacy, and technology advancement classes to people in need. Life is Better Rescue – creates a better life for animals facing euthanasia.

As a state university dedicated to making a positive impact, we look forward to continuing to expand our involvement in the communities and lives of our students, faculty, and staff in Colorado and beyond, continued Dr. Takeda-Tinker. Congratulations to all of this years grant recipients.

Email Outreach(at)CSUGlobal(dot)edu for more information about this years Community Relations Grant program or recipient organizations. More information about Colorado State University-Global Campus 100 percent online bachelors degree and masters degree programs is available at CSUGlobal.edu, or by calling 800-920-6723. Class start every four weeks.

About Colorado State University-Global Campus Colorado State University-Global Campus (CSU-Global) was created by the Colorado State University System Board of Governors in 2007 as the first 100 percent online state university in the United States. CSU-Global is focused on facilitating adult success in a global marketplace through career-relevant education including bachelors degree completion and masters degree programs. Embracing the land grant heritage as part of the Colorado State University System, CSU-Global sets the standard for quality and innovation in higher education through its expert faculty trained in working with adults in an online learning environment, and through its dedication to student retention, graduation and workplace success. Visit CSUGlobal.edu or call 1-800-920-6723 for more information.

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This video is about “how to properly train a dog” Watch These Videos also: how to house train your dog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97QEfRqZP_I how to housetrain a puppy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr8O4iwigM4 how to leash train a dog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Qu7i2nNGtQ how to leash train a puppy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=infOMArR7WQ how to potty train dog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YEeIpvuNy9A how to potty train puppy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2Blg4YTxto