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.

 

A pronged collar may look cruel or frightening at first glance, but the reality is that they are both effective and humane. Pronged collars are designed to pinch the loose skin around the neck of the dog when pulled tight, or “snapped”. This sensation, while painful, does not injure or harm the dog in any way. In fact, it may even resemble the pinching and nipping that the leaders of packs in the wild naturally use to promote their dominant role. This is a sensation that dogs instinctively expect, and is a far cry from the strange, frightening and stressful sensation created by alternative training tools, such as an electric shock collar.

When using a pronged collar, it is important that guidelines be followed in order to prevent injury to the dog, or breaking of the collar. Firstly, a pronged collar is intended only to be used during training sessions, and should always be removed at the end of a session. Unlike slip collars, or flat collars, a pronged collar should be bought by the required size and strength of the pronged links rather than by length. Pronged collars are intended to be shortened or lengthened to fit snugly around the neck of the dog by adding or removing links. To place a pronged collar on a dog, unhook one of the links and wrap the collar around the neck of the dog. Make sure the collar is placed high on the neck, just behind the ears and under the jaw. Close the collar by reattaching the previously detached link, ensuring a snug fit. If the collar does not stay in place, or falls low on the neck, it is too loose! Rotate the collar so that the rings to attach the leash are on the right side of the neck. To detach the collar, simply unhook one of the links by squeezing together the prongs and gently pulling the links apart.

Many pronged collars come with two rings with which to attach a leash. By using only the outer-most ring, you provide a degree of slack and lessen the impact of the snap. You can remove the slack for a more immediate response by using both rings. In the case of a pronged collar breaking or opening during training, many handlers use a flat collar, or slip collar as a backup to the pronged collar. However, you should ensure that the backup collar does not interfere with the mechanic of the pronged collar.

Wilmington North Carolina Award Winning New Home Builders

Rome wasnt built in a day, and neither were the coastal North Carolina mastered-planned communities. However, folks living in the gated Wilmington NC communities know that it takes time to create the biggest and best residential palace, especially during retirement. The perfect location, design and comfort is what makes a home fit for royalty. Thankfully, some of the most renowned home building companies in North Carolina are leading the way in architectural excellence, and it starts at Compass Pointe with the award winning builder Bill Clark Homes.

In May 2014, the WCFHBA bestowed Bill Clark Homes with the Gold Award for detached homes priced between $ 300k-$ 500k. You will find custom details throughout this 3 bedroom/2 bath home with screened in porch. Spacious great room with fireplace. Marble countertops and pantry in the kitchen. Hardwood flooring in all main living areas and tile shower in master bath. Enjoy fishing from your back yard.

The new homes at Compass Pointe continue to be the icons of perfection in Wilmington, North Carolina. Retirees and new families are drawn to the Wilmington, North Carolina area for the tight-knit community mentality that is illustrated by the southern inspired architecture of the homes, and the upcoming events that mark the beginning of summer.

Year round the gated Wilmington NC communities have something to celebrate. From holidays to local festivals, the coastal North Carolina master planned communities are always up for a party in this vibrant town. Folks have their choice of Broadway shows each year, while there are always art galleries and museums open regularly for a casual stroll downtown. An impromptu visit to see the Wilmington Sharks train for their baseball season is not uncommon for residents, and community roots for their Local Roller Derby team at the Swartz Center in downtown Wilmington regularly. The young ones of the families like spending time at the Greenfield Grind Skatepark, and cheer on their favorite Hammerhead soccer player at the Legion Stadium.

For more laid back entertainment, benefits parties to support Wilmington businesses are attended by owners of new homes at Compass Pointe and other surrounding communities. Fishing tournaments bring in the big bucks for non-profit organizations in need, and retirees have their pick of Fourth of July festivals and events each year. Besides the endless opportunities of entertainment, residents living in the coastal North Carolina master planned communities have a wide selection of home designs to choose from for their retirement.

Check out which homebuilders are earning emperor titles for their spectacular design executions in gated Wilmington NC communities:

BILL CLARK HOMES has been a major player in the Wilmington home building industry. After 26 years, Bill Clark Homes is still operating as a family business with the supervision of one of the three Clark sons. The company offers eco-friendly and energy efficient designs for retirees who desire an earth-friendly home in their Golden Years.

The HAGOOD HOMES legacy has been going strong since the family built their first home in 1841. Three generations of Hagwoods have been building dream homes, and in 1996 the grandson, Jim Kenny, officially incorporated the talent. Jim and his wife, Troy, work together to create stunning residential masterpieces inside and out.

FIRETTI BUILDERS is a veteran to the homebuilding community with more than 30 years of experience on its belt. In 2005, Joe Firetti Sr. was proud to see his son take over his empire, and the community is even more impressed with this companys commitment and dedication for perfection.

HORIZON HOMES is a brand that is easily recognized in the coastal North Carolina master planned communities. This company emphasizes the importance of green practices in their design planning. Horizon Homes work with a range of budgets and ensures quality of their work with an effective 4-Way test.

HERITAGE BUILDERS INC may be new to the industry with a company birth year in 1997, but dont underestimate this homebuilding warrior. Not only does Heritage Builders, Inc. design and build, but they also specialize in commercial construction, realty representation, renovations and simple home repairs. Add in their expertise in solar and alternate energy solutions, and its no wonder why they are bombarded by business year round.

Folks looking to build new homes at Compass Pointe have their work cut out for them with this wide array of available companies. While it is a priority to find the best suited builder, it is an even more important task to enjoy the surroundings of the community. Residents at Compass Point have no problem with that.

This resort-style community is at the top of their game. With downtown Wilmington and the beach in close proximity to the residents, there is endless entertainment outside the gates of the community as well as inside. Community members enjoy the perks of the amenities found within Compass Pointe which include:

COMPASS POINTE AMENITIES

Gated Entrance 10,000 Square Foot Grand Lanai Clubhouse Resort-style Swimming Pool Two Lighted Tennis Courts Basketball Court Kayak Launch Accent Lakes Dog Park 4,200 Square Foot Fitness Center – under construction 18 Hole Golf Course designed by Rick Robbins – under construction

Take a peek at all the Compass Pointe homes available.

Compass Point is the Rome of coastal North Carolina. While the top-notch construction companies build it even bigger and better, the residents are happily enjoy the luxuries of their community and downtown pleasures.

To tour new homes at Compass Pointe and all the homes available, call Bill Boyer of Intracoastal Realty direct at 910-262-5414.

About Real Estate Scorecard:

Real Estate Scorecard writes unbiased real estate reviews providing in-depth information about popular gated communities in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee, all in an effort to help people discover where to retire in the Southeast.

Website: http://realestatescorecard.com

Training dogs is basically a reflection of how obedient a dog is to it master. If you get to train your dog and if your dog allows itself to be trained, then there goes the sign that you have a very obedient pet. It may seem so easy, but having your dog to obey you is not as easy as asking your maid to get you a glass of water. Simple words won’t make a dog follow your command, because it’s a fact that dogs are dogs, and there is no way that they are humans. Thus, to establish the connection between dogs and humans there is clicker training for obedience that you can use so that it will be easier for you to make your dog follow your every command.

Clicker training has been an effective innovation as far as training one’s dog to be obedience goes. What makes it innovative is that it is grounded on scientific and psychological studies that support the idea behind this kind of training, and in the past years that this is being used, trainers have been always ready to attest that this kind of training is really effective if you want your dog to follow you. Aside from training dogs, this kind of training has been used for almost all sorts of pets ranging from a bird to a horse and even a dolphin. That only shows that this effective training tool is also very versatile in terms of training animals that even if you are not a professional trainer you can easily make use of this training formula to have an obedient pet. Clicker training does improve the obedience of an animal to a staggering rate, and you will be surprised that your pet can do things it has never done before.

Obedience is one of the issues between masters and pets. At times, this results to massive headache for the master who doesn’t know how to tame his pet or who doesn’t know how to make his pet follow. With clicker training for obedience, there will definitely be no more headache for any pet owner, for every pet owner can easily make his pet follow his every command.

Training a German Shepherd comes with it’s own unique challenges that other breeds don’t give you. One of the most rewarding breeds of dog the German Shepherd dog tends to have a very distinctive personality that makes training it something that requires special attention.

Breed Profile

A few reasons why you will need specific advice on German Shepherd training

· A GSD (German Shepherd Dog) is one of the most energetic breeds of dog
· They require considerable mental as well as energetic stimulation
· A lot are very particular about what they eat
· They suffer from numerous health problems inherent in the breed (e.g. hip dysplasia)

German Shepherd Training

So what specifics do you need to consider when German Shepherd training?

Firstly you must remember just how energetic your dog is. They require a lot of rigorous exercise every day – and before they do they have trouble concentrating. So make sure that you exercise them before getting into any serious obedience training or they won’t concentrate as well.

The level of mental stimulation they need is also considerable, so don’t have just one training session a day. On top of that training session look to include training in everyday activities, like getting them to sit before crossing a road or eating.

 

Make sure you are also thinking about what their diet is when you are giving them food rewards. Because of the health issues associated with the breed it is best to give a German Shepherd a very healthy diet – to that end make sure the treats and rewards you give are healthy. GSD’s certainly do well with a lot of protein in their diet.

If one of the training methods that you are consider is obedience schools make sure they allow German Shepherds. A lot of schools don’t allow German Shepherds because of how they are with other canines. Some will require you to muzzle the dog, DON’T. Muzzling them will make training far harder.