German Shepherds are considered to be one of the strongest, most agile, and robust breeds. There is no denying that this breed is powerful, and dangerous if agitated, or if it senses danger. This breed is capable enough to catch its target if it’s running away. It is very capable of killing small animals, but can it also kill a fox?

We know how dangerous and menacing a fox can be, but is our loving yet indomitable German Shepherd capable of killing a fox? Let’s find out by closely examining the qualities of a GSD.

Qualities of a German Shepherd Dog

Dynamic, vigorous, and mighty- these words can describe a German Shepherd pretty well. There is no contradiction that this breed is way too protective about its owners, and they can go to any extent to guard them. Being super muscular, this breed can kill many large and small animals.

German Shepherds being muscular, and powerful are capable of severely injuring anyone if agitated. This breed’s bite force exerts 238 psi (pound per square inch) which is strong enough to create mighty bruises on anyone. Since a GSD is considered to be a large breed, the maximum strength comes from its bites only because of its strong jaws.

How strong and muscular these breeds are can be comprehended from the fact that German Shepherds serve many militaries and police forces. Their strength can also be determined by the fact that they work as farm dogs and are super agile and active in nature.

However, to kill an animal, just strength and power are not enough; one must even be intelligent enough to sense the move and motive of the opponent. Now we all know how intelligent a German Shepherd is. Therefore, sensing the motive of the animal or the target would not be a great task for this breed.

A German Shepherd has a genetic nature and skill of being intuitive, guarding, and protective, which makes this breed super capable of killing anyone with wrong or ill motive.

Can a German Shepherd Kill a Fox?

German Shepherds are super wise and have a strong natural instinct. Therefore, judging the motive or intention of the animal in front of them is an easy task for them. Although, the truth is also that a German Shepherd will be purely harmless to an animal from which it does not feel danger or that the animal has a wrong motive.

When comparing a German Shepherd to a fox to know who can kill whom, we must know that a German Shepherd is bulkier than a fox and is superior in size. The bite force of the German Shepherd is also way more than that of a fox.

When talking about foxes, this is one animal who is always super cautious about bigger animals than them. Foxes feel threatened whenever a big animal is in front of them. Although they constantly hunt for meat, day in and day out yet, they tend to get scared whenever an animal larger than them comes near them.

They are known to be one of the smartest creatures. However, a fox is also smart and quick, but a German Shepherd is way smarter and more agile than a fox.

German Shepherds kill by biting, and the bite force of the German Shepherd is 238 psi (pound per square inch), which is enough to kill anyone and any animal. Talking about the fox, its bite force is about 92 psi, which is way lower than that of a German Shepherd, making a GSD more dominant in this sphere as well.

The known fact about German Shepherds is that they will not kill anyone if they do not detect danger. But being super protective of its owners, puppies, and territory, they can easily kill a fox.

Our Verdict

From all the aspects calculated above, it is easy to conclude that a German Shepherd can very well and very easily kill a fox, just like it can easily kill a snake. However, a GSD will never attack any animal if it is not posing any danger on the dog, but if it even slightly detects danger or any ill motives, then the GSD will not spare the animal which is in front of it. When talking about whether a GSD can kill a fox, the answer to this is YES; it very well can. Their high intelligence level, superior size, and strong bite of the GSD are enough to kill the fox.

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So, if you own a German Shepherd, have you ever noticed that your dog quite often puts a paw on you? Have you ever wondered why it does something like this? The truth is, a dog is just like us humans. Whenever they wish to give out signals or wish to communicate something, they do something peculiar. Now, this something often puts us in a puddle where we start to think about what the dog is trying to communicate.

So, if you too are in a similar quandary, then, let’s decode what this sign means.

Puttin A Paw- A Common German Shepherd Bheaviour

If your German Shepherd is putting its paw on you, it could mean anything! From feeling hungry to demanding attention to declaring dominance. Putting a paw on the owner could mean a ton of things.

It is extremely important for all dog parents to understand that dogs are not capable of communicating just like we humans do. So it becomes important to read out signs and signals. One of them is when your German Shepherd Dog puts his paw on you.

For your knowledge, this is a super common behavior pattern of a German Shepherd. But if you are trying to interpret answers for it, let us tell you, they could be many!

Why Does My German Shepherd Put His Paw On Me? Various Reasons

Each of the different behavior patterns of a German Shepherd will come with its set of clues, and putting a paw on the dog parent is no different. If your German Shepherd puts a paw on you, it could mean any of these things –

Your German Shepherd Is Hungry

If your German Shepherd is putting a paw on you, it might be signaling that it has an empty stomach, and that is something that is bothering them. Wanting food could be one reason why a German Shepherd would put its paw on you.

It Needs Your Attention

Dog parents love their fur babies, and that is why they need so much attention. However, there could be times where they could be feeling very attention deprived, and these are the times when they express this deprivation by putting a paw on you.

If this is the reason, try and give them more attention during the day, and figure out if this really is the reason for this behavioral pattern.

Feeling Insecure Or Frightened

Although German Shepherds are robust creatures who do not get scared or insecure easily. However, the feeling of insecurity might sink in. Putting a paw on you might give it comfort, and that could be the reason why it is doing so. This could happen when they are ill, or when they are sensing a tense situation.

It Want Physical Activity Or Exercise

German Shepherds need a lot of exercise throughout the day. If they are not getting enough exercise, or if they are demanding more, their body can give out signals which can come in the form of this. Therefore, always make sure to give your GSD ample exercise during the day.

You’re The Boss or They’re the Boss

German Shepherd are generally extremely muscular and independent dogs. However, they love their owners and their families way too much. Hence, they might show submission by putting a paw on the parent.

However, this could also mean quite the opposite. This might also be their way of showing dominance to their family members.

Should You Allow It?

German Shepherds are intelligent dogs. While the occasional pawing could be an aw moment, but dog parents must watch out before this becomes an annoying habit. Putting an end to this tough habit can be quite tricky. So it is always better to control these behavior patterns well in advance.

This is for the simple reason that whenever your German Shepherd is doing something like this, it is asking for immediate attention. It could be for anything- food, water, attention, or even feeling discomfort. If you begin to cater to all their needs as soon as they ask for it, it becomes behavior and a practice, and you definitely would not want that.

Hence, stopping the pawing and rectifying this behavior becomes a necessity if you wish to keep bad habits far away from your German Shepherd.

Our Verdict

We all simply adore it when our dogs put their paws on us. This could be their way of signaling something that they have been trying to communicate. Right from wanting food, to attention to even indicating a physical discomfort, all pet parents should try to comprehend this behavior.

It is best to notice it time and again, and understand what the German Shepherd is trying to communicate. However, you should also make sure that this never becomes a regular activity, as it can become a situation of crisis for you.

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Yes, you have guessed that right!

It is the privilege to serve in the man-dog K9 teams of the police department that really makes these few special German shepherds stand out from the rest.

About the K9

K9 are the police office-dog special units in the police departments that are aimed at employing the canine superpowers of outstanding olfactory sense as well as their trailblazing speed to fight crime and restore justice in society. Interestingly K9 is derived from the English and French word canine (CA-NINE) and their usage dates back to the early 1940s.

Now that we have got you all wound up, here are a few insider notes on how police train their German shepherd dogs:

Selection of the Fittest

I am sure you must be aware of Darwin’s theory of survival of the fittest and his theory of ‘Natural selection’.

The Police department works on the same principle. It selects the best pups among the German shepherds who show early signs of being an athletic genius among its various breeds.

German shepherds are one of the most popular dogs selected by the police department, although they do have competition from Belgian Malinois and the Bloodhound.              

German shepherd pups who display extraordinary intelligence, agility, and control are handpicked to form a part of the batch of student pups that undergo training at the police academy. Although most of them manage to pass with flying colors, a few pups are known to flunk the police examination, in case they get too complacent. It’s our nation’s security that we are talking about, after all!

The selection procedure is taken so seriously that specific breeders are often zeroed down to provide their German Shepherd pups for police service. Also, GSD pups from European breeders are highly considered for this purpose as compared to those of American descent. This is probably because the training certification for German shepherd dogs in Europe is of high credibility.

 The pups are selected and ready to undergo training by the time they are 8 weeks old.

Socialization

Early socialization of German shepherd dogs is very important so that they learn not to perceive everything and everyone as a threat.

One of the criteria for choosing German shepherds for police work is that they should show ample aggression. This is the reason why male German shepherd dogs are preferred and why they are mostly left unneutered.

However, reigning in this aggression is equally important. It may otherwise cause heavy damage to civilian life and property.

The police dog must be able to handle crowds without getting too aggressive. It is thus required that dog is exposed to multiple people and situations so that he does not lose his head easily.

It is also very important that the dog forms an inseparable bond with the human officer assigned to him.  The police officers and the German shepherd dogs assigned to them have to stay together 24X7, 7days a week. The efficiency of the combined K9 unit is thus based on the work chemistry between its two individual units.

Only the best of officers are honored with a position in the K9 unit. The bond between the two is held so significantly that in some countries, the dog gets to stay with his officer even post-retirement.

Thus, early socialization of the German shepherd dog can help him in forming a close bond with his officer in the later stages.

Obedience Training

This is probably one of the most important parts of German shepherd training for police purposes.

The German shepherd dog should be able to follow the exact commands of his officer all the time. This requires rigorous training and repetition.

 This has to be accompanied by positive reinforcement in form of his favorite snacks and treats every time he gets the command right. A loud cry of encouragement or a high five can also do the trick.  And you definitely have to keep the weight in check. After all, it’s a police dog, not your average Joe German shepherd.

Bark Training

Among the various training processes, Bark training is of huge significance for a German shepherd dog that is to be inducted into the services.

The dogs often use their barking to raise the alarm when danger is approaching. It can also be used to intimidate a stranger. The officer should thus be able to control the barking of his dog as and when required. The ‘Speak and Quiet’ method is a good barking training technique.

Speak and Quiet method

In the method, you have to forcefully give the ‘speak’ command to your dog. You have to then give him a treat every time he barks on your command. Do not give him the treat if he barks earlier or later than your command. Similarly, give the ‘Quiet’ command loudly when you want him to stop barking. Likewise, follow it up with a treat for correct behavior.

Here is a myth buster for you!  Many people believe that the commands are spoken in a code language so that the dog and officer have a secret channel of communication between them while being under attack by an invader.

However, this is far from the truth. As mentioned, many police German shepherds undergo training in European countries and thus, learn their basic commands in a foreign tongue. It is just easier to continue with the terminology rather than retrain the dog in English!

Specialized Training

German shepherd dogs of course have to undergo rigorous physical training if they aspire for a career in the police. These include jumping a six feet fence and strenuous running. Apart from that, they also undergo specialized training in scent tracking and bomb detection.

Police German shepherd dogs are sometimes specifically earmarked for drug tracking or bomb detection, although all of them are expected to have basic know-how in this matter.

The Scent Training

The scent training basically revolves around getting the dog to associate the scent of his favorite toys with those of drugs.

The trainer starts with playing with the dog with a toy until the dog gets used to it. He then starts rubbing the toys with various drugs and continues with the playtime.

Finally, he starts hiding the toy in various places. The dog then tries to sniff his favorite toy out and is rewarded when he accomplishes this task.

The procedure is repeated several times and the complexity of the task is slowly increased. But not to worry, our canine friend has a scent of smell that is fifty times stronger than his human companion and he can scan an area faster than ten police officers working together.

Active and Passive Alert

The German shepherd dog is also taught Active and Passive methods to alert their officers. The active ones include barking and digging in heals while tracing a drug. The passive ones may involve sitting or standing straight while picking the intended scent. You sure don’t want your German shepherd’s foot to mess up a wire with too much active posturing if there is a hidden bomb in question!

Summing Up,

The level of training these German shepherds have to go to become our canine protectors is commendable. A civilian dog owner cannot achieve the same level of expertise because the police training is filled with a curriculum filled with nuances and technicalities to get the German Shepherd battle-ready.

However, a few pointers from here and there can help us better our training methodologies with our German shepherd. This is especially true if we want them to train them specifically to be guarding dogs.

On an end note, let us tell you about the most famous police dog who later become a huge movie star and featured in more than 200 motion pictures-Rin Tin Tin. Guess, the police training does have more than one uses!

The post How Do Police Train Their German Shepherds: A few insider notes on the K9 appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

There is no denying that German Shepherds are one of the most muscular and playful dogs for whom running around and being active is a must. But do they really need a big yard?

Let’s find out by looking at and carefully analyzing some of their requirements.

Qualities & Physical Requirements of A German Shepherd

German Shepherds are considered to be one of the most active, agile, and dynamic dogs out there. But did you know that these dogs need to be always in force to be healthy and happy? Well, German Shepherds are the most cheerful and gleeful with owners who indulge in outdoor activities and take their GSD along with them.

German Shepherds have a lot of energy to burn, which is why they love to run and play. Apart from being active and bouncy, they are also hard-working, as they work along with police forces around the world and even serve as farm dogs. You can very well imagine the amount of energy and dedication that these dogs have in them.

Looking at their qualities, do you also feel this breed really needs a big yard for its fit survival?

How Much Space Does A German Shepherd Need Exactly?

German Shepherds are one of the most robust yet lovable breeds out there. However, this is one breed that lives to have an active lifestyle. That is the reason why dog parents often wonder if they need a big yard for this energetic dog. In fact, if you are getting home a German Shepherd, one of the most significant factors that you need to consider and think about is space. This is because these dogs are full of charm, wisdom, and wit, but there are also full of energy. Hence, they need a decent amount of space to run around and play around.

However, if you ask how much space exactly would it need? The answer is simple – ENOUGH space to burn its energies and carry out routine physical activities. Having enough space certainly does not mean that a German Shepherd sure-shot needs big yards only. As long as your German Shepherd is able to burn its energy well and run and play around well, your GDS will be fit as a flea. This certainly does not mean that a German Shepherd cannot survive without big yards.

But does it mean that they can make do with apartments and places where they mostly have to be indoor?

Are German Shepherds Apartment Friendly?

The answer to this is a simple YES. It’s a known fact that German Shepherds love a big yard, but they are highly adjusting and accommodating dogs too. They can adapt in apartments too, which do not have a big yard. The only condition is that they need their daily physical requirements to meet. A GSD typically requires at least 2 hours of physical exercise daily to stay fit physically and mentally.

If that is not met, you might see some behavioral changes like they might bark excessively and chew destructively. In worst cases, a German Shepherd also shows a lot of aggression and rage if their physical requirements are not met. Therefore, it is advisable to take your dog out for long walks, play with him, even if it’s inside the house.

The German Shepherd was bred as a herding dog, and hence, they need high amounts of physical exercise and activity every day. Dog parents can indulge their dogs in daily walking and runs. Also, taking their dogs to dog events every once in a while is not a bad idea.

Nonetheless, all these facts considered, German Shepherds still do best in big yards for many reasons.

Why German Shepherds Do Best With Big Yards?

German Shepherds are incredibly high on energy. They have a lot of energy which needs to be burnt to keep them happy and healthy at all times. If you think this is just the case with Male German Shepherds, let us tell you that this is the case with Males & Females.

Having big yards would always work in your favor because, in an apartment, you will have to make a lot of changes to keep the German Shepherd busy and active. But, if you already have a big yard, you need not worry that much about it.

However, you can still keep your German Shepherd bright-eyed and bushy-tailed even if you have a small yard or no yard at all.

What To Do If You Have A Small Or No Yard?

The idea to have a big yard is to keep the German Shepherd healthy. But, if you do not have a big yard, you need not worry! All you need to do is make some changes in your apartment or house and engage the dog in some great activities, and you are good to go!

For such dog parents who do not have a yard but still want to get home a German Shepherd, such owners can also try mental stimulation for the dogs, as it will keep them busy and give them a task, which will ensure that they are healthy mentally and strong physically. Stuff like dog toys and dog puzzles would keep them mentally stimulated daily, which acts as an excellent thing for the dogs.

Also, make it a practice to take your dog for long walks and play with it occasionally in dog-friendly parks to keep them physically fit so that their cuteness, firmness, and vigor are maintained.

Our Verdict

It is a must for German Shepherds to keep active so that they can be fit as a fiddle, both mentally and physically. Big yards always work in the German Shepherd’s favor, but this only keeps them active and running. However, dog parents who live in small houses or in houses with no yards can still keep their dogs occupied and physically energized by making some changes here and there. It’s not true that a German Shepherd needs a big yard.

However, it is true that these dogs are highly energetic and need to burn that extra energy. However, it’s also a fact that they are adjusting and can adjust anywhere if their physical needs are met.

The post Do German Shepherds Need A Big Yard? appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

German shepherds are a delight when they are allowed to run around freely and chase the wind. However, you do not want them to get too far away from your circle of vision. This is where the magic of the invisible fences comes into play.

They are way cheaper than getting actual fencing, are easier put in place, and are far lower maintenance. Not to mention the fact, that their invisibility gives them that “blends-with-the-nature” kind of aesthetic appeal!!

There are, however, a few variables that need to be given due consideration while selecting an invisible fence for your German shepherd dog like the coverage area, the ease of placing it as well as the collar size and comfort for your dog.

Keeping all this and more in mind, we have selected the best invisible fences that are in business right now:

Popular Invisible Fences For German Shepherds

1. Pet safe Wireless Dog Containment System

It is a wireless fence system that creates a circular barrier of half-acre coverage and saves you from the hassle of underground wiring to create an invisible fence.

It has a simple setup that can be put in place in a few hours. Also unlike traditional fences, it has a static-free re-entry setup, that allows your German shepherd for re-entering the premises without the fear of receiving a re-entry shock.

It has a sound-only training mode and five levels of static on the receiver collar. Any number of collars can be added to the invisible fence and hence multiple dogs can be trained with the same fence system.

The collar is also waterproof that can be used for German shepherds that are eight pounds or above and can fit neck sizes 6 to 28 inches.

2. Extreme Dog Fence- Second Generation-2020

This Second Generation Extreme Dog Fence can cover up to 6 acres. It is an in-ground system and can be covered underground up to 10 feet deep. It, thus, lives up to its name of being a truly waterproof system.

The dog collar used in this Extreme dog fence version is also very light and is also truly waterproof and weather resistant.

It comes complete with sets of training flags and splice kits. It has been honored with the 29th position in Amazon’s bestseller list of dog invisible fences.

3. Pet safe Stay and Play Compact Wireless Fence

This is another great Pet Safe wireless, above the ground fence system. It comes with an added advantage of even greater coverage of 3/4^th of an acre.

Its star feature, that is standout, however, is its ‘Stay and Play’ Mode. This has a tone-only setting and can be used if you do not wish to shock the dog to prohibit him from moving out of the designated area.

This is a feature customized for German Shepherd owners who are soft-hearted and cannot bear the thought of using shock on the canine love of their life.

However, sometimes tough love is the need of the hour. In such scenarios, this fence does not leave you shorthanded. It provides you with an option of five levels of static correction in case your GSD proves to be a little troublesome in staying within the boundaries.

Along with your GSD, this invisible fence can also be used for smaller breeds of five pounds and above. This product holds the seventh position in Amazon’s bestseller list of best wireless dog fences.

4. Sport DOG Brand In-Ground Invisible Fence

It has an in-ground wiring system, which means the wire has to be dug in the underground, as a circumference around your yard. This might be a tedious task at first, but henceforth it is pretty low maintenance. However; the main highlight of this product is that it has a longer range as compared to the wireless variants, and can restrain the German shepherd to a circumference of 1 1/3 acres.

The icing on the cake is the fence system can be expanded to cover up to 100 acres. This is a Godsend remedy for owners of German shepherds who also own large properties and need their GSD dogs as a protective presence against unwelcomed guests.

It has 4 levels of static correction to suit the temperament of different German shepherd dogs and can be used for dogs weighing above 10 pounds or more. Another key feature is its advanced transmitter, with a break alarm and lightning protector, which provides this model with an extra edge. The break alarm issues a quick notification if there is a breakage in the boundary wall while the lightning protector acts as a shield against damage by lightening.

All in all, this invisible fence is for German shepherd dog owners who own large properties.

5. Pet Safe YardMax Rechargeable In-Ground Fence

Why we decided to include this Petsafe Product can be explained with only one word-Yardmax.

This is an invisible fence for you for your German shepherd if he is too smart for a traditional in-ground fence. Traditional fences correct your dog before they cross the designated boundary. However, this YardMax wonder activates its warning tone setting as your dog approaches the boundary and corrects him only after they cross the boundary. By this improvement, your dog ends up getting a 30% more play areas. .Yay!!

Another additional bonus that you can avail of choice is the indoor and outdoor Petz Away pet barrier. These allow you to keep your dog off expensive furniture and other delicate items both inside the house and in your backyard. These compatible accessories are sold separately.

It provides you a secure 1/3 yard for your dog which can be extended to 10 yards on further wiring. This single fence system also gives you the opportunity to add as many pets as you want to it.

So thanks to this fence, if your beloved German shepherd and Tom cat can live in harmony, they can also be restrained into a designated boundary as well.

Wrapping Up,

These invisible fences are essential tools in training German shepherd dogs to respect the physical boundaries that you have set for them. However, they cannot replace a proper training curriculum for dogs and can only replace it. You may also take the help of E-Collars in training your German shepherd in obedience training or if it gets too far away. Here is a list of Best E-collars that are in circulation right now. Also, here are a few tips if you have just set foot in the ‘training your GSD’ arena.

The post 5 Best Invisible Fences For German Shepherds: Electric enclosures to rein in your dog appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

Another gospel truth with these bewitching creatures is that they are supremely intelligent. They can sense the motive of the other person. Talking about their qualities, their power cannot be underestimated. They are capable of killing plenty of animals too. But are they powerful and smart enough to kill a snake? Killing a snake could be tricky for any animal because of its ability to move around swiftly. But, can German Shepherds kill snakes?

Let’s find out by carefully examining the qualities of a German Shepherd.

Qualities of a German Shepherd

Strong, Vigorous, and sturdy – these words are enough to describe a powerful breed like a German Shepherd. It’s a fact that these dogs can be over guarding and over-aggressive, especially if they see a threat to their or their owner’s life. They sure are handsome, but behind that handsome face is also a muscular body that is very capable of taking down any animal or human.

Although these dogs are considered to be great family dogs, yet the fact alone that they serve the country’s army forces is an indicator enough of how powerful, intelligent, and quick-witted they can be. Their qualities are such that they can easily kill an animal or a reptile.

So, In a fight between a German Shepherd and a snake, would a German Shepherd make headway and win the battle?

German Shepherd & Snake – Can a German Shepherd Kill a Snake?

German Shepherds being wise, have a natural instinct, wherein they can easily judge the intentions of the animals or even the humans. If they think that the animal near it is totally harmless, they are less likely to attack. However, if they see a potential threat, they can become super-aggressive, to the extent that they can even kill their opponent.

The same is the case with a snake. This is generally the case with German Shepherds who work on farms, as these creatures are also considered great farm dogs who help their owners on the fields. There are tons of reptiles on the farm, which can be a potential threat to the farm and the owner. There is still a grey area when it comes to killing a snake, as it wholly solely depends on whether the snake is harmful or just harmless.

Since German Shepherds are fast runners, strong, and definitely larger than most snakes, they can win over a snake easily. However, there can be a few complications and dangers too. The biggest one could be, what if the snake is poisonous and bites the dog in self-defense?  Well, to your knowledge, only 20% of the snakes in the world are poisonous. Therefore, there can be some risks too.

However, in most cases, where the German Shepherd feels that the snake is absolutely innocuous and its presence would not harm the dog, or the owner, the German Shepherd will let it be and just be cautious about it.

A few German Shepherds are also trained to be hunting dogs, or a few just have hunting instincts. In those cases, such German Shepherds can chase around the snakes, even track them and kill them in a jiffy. However, in such cases, too, even if the German Shepherd acts fast and tries to kill it, the snake can still be venomous and be a cause of concern for the German Shepherd.

In a nutshell, in a situation where a snake is in the garden or under the car, the German Shepherd will surely hunt it down, and kill it, so that it is not a threat anymore for its family and the owner.

Verdict

With dogs like German Shepherds, it’s quite easy and unerring to say that German Shepherds have a strong intuition, and can easily comprehend the intention of the snake. If the German Shepherd thinks and feels that the snake, he just had an encounter with is dangerous, he might kill it.

But, when it comes to answering if German Shepherds can kill snakes. The answer to this is a SURE SHOT YES! German Shepherds, due to their muscular bodies, and intelligent brains are very capable of killing snakes. The only matter of concern is if the snake is venomous. If that’s the case, then the snake bit could be a problem for the German Shepherd. However, the chances of this are minute. 

All in all, these Herculean creatures very well have the power and strength to take down a snake, without much effort.

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German shepherd is one of the most beautiful and efficient dogs that have been bred so far. Their high intelligence levels make them ideal students for training purposes.

However, it is important to remember that intelligence is a double-edged sword. The same passion that makes them intuitive to varied situations also can make them sometimes stubborn and aversive to your training methodologies.

E collars can be an essential aid for you, especially in phases where your German shepherd is showing particular strong-headedness. Of course, we give this advice with a note of caution. It is important to select the best available E collars in the market so that the safety of your dog is not compromised.

These collars also are to be used in the appropriate amount, keeping in mind that overusing them as a negative reinforcement can hamper the training in the long run. This is because it tends to weaken the emotional bond between the dog and the trainer. At the same time, it only stops the dog from performing a particular action and does not clue him in as to what the correct behavior is.

The best available E collars in the market, which have been designed specially to these specifications, are:

10 E-Collars Specially For German Shepherds

1. Mini Educator E-collar Remote Training collar

Mini Educator E-collar is a highly recommended training collar device for your German shepherd. This is precisely because it aims to train the dog with electric stimulation in the most humane way possible. It has a pavlovian tone which the dog hears for approximately one and a half seconds before the stimulation when the button is held down.

Its transmitter also has a build-in ‘ergonomic’ stopwatch and can also light up if you wish to locate your dog after the dark. Both the transmitter and the biothane collar are water-resistant.

The stimulation received by the dog is humane because it is a blunt stimulation as opposed to a sharp stimulation. Also with its advanced COS (Control of stimulation) feature, the level of the stimulation can be adjusted according to the behavior displayed by the dog. The slight glitch in this otherwise perfect E collar is the battery life. You might have to charge it multiple times if you use it for longer durations.

2. Dogtra Edge long Range Dog Training E collar

This E collar is for trainers who are in advanced stages of training. It is also for German Shepherds who are being trained for professional use in security and other purposes. It has a one-mile range and is aided with Beacon and locates LED light which can be used to locate your German shepherd dog should you lose track of him in the dark.

Its Edge is IPX9K waterproof certified and has a performance receiver and intuitive transmitter which allows for highly efficient one-handed operations. It is expandable design can also be used to train up to 4 dogs at a time.

This E collar also has two correction types: Nick (quick half a second type) and constant correction (up to 12 seconds), which allow for proper adjustment, according to the requirements of your dog. It also has an interchangeable stimulation dial that offers a smooth Rheostat dial with 127 correction levels or an immediate Selector dial with 8 correction levels.

This is a dog e collar that has been designed in consultation with K9 trainers and military personnel; so that it can manage to level with the intelligence and aptitude for the dog it is purposed for.

3. SportDog Brand FieldTrainer 425 Remote Trainer

This is an excellent choice when you are beginning your training or are aiming to train close-working dogs. It has a range of 500 yards and its rechargeable lithium battery is ready for 50 to 70 hours run on a full charge. Its DryTek technology allows it to work in almost all weathers and terrains. It is waterproof and submersible up to 25 feet.

It allows for the tone and vibration of the E collar to be defined according to the temperament of the dog and has 7 levels of static stimulations. These stimulations can be delivered as a momentary flick or as continuous stimulations, depending on the level of training we are on. It can be used on dogs 8 pounds and larger and can support the training of up to three dogs.

4. Educator K9 Handler Remote Training Collar

This is the best E collar for night training. It has an advanced LED Light feature, which allows for excellent nighttime viewing. The night tracking light is controlled by a transmitter which can even float in the water if dropped. So don’t you worry if have the reputation as Mr. or Mrs. Butterfingers.

The k9-802 Collar receiver also has the highest stimulation of all remote trainers in the market. It has a range of 1 mile and can be used for training up to 2 dogs. Its ‘Lock and set’ feature allows for users to set the best stimulation level which can range from 1 to 100. Its 33” Bungee collar comes with thick hair contact points which are apt for large working dogs like the German shepherd and the Doberman.

5. Busonic dog training rechargeable waterproof electric collar

The Busonic dog training collar is an excellent and affordable choice for in-yard training of German shepherd dogs. It has three training modes which include: Beep, Vibration, and safe static Shock modes. The Vibration modes have 1 to 8 levels while the static shock mode has 1 to 16 levels.

It also has an advanced anti-jamming technology which provides a strong signal up to 1000 ft and can support a training environment for up to two dogs. It works for both small and large German shepherds. It is again a humane collar for dogs because the protective mode automatically takes over if the static shock mode is in operation for more than ten seconds.

6. Pet Union PTOZ1 Premium dog training shock collar

This is a dog training collar with four training modes: Light, Beep, Vibration, and Static shock. The Beep mode is for beginner training while the vibration mode is for obedience training. The vibration mode contains 1 to 100 levels of customization.

Its remote with an LCD Screen can reach a range of 1200 feet. It also comes with an Auto Power Protect Mode that helps conserve battery when not in use. It is an easy to pair and affordable choice, especially for dogs from 10 to 100lbs.

7. DOG CARE Bark Collar with Intelligent Bark control

This is an amazing e collar if you are worried about your dog’s excessive and unpredictable barking style. It has two training modes: Vibration and shock. It also gives you an option to choose among 5 sensitivities according to the behavioral requirements of your dog.

It automatically shuts down after activating all its 7 strength levels and resets 30 seconds after your dog stops barking. Its extremely efficient and safe modes thus provide a safe and humane training device to control your dog’s barking habit to the optimum levels.

8. PATPET Dog Training Collar with remote

This is again a humane dog training E collar which has two sets of silicon prongs and metal prongs. The silicon prongs need to be worn in a way so that the top of the silicon prongs contact with the top of the metal prongs. The silicon prongs protect the skin and the coat of the dog.

It also has a super safe protection mode where the training collar will deactivate when the vibration shock is in action for more than ten seconds. It is an IPX7 waterproof dog collar and has a range of about 1000 feet, which makes it ideal for indoor training or short outdoor trekking.

It is the smallest E collar with lithium rechargeable batteries. This dog collar has 8 vibration levels and 16 shock levels and can train up to 3 dogs. Its buttons are designed to provide easy accessibility and training flow and have a three-button compact design. It is also cheaper than most of the other E collars, in case you are working on a steep budget.

9. WolfWill Waterproof Rechargeable No shock Tone Vibration E collar

This is a humane collar with no shock feature for patrons who are concerned about harming their dogs. It has a multifunctional wireless mode that works on 3modes: Tone, light, and vibration.

It has a large area range of 660 yards and can work on a maximum of two dogs. It is especially very useful for training deaf dogs. It can also be used for training very small German shepherd dogs sometimes.

10. TBI Pro Dog Training Collar with remote

It is a long-range E collar that works up to an amazing 2000 ft. It has adjustable and static vibration levels and comes with a long battery life that can last for 15 to 20 days.

It has 3 efficient modes of beep, vibration, and soft shock and has been designed in consultation with K9 experts. It is a waterproof collar and does not need to be taken out even when the dog is swimming.

Wrapping Up,

The significance of proper training of German shepherd dogs can be ascribed to the fact that many of these dogs end up in our defense system as either military dogs or personal protection canine guardians.

E collars, which are thoughtfully designed to ensure the mental health of dogs with the accompanied physical training, can go a long way in producing well-trained and quick-witted German shepherd prodigies.

Of course, the early foundation training of German shepherd dogs lays the groundwork for building their later life training curriculum. To know more about it, read about simple ways to train\discipline a German shepherd puppy.

The post Top 10 E-collars for German shepherds: Your Obligatory aid in German shepherd training appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

However, it will be wise to remember that their teeth are going to sharpen, and digging in deep can transform the yelp from their puppy mouth to a full-blown scream out of yours. Hence, it is best to go for behavior correction training before someone gets hurt.

Tips and tricks to stop the German Shepherd puppy biting

1. Finding out the root cause:

Ankle biting is common to almost all German shepherds and in fact, all dog breeds. However, there are multiple reasons why your dog might be engaging in ankle-biting.

German shepherds were raised as ‘herding dogs’ and thus over generations have had developed a primal instinct to bite ankles to keep the cattle from going astray. This rudimentary instinct is sometimes manifested with its human companions itself. The only solution to the problem is to provide proper training to the dog so that it may learn to stop biting its ankle.

Your puppy might be facing teething troubles. Other reasons might be that the dog is not getting enough exercise proportionate to its age. It might be a stunt to garner attention, especially if the puppy is already past the teething stage.

2. Let the dog know that biting is unacceptable:

The German shepherd, like any newborn, does not have an inherent understanding of what constitutes unacceptable behavior and what does not. However, a German Shepherd is an intelligent creature. It can make sense of our feelings by our verbal and facial expressions as well as our body language.

German shepherd pups try to make sense of the world around them with their mouth. They thus often try to explore their surroundings by biting and testing them with their mouth. However, they need to be provided behavioral training to make them understand that this behavior cannot continue.

When your GSD pup bites you, you can walk away from the situation to express your displeasure. You can also give a sharp ‘No’ command and pull your dog’s collar away from you to distance him from you. While doing so, you should yourself be standing still. This will help the dog understand that his playtime with you will be reduced if he continues with similar behavior.

3. Redirect the behavior to a chew toy:

Sometimes, a pup bites everything in its sight, not because it is rebelling but because it is facing teething problems. When a pup’s teeth are about to erupt, his gums become swollen. Applying pressure on it provides temporary relief.

If your pup is going through the phase, you can first give a feisty ‘no’ command to it to stop it. You should then give him a chew toy that will help him ease some of the teething discomforts. You may also offer them frozen carrots to allay their teething woes.

However, it is important to ensure that your dog is indeed suffering from teething problems and not just displaying bad behavior. This is because, if it is the latter case, you will be rewarding his bad behavior with a chew toy.

4. Show your pain:

You may also let out a small scream to make an appeal to the empathetic side of your German shepherd pup. It will make him realize that it is hurting you with such action.

If the aggressive biting still continues, you can also try a deterrent. These are objects which taste really bad. They thus act as a negative reinforcement by associating a bad memory with biting in the pup’s mind.

Sounds nasty? A little…let’s view it as a small, harmless revenge act if your dog does not respond to your cry for help. Or it might just be possible that it is a really bad piece of crying- acting from your side, and your dog is too smart a German Shepherd. In that case, we will like to complement you-well chosen!!

5. Reward good behavior:

The importance of positive reinforcement while training a puppy cannot be emphasized enough. When your dog displays a good behavior, a small treat can go a long way in helping him understand the benefits of being in your good books.

For example, if your dog bites your ankle, display a body posture that shows that you are upset and are ignoring him. Fold your arms and turn around to face away from him. Keep repeating this until he stops biting. Then give him a big smile and a small treat to reward his behavior. This way, he will understand that biting will lead to you ignoring him, while not doing so will get him both attention and snacks.

6. Be a companion to your dog:

Sometimes puppies bite at your ankles because they are feeling lonely and want your attention. When you own a German shepherd, you own a responsibility to provide them with love and care for their lifetime.

It is important that you pay them adequate attention, especially in their formative years.

German shepherds who have not had proper training might have biting habits which they take right to their adulthood. It is thus important to focus on providing the right kind of training to your pup to turn into an amiable human companion.

If you have some time constraints, you should also crate train your dog, so that it is not emotionally hampered during your periods of separation.

You can also arrange for play dates with other trained dogs. Sometimes a dog is able to understand that it is biting rough while engaging in some canine-to-canine play.

7. Give him his daily quota of exercise:

 German shepherds are highly energetic dogs who need an adequate amount of exercise. Lack of exercise can channelize their energies into destructive tendencies.

To know how much exercise your GSD pup needs, the golden rule is to add 5 minutes to each month of his age. For example, a two-month-old pup can manage with 10 minutes of exercise, while a four months old pup may need additional 10 minutes worth of exercise.

Things You Shouldn’t Do

Even you get your own list of don’ts; things you should never do while you train a German shepherd.

It is important never to shout or yell at your GSD pup as it will frighten him and make him nervous. It will also lead to him developing a negative perception of you and will damage your bond irreparably.

Also, as tempting as it may seem to some, never use aversive collars like, for example, a shock collar on your dog. It will frighten the dog and will have a negative effect on its mental health.

With adequate training, your GSD pup should stop ankle-biting as it turns five to six months old. If the aggressive behavior persists, you might need to consult an animal behavioral specialist. However, most of the German shepherd dogs have this issue resolved as they add adequate months to their age and if they have been adequately trained. To know more about training German shepherds, you can consult these 6 Best German shepherd training books.

The post How to stop German shepherd Puppies from biting your ankles?: Some useful tips and techniques appeared first on Purrfect Paws.

Training a German shepherd puppy into a responsible and confident adult dog requires both commitment and expertise. While we have no doubt regarding your commitment to your German shepherd’s future, a little help in the expertise area may be the requirement of the day.

There are multiple sources of gathering information about the training process specific to German shepherds. One of the best among them is a time-tested book that can walk you through the entire odysseys of owning and training a German shepherd, a journey where you are both a teacher and a student.

As you train your dog, you get insights into their mind and develop an almost spiritual connection to them. This entire process adds as much to your personality as it does to them, and a wonderful book as a companion on this journey can smoothen the path as well as make it more enjoyable.

Following is a handpicked list of the best books to read for tips on training a German shepherd:

List of Helpful German Shepherd Training Books

1. Training your German shepherd dog

This book is a 2018 winner of the Dog Writers Association of America (DWAA) Award for the best book in training. ‘Training your German shepherd dog’ is a part of ‘Training your dog series’ which specifically throws light on the trials and tribulations of training a German shepherd dog. A well-detailed book, complete with full-sized color pictures that deal with the different methodologies of German shepherd training as well as digs deep into the different psychological theories behind the methods.

It provides you an insight into the German shepherd’s dog mind so that you not only follow training instructions written in the book but also understand the reasoning behind them. Loaded with very specific information on different theories and throws in some great ideas about positive reinforcement techniques.

It also helps you in introspecting if you are ready to raise a dog and if so, the kind of German shepherd that will complement you. Furthermore, It has an additional bonus in the form of information on the breeding history of German shepherd dogs to help you know where they come from. The book encourages you to understand your dog’s mind while helping you to plant your image in his mind as the ‘leader of the pack’. This makes him more likely to look up to you and follow instructions. All in all, this book is a brilliant opportunity for novice German shepherd enthusiasts to understand the nuances of the deal.

2. Your German shepherd puppy month by month

As the name suggests, the book takes into account each and every month of the German shepherd growth period, which dates back to the moment it comes out in the litter. It has more information than you will need to understand the best way to raise and train your dog and it is a highly comprehensive book.

Since German shepherd pups grow in leaps and bounds, it will answer all the questions you may have in your mind ranging from whether its height and weight are appropriate to its age bracket as well as what and what not to feed him. It also tells you which outdoor plants to look out for which may be dangerous for your pup’s health.

It goes on to talk about a German shepherd’s grooming requirements, schedules for veterinary appointments as well as vaccination needs. The book even discusses the behavioral issues of the GSD pup as it hits adolescence and the best way to handle its tantrums. If there is something you want to know about your pup, the book has it (and that too categorized month-wise).

 All in all, it’s a book from doggie womb to tomb.

3. The Art of Raising a Puppy by Monks of New Skete

‘The art of raising a puppy’ is a book by multiple authors and trainers whose experience over the years has been gathered, refined, and streamlined to give birth to this book, which as an American bestseller, has cemented its reputation as the ‘Go-to-book’ for understanding your German shepherd pup and its varied needs.

The book goes through the various developmental stages of the German shepherd growth period and brilliantly guides the users through the various ways to initiate socialization, crate training, and behavioral adaptations in the German shepherd dogs.

The book shed some light on how to adopt dogs from shelters. It also talks about the updated behavioral modification techniques in the breed. This is much needed now that more and more German Shepherds are being raised in urban settings.

It is a good buy for both first-time and experienced dog owners, as it covers the basics as well as touches on the advanced themes that are currently circulating in the academic circles regarding the German shepherd training requirements.

4. German Shepherds for Dummies

An easy-to-read book especially for absolute beginners to help them boost their confidence as they embark on a mission to train their newly adopted German shepherd pups. It is written in plain English and concepts have been simplified to help owners who are looking for a quick (yet effective) dose of information to help them break out of the initial nervousness of nurturing a newly acquired pup.

It explains the basics of German shepherd training steps in a lucid manner with a humorous touch. However, it might not be very useful for trainers having a fair amount of knowledge on training German shepherds already.

5. The German shepherd dog (Terra Nova)

The German shepherd dog (Terra Nova) is a complete guide to a 360-degree view of German shepherds that will be a step-by-step guide for you and your entire family in raising the dog.

Equipped with extensive chapters on feeding, grooming, and training the dog into a well-behaved adult canine. It also has a detailed chapter on canine health that is reviewed by experienced veterinarians, which suggests dietary plans for the canines as well as discusses the parameters for ensuring their health.

Again an easy-to-read book with pictorial representations and graphics which will appeal to even dog owners who otherwise are not comfortable in reading hefty books.

6. K9 Personal Protection

This is one of the best books in its genre if you have decided to own a German shepherd dog for protection and personal security. The authors of this book have trained German shepherd dogs for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and policies of various nations. They bring this invaluable experience to the table as they pen a detailed analysis on multiple approaches to this kind of training and impart useful tips on obedience training.

It also provides an insight into the kind of German shepherds which will be best suitable for your purpose and the best way to zero down on them.

The book starts with the basics on how to procure such dogs, cement it with fundamentals of how to impart training to create protection dogs out of the routine German shepherd dogs, and then build on it with advanced exercises and training.

Books are sometimes able to provide explanations that can beat even the most professional of trainers. A good book with respect to the training of German shepherds can act as a key to their heart and get you into the mind and soul of a professional trainer. Reading a couple of books and doing adequate research on the matter will surely help you get ready for the satisfaction and challenges of owning a German shepherd dog.

Final Words

It is important to select a book according to your level of expertise in training a German shepherd, for some books are targeted at novices while others are penned down at a level that can only match the comprehension levels of skilled trainers. Also, It is important to introspect if you are a reader who can go for detailed explanations and enjoys the intricacies that are involved with heavy reading, or if you are the kind that is comfortable with quick and upfront information.

You can thus select a book that is best suited to your German Shepherd’s personality; and which resonates with your temperament as a reader and trainer as well. This, in turn, will act as a powerful tool in your mission to carve out the best version of your German shepherd dog.

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And if you are lucky enough to catch them young, their early formative years can turn out to be an exemplary lifting pad to launch them into a lifetime of excellence.

Simple Ways to train a German Shepherd Puppy

1. Consistency is the key:

Although the responsibility to nurture your German shepherd puppy starts the minute it enters your home, standardized training for them should be started as they turn eight to twelve months old.

Consistency is the most important component of your training process. A German shepherd pup, like a newborn baby, is unable to distinguish between acceptable and unacceptable behavior.

Also, dogs, in general, have a short-term memory of hardly more than two minutes. However, they are blessed with a good associative memory. This allows them to form associations between the command given, the behavior reciprocation, and the situational scenario.

In order for them to establish correct correlations between a situation and the consequent reaction, it has to be consistent. Hence, if you give a verbal command to the puppy to not jump on the couch, it has to be repeated every time such a situation arises.

If you stop him once from doing it because it is an expensive couch and not the next time, when you could not care less about the couch, it is going to get confused. After all, your German shepherd pup cannot read price tags.

2. Introduce him to the usual:

A German shepherd pup is just like a shy newcomer in a class who needs to be dealt an extra push to break in with the surroundings.

Try to make the pup comfortable with people and things that will eventually be a part of its daily routine. Introduce the people around you with a smile and hug so the dog understands that they mean no harm and cozies up to them.

Start using a coat brush on it so that it does not consider its grooming kit as a threat. Have a futuristic vision in mind as you try to modulate its behavior. For example, you may find it cute when it tries to nibble your hand today, but when it grows a real dentition, trust us; you are going to regret it.

3. Work on your body language and stay firm:

Your body languages and facial expressions are as important as your verbal commands to help the puppy understand if you are happy or upset about the given situation.

If you find his behavior unacceptable, let it know that you are upset with your body language. However, never yell at your puppy or physically punish it. This may make him nervous or frightened and damage your emotional bond irreparably.

Also, it’s easier said than done, but do not melt if he tries to soften you with its soft, gooey eye gaze. Remember, you are doing it all for his good only.

4. Reward positive behavior:

Positive reinforcement is an important part of behavioral training. If you notice your German shepherd pup displaying good behavior, reward him immediately.

Also, make sure there is no significant time lapse between its positive behavior and the reward received. This will ensure that he is aware of what he is being rewarded for.

The reward can be in form of a verbal expression or hug, a favorite treat, or a chewy toy to play with. You can keep a few treats handy around the house for this purpose.

5. Impose time-outs:

Just like it is important to reward positive behavior, it is equally important to take corrective action against negative behavior.

A time-out is a way to call out your puppy for bad behavior by removing him from the immediate surroundings that are causing it. Then take him to another room or confined area and leave him there. If he calms down or starts showing positive behavior, you can remove him from that area after a couple of minutes.

Usually leaving him alone in the bathroom for a few minutes works. However, do not initiate time-outs in outside, open areas as the puppy may mistake it as a reward for appropriate behavior.

6. Tackle attention deficit issues:

Sometimes the dog may cause an unnecessary ruckus by barking just to garner your attention. Do not pay heed to and completely ignore the dog, if you feel that he is acting with the sole motive of gaining attention.

Ideally, also try to tackle the root cause of the issue. It is important to pay an adequate amount of attention to your dog so that it feels desired. If your dog is suffering from severe separation anxiety, you may need to consult a vet.

It is also important to ensure that your German shepherd pup gets an adequate amount of exercise so that its raw energy is not channelized into destructive and attention-seeking ways.

Conclusion

The initial months of the German shepherd pup training set up the tone for its future course. It is thus important to put our best foot forward in this preliminary phase itself.

If you have any doubts regarding this, it is advisable to seek a professional opinion rather than regret it later. For further tips on moving forward on German shepherd training, read German shepherd training: The paradigms of age-appropriate and proper training methodologies.

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