German Shepherds: How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend

by Debra M. Eldredge

Considered one of the most intelligent breeds, a well-trained German shepherd can easily join a family and become a loyal friend for life. But a lot goes into caring for this athletic, energetic and protective companion. Dr. Deb Eldredge, DVM, offers practical advice to help build a better bond, from knowing whether you and the dog are a good match, making a new pup’s arrival easier and setting boundaries for household (or neighborhood) harmony. “German How to Be Your Dog’s Best Friend” will help new and veteran owners understand breed-specific health concerns and behaviors, including herding, barking and guarding, as well as best training practices to help quell the mischief that such a smart dog can get into. Interview with the What inspired you to become a vet?Deb My mom claims my first word was "horse." Animals have always been an important part of my life, even when my Dad was in the army and we moved so often that I couldn't have pets. Living, working and interacting with animals is good for my soul. Animals are my life—there are my work, my hobby and members of my family. 101 What’s the most memorable experience you’ve had as a vet?Deb Oh dear, I think my tarantula experience. I really, REALLY do not like spiders. I have happily worked on lions, tigers, bears and poisonous snakes but spiders …oh my! However, a 10-year-old boy came into the clinic with his pet tarantula that had broken a leg. The leg was dangling by a small strip of skin. The young boy had allergies so this was his only pet. He was sobbing, so against all my instincts, I clipped the strip of skin and cauterized the stump to stop the bleeding. The tarantula went home and did quite well. 101 What’s the single most important piece of advice you can give to a new dog owner?Deb Your dog will love you and follow you to the ends of the earth—always make sure that you deserve that level of devotion. Raise your dog with love, respect and firmness as a partner in your life. 101 How does writing complement your veterinary career?Deb I have always loved to write. Through writing I hope to share some of my knowledge and experience to make life better for people and their animals. Excerpt from the “You need to let your German shepherd understand right from the start that you will decide who and what needs to be protected and when. The dog will need clear guidelines as to its behavior, or it will take charge. Remember, these are very determined and intelligent dogs! Basic training will prevent many undesirable behaviors from occurring — for example, a dog that is sitting can't give chase.” the German Shepherd1.1.Appearance1.2.Attitude1.3.Living Together2.Choosing the Right German Shepherd2.1.Buying From Breeders2.2.Rescue Dogs2.3.Evaluating Temperament2.4.Puppy vs. Adult2.5.The Spay or Neuter Question2.6.The Right Match3.Bringing Your German Shepherd Home3.1.Puppy- and Dog-Proofing3.2.Rules of the Road3.3.Learning Manners3.4.Housetraining Routines for You and Your Dog3.5.Good and Bad Barking3.6.The Lonely German Shepherd3.7.Herding and Guarding4.Caring for Your German Shepherd4.1.The Right Food4.2.Dealing with Weight Problems4.3.Grooming4.4.At-Home Assessment5.Veterinary Care5.1.Veterinary Visits5.2.Vaccines5.3.

41 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 1, 2012

Reviews

[Sharon Hawk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick read; informative!

My husband & I are getting our 1st German Shepard we have ever had. We have a day & a half to prepare! This book told me a lot about the breed that was helpful in a short amount of time!