Are you thinking to own a German shepherd? Great! This popular breed is known for loyalty, intelligence, and tough physique. People all over the world love to have this handsome breed of dog because of its wonderful physical attributes, companionability, and exceptional trainability. German Shepherds are not only adorable family pets but are also steadfast and fierce guardians; serving humans in police and other security departments. This amazing breed of dog has many fun facts, include some that may surprise you. Let’s take a look at 10 interesting facts about German shepherds in this article.

1.   Do German shepherds come from Germany?

The German shepherd dogs come from Germany, as the name suggest. In the 1800 era, a German dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz attended a dog show where he was impressed by a wolf-like dog named Hektor Linksrhein. Always inspired by the idea that dogs should be bred for working, he and like-minded breeders crossed various strains resulting in the breed named “German shepherd.”

The first breed show was done in 1899, following which many breeds were introduced all across Germany. In 1906, the first GSD was exported to America. Since then, this breed has evolved enormously and is one of the favorite dog breeds all over the world.

2. Do German shepherds burp?

Yes, it is normal for dogs to burp and German shepherds to burp too. To get rid of gas produced after eating food during the digestion process, the body either passes it forward as a burp or backward as flatulence.

Burping or belching is a normal process when it is in moderation. Excessive burping in a German shepherd is a sign that you need to pay attention to. Try checking the dietary routine of your dog, their behaviours and monitor closely to see if they are unwell.

3. Do German shepherds cause allergies?

German shepherds are not hypoallergenic. They have fur that shed all year round. It is a sensitive breed and are prone to allergies. They can develop an allergy and cause it to humans too.

German shepherds can have allergies from their environment, genetic or food. Allergies symptoms vary from one to another, but the common ones are itching, face rubbing, ear infections, and skin problems. It can be painful and uncomfortable for your dogs. So try to treat them as soon as you can.

For owners, monitor if you see symptoms of coughing, sneezing, wheezing, hives, etc. You should seek medical attention immediately if the symptoms get worse.

4. Do German shepherd’s ears stand up naturally?

One of the distinguishing features of German shepherds is their pointed, stand-up ears. Their ears stand up naturally when they are between 16 to 20 weeks old.

But this period can vary (ears can erect earlier or a little later) due to different reasons such as teething and developing cartilage. Once this phase is over, the ears should naturally stand up.

5. How to tell how old a German shepherd is?

Usually, the teeth, weight, and height tell you about the age of a German shepherd. There are charts available for male and female German shepherds that can help you to determine the age easily.

A male German shepherd, usually at a month’s age when the height ranges between 4 to 6″ and weight between 5.5 to 9 lbs. It grown to a three-year-old male masculine dog with height of 24 to 26″ and weight between 79 to 88lbs.

Similarly, a female German shepherd is at a month’s age when the height ranges between 3 to 6″ and weight between 4.5 to 8 lbs. It will grown to a three-year female dog with a height of 22 to 24″ and weight between 66 to 70lbs.

6. How to make German shepherd’s back legs stronger?

Exercise is the best remedy to keep the back legs of a German shepherd stronger. Go for a regular walk with your pet, and walking up hills will do wonders as it will put pressure on rear legs and make muscles stronger.

In addition, try the sit-to-stand exercise with your German shepherd. You can also take them to swim. These simple but effective routines can help strengthen their back legs.

7. Why is my German shepherd’s nose turning pink?

The black nose is the beauty of dogs, but sometimes it starts turning pink. The common reasons are weather, aging, allergies, bacterial infections, Dudley nose, etc.

Not all cases for nose turning pinks need attention, but keenly observe your dog’s nose. If it is due to weather changes, the color will come back; otherwise, you can make an appointment with a vet to find out the real cause and cure.

8. What is the average size of a German shepherd’s neck?

The average neck size of a German shepherd is 18 to 24″ with an average weight lying between the range of 50 to 90 LBS.

9. Can a German shepherd go up and downstairs?

Yes, German shepherds can climb stairs if they are healthy. A pup at least three months old can try going up and down but not the one smaller than this age.

Moreover, if your German shepherd is suffering from any joint issue or hip dysplasia, then it is advisable to forbid your dog to use the stairs.

10. Does a German shepherd need an air conditioner?

They usually do not need air conditioner, but you have to be careful as it is a sensitive breed. The need for a cooler temperature depends upon the environment, body coat of the dog, health, and his living style.

Dogs don’t sweat to keep themselves cool which is why the temperature of their body can rise quickly during hot weather. So before your dog starts panting, it is better to keep it cool using an AC. A moderate temperature environment will be the best for a German shepherd.

Hopefully, the above facts have helped you to know more about the German shepherd breed!