Long Haired German Shepherd: The Pros and Cons of Owning This Majestic Breed

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As a dog breeder, my passion for raising happy and healthy canines runs deep. I take pride in providing top-quality breeding services to help families find their beloved companions. Breeding dogs is not just a job, it's a way of life for me.

Key Responsibilities of a Dog Breeder

  • To ensure dogs are healthy and free from any diseases or genetic problems.
  • To provide proper socialization, training, and care to puppies, from birth till they leave for their new homes.
  • To educate and guide potential dog owners on breed selection, care, and maintenance.
  • To follow ethical breeding practices, such as breeding only healthy dogs, providing a clean and safe environment for dogs and puppies, and not overbreeding.

In this post, I will focus on long-haired German Shepherds, a breed that I am particularly fond of. Keep reading to learn more about this breed, care tips, and alternatives that might be suitable for you if you are looking for a dog.

Understanding Long Haired German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is a popular dog breed known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. The long-haired German Shepherd is a variation of the standard German Shepherd, with the main difference being their coat length.

Long-haired German Shepherds have a soft and fluffy coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free of mats. Their coat tends to be longer around the neck, ears, and legs, giving them a majestic appearance. These dogs have a muscular and sturdy body, with a strong and confident gait. They are medium to large-sized dogs, with males weighing between 75-90 pounds and females weighing between 50-70 pounds on average.

Long-haired German Shepherds are known for being intelligent, loyal, and protective. They make excellent guard dogs and are popular as search and rescue dogs, police dogs, and assistance dogs. They are trainable and thrive on positive reinforcement, making them a great choice for an experienced dog owner.

While long-haired German Shepherds share many traits with the standard German Shepherd, they do have some differences in terms of temperament and health issues. It is important to do your research and understand the breed before bringing one home to ensure that it is compatible with your lifestyle and preferences.

Tips for Caring for a Long Haired German Shepherd

Caring for a long-haired German Shepherd requires time, patience, and dedication. Here are some tips to help you provide the best care for your furry friend:

  1. Grooming Requirements: Long-haired German Shepherds require frequent grooming to prevent their coat from matting and to keep it shiny and healthy. Brush their coat at least once a week, and more frequently during shedding seasons. Use a detangling spray to help remove any mats and tangles.
  2. Nutritional Requirements: Provide your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as these dogs are prone to obesity, which can lead to health complications.
  3. Exercise and Training Requirements: Long-haired German Shepherds require regular exercise and mental stimulation. They are working dogs and need to use their energy productively. Take your dog for daily walks, provide them with toys, and engage them in training sessions.
  4. Health Concerns and Prevention Measures: Long-haired German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, allergies, and digestive problems. Schedule regular visits to the vet, maintain good hygiene, and give them regular baths to prevent skin infections and other hygiene-related issues.

By following these tips, you can help your long-haired German Shepherd live a healthy and happy life. Remember, prevention is better than cure, so always be proactive and watch for any signs of health issues.

Alternatives to Long Haired German Shepherd

If you are considering getting a dog but the long-haired German Shepherd doesn't suit your lifestyle, here are some alternative dog breeds that you might want to consider:

  1. Australian Shepherd: These dogs are intelligent, active, and great with families. They are known for their longer coats and come in a variety of colours. They require regular grooming and exercise but are relatively easy to train.
  2. Belgian Malinois: Similar to German Shepherds, Belgian Malinois are intelligent, loyal, and protective. They have shorter coats and are easy to groom. They are often used as working dogs and require a lot of physical exercise.
  3. Border Collie: These dogs are highly intelligent, energetic, and affectionate. They require regular exercise and thrive on mental stimulation. They have longer coats that require regular grooming.

These are just a few examples of alternative dog breeds to the long-haired German Shepherd. It is important to do your research and understand each breed's traits and characteristics to ensure it's a good fit for you and your family.

Related: Belgian Malinois Price Guide: How Much Should You Pay for the Best Breed?

FAQ

What is a long haired German shepherd?

A long haired German shepherd is a variant of the standard German shepherd breed with longer, fluffier hair.

Are long haired German shepherds more high-maintenance than standard German shepherds?

Yes, long haired German shepherds require more grooming to maintain their long fur.

Do long haired German shepherds have the same temperament as standard German shepherds?

Yes, generally they have the same temperament as standard German shepherds.

What is the average lifespan of a long haired German shepherd?

Long haired German shepherds have an average lifespan of 10 to 14 years.

What is the difference between a long haired German shepherd and a standard German shepherd?

The main difference is the length of their fur.

How often should I groom my long haired German shepherd?

Long haired German Shepherds should be groomed at least once a week to prevent matting and tangling.

What is the average weight of a long haired German shepherd?

Males weigh between 66 to 88 pounds and females weigh between 49 to 71 pounds.

Are long haired German shepherds good with kids?

Yes, they are very protective of their family and make great family pets.

Do long haired German shepherds have any health problems to watch out for?

Long haired German shepherds are prone to ear infections and hip dysplasia.

How much exercise does a long haired German shepherd need?

Long haired German shepherds require a lot of physical activity and should get at least two hours of exercise every day.

Real experience

Cassie woke up one morning to the sound of her long haired German shepherd barking. She stumbled out of bed, groggy from her restless night's sleep, wondering what was going on. As soon as she stepped out of her bedroom, she saw her furry friend standing at attention, ears perked up and tail wagging with excitement.

Puzzled, Cassie followed the dog to the window, where she saw a group of people walking down the street with a large banner. With a closer look, she realized it was a parade for dog lovers in the community. Cassie's heart swelled with excitement, and she knew she had to join the group with her beloved long haired German shepherd.

In a frenzy, she gathered everything she needed, including a leash, a sweater for her pup, and extra treats. She got her dog all dressed up and leashed, and they were off. They walked for miles, taking in the sights and sounds of the lively parade that brought together a passionate community of dog lovers.

The more they walked, the more Cassie felt a deeper connection with her dog. Her long haired German shepherd seemed to share the same enthusiasm for the event as she did. When they arrived back home, Cassie couldn't stop thinking about how much her beloved furry friend had changed her life.

From then on, Cassie and her long haired German shepherd started exploring even more local dog-friendly events, attending everything from charity walks to dog food festivals. Cassie's dog became a fixture in her life and the community she loved. And in the end, Cassie knew that she owed it all to the love she shared with her faithful long haired German shepherd.

Based on: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/German_Shepherd

Conclusion

As a dog breeder, my priority is to raise healthy, happy, and well-socialized puppies that will become great companions to their new families. Long-haired German Shepherds are one of my favourite breeds, but they are not for everyone. It is essential to choose a breed that fits your lifestyle and preferences, considering factors such as size, energy level, grooming requirements, and temperament.

If you've decided on a long-haired German Shepherd, remember the tips for proper care, such as frequent grooming, proper nutrition, exercise, and visits to the vet. If not, consider alternative breeds such as Australian Shepherds, Belgian Malinois or Border Collies, among others.

Regardless of the breed you choose, owning a dog comes with immense responsibility and rewards. Take the time to research, care for, and enjoy your furry friend, and you will have a devoted companion for life.