Frequently Asked Questions
Comprehensive German Shepherd FAQs: Answers to your Top Questions.
Expert Advice on Training, Care, Comparisons and More for German Shepherd Enthusiasts
Ultimate German Shepherd Guide: Answers to Top Questions for Owners and Enthusiasts.
At Nummer-Eins German Shepherds, we understand your passion for the remarkable German Shepherd Dog—a breed known for its loyalty, intelligence, and versatility. This comprehensive FAQ is designed to address the most common questions about German Shepherds, whether you’re seeking advice on training, puppy care, health concerns, or understanding the unique traits of this breed.
As a trusted German Shepherd breeder in Virginia, we bring decades of experience in raising world-class dogs with strong genetics and furthermore, sound temperaments. Whether you’re curious about white coat exclusions from the Breed Standard, the best diet for active German Shepherds, or comparisons like Working Lines vs. Show Lines, you’ll find detailed answers backed by expertise.
Dive into our expert insights to learn about housebreaking puppies, protection training, and how to nurture a well-rounded family companion.
In summary, this resource is crafted for dog lovers, enthusiasts, and first-time owners looking to make informed decisions about one of the world’s most beloved breeds.
At Von Nummer-Eins, we focus on breeding German Shepherds that adhere to SV standards, emphasizing health, temperament, and functionality. Our dogs are bred from titled, health-certified parents to ensure superior quality. Click Here to Read More.
Yes, all our puppies come from parents who have undergone rigorous health testing, including hip and elbow evaluations (SV A-Stamp and OFA certifications). This ensures your puppy has a strong foundation for a long, healthy life.
Read More About Responsible Breeding.
– Show-Line German Shepherds: Bred primarily for appearance and conformation. They typically excel in the show ring and as family companions.
– Working-Line German Shepherds: Bred for intelligence, drive, and physical stamina. They are often preferred for sports, protection, and service work.
At Von Nummer-Eins, we specialize in true to standard German Shepherds ideal for family companionship with the ability to do high performance activities with an off switch when with their families. Click to Meet Our Dogs.
Yes, many of our German Shepherds are suited for IGP (Schutzhund) training, which involves obedience, tracking, and protection work. All of our dogs are already titled or bred from top-performing parents.
From birth, our puppies are raised in a family environment and exposed to various sights, sounds, and experiences to develop confidence. We use enrichment activities and follow best practices for early socialization to prepare them for life in their new homes.
Yes, we encourage prospective owners to visit by appointment. This allows you to meet our dogs, see how we operate, and choose the perfect puppy for your needs. Click to See Puppies for Sale.
Each puppy comes with:
– A health guarantee
– Vaccination and deworming records
– AKC registration papers (where applicable)
– A puppy starter kit with essentials and resources
– Info on House Breaking your New Puppy
Yes, we can arrange for safe transportation to most locations across the United States. Please contact us for details regarding delivery options.
German Shepherds are intelligent and energetic dogs that require:
– Daily exercise (e.g., walks, play, training sessions)
– A balanced, high-quality diet
– Consistent training and mental stimulation
Yes, German Shepherds are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. With proper training and socialization, they are excellent companions for families and individuals alike.
German Shepherds are loyal, protective, and intelligent, this makes them excellent companions for families when properly trained and socialized.
Yes, but German Shepherds need daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. Furthermore, frequent walks and playtime are essential for the mental well being of your dog.
Yes, German Shepherds are naturally protective and bond strongly with children. However, early training ensures they interact calmly and respectfully.
Durable toys like Kong, Marrow bones, etc. are ideal for heavy chewers. However, you should avoid toys that break easily, as they could be hazardous and may need veterinary intervention.
Start with basic obedience, build confidence with simple obstacles, and finally progress to advanced courses using positive reinforcement methods with ample encouragement.
Both breeds excel in protection work, but German Shepherds are more family-oriented, while Belgian Malinois are more intense with a lower stress threshold meaning they can be triggered a lot easier due to their thinner nerves and require experienced handlers.
Golden Retrievers are generally gentler and lower-energy, while German Shepherds are more protective, athletic, and better suited for active families.
German Shepherd puppies are equally active but tend to be more focused, making them easier to train early on.
The correct term is Stock-Coat German Shepherds and they are better for hot climates as their coat helps regulate body temperature efficiently.
Working-line GSDs are bred for performance, with higher energy levels and drive, while show-lines prioritize conformation and aesthetics.
German Shepherds are naturally protective but not inherently aggressive. Proper training and socialization prevent undesirable behavior.
A high-protein diet with healthy fats and essential nutrients supports an active German Shepherd’s energy needs. Make sure you add proper supplements to compensate for whatever nutritional deficiencies might arise from a commercial diet.
Annual expenses range from $1,500–$3,000, covering food, grooming, training, vet bills, and supplies.
A high-protein diet with healthy fats and essential nutrients supports an active German Shepherd’s energy needs. Make sure you add proper supplements to compensate for whatever nutritional deficiencies might arise from a commercial diet.
Yes, they shed year-round, especially during seasonal transitions. Regular brushing helps manage their double coat.
Zoomies are bursts of energy common in young, playful dogs. It’s a sign of excitement and typically harmless.
Gradual desensitization, interactive toys, and crate training help manage separation anxiety. Consulting a behaviorist can provide personalized strategies.
Senior dogs need lighter, low-impact exercise, such as short walks, gentle play, and mental stimulation, to stay healthy without straining joints.
Symptoms include difficulty standing, stiffness, reduced activity, and limping. Early vet intervention is key to managing the condition.
Black and tan is the most recognizable and popular color, but GSDs also come in sable, all black, and bi-color.
White German Shepherds are disqualified in conformation shows according to the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the German Shepherd Dog Club of Germany (SV) standards. This decision, established in the early 20th century, arose from a belief that white coats were linked to genetic weakness. The disqualification is rooted in maintaining the traditional colors deemed typical for the breed, such as black and tan or sable.
Start with a meet-and-greet, ask about the temperament and history, and give them time to adjust to their new home with patience and positive reinforcement.