German Shepherd Dogs are often used as working dogs. This is because the German Shepherd is very intelligent, alert, obedient, determined, and brave. For experienced dog owners, the German Shepherd is very loyal and a perfect pet. To identify a German Sheepdog, observe its hair and other physical characteristics. You can also ask the breeder the breed of the dog or do a DNA test.
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Method 1 of 5: Observing the Dog's Hair
Step 1. Observe her hair
German shepherd dogs have three types of hair: double, thick, and long. Most German Shepherd dogs have a double coat, consisting of thick, straight, and short coats near the body. German Shepherd dogs that are usually kept as pets generally have long hair.
German Sheepdog hair will fall out throughout the year, and should be brushed regularly
Step 2. Notice the brown and black hair of the dog
Most German Shepherd dogs have black and brown hair. However, some German shepherd dogs only have black hair. Generally, the main color of the German Shepherd is brown, with black markings on the back and face.
Step 3. Identify variations in the hair color of the German Shepherd
Some German Shepherd dogs can have white, blue, or reddish brown hair. These colors are not standard German Shepherd coat colors. However, this color may grow and become visible periodically. In fact, the white German Shepherd is considered a distinct breed in some areas and is given the name White Shepherd.
Method 2 of 5: Observing Other Physical Characteristics
Step 1. Observe the dog's stout body shape
German Shepherd Dogs can be classified as working dogs and have a stocky build. Generally, German Shepherd Dogs are 50-56 cm tall and weigh 35-50 kg. German Shepherd Dogs have a slender, deep chest. In addition, German Shepherd dogs also have forelegs and shoulders that are stocky and curved. Measured from shoulder to rump, the German Shepherd's body is more elongated than it is tall.
German Shepherd puppies generally weigh 3-4 kg when they are only one month old, and will continue to gain throughout their first year. After 6 months, the dog will weigh about 22-26 kg
Step 2. Observe the dog's pointed ears
German Shepherd Dogs have pointed ears and erect. German Shepherd's ears have a long base and point forward, giving them a triangular shape. As a child, the tips of the German Shepherd's ears may fold slightly. However, as they get older, the ears of the German Shepherd will straighten.
Step 3. Observe the bushy tail of the dog
The German Shepherd has a long, bushy tail that hangs when it is resting. When the German Shepherd is moving or alert, the tail will be slightly raised and curled more.
Method 3 of 5: Asking the breed of the dog
Step 1. Ask the dog breed of the owner
When you meet a dog that looks like a German Shepherd and want to know the breed, ask the owner. For example, say, “Is he a German Shepherd? Very funny! Alternatively, you could also say, “What kind of dog do you have? I plan to have a dog.”
Most dog owners don't mind telling you their dog breed
Step 2. Ask your veterinarian
If you don't know the breed and breed of your dog, ask your vet to identify it. Veterinarians can certainly recognize the standard breeds of most dogs. Veterinarians can easily observe the physical characteristics of the dog to determine the breed.
Step 3. Ask the breeder
If a German Shepherd is purchased from a breeder, check with the breeder about the breed and breed of the dog to make sure the dog is purebred. Licensed breeders can provide documents certifying that both mother dogs are German Shepherd dogs.
Make sure you buy your dog from a licensed breeder. This is done to ensure that you get a purebred dog
Step 4. Download an app that can identify dog breeds
There are several applications that can help identify dog breeds. To use it, upload a photo of the dog and the app will identify the breed.
- For example, try using the Fetch!
- This app cannot always give 100% accurate results. However, German Shepherd Dogs have quite unique characteristics.
Method 4 of 5: Recognizing Dog Behavioral Characteristics
Step 1. Observe the dog's loyalty
German Sheepdogs are quite shy and unfriendly when meeting new people. However, once the dog has a strong relationship with its owner, the German Shepherd is very loyal. German Shepherd Dogs are generally friendly and loyal to their families. However, the German Shepherd will be protective if threatened.
Step 2. Observe the dog's energy
German Sheepdogs have a lot of energy and need regular exercise. If the German Shepherd is left alone for long periods of time, it will become bored and become destructive. For example, dogs may bark, bite objects, or dig in the ground. Make sure the German Shepherd is exercising for at least 1 hour every day.
Step 3. Find out if dogs can be trained
German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and easy to train. This dog really likes to work and do things. You can also train a German Sheepdog to do specific jobs. For example, German shepherd dogs are commonly used as working dogs. Dogs help with the search and rescue process, identify illegal drugs, guard the house, and serve as companions for those with special needs.
Register your dog for a dog training course. When taking courses, dogs can follow commands and complete a variety of tasks. This activity is very fun and can stimulate the dog
Step 4. Observe the possessive dog
German Shepherd Dogs are known as shepherds and protectors of sheep. This possessive nature makes the German Shepherd a good choice to protect the family. Dogs will take care of what belongs to them. This ability helps the German Shepherd to distinguish between family and enemies. The protective nature of the German Shepherd is so ingrained that it is used as a police dog.
German Shepherd Dogs can take good care of your puppies. However, dogs will be indifferent to strangers
Method 5 of 5: Testing Dog DNA
Step 1. Purchase a DNA testing kit online
Search for “dog DNA tester” on Google. These test kits generally sell for IDR 1,200,000 to IDR 1,500,000 and can be purchased online.
Step 2. Follow the instructions for use
When the DNA testing kit has arrived, open the package and read the instructions for using the device carefully. The guide contains ways to take a sample of dog DNA and return the results to the laboratory for testing.
Each device is only designed to test one dog's DNA
Step 3. Wipe the dog's cheek
DNA testing equipment generally provides two cotton swabs (swabs). These two cottons can only be used for 1 dog. Open the dog's mouth and wipe the cotton swab on the inside of his cheek. Repeat the process for each cotton.
Step 4. Submit test results
Place the cotton in the plastic bag provided. After that, place it in an envelope or box. Once closed, send the test results to the laboratory for testing.
Step 5. Read the laboratory test results
After at least 3 weeks, you will receive the DNA test results from the laboratory. Your dog's DNA will be compared with at least 200 different dog breeds. If your dog is a German Shepherd, DNA testing can easily identify the breed.