Much like human infants, German Shepherd puppies require a lot of care and attention in order to grow up into healthy and happy dogs. Without the proper care, German Shepherd puppies can become sick or go through behavioral problems later on in life.
In this blog post, we will discuss how to take care of German Shepherd puppies properly, from feeding them the right food to potty training them effectively.
How To Take Care Of German Shepherd Puppies?
German Shepherd puppies are not like other breeds of puppies and require a bit more care. They are very active, so they need plenty of exercise to stay healthy. They are also prone to some health problems, so it is important to take them to the vet for regular check-ups.
Here are some tips on how to take care of German Shepherd puppies:
Train your GSD
You can teach your four-legged friend to pay attention to your commands and willingly accept you as the alpha of the pack through proper training. When the dog is still very young, obedience training has a better chance of being successful.
Make Your GSD Excercise
It is recommended that the owner get their dog out for a walk at least three times every day for a total of at least half an hour. This strong breed was historically developed as a labor dog, and if left inactive, they would constantly find a damaging way to vent all of the energy that has been building up inside them.
As a result, it is necessary to take your German Shepherd puppy out for a walk several times per day in addition to engaging in other forms of physical activity.
Always Check Your GSD’s Paws
This is a crucial step in taking care of your German Shepherd, as their paws are constantly coming into contact with different terrain and objects that can be harmful. Be sure to check their paws regularly for any cuts, scratches, or foreign objects that may be lodged in them.
How Do You Handle a German Shepherd Puppy?
There are many easy to handle your GSD, some of which include:
Communication
As you train yourself on how to properly care for a German Shepherd puppy, you will need to commit to the role of mentor and instructor for your puppy. Communication is key when it comes to teaching your puppy how you want them to behave.
When training your German Shepherd puppy, be sure to use positive reinforcement techniques such as petting, treats, and verbal praise. Do not use negative reinforcement such as punishment or scolding as this can damage the relationship between you and your puppy.
Food Quality
The quality of the food that your Shepherd consumes has a direct impact on their lifespan, as well as their health, their level of vitality, and their general condition. You have to select the proper diet for your large-breed dog, one that is not only suitable for its age but also developed specifically for such a breed (akc.org).
Inadequate nourishment makes your dog more susceptible to illnesses and infections, and it may also raise the likelihood that your dog may develop aggressive problems.
Allow Your Puppy To Sleep
A German Shepherd puppy needs a lot of sleep, as they are growing and their bodies need time to rest and heal. It is important to create a comfortable place for your puppy to sleep where they feel safe and secure.
You would not want to have a dog that is overtired and grumpy since it will be difficult to train and manage. A tense puppy that does not receive enough rest is more likely to snap or snarl when put under strain.
What Does My German Shepherd Puppy Need?
Raising a German Shepherd does not simply require feeding them and taking them on the occasional walk. Your checklist of supplies for taking care of your German Shepherd puppy should include:
- A dog collar and leash
- Dog food and water bowl
- Crate or dog bed
- Toys (chew toys, fetch toys, etc.)
- Puppy shampoo
- Dog brush
- Nail clippers
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to take care of German Shepherd puppies, it is important to put this knowledge into action. Puppyhood is a critical time in your dog’s life, and how you care for them during this period will have a lasting impact on their health and happiness.
