Dog's Name & Age:
Shadow, 8 1/2 and her daughter TT, 2 1/2
In a Word, My German Shepherd Is…
Actually a long haired Swiss Shepherd, smart and sweet
Best Characteristics of the Breed
Affectionate, gentle, intelligent, well behaved
Most Challenging Characteristics of the Breed
Getting them to know they are not human and don't have the privileges.
When, Where and How I Got My German Shepherd
Our original German Shepherd was along in years. We decided to get a replacement and young companion for him so we found this young 3 month old female for sale. Butch gave Shadow the basic training and manners, she followed him around every where and thus her name, Shadow. She learned quickly and never gave us any problems in discipline. The person who sold her to us is a dog dealer, but reputable. A few months later the older dog died, and Shadow became alpha dog.
In 2008 Shadow whelped 9 puppies---we kept the runt Twinkle Toes, AKA TT. A smaller copy of her dam.
I'd Describe My Dog As…
Very smart, affectionate, human oriented. She is very kind and willing to do our bidding. In some ways she has trained herself--to open the back door and go out, and recently to jump up and put her foot on the front door handle and come in! Who said you can't teach an old dog new tricks. She was very easy to housebreak, I cannot remember any accidents that weren't with a medical condition or oversight on our part. She has been very healthy, and only recently did we have her spayed, as I did not want to continue with the hassle of her cycle, and did not want to breed her again.
This breed is very people oriented, but well mannered. She loves attention and affection, but will retreat or retire on orders without having to repeat. She understands a wide vocabulary, we cannot say much in front of her. She is very bright and full of expression. She does not have a threatening personality, even though she is dark and resembles the pure GS. She is more likely to welcome people than prevent them from entering. Never known to attack any one, especially kids.
Advice
- The Long Haired, (Swiss) Shepherd is a wonderful family dog. Affectionate and protective, they will allow kids to play hard, and in good spirit. When they've had enough they go lie down.
- Their coats need upkeep, with regular brushing and bathing. They tend to shed a great deal, especially the fine guard hairs.
- They need exercise and can be trained to go on a leash, though ours do not very well. Our 2 have the run of the walled/fenced yard.
- They thrive on almost any diet, including BARF if necessary, though not my preference.
- I give mine a multi-vitamin daily, mainly to prevent hip problems.
