Dog Health and Grooming – Guides & Tips

There are a few things you should remember as a German Shepherd owner to keep your dog healthy and alert. Advice and recommendations on dog health and care can be found in the health section. A well-groomed man’s best friend is more resistant to some ailments. We also write about the frequent questions that arise when caring for a four-legged pet.

How to keep your German Shepherd healthy

Some dogs are living longer lives; small dogs can live up to 20 years old. You, as the owner, are obligated to ensure that the four-legged pals enjoy a healthy, joyful life. You’ll discover advice on how to keep your German Shepherd healthy for a long time here.

Match your dog’s diet:

• Your dog’s dietary requirements are determined by its age, activity level, and body size. Puppies have a higher mineral requirement. The energy requirements of older dogs are lower. It makes no difference whether you feed the dog dry food and wet food or BARF the German Shepherd; the ratio must be tailored to the dog’s specific needs for a healthy German Shepherd.
• It is important to stick to set feeding hours in order to keep the gastrointestinal tract in equilibrium. Small pups are fed three times per day, whereas large dogs are fed twice a day. If the entire dish is not consumed, the remainder can be refrigerated.
• BARF rations are made up of 50–60% high-quality muscle meat derived from chicken and beef. The remaining ingredients are vegetables, grains, and fruit. Feed supplements, herbs, and oils guarantee that all nutrients are present in the dog’s diet.
• Doggys can be rewarded with dried chews that promote dental health.
• The size of the food portion must be tailored to the activity level of the tail-wagger. Too much energy leads to obesity and secondary diseases.

Care that is good for your tail-wagger:

• A German Shepherd coat must be kept healthy and lustrous by eating a species-appropriate diet and brushing away loose hair. The fur is aerated, and the skin’s blood circulation is promoted. Brushing the coat on a regular basis removes tangles and minimizes the danger of skin problems.
• The paw pads must be well moisturized in the summer to keep the ball of the foot supple. Hot asphalt is equally damaging to canine paws as road salt.
• Brush the dog’s teeth with a toothbrush and toothpaste several times per week. Bacterial deposits are eliminated, and tartar and gingivitis are prevented. Plaque is composed of dead bacteria that produce poisons. Toxins enter the body and induce inflammation in the organs.

Worms, ticks, and fleas — what to do?

• A flea infestation produces excruciating itching. Purulent, weeping irritation develops when your German Shepherd is hypersensitive to flea saliva.
• Ticks can transmit various pathogens such as Borrelia.
• Tapeworms and roundworms settle in the intestines. They survive by feeding on blood and broken-down dietary components. Your tail-wagger will be deprived of essential nutrients, lose weight, and become anemic as a result.
• To protect the doggy, apply flea and tick repellents between the shoulder blades on a regular basis. Coconut oil is a natural parasite repellent.
• Deworming should not be done as a preventative measure. The digestive ecology is altered by herbal supplements or grated carrots. Worms are expelled rather than settled. Chemical worming should be used only when there is evidence of worm infestation.

Proper prevention methods against diseases

Many diseases can be avoided with proper prevention. A veterinarian should examine your dogs at least once a year. Annual vaccinations are no longer required because most vaccines provide protection for 2–3 years. Your German Shepherd should be vaccinated against distemper, rabies, leptospirosis, hepatitis, kennel cough, Lyme disease, and parvovirus on an individual basis. If you plan to visit southern Europe, you should be immunized against leishmaniasis. When your GSD becomes ill, the vet will prescribe medication. To avoid resistance, the dosage and duration of medication, particularly antibiotics, must be properly followed.

Exercise and intellectual activity

Dogs, like humans, enjoy being challenged. A species-appropriate and healthy dog’s life includes enough exercise and sniffing time. Your German Shepherd mental activity will be stimulated if you vary the stroll with search games. Variety is good for your dog’s health.

Safety for the German Shepherd around the house and on the go

Reflective safety vests and light collars can help your German Shepherd be visible even on cloudy days. Poisoning can be caused by chemical cleansers and deadly plants. These should always be out of your dog’s reach! The best medicine is prevention. Adequate exercise and species-appropriate food keep your man’s best friend fit and healthy.