German shepherds are beautiful dogs that are known the world around for not only being excellent companions but also great working dogs. If you are looking for this breed or have recently adopted one, then you should know some tips on how to give them the best in life.

1. Provide the Right Environment

German shepherds need to be able to run around and move freely. They are best suited for life in houses with a large backyard where they can go outside and play. However, you do want to make sure that there are not items around that can hurt your pet.

2. Exercise, Exercise, Exercise

This is important because these are very active dogs. Just because you have a fenced in backyard they can run in does not mean that you can neglect the walk. This will keep them in shape and will give you another way to bond with your dog. Studies have also shown that this can reduce the risk of hip dysplasia and other joint disorders later in life.

3. Socialization

You need to socialize your german shepherd at all ages, though the puppy stage is the most important. This helps them to get used to being around all types of people and pets. This will help them to be less aggressive.

4. Training and Tricks

You want to get your dog in training classes from the time they are a puppy. They are very intelligent and training will allow them to keep their mind active and will help them to live a happier life. Once you understand how to train your dog you will be able to do this at home. These dogs are capable of learning advanced tricks and jobs.

5. Watch the Weight

Weight is one of the most important aspects of keeping your german shepherd healthy. This is why you need to do what you can to keep your dog’s weight in check. There are many ways that you can do this. Eating a balanced diet as well as proper exercise are key. However, they are prone to bloat which means you do not want to exercise them within two hours of the time you feed them. This will help to manage their weight in a more effective way.