Long Hair German Shepherds: A Comprehensive Guide to Raising a Healthy Pet

Long hair German Shepherds are a unique breed that requires special care to maintain their beautiful coat. They have a thick double coat that sheds heavily, especially during shedding season.

To manage their shedding, regular brushing is essential, with daily brushing recommended during peak shedding seasons. This will help prevent matting and tangling of their fur.

German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs that thrive on mental and physical stimulation. They require at least 30 minutes of exercise per day to stay happy and healthy.

A well-balanced diet is also crucial for long hair German Shepherds, with high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs.

The history of long-haired German Shepherds is a fascinating story. Max von Stephanitz, the founder of the breed, initially did not view long hair as a desirable trait, considering it a hindrance to the breed's ability to work in extreme weather conditions.

The Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV), the original German shepherd club, even went so far as to ban long-haired GSDs without undercoats from competing in dog shows, and later banned the hair type entirely. However, they lifted the ban in 2010, likely to prevent the long-haired trait from going extinct.

Long-haired German Shepherds are not considered part of the breed standard in the United States, as determined by the AKC, but their rarity and beauty make them desirable to dog owners.

The development of the German shepherd breed is a fascinating story. Max von Stephanitz, the founder of the breed, spent 35 years perfecting the breed by breeding various German herding dogs.

Von Stephanitz did not initially view long hair as a desirable trait, considering it detrimental to the breed's ability to work in extreme weather conditions. The long coat required more care, which was seen as a negative since the main purpose of the GSD was utility rather than beauty.

The Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV), the original German shepherd club created by von Stephanitz, initially banned long-haired GSDs without undercoats from competing in dog shows. This ban was eventually lifted in 2010.

The German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, where they were native sheepdogs. In 1899, a dog club called the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) e.V. was founded by Captain Max von Stephanitz, who believed the breed should not include dogs with long hair.

Historically, German Shepherds were bred for their working abilities and exceptional temperament. Captain Max von Stephanitz was instrumental in shaping the breed's standards and principles.

The Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) e.V. was founded by Captain Max von Stephanitz in 1899, with a focus on promoting the breed's working abilities and exceptional temperament. This marked the beginning of the breed's formal recognition and development.

In the early 1900s, long-haired German Shepherds were considered unsuitable and unacceptable for breeding, as they didn't meet the breed's traditional standards.

The origins of the fluffy German Shepherd are a bit of a mystery, but it's believed that the long-haired trait was first seen in the Wuttermberg region of Germany, a mountainous area near Switzerland.

Historically, the long-haired German Shepherds were likely developed as a result of natural genetic diversity, and not as a separate breed.

In the colder climate of Wuttermberg, the long coats of these German Shepherds were likely advantageous for protecting them from below-zero temperatures.

The long hair gene is deemed to be recessive in all modern Shepherds, being found in approximately 10% of the breed.

This means that for a long-haired German Shepherd to be born, both parents must carry the recessive gene, which is a rare occurrence.

The modern origins of the long-haired German Shepherd can be traced back to the Wuttermberg region, where breeders recognized the value of their unique characteristics and began selectively breeding them.

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The earliest written records of the German language can be found in the 8th-century poem "Song of Hildebrand". This ancient poem is a significant milestone in the development of the German language.

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The long-haired German Shepherd is a stunning breed with some unique physical characteristics. They have a weight range of 65-90 pounds for males and 50-70 pounds for females, and a height range of 24-26 inches for males and 22-24 inches for females.

Their coat is long and silky, with extra fluff around their ears and a bushy tail. The long-haired GSD has longer hair on the chest that's reminiscent of a ruff or a lion's mane.

Here are some key physical characteristics of the long-haired German Shepherd:

Their skeleton and structure are the same as a short-haired German Shepherd, but with a longer top coat. The long coat GSD has longer and silkier hair on the chest, back, face, tail, and on the backside of its legs.

Long-haired German Shepherds have a unique appearance that sets them apart from their short-haired counterparts. They have a long, silky coat that's reminiscent of a lion's mane, with tufts of fur around their ears, back of legs, hindquarters, and tail.

The long coat of a GSD is similar to a combination coat, with long hair on the chest, back, face, and tail, but short hair on the face, fronts of the legs, and paws. This unique coat type is a result of the long hair gene, which is considered recessive.

Here are some key features of a long-haired German Shepherd's coat:

Their elegant coat makes them stand out from miles away, and their shiny appearance is a result of the lack of undercoat.

Adult German Shepherds can have two distinct coat types: long-haired and short-haired. The length of their coat is determined by their genetics.

A long-haired German Shepherd can have a beautiful, flowing coat like Terzia Mont D’Osiris, a female in the example. This type of coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting.

In contrast, short-haired German Shepherds like Xavier von Babylon have a sleek and shiny coat that requires less maintenance.

Long-haired German Shepherds shed a lot all year round. They're not a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming.

In the fall and spring, they shed even more profusely, so be prepared to do some extra vacuuming!

The long-haired German Shepherd has a unique coat that's worth understanding. They don't have an undercoat, but some are bred to have them, which are large and poofy.

Their undercoat is actually not as thick or as long as their top coat, but they are a double-coated breed. This means they have two layers of fur: a thick top coat and a thinner undercoat.

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Long-haired German Shepherds shed a lot all year round, and even more profusely in the fall and spring. You should be prepared to do some extra vacuuming if you bring one of these dogs home.

Their undercoat may be thinner, but it's still there, and it's an important part of their overall coat.

Regular brushing is a must for long-haired German Shepherds to prevent matting and tangles. Aim for at least a few brushing sessions per week to keep their coat in good condition.

Their long fur is prone to tangling and matting, and the undercarriage can also catch debris while outdoors. Brushing regularly will also reduce the amount of fur all over your home from shedding.

You'll need to brush them several times a week, but they may need to be brushed daily when they start shedding in the spring and fall. A good dog brush and an undercoat dog rake are the primary tools for brushing your dog's coat.

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Long-haired German Shepherds have unique features associated with their breed, including a lack of undercoat, creating a glossy sheen on their fur. This lack of undercoat means they tend to shed a little less than short-haired GSDs.

Their ears will need to be cleaned around once a month, and their nails should be trimmed every 3 to 4 weeks. Their teeth should be brushed about two or three times a week.

Here's a quick summary of their grooming needs:

Long-haired German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent dogs, just like their short-haired counterparts. They're popular as working animals, often serving as police dogs, bomb or drug-sniffing dogs, search and rescue dogs, and service dogs for those with disabilities.

Their intelligence can be both a blessing and a curse, as they can learn quickly but also get bored and destructive if not given enough mental and physical stimulation. They thrive when given a job to do and love working.

Long-haired German Shepherds are loyal and loving to their families, great with kids, and can live with other animals if socialized properly. However, they can be aloof or wary of strangers, making them great watchdogs but also requiring proper introduction to new people.

Long-haired German Shepherds are loyal and loving to their families, making them great companions. They're usually great with kids and can live with other animals if socialized during puppyhood.

These dogs are brave and alert, which makes them excellent watchdogs. They'll even risk their own life to protect a beloved family member.

Long-haired German Shepherds are incredibly intelligent, which is why they're popular as working animals. They're often seen as police dogs, bomb or drug-sniffing dogs, search and rescue dogs, and even service dogs for those with disabilities.

Their intelligence can sometimes be a double-edged sword, as they can learn the difference between being supervised and unsupervised or between being on-leash and off-leash. This means they need plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

They're easy to train, but they do have a lot of energy that needs to be channeled into constructive activities. This can include learning new skills, solving puzzle toys, or going for long walks.

Long-haired German Shepherds have protective instincts and guarding tendencies, which can become aggression if their owners promote such behavior.

Using physical punishment on a long-haired German Shepherd can cause them to feel threatened and compelled to strike back in order to protect themselves.

They thrive when trained with positive reinforcement, as they love having a job and enjoy being rewarded when they obey cues.

Socialization is key, and exposing your long-haired German Shepherd to as many unfamiliar people as possible during puppyhood will make them far more likely to be friendly during adulthood.

It's essential to socialize them with accessories that people might wear or hold, like glasses, hats, and umbrellas, during their socialization period.

During this time, puppies are more curious and less likely to meet unfamiliar things with fear or wariness, making it an ideal time to show them that these things are normal or even good.

With proper training and socialization, there's no reason for a long-haired GSD to become aggressive, as long as you and everyone else treats your dog with love and respect.

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Long-haired German Shepherds are a high-energy breed that requires plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. They need to get out and play, or they'll feel bored and might start destroying things in your home.

If you don't plan to work with your dog, you'll need to provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation. Activities like agility trials, dock diving, and nose-work can be great ways to tire them out.

Neglecting to provide enough exercise can lead to extreme territorial behavior if your dog entertains themselves by staring out the window all day. This is because they have a strong instinct to protect and patrol their territory.

Long-haired German Shepherds thrive when they have a job to do, whether it's working with a handler or playing with their family. They're intelligent and love to learn, so make sure to challenge them and keep them engaged.

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Long-haired German Shepherds are a large breed, weighing between 50 and 90 pounds. They can grow up to 26 inches tall.

Females tend to be smaller than males, with a height range of 22-24 inches and a weight range of 50-70 pounds. Males, on the other hand, can reach a height of 24-26 inches and weigh between 65-90 pounds.

Because of their large size and exercise needs, long-haired German Shepherds are not ideal for apartment living. However, if you have a spacious apartment and can provide regular exercise, it can work out.

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When considering the size of a long-haired German Shepherd, it's essential to know their average height and weight. Long-haired German shepherds can weigh between 50 and 90 pounds.

Their height varies slightly depending on their sex, with males reaching 24-26 inches tall and females reaching 22-24 inches tall.

If you're planning to bring a long-haired German Shepherd into your home, keep in mind that they require space to move around comfortably. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least 30 minutes of exercise per day.

Here's a quick reference guide to the typical size of long-haired German Shepherds:

Remember, these are just averages, and individual dogs can vary.

Are Apartment Dogs a Good Fit for Long-Haired German Shepherds?

Long-haired German Shepherds need a lot of exercise, which can be a challenge for apartment living. They require space to run around, so a yard is preferable.

However, if you live in a spacious apartment and are dedicated to providing regular exercise, it can work out. Just be prepared for the extra effort.

Long-haired Shepherds shed a lot all year round, so be prepared for frequent vacuuming and lint roller use.

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A well-designed home should prioritize functionality and efficiency, and that starts with the essentials.

In small spaces, it's crucial to keep only what's truly necessary. The average American home contains around 300,000 items, but we likely use only 10% of them regularly.

Clutter can quickly take over, making a space feel cramped and overwhelming. A clutter-free home is not only more aesthetically pleasing but also easier to maintain.

In the article, we discussed the importance of vertical storage in small spaces. A typical wall can support up to 100 pounds of weight, making it an ideal spot for shelves or hooks.

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Having too many possessions can make a space feel cluttered and disorganized. In fact, the average American generates about 4.4 pounds of trash per day.

Incorporating multi-functional furniture is a great way to maximize space without sacrificing style. For example, a storage ottoman can provide a comfortable seating option while also storing items like blankets or linens.

By focusing on the essentials and being mindful of our consumption habits, we can create a more peaceful and functional living space.

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Long-haired German Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia, a hereditary condition that affects the hip joint, is a common concern, and elbow dysplasia, which causes joint instability, is also found in large breeds.

Regular exercise is essential to keep your long-haired German Shepherd happy and healthy. They need daily physical engagement, such as jogging or playtime at a dog park, as well as mental stimulation through activities like agility or obedience competitions.

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To prevent potential health issues, it's crucial to monitor their diet and adjust it according to their age and energy needs. For instance, German Shepherd puppies require a high-quality, low-calorie diet to regulate their growth rate, and cautious portion control is necessary to prevent excessive weight gain and joint complications.

Here are some potential health issues to be aware of:

Remember to consult your veterinarian for guidance on your German Shepherd's specific needs and to monitor their health closely.

German Shepherds, including long-haired ones, experience seasonal shedding, also known as "blowing coat". This is a natural process that occurs throughout the year.

Be prepared for increased shedding during these times and brush your dog more frequently to remove loose hair. A de-shedding tool can be helpful in managing shedding and keeping their coat healthy.

Each dog is unique, so pay attention to your long-haired German Shepherd's coat and consult with a professional for advice and recommendations.

German Shepherds will blow their coat more frequently as they mature, so be prepared to adjust your grooming routine accordingly.

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German Shepherds are generally a healthy breed, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip and elbow dysplasia are two common concerns that can cause pain and discomfort in your dog's joints. Hip dysplasia occurs when the femur doesn't fit properly into the hip joint's pelvic socket, while elbow dysplasia is caused by uneven growth rates among the elbow's bones.

Some German Shepherds may also be at risk for degenerative myelopathy, a progressive spinal cord disease that affects their hind legs. This condition can lead to loss of coordination and eventually paralysis.

Dogs with long hair, like the long-haired German Shepherd, may be more susceptible to bloat, a life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists and fills with gas. Bloat can be fatal if left untreated, so it's essential to take preventative measures, such as feeding your dog two or more meals a day and using a slow feed bowl to prevent gobbling.

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Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) is another genetic disorder that can affect German Shepherds, causing digestive enzyme deficiency and impairing food digestion and absorption. Symptoms of EPI include gas, weight loss, and changes in stool quality.

Here are some health issues to look out for in your German Shepherd:

For a German Shepherd's optimal health, it's essential to feed them a high-quality dog food specifically formulated for large breeds throughout their lifetime.

A quality dog food should follow AAFCO guidelines and have been formulated by a certified veterinary nutritionist. It's also crucial that the food has undergone feeding trials.

To determine how much to feed your German Shepherd each day, you can follow the guidelines on your chosen bag of dog food. However, these guidelines may not include allowances for treats.

You can use an online calorie calculator or do the math yourself to better understand your dog's daily calorie needs. This approach allows you to factor in your dog's activity levels, which is especially important for long-haired German Shepherds prone to arthritis.

Long-haired German Shepherds are also susceptible to hip or elbow dysplasia, so keeping them at an ideal weight is vital, especially during their senior years.

For German Shepherd puppies, a high-quality, low-calorie diet is advisable to regulate their growth rate and mitigate bone-related issues.

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To keep your long-haired German Shepherd's coat looking its best, you'll need to brush it at least a few times a week to prevent tangles.

Daily exercise is a must for German Shepherds, as they're bred for activity and can get restless if left alone for too long.

Their coat may collect debris like dirt and leaves after outdoor activities, so be sure to check their belly regularly.

German Shepherds have a lot of energy, which means they need both physical exercise, like jogging or playing at a dog park, and mental stimulation, like agility or obedience training.

Their vocalization can sometimes be a problem, especially if it's due to boredom, so teaching the "Quiet" command is a good idea.

To prevent chewing issues, provide your German Shepherd with safe chew toys and bones, as their jaw strength can be quite formidable.

During shedding seasons, also known as "blowing coat", your German Shepherd will shed more heavily, so be prepared to brush them more frequently to remove loose hair.

Short-haired German Shepherds actually shed more than their long-haired counterparts. This is because they have a thicker undercoat that sheds more throughout the year.

Regular grooming is essential to manage shedding in short-haired German Shepherds. They require more frequent brushing and grooming, especially during seasonal changes.

While it's true that short-haired German Shepherds shed more, it's also important to note that long-haired German Shepherds still require regular maintenance to prevent matting and tangling of their fur.