Owning a long haired German Shepherd can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Their combination of beauty, intelligence, loyalty, and bravery is rare, making them much more than just a pet. They are life companions, protectors, and, above all, part of your family.
If you are considering adding a long haired German Shepherd to your family, it is vital to consider their needs, whether they be for exercise, mental stimulation, or socialization.
A loving home, where they are considered part of the family, and a commitment to their training and continued care, will be the ideal environment for this breed.
Their loyalty and affection towards their human family are second to none, and with the right approach, they will be an invaluable addition to your home.
History and origin of the long haired German Shepherd
Comprehensive protection for your faithful companion
Owning a long haired German Shepherd can be one of the most rewarding experiences. Their combination of beauty, intelligence, loyalty and bravery is rare, making them much more than just a pet. They are life companions, protectors and, above all, part of your family.
If you are considering adding a long haired German Shepherd to your family, it is vital to consider their needs, whether they be for exercise, mental stimulation, and socialization.
A loving home, where they are considered part of the family, and a commitment to their training and continued care, will be the ideal environment for this breed.
Their loyalty and affection towards their human family is second to none, and with the right approach, they will be an invaluable addition to your home.
History and origin of the long haired German Shepherd
Originally, all German Shepherds had long fur. It was Max von Stephanitz, at the end of the 19th century and beginning of the 20th century, who standardized the breed, preferring the short-haired variety for its functionality as a working dog.
The International Cynological Federation recently granted official recognition to the long-haired German Shepherd as a breed variant, overturning its status as an anomaly that persisted for many years.
They were not allowed to compete in dog shows before; however, since they were deemed to be abnormal, their participation was restricted.
Now, they are celebrated for their unique beauty and enjoy popularity among dog enthusiasts.
Physical characteristics of the long-haired German Shepherd
A distinctive mantle
The most notable feature of the long haired German Shepherd is, as its name suggests, its coat.
Unlike its short-haired counterparts, this variant has a less dense undercoat and an outer coat of long, soft hair that is particularly visible around the neck, on the ears, and the legs and tail.
This coat is not only beautiful but also requires special care and maintenance.
Structure and bearing
In terms of its physical structure, it shares the same robust and muscular characteristics as the standard German Shepherd.
They are large dogs, with slightly elongated bodies, erect ears, and almond-shaped eyes that express intelligence and curiosity.
Its general appearance is that of a balanced, strong, and agile animal.
Temperament and behavior of the long-haired German Shepherd
Like the standard German Shepherd, this variant stands out for its intelligence, confidence, and loyalty.
They are highly trainable dogs that thrive on purpose and enjoy participating in activities with their owners.
Loyalty and protection
The Long Haired German Shepherd is extremely loyal and often protective of his family.
Their vigilant nature makes them excellent watchdogs. However, this same characteristic requires that they be socialized from an early age to ensure that their protectiveness does not turn into aggression.
Mental and physical stimulation needs
These canines require a significant amount of daily physical exercise and mental stimulation, given their intelligence and energy.
They enjoy challenges and excel in activities such as obedience, agility, and tracking training, making them ideal candidates for working roles such as search and rescue dogs or police dogs.
Long haired German Shepherd Care
Fur
Coat care is essential for this variant of the breed. Their long coat requires regular brushing to avoid tangles and minimize shedding, which is usually abundant.
Additionally, regular baths, ear inspection and cleaning, and regular dental care are necessary practices to keep your Long-Haired German Shepherd healthy and happy.
Health and nutrition
Long haired German Shepherds are susceptible to certain health conditions, particularly those common in large breeds, such as hip and elbow dysplasia.
It is advisable to ensure that these magnificent canines receive veterinary checkups on a consistent and regular basis to maintain their well-being.
A balanced, nutrient-dense diet suitable for large, active dogs is essential to maintaining their overall health and well-being.
Training and socialization of the long-haired German Shepherd
Early training is crucial for the Longhaired German Shepherd. Their intelligence and desire to please make obedience training generally a positive experience.
However, it is essential to be consistent and use positive reinforcement methods, as they are sensitive to harsh training methods and may develop reactive or fearful behaviors.
Socialization from puppies helps them learn to relate appropriately with other animals, children, and adults.
Presenting them with a variety of situations and environments will reduce the likelihood of anxious or aggressive behaviors and encourage a balanced and confident temperament.
With proper socialization and training, these dogs can make excellent family companions.
They are affectionate and usually get along well with children, being protective of them.
Additionally, their active nature makes them perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities where the dog can participate.
How to know if the long-haired German Shepherd is for you
Deciding whether a long haired German Shepherd is right for your family depends on several factors.
First, evaluate your lifestyle. These dogs require a significant commitment of time and energy and thrive on stimulation and constant companionship.
If you are an active person who enjoys spending time outdoors and can spend time training and socializing with your dog, the Longhaired German Shepherd can be a great companion.
Also, consider your living space. Long-haired German Shepherds are best suited to homes with enough space to move around and explore.
These dogs need a lot of exercise, so having access to a large yard or being near parks is beneficial.
Also, don’t underestimate the continuous care they will need, especially when it comes to their coat.
Prepare for regular grooming sessions and consider whether you are willing to deal with a higher level of hair in your home.
If you feel you can meet the needs of this breed, you will be rewarded with a loyal friend who will offer you unconditional love.
The relationship between a long haired German Shepherd and its owner is truly special, filled with affection, protection, and a unique connection.