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German Shepherd Characteristics

The German Shepherd Dog is intelligent and eager to please. They are devoted and fearless. They have a high learning ability and are extremely responsive to training.

One of the most popular dog breeds, the German Shepherd gained its stardom during World War I when Corporal Lee Duncan brought a puppy back to Los Angeles from France, trained him, and turned him into Rin Tin Tin – one of the most famous dogs in show business.

In addition to celebrity, the German Shepherd holds many other jobs including guide dog, detectors of narcotics and bombs, search and rescue dogs, and therapy dogs due to their immense intelligent and strong work ethic. The German Shepherd also excels in many dog activities including schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball, and ring sport.

If German Shepherds become bored or frustrated, they’ll take it out on your home by chewing or barking excessively. They require plenty of exercise to keep their boredom at bay. German Shepherds are extremely loyal and protective of their families, and suspicious of strangers, especially in the company of their masters.

If not properly socialised at an early age, they can be unruly due to a lack of self-confidence. Through socialisation and obedience training, though, they make amazing family dogs.

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German Shepherd Major Health Concerns

The German Shepherd Dog is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. They may also suffer from aortic stenosis, an abnormal narrowing of the aortic valve, which may impede the flow of blood to the arteries. They may also have chronic eczema and flea allergies.

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German Shepherd Interesting Facts

German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colours including white, liver and blue.

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Dog DNA Tests

We offer a range of DNA Tests for Dogs, please click on the links below or Contact Us for more information.

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Dog Allergy Test

Discover the allergens that may be affecting your pet with a Dog Allergy Test. Tests for allergens including foods, environmental factors, supplements & household products. Click here to read more about the At Home Dog Allergy Test.

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Dog Paternity Test

Our Dog DNA Paternity Test is a quick and easy way to accurately determine the parentage of your canine. Fast, accurate and conclusive results. Click here to read more about our Dog Paternity Test.

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Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) Test

Degenerative Myelopathy DNA Testing is a screening test for your dog to determine if it carries the genes associated with Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). Click here to read more about the Degenerative Myelopathy Test Kit.

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Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC) Test

Exercise Induced Collapse DNA Testing is a screening test for your dog to determine if it carries the gene associated with Exercise Induced Collapse (EIC). Click here to read more about testing Exercise Induced Collapse in Dogs.

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Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRA-prcd) DNA Test

The PRA-prcd DNA Test is a screening test for your dog to determine if it carries the gene associated with Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Progressive Rod-Cone Degeneration (PRA-prcd). Click here to read more about the PRA Test.

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DNA My Dog Breed Test

The DNA My Dog Test identifies the breeds within your mixed-breed dog. You will receive a custom certificate and report detailing health concerns and personality traits for each breed found in their DNA. Click here to read more about the DNA My Dog Breed Test.

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Canine Breed Inheritance Infographic

Our Dog Breed Inheritance Chart explains how purebred and mixed breed puppies inherit DNA from their parents.