The German Shepherd is deceptive as many might
think that the heavy double layered coat needs additional care. In
actual fact, less grooming is needed than expected. The external
coat of the dog is thick with medium long hairs while the
undercoat is far denser and softer. The undercoat does double duty
by keeping the dog safe from UV rays during the hot summer months
and keeps the dog warm during colder seasons.
One principal to adhere to when making sure
your German Shepherd is well taken care of is to ascertain that he
is getting the right diet and nutrients. The German Shepherd gets
its strength from meat and you should ensure that the meals he
gets is high in vitamins and protein. The dog needs a diet that is
high in fat and protein. Meat such as beef, chicken or even lamb
are great options. If you decide to concoct food for your dog,
ascertain that it has the correct proportions of all the basic
dietary requirements the dog needs to stay in tip-top condition.
Vegetables are harder for dogs to digest.
Rather than the rounded or curved stomachs we see in humans, dogs
actually have s straight stomach. This can cause them to have
problems while digesting their vegetables. Corn or wheat and other
plant based materials can be difficult for the animal and they
should make up a small fraction of your dog's diet. Once you are
sure that the dog is getting an excellent diet, you can move on to
the grooming needs.
It is usually advised that you brush your
dog's fur at least 2 times per week. You want to be sure that the
oil in the fur is evenly distributed to prevent matting and
tangles. You can also be sure to remove the dead skin cells and
loose hair clogging the coat. A basic metallic brush or slicker
will do an excellent job if used correctly. You must take care not
to cause a lesion or scrape the dog's skin while brushing.
When you start to brush, take the brush in
the same direction as the coat hair. Using a variety of brushes
with different size brush heads will help to ensure you reach all
parts of the dog.
Based on the dog's normal schedule, you wold
probably have to bath your dog at least once or twice a month. The
frequency of baths will be dependent on the location of you home
and your dogs favorite pastime. For instance, if your dog should
love the great outdoors, it is almost certain he will necessitate
a bath more often compared to dogs that prefer to stay in the
house. If the dog is an indoor dog, taking a bath every few months
will be sufficient.
If you pat your dog and dust puffs off his
skin, that's a good sign he needs a bath. Also, if he is starting
to smell, a bath will quickly solve that problem and make him more
enjoyable during cuddle time. If the coat is oily, it can be a
signal that it is time for a bath.
The correct shampoo is essential to the
dog's coat and condition. German Shepherds are easily affected by
wheat and can have other allergies, so the correct shampoo is
essential. For instance, oatmeal shampoo can be calming for your
dog but they also cause material to collect on the coat far more
easily, so you might have to bathe your dog more often. A shampoo
with aloe added might be a good choice if you are not concerned
with fleas. Nevertheless, with regular care, your German Shepherd
is bound to look beautiful all year long.
