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how much is a american bulldog puppy - What do you call a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix? The easiest way to refer to this cross is Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix. However, these dogs can also be referred to as a Malinois X. Other names include German Malinois and Shepinois. The breed is thought to have been developed in the late s along with the Tervuren, the Groenendael and the Laekonois. They were developed by trainers and working competitors which perhaps explains why Belgian Malinois make great service and working dogs within our society. An ex-German military capital Max von Stephanitz set about attempting to create his perfect working dog. He encountered a dog named Hektor Linksrhein at a dog show in which left such an impression that he bought the dog immediately. He renamed Hektor to Horand von Grafrath, becoming the founder member of the dog breed. German Shepherds are often used by the military, police, drug detection and much more due to their high IQ, impressive obedience and ability to learn. German Shepherds have an identical height range of 22 to 26 inches but they usually weigh a little more between 49 and 88 pounds. So we can deduce that a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix can grow to between 22 and 26 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 90 pounds. Their coat color is reflect of both breeds, with incorporating shades of black, brown, fawn, blue and white. A Malinois X should have a muzzle that is relatively long with a black nose. Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix will have a double coat which sheds. The German Malinois are athletic, good-natured loyal and protective, which are all personality traits that both Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds have. Belgian Malinois have an innate desire to protect their family members, which can make this hybrid a good family pet. However, Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix will require socialization and training from a young age. This gives you the best chance to have a happy, level-headed and well-balanced dog. Although there is no such thing as a per cent hypoallergenic dog, the American Kennel Club outlines that there are some breeds that shed less. Malinois X owners will be required to brush their dogs at least twice a week to remove debris and dead hair. This will help to maintain the health and quality of their coat. Most members of the cross breed will blow out their coats twice a year at the changing of the seasons. Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix exercise requirements German Malinois are high energy dogs, so owners will need to ensure their pet is getting sufficient exercise in order to prevent destructive or unwanted behaviour due to frustration. Dog walking service provider Wag recommend up to minutes a day for a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix. That equates to around 10 miles per week. German Shepherds, on the other hand, can live to between nine and 13 years. The average price of this mix can vary. Other Potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, grooming, vet trips and much more. You can inquire about the availability of this cross. Alternatively, you could contact Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd dedicated rescue organisations for further help. Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd Mix to follow on Instagram If you want to learn more about the cross breed, you can always head to social media to find out more. Dog owners will usually be quite forthcoming with advice and information to followers interested in learning more about the breed. Lifespan Sociability Like any dog, the cost for these pups can vary depending on the breeder and the pedigree of the puppy. Although this is not one of the most common hybrid dogs, there is always a chance that you will be able to provide a wonderful home for a dog in need. This is especially so in the case of any German Shepherd hybrid since they have been bred to be some of the most trainable, obedient dogs known today. The German Malinois can be trained much earlier in life than most other dog breeds. The German Malinois is a cross of two incredible obedient, level-headed dogs. It is because of these traits that their astounding intelligence manifests much earlier. Training can start with these pups much earlier than is typical. They have often completed house training as young as three months old. Many new owners appreciate this aspect of the breed when it comes to purchasing a new puppy. Both the German Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois are experienced police dogs. German Shepherds were first developed in the s by the Germans. They were bred with several different breeds to try and obtain the most trainable dog at that time. The result was successful, and the German Shepherd still stands out today as one of the most trainable dog breeds. Their temperament was another significant facet of their breeding. The goal was to have a level-headed dog that was obedient and protective. Since the beginning, their breeding may have changed their bone structure and stature slightly, but they still act similarly to the way that they were initially bred. They have become the second most popular dog breed in the U. The Belgian Malinois was bred at approximately the same time as the German Shepherd. The Belgian Malinois has a slightly more confusing timeline because their breed was first recognized as the Belgian Shepherd. Then, the breed was steadily split into three separate dog breeds, with the Belgian Malinois having a short coat and fawn coloring. Both dogs, especially since being imported to America, have been actively and consistently used in the police force. They have the perfect temperament for reliability, a balance of aggressiveness and obedience, and medium to large stature. The German Malinois has a high prey drive. Since both of the dogs involved in the parenting of the German Malinois were bred to be herding dogs, the German Malinois has the drive in their DNA. Watch out for their urge to herd beings smaller than themselves. It is a behavior that you can train out if they are primarily a family dog. If you have any cats, small mammals, or other smaller dogs, make sure the German Malinois is trained, so they know how to behave around these other animals. Unlike small puppies, most would not describe them as energetic dogs because they are also quite serious and controlled. To be content in their living situation, they must have plenty of space to run around in. Beyond their activity levels, they are highly intelligent dogs. Both the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd are incredibly smart, with the latter being ranked for intelligence right after the Poodle and the Border Collie. These pups have a strong desire to please their master or trainer, which is a large part of their acknowledged obedience. Occasionally, they exhibit more difficult tendencies in training, such as stubbornness or overexcitement. However, this is relatively rare and may signify a change in training style is needed. The German Malinois can be aloof toward new animals and humans. Their protective instinct is sometimes too strong for them to have the capacity to accept anything into their trust readily. This feature makes them an excellent guard dog and watchdog. Watch out for any unwanted aggressive behavior, particularly between two male dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? The reason for this is their heightened prey drive from years of being a herding dog. The German Shepherd side of them is generally good with kids, whereas the Belgian Malinois often is not as friendly, especially if they are pushed or pulled around. Keep a close eye on them around little kids. Due to their overall attitude concerning new animals and humans, it is best to get them accustomed to strangers by having them visit your home or go to the dog park. This will teach them how to act around others appropriately. Although these dogs are quite reserved, they are also social creatures. For the best behavior, it is good to adopt two at once, or at least another pup with these dogs. They need 3—4 cups of food each day. They should have a balanced diet to make sure that they are receiving plenty of nutrients and calories to sustain them. Instead, feed them two or three meals a day. Stick to feeding them during your mealtimes. They can snack a bit in the middle of the day. Make sure that they receive plenty of calcium each day to offset these issues for as long as possible. They need at least 45 minutes of highly engaging activity each day but prefer to receive a mixed amount of exercise for minutes every day. Keeping this in mind, German Malinois are not good dogs to keep in an apartment unless they can go out with you for most of the day. Paired with their high level of intelligence, they pick things up quickly and happily, with few repetitions. They have a high desire to please their trainer, especially if the trainer has positively established dominance. Training is an excellent time to do two things at once, such as working a training session into an agility course. They are quick, with fast reactions and a quicker mind. Either way, they do shed frequently and even more so during changes in the seasons, particularly into spring and autumn. They need to be brushed daily to reduce the amount of hair getting everywhere. Avoid bathing these dogs too often, as the water strips them from natural essential oils produced by their skin. To avoid dental issues, brush their teeth every day. Since the German Shepherd is known to have many spinal and joint issues, it is best to verify. Minor Conditions. It is a cross between the German Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She has the intelligence and loyalty of a Belgian Malinois. She already knows how to sit and lie down, and can walk off the leash. Piper is one of the greatest dogs we have owned. She gets a long with our cats and my young nieces. This is definitely a breed that needs to be brought up with children in order for them to have a good temperament with them. She is loyal and very protective, yet sociable once warmed up to people. She will remain petite, which she got from her dad, the Malinois. She is currently 35lbs and will mature no more than 10 more pounds. She has a double coat and medium-long hair, no shedding though. Still has her puppy hair, especially behind her ears. She loves the water and the snow, and has a very willing temperament. This is a great mix to own as they are a low maintenance and easy keeper. The only problem with her right now is she had a breakout of mange on her muzzle which the vet said is normal and is treatable. It is common to appear on pups around 6 months in age. This is a picture of her under my desk at work. His dad is a German Shepherd and his mom is a Belgian Malinois. We've never had a Mal before but we have had a GSD. He loves everyone. He's wary of new people. He loves our .Our GSD was my momma's boy. Rhemy can't pick a favorite! It's really sweet that he loves my husband as much as me! Tracked himself home on a walk at 3 months old! In the first picture I sent he was about 4 months old, in this picture he is now 4 years old!! Super smart and a real lover boy. Look at that beautiful face!! He came from a breeder in Cream Ridge, NJ. She said he was a "breeder mistake," but we think he is just perfect!! He is a real clown and loves to lounge on this blanket. He is 4 months old in this picture and is a real face washer!! She has exceptional intelligence. She understands sit, lie down, shake, speak and high-five by both verbal command and hand signals. We're still working on several other commands, of which 'stay' seems to be the hardest. At .She must constantly have something to chew on , otherwise she will shred anything within reach in record time, so rawhide chewbones are a necessity. She also replaced my broken paper shredder. Her herding instincts are very strong and will chase anything that moves, including a leaf blowing across the yard, butterflies, birds, etc. She has a variety of toys, but prefers the stuffed animal ones that squeak or make noise. She loves to play tug-of-war with her toys, be chased and chase you. Her love of water and mud puddles is exceptional and if you have a walk-in shower, don't leave the door open with the water running! She amuses herself by playing with her toys when left alone, but if someone is around, she has to be with them. When she needs to go out, she will find someone and lick their hand kisses until they take her out, otherwise she will lick and nip at your toes and heels to get you moving. She's very alert and will bark and growl at anything unfamiliar as long as she is standing behind your legs. Her worst fault is that if she is out in the open, she does not want to come when you call her. She wants you to come after her and just as you get within reach, she bolts off like a jackrabbit, and there's no catching her. We've learned the best way to get her attention is to ignore her and walk off like we're leaving her. The other fault is her constant attempts to get your attention to play with her, especially if you're trying to get ready for work. She waits until you get one leg into your jeans and then grabs the other, making you hop around on one leg trying to get the other pants leg back. As you pull on a sock, she either grabs the end and pulls it off, or she takes off with the other one so you'll have to chase her down. After you've gone through this same scenario with the shoes, she then follows you around pulling the laces to untie them or pulls back the Velcro straps. Her antics are limitless as is her energy level. They share aspects of their temperament, working style, and physical characteristics. You can think of them as one dog for all intents and purposes. Belgian Shepherd vs. They both possess similar drives and instincts on an instinctual level, but how they express them can vary greatly. For example, the German Shepherd is more prone to being territorial and protective of their family and property. Appearance: The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a beautiful dog that has a lot of characteristics of both the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd. They can weigh anywhere from 40 to 80 pounds and have a height of 22 to 26 inches. They have a long, silky coat that can be black, tan, or red and black. They are also known as Belgian Shepherds. Life Span: Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes can live for anywhere from 10 to 15 years on average, depending on their genetics and any health problems that they may develop. Training And Exercise Requirements: As with any dog, training and exercise are key to a happy, well-adjusted Belgian malinois german shepherd mix. Because of their high energy levels and intelligence, these dogs need a lot of both. Daily walks or runs, plenty of interactive playtimes, and structured obedience training are essential. Without enough exercise and mental stimulation, they may become destructive or hyperactive. They will need moderate exercise, between 30 and 60 minutes per day. This could include walks, runs, or playing in the yard. Without enough exercise, they may become destructive or hyperactive. Working dogs, these energetic breeds need jobs to do. Owners of Belgian malinois german shepherd mix often use their dogs for competitive obedience or herding. If a family is spending a lot of time in the yard or at home doing chores. At the same time, the dog is left alone in the backyard, looking into other good breeds with kids but not quite so high energy! The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a beautiful dog that makes an excellent family pet when given the proper training and exercise. These dogs can be a wonderful addition to any family with the right home. Grooming Requirements: For a dog with a dense double coat, the Belgian malinois german shepherd mix sheds fairly little. Weekly brushing is usually enough to keep their coat in good condition. They need occasional bathing and ear cleaning, as well as nail trimmings every few weeks or so. The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix has a dense double layer coat that requires some grooming attention! Daily brushing is required at a minimum. The nails must be trimmed about every weeks for proper foot care, and a professional groomer should give the dog a bath every few months. Ear cleaning is also necessary every weeks to keep those long ears healthy! Health Problems: As with most purebred dogs, common health concerns for the Belgian malinois german shepherd mix include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye disease such as distichiasis where eyelashes grow inwards towards the cornea or entropion where eyelids roll inwards. They are also prone to diseases that affect similar breeds like epilepsy and urinary stones. However, because these dogs are so intelligent and learn commands quickly, they can often be easy to train and manage when it comes to basic health care. As mentioned above, Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes are often used as working dogs. As such, they may be more prone to health problems that develop due to their frequent activity and high-energy lifestyle e. As well as this, make sure your dog gets plenty of regular check-ups and exercise throughout his life to help prevent these conditions from developing in the first place! Living Conditions: The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a hearty breed that can adapt to most living conditions. However, they prefer moderately active families who will take them on plenty of walks and runs. They are not suited for apartment living and should have a large yard to run. These dogs are fairly active and do best in homes where someone is around most of the time. If left alone for extended periods, they may become destructive or hyperactive. However, some generalizations can be made about the temperament of this crossbreed. Belgian Malinois mixes are often high-energy dogs who love to play and need plenty of exercise. They are also very intelligent and eager to please their owners, making them relatively easy to train. On the other hand, they can also be quite independent and strong-willed, so it is important to start training early and be consistent to ensure good behavior. In general, Belgian Malinois mixes are good-natured and affectionate with their family. Still, they may not hesitate to defend themselves in case of a threat. They can also be somewhat protective around strangers or other animals, so socialization is important when they are still young. Since both breeds are highly energetic and very intelligent, Belgian Malinois Shepherd mixes need physical exercise every day. It is also important for them not to get bored; it is recommended that you give them plenty of mental stimulation and their physical activities. This can be done through obedience training, puzzle toys, and plenty of interactive playtimes. However, shelter dogs are also often available for adoption; they may be even cheaper if you can find one in your area! Also, bear in mind that some breeders or shelters may not allow you to adopt or purchase a dog under certain age limits e. Nutrition Requirements: Belgian Malinois and German shepherd mixes are active dogs that require a balanced diet that is rich in protein. Dogs of this breed mix should have a diet of at least 25 percent protein. This can be found in both plant and animal-based proteins. Some good sources of plant-based proteins include beans, lentils, peas, and quinoa. Good sources of animal-based proteins include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and dairy products. In addition to protein, Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd mix also need plenty of carbohydrates. Complex carbs such as whole grains are best for these dogs. Vitamins And Minerals: Vitamins and minerals form an important part of a healthy diet for these dog breeds. Vitamin-rich foods include meats, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. Calcium is needed for strong bones and teeth, while potassium helps with heart function. Magnesium aids in blood circulation and energy production, while iron supports red blood cell health. Zinc assists with growth and wound healing, while copper supports the proper production of red blood cells. Other Dietary Requirements: In addition to a balanced diet containing plenty of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, the Belgian Malinois and German shepherd mix also needs clean water as well as quality exercise to remain fit and healthy. An inadequate diet can lead to health problems such as allergies, brittle bones, digestive issues including diarrhea or constipation, dental problems like plaque buildup or gum disease, eye problems that include cataracts or glaucoma, obesity-related diseases such as diabetes mellitus or exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI , heart conditions including dyspnea shallow breathing or cardiomyopathy weakening of the heart muscles , neurological problems such as epilepsy or seizures, respiratory issues including pneumonia or kennel cough, skin conditions like mange or yeast infections, urinary issues including cystitis inflammation of the bladder and stones in the urethra to name a few. Socialization: Belgian Malinois German shepherd mix is a great breed for those who want to have a working dog. They are very active and need a lot of exercises. They also require good socialization. Proper socialization will help your dog be well-adjusted and friendly with other people and animals. It is important to begin socializing your Belgian Malinois German shepherd mix puppy as soon as possible. Start by introducing him to many different people, dogs, and places. Expose him to a variety of sights, sounds, and smells. Be sure to keep interactions positive and rewarding. Puppy class is a great place to start socializing with your pup. If you have an older Belgian Malinois German shepherd mix, it is never too late to socialize him. Just be sure to take it slowly and always keep things positive. You may want to consider enrolling him in a training class or taking him for walks in different areas. Potential of Belgian malinois german shepherd mix as a family pet: Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a potential family pet because of its friendly nature and intelligence. They can learn commands quickly and respond well to positive reinforcement. These dogs also have high energy levels and like to be active, so they need plenty of exercises. Suppose you are looking for a companion that will keep you active. In that case, a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix may be the perfect pet for you. When considering whether or not to adopt a Belgian Malinois german shepherd mix, it is important to remember that they can be quite destructive if left alone for long periods. They may chew on furniture or other belongings if they become bored. Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes also require regular grooming to keep their coats healthy and free of mats. However, as a general rule, these dogs are very active and high-energy. They require a lot of exercise and plenty of stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved. Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes are also very intelligent and trainable dogs. They are often used as working dogs in various fields, such as law enforcement, search and rescue, and military operations. With the right training and plenty of exercises, Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes can make great family pets. As with all mixes, this is not set in stone and can be somewhat different depending on which traits are more dominant in each individual dog. The Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is a very smart and highly trainable dog. They are built for high-energy performance activities, thus their temperament is also driven to achieve much. This makes them a strong candidate as working dogs because of their strength at such a young age, but it can also be their biggest downfall. Working with your dog from an early age will teach ideal behaviors that you desire from them, whether they are obedient or perform work-related tasks. Families with small children or elderly members should carefully consider whether a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is the right pet for them. Pros of having Belgian malinois german shepherd mix: 1. They are highly intelligent and can be easily trained. They are very loyal and protective of their family and home. They are active and need plenty of exercises, making them great companions for outdoor activities. They have a high energy level and are always ready for a good game or a walk. They are good with children and make great family pets. Cons of having Belgian malinois german shepherd mix: 1. They require a lot of attention and training, so they may not be the best choice for those who work long hours or cannot spend enough time with their pet. They can be quite territorial and bark or growl at strangers or other animals. They need a lot of exercise and can be quite destructive if not given enough activity. They are not always suitable for households with small children due to their large size and active nature. They can be quite expensive to purchase and maintain. So, whether you are thinking about getting a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix as a pet or are just curious about what they are like, these are some of the things you should know. They make wonderful companions and are sure to provide many hours of enjoyment for their families. Still, they do require a lot of care and commitment. If you think you can meet these needs and provide a loving home for a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix, then they may be the perfect pet for you. The most common colors for this mix are yellow, black, tan, and red. This is a relatively new breed of dog; it was developed in the late s by crossing German Shepherds with Belgian sheepdogs. These dogs were originally bred to herd cattle and pull carts filled with milk, which they could do very efficiently due to their superior instincts towards herding and working with humans. Belgian malinois german shepherd mix dogs have a high rate of intelligence. They are quite easy to train, making them prized by many dog owners. Belgian malinois german shepherd mix dogs often become very attached to their families and protective of them, which can cause problems if someone is attempting to harm the family in any way. These breeds require a great deal of attention from their human companions. However, they can still be left alone for short periods every day so long as they receive enough training and exercise to keep them happy during their time by themselves. Although this breed does enjoy playing with other animals, it is recommended that even well-mannered Belgian malinois german shepherd mix dogs not be allowed to mix with other animals. At the same time, they are still puppies, as this can lead to fighting and injury. Despite their working heritage, these dogs are comfortable in almost any kind of environment; they do very well in hot or cold climates both indoors and out and enjoy spending time alone or hanging around with the rest of the family. Belgian malinois german shepherd mix-breed dogs have a high prey drive and should not be left unsupervised around smaller pets that might look like prey, such as rabbits, hamsters, mice, guinea pigs, etc. While training is important for every dog breed, it is especially important for Belgian malinois german shepherd mix puppies so that you can ensure they develop good habits and understand their place in the family hierarchy. This is a great breed but does require a lot of attention and training. With the right preparation, you and your Belgian malinois german shepherd mix can live happily together for many years to come! Final Thoughts: Overall, Belgian malinois german shepherd mixes are great pets. They are intelligent, active, and loyal, and they make wonderful companions for people of all ages. However, they do require a lot of attention and training, so be sure you are prepared to commit to taking care of one before bringing one home. They can be quite expensive to purchase and maintain, but the benefits of having one definitely outweigh the costs. If you think a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix is right for you, then go ahead and adopt one today! FAQs: Is a Belgian malinois german shepherd mix the right pet for you? However, remember that these dogs can be quite large and powerful, so make sure you have enough space for them and that everyone in your household is prepared to handle training and exercise them properly. Are German Shepherd and Belgian Malinois a good mix? The Malinois X hybrid canine, being the result of breeding a Belgian Malinois with German Shepherd Dogs, has made this loyal dog one that will fit into any lifestyle. Post navigation. The positives include intelligence, determination, and loyalty. At the same time, German Malinois can be standoffish, potential to be aggressive, and less suited for young children, much like the Belgian Malinois. With this in mind, you need to weigh whether or not a German Malinois is right for you very carefully. If you are debating getting this unique breed, keep reading. In this article, we help you decide if this dog is right for you, or if you should opt for a less energetic dog. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. German Malinois Puppies Image Credit: Alina Ziabrieva, Shutterstock German Malinois puppies are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them a popular choice for those looking for a highly active and intelligent companion. German Malinois puppies are full of energy and require plenty of physical and mental stimulation to help them reach their full potential. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop into confident, well-rounded dogs. In terms of appearance, German Malinois puppies can resemble either parent breed, and their coat color and pattern can vary. They typically have a muscular and athletic build, with a medium-length, dense coat that requires regular grooming. Feeding a high-quality diet and providing plenty of exercise will help them grow into healthy, active dogs. With proper care and attention, German Malinois puppies can grow into loyal, loving companions that form strong bonds with their owners. German Malinois is not suitable for many homes, especially homes with young children. These dogs are also not great for homes that already have other pets. Are These Dogs Good for Families? German Malinois tend to take after the Belgian Malinois, making them a bit more aggressive, but their temperament can be unpredictable. This is why socialization at a young age is important. Some German Malinois can be less tolerant of young children due to their intense herding and hunting instincts. At the same time, other German Malinois take after the German Shepherds, making them relatively calm and tolerant around young children. Because this breed is unpredictable and their tendencies are not shown until they are adults, it is best to avoid getting a German Malinois if you are considering having children or already have young children. Older children will be fine with this breed since German Malinois get along just fine with adults. Although certain German Malinois can be okay with children and other family members, most are not compatible with other pets. Their herding and hunting tendencies mean that they want to herd or hunt small animals, including cats. With other dogs, they can be aggressive and incredibly territorial. This is especially true if both dogs are males and were not introduced to one another at a very young age. For these reasons, a German Malinois is best as the sole pet in the household. Its high energy means that it is best suited for homes with large yards and people who are very active. For this reason, you should feed your German Malinois about 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day. Select a dog food specifically for large dogs and dogs of its specific age group. This breed has a high activity level, meaning they need about 14 miles of walking a week and minutes of playtime a day. Incorporating mental activities into their playtime can make a huge difference. For example, playing fetch, retrieving, and tracking can be a great choice for keeping your German Malinois active. If you are unable to commit to minutes of playtime a day, do not get a German Malinois. This breed needs a whole lot of activity. If you do not exercise it properly, the dog can become mischievous and bored, making you an irresponsible dog owner. The best way to train a German Malinois is by using positive reinforcement but having a strong and firm voice at the same time. By integrating positive reinforcement with a firm voice, the German Malinois will start to listen since you show the dog you mean business. Since this breed is eager to please, using the right technique can make training a breeze. These dogs have coarse fur and shed. This dog breed often develops too much earwax, leading to infections and other ear issues. Cleaning out the earwax frequently will prevent these issues from occurring. As a result, German Malinois are really healthy too. These dogs can live quite a few years and live so healthily. Providing your German Malinois with proper exercise, food, and grooming will help prevent the most common health conditions for this breed. Minor Conditions. The mix will be considered a medium-large breed. Colors can include black, beige, brown, and other off-tan colorations. Both parent dog breeds shed heavily year-round and seasonally, so the same is expected from the mix. Regular brushing and occasional grooming will be needed. Lifespan: 14 years on average. These high-energy dogs will form very close bonds with their owners. Needs LOTS of exercise. This mix combines two of the ultimate working dogs that were bred specifically with working abilities in mind. Read on to learn what to expect if you decide to add a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix dog to your family, and how to choose a healthy puppy. Suddenly, everyone wanted a Belgian Malinois! German Shepherds are also well known for their talents as protection, military, police, and security K-9s. Their diverse abilities make these dogs a top pick for families who like to have a watchdog in the home. These breeds also share similar origin stories as working livestock herding and guarding dogs. These pups look very much alike, except when it comes to hair type and color. After many years of serving as a herding and livestock guarding dog, the Belgian Malinois became one of the first dog breeds to work with police officers in the New York City K-9 corps. The German Shepherd breed came into existence in Germany under the guidance of a retired cavalry officer named Captain Max von Stephanitz. Rather, he dreamed of creating the perfect working and herding dog. Despite this, these dogs ended up serving in the German Army, and later in the American police and military forces. Today, the Belgian Malinois is now the 43rd most popular purebred dog breed out of breeds registered through the American Kennel Club. The German Shepherd maintains a firm grip on the number two spot on that same list. This is not always the case when a new hybrid dog breed is being developed. However, the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd share similar breed developments and backgrounds. Science Alert ranks the Belgian Malinois as 22nd out of 79 purebred dog breeds in terms of overall intelligence. In practical terms, this means that the Malinois can learn a new command in between 5 and 15 tries. This has made them notoriously stubborn. But this independence is a trait you want in a breed that is meant to guard and protect you during uncertain circumstances. German Shepherd Science Alert ranks the German Shepherd dog as the 3rd most intelligent of all dog breeds out of 79 purebred dog breeds. Dogs that rank in the top 10 are said to be able to learn a new command in less than five tries, and recall it perfectly 95 percent of the time. Like the Belgian Malinois, the German Shepherd has a high prey drive and chase instinct. This is due to their livestock herding and guarding dog background. Both parent dogs of the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix are intensely people-focused. With the advent of modern hybrid or crossbred breeding programs, more and more dog owners want to own a dog with a hypoallergenic coat. While this is understandable for people with pet allergies, unfortunately, there is no such dog. All dogs can cause allergies. This is because the protein allergen is not in the hair but rather in the saliva, skin, and urine of the dog. But when it comes to the Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix, this is a non-issue since both parent dog breeds shed heavily year-round and seasonally. Belgian Malinois The Belgian Malinois has a short coat with two layers. The under layer near the skin is thick, soft, warm, and insulating. The outer layer is slightly longer, coarser, and naturally water repellant. Bathing too frequently can destroy the protective natural oils on the outer layer of the coat. Belgian Malinois coats are fairly self-maintaining and only need weekly brushing to stay looking neat and healthy. The Belgian Malinois will shed year-round. During this period, the coat will shed out in chunks for several weeks. German Shepherd The German Shepherd dog has a medium-length double layer coat. Like the Belgian Malinois, this double layer coat serves two purposes: protection and insulation. Like the Mal, the German Shepherd will go through a seasonal coat blow that helps the dog adjust to changing temperatures. This will help replenish the coat as well. But other than regular brushing and the occasional bath, the GSD coat is fairly self-maintaining. The adult Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix will typically have a double layer shedding coat that requires only very basic care. But just how large will your crossbred puppy grow up to be? The Belgian Malinois typically weighs between 40 and 80 pounds and stands 22 to 26 inches tall measured from the base of paw pads to tops of shoulders. The German Shepherd typically weighs between 50 and 90 pounds and stands 22 to 26 inches tall. However, gender can influence these sizes. You can normally subtract 10 to 15 pounds and two inches from these estimates if your german malinois puppy is a female. If you need a more exact number, the best way to plan for your crossbred german malinois puppies adult size is to learn the vital statistics of each parent breeds. Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix Exercise and Training The most challenging aspect of owning a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix will be training your dog, and providing sufficient daily exercise and activity. Based on the breed history of each parent breeds , we know that both breeds are considered working dogs. As such, they have the typical high energy and activity levels of herding dog breeds. Both dogs are highly intelligent, able to quickly learn new skills, and very keen to have some kind of job or activity to do. Starting puppy socialization and training right away — ideally from your first day at home together will be important. This is true for all dogs but is especially the case for the German Malinois when considering its unique mix of traits, and powerful size. Socialization exercises with new people and dogs will help your German Malinois puppies learn to differentiate between friendly strangers and actual threats. As PetMD points out, you will need to wait until your Belgian Malinois German Shepherd puppy has finished growing before doing any strenuous training or exercise. Your veterinarian will need to do X-rays of the long leg bones. This is to confirm that the soft growth plates have closed and hardened, which indicates your dog has reached its full adult height. If your dog exercises too vigorously before they are finished growing, this can cause lifelong injuries to the bones, tissues, and ligaments. Once your Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix has finished growing, it will be safe to let it run, plan, and exercise as much as they want. This is a great time to enroll your dog in K-9 training or in canine athletics. Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Health and Life Expectancy One of the biggest drivers for modern crossbreeding programs is to improve the genetic diversity of many purebred dog breeds. The Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd dog breed lines both have some serious genetic heritable health issues. These have arisen because of hyper-focused breeding for appearance or show standards. So you always want to make sure that any breeder you work with has done the required and recommended pre-breeding health tests on the parent breeds. We chose the Shepinois name for it's simplicity. But they are truly the best of both breeds. They typically have the physical characteristics of the Malinois, they tend to be flat coated with a fawn or mahogany coloring with a a dark overlay. The weight for a female is typically pounds and a male is pds. They have the extreme good health and orthopedics of the malinois as well. They have the athleticism of the Malinois, but not the extreme drive. They are good natured and have the general disposition of a German shepherd. They tend to be a little more level headed like the German shepherd. They are not as overly active as the malinois and they are much easier to live with as a house pet. They make for an excellent family dog and companion, but also a great protection dog or competition dog. They are a loyal and devoted companion. They are good with children; they do well with other animals. They are very affectionate and love to be the center of attention. They thrive in a family environment and are very protective of their home and family. They love to travel and be a part of any activity that involves their family. They are very quick to pick up anything and tend to train at the level of a malinois. They are more like the malinois in their training ability and pick up any type of training very quickly. They also have the tenacity of the malinois and can work for long periods of time without becoming winded. They need daily exercise not only to stay healthy, but to burn off energy. The Shepinois needs exercise daily, not just once a week. The Shepinois is quick to alert you of any strangers or visitors making them excellent, loyal Protection dog. We feel that the overall genetics behind both breeds in very important to making sure this cross turns out the best of both breeds, although the malinois breed does not tend to have hip and elbow problems, we still do the hip and elbow certification on all of our dogs and by doing so we hope to continue to produce the best quality of both breeds as well as this new cross. At Camelot Shepherds we believe in orthopedic soundness, solid nerve and overall temperament. We want your family companion to live a long and healthy life and to bring you many years of love and dedication. Here are some pictures of the previous Shepinois puppies: About.

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how much is a american bulldog puppy - If you do not live in an area that has German Shepherd breeders that are currently available, you can check out your local pet store and see if they have any German Shepherds for sale. Many breeders are selling German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN and offer a variety of choices. These puppy mills also offer you the opportunity to visit the premises where the puppies will be raised before you purchase them. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN are usually well cared for, but you should know what to expect when you visit the premises. For starters, the puppy mill will not keep puppies in small cages as they would be in a reputable breeder. Instead, they will often house them in large crates that are very uncomfortable for the puppies. These puppies will also be confined to a large crate until the new owner has moved in. They will not be able to go outside with you or any of your family members until their new home is ready. If you choose to get German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN from a puppy mill, there are several things that you should watch out for. For starters, they may be using antibiotics and steroids to treat their dogs. The best thing that you can do if you decide that you want to buy German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN from puppy mills is to find one near the area. A reputable breeder will not have puppies that are suffering from illnesses and diseases, and they will not use sick or injured animals to train their dogs. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN also come from a shelter that has a history of adopting out dogs who need a home. Puppies who have been adopted by shelters have been exposed to many types of environments, which helps them to be healthy and happy. Another reason why you should consider buying German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN is because of the quality of care they will receive once they are brought into your home. These dogs will receive more attention than they would from any pet store owner. They will be trained by experienced, well-trained handlers, who can help to guide them through their early years with you and their owner. If you can provide the type of care that is necessary for your German Shepherd, then this type of dog is the right choice for you. The dogs who are well cared for will have a long, happy life. If you want to learn more about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN, then the American Kennel Club website can provide all of the information you need. If you are considering this option, you should look into German Shepherd puppies that are for sale near you. German Shepherd puppies are often very sweet-natured animals that make very good pets. They are intelligent and eager to please. But you will need to keep some things in mind if you decide to adopt one of these dogs. German Shepherd Puppies for Sale in Clarksville, TN is usually from breeders that are less than scrupulous about screening the dogs properly before letting them into the breeding facilities. German Shepherds have a reputation as being aggressive and difficult to train. And you may not know if the dog is a purebred German Shepherd or a mix because there are mixed breeds on the market as well. You need to ask the breeder a lot of questions. Get to know the person who is selling the puppies. Talk to the staff working there and ask lots of questions. Have a pen and paper handy to take notes on the answers. If you have a good relationship with the people working there, they should be willing to answer your questions. And never buy a puppy from a pet shop. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN should come from a licensed breeder, not an individual pet store. Find out how long the breeder has been in business. Ask him why he thinks he has breeding dogs in his business. He should be honest with you, and you should be honest with him about your knowledge of breeding dogs. You also need to know if the breeder is a good judge of his breeding dogs. He should take them to dog shows, and he should also judge them when they are under stress in their training trials. A good breeder will spend a lot of time with his breeding dogs and work with them and not leave them in the care of others. He should be able to provide you with references that can tell you about his past dogs. Finally, ask yourself if you think German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TN are a good choice for you. They have big beautiful eyes, and they make wonderful watchdogs as well. They are also gentle with their master, and they love kids. German Shepherd puppies can also excel in agility, tracking, obedience, tracking, agility, and obedience. They have a very strong loyalty and they can be used as a service dogs for those with disabilities. Due to their high level of intelligence, they can learn up to commands. These commands include sit, stay, heel, come, and much more. So, if you want an active dog that will fit in your home and do what is expected of it then German shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson Texas would be the right breed for you. The training cost of these dogs will depend on the breed and the breeder that you choose to buy from. There are many breeds out there and each one has its price to pay. As a puppy, you may be able to get away with a training cost that is a little lower than the one for adult dogs. It all depends on the breeder and how much money they are willing to spend on your new family member. There are some things that you should consider when looking at German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TX. When you are buying one of these dogs, you want to look over the whole thing very carefully. There are a lot of variables that go into the pricing of these dogs. You need to think about the overall personality of the dog and what its behavior is like when it comes to other dogs and children. You also need to consider the age and the size of the puppy. You need to make sure that the puppy that you are going to purchase is going to fit in with the other dogs and children that you already have. Also, you are going to want to consider the living conditions that it will be living in when it arrives at your house. The more time you can spend with the dog before it is taken home the better chances you have of it settling in right. There are several different German Shepherd puppies that you can purchase in Jackson TX and finding one that is going to fit your particular needs the best will take some time. One of the easiest ways to find German Shepherd puppies for sale in Jackson TX is to visit your local pet store. You can talk to the employees there and ask them which dogs they have available for sale. They can also tell you the prices that are available and help lead you in the right direction as to where you should be looking. Some pet stores have a website that you can use to find out additional information. German Shepherd puppies for sale in Dallas and Houston are also easy to find. You can talk to local breeders to see if they have any German Shepherds for sale in your area. If you have a friend or family member who is interested in adopting one of these dogs, you can talk with them about finding a breeder in the area that can help get you started on your new dog adventure. This will allow you to go in and check them out before making the final decision. It is a good idea to bring a friend or family member so that you can help each other to look at the dogs. Also having a second person that can check the dog from the side view will make the decision a little easier. If you are willing to put in a little work and find the right place, you will be able to find the puppy of your dreams. Puppies that are bred properly can live for up to fourteen years. So if you are thinking of getting one of these dogs, talk to your vet and find out what kind of health issues you can expect. Then go ahead and start looking. Share this:. You other fluffers can't deny, When a dude walks in with a pretty smile on his face And no baggage on his plate- you get sprung! Who's looking for an emotionally available, monogamous man who is on the hunt for his one and only? He's the epitome of a tall, strong protector AND he has a sense of humor and soft side! He'll keep you laughing when your day was poopy by contorting himself into the most uncomfortable-looking sleep positions even AFTER you specially order him a giant, size-appropriate raised bed so that he DOESN'T have to lay on the concrete.He loves people and is tall enough to put his paws on your shoulder and lick your eyeball without stretching, so, you know- at least you'll never have to worry about your eyeliner running! Full disclosure- he really IS ginormous and looks like a cross between a fuzzy bear and a baby giraffe. He will need someone who is experienced with giant breed dogs and is willing to put him in his place when he needs it. He's housebroken and is good with humans of all sizes as long as they don't mind a gentle trampling on occasion. He sheds a generous amount on a daily basis, and you could probably knit sweaters for an entire Icelandic village with what he loses in a week, so his adopter will need to be willing to buy stock in ShopVac and lint rollers. He makes up for his "pet glitter" in blood pressure reduction by allowing you to give him all the belly rubs that your carpal tunnel allows. He's fully vetted and ready to blow the doors off this place on his way to his happy ever after! Considering Rubble for adoption?

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how much is a american bulldog puppy - Ironically, tail is not just an insignificant part for animals. It is a functional part of their body. Some animals use their tails for holding onto tree branches, while some use their tail to shoo away insects. For German Shepherds, they use it not only for balancing but also for expressing their feelings. Introduction A standard German Shepherd tail length should be long enough that the tail end should reach the hock joint. It should be hanging with a slight curve like a cavalry sword when GSD is at rest. The curve should be emphasized, and tail should be raised when the dog is moving. Up and down tail positions show how much energy they have. For example, A German Shepherd wagging tail more towards the left side almost touching their bodies means they are nervous. How high they hold their tails, shows the mood they are in. So, the higher, the more motionless their tail is, the more they are feeling stressed and can be very unpredictable. Here are some tail positions, movements and what they mean. If a GSD wags its tail widely like mad, it means it is very happy. They usually do this to save energy. A GSD wagging its tail slowly is a sign of confusion. Just like a scared child hiding under the table, a scared GSD will hide its tail between its legs. Another meaning would be a plea not to be hurt. A tail positioned stiffly straight out of its body means the dog is ready to fight. A more aggressive GSD will move its tail high up and over its back to initiate a fight with another dog. Whenever A GSD will hang its tail low horizontally away from its body, it can be a sign of a calmness. They can be seen as if observing the surroundings. The higher the tail position of a GSD is, the more it asserts confidence as if telling the world it is the boss. Sometimes the tail can be seen curled. A GSD that holds its tail upright and stiff means they are the pack leader. They can be heard barking all the time, alerting their owners even on little things. It is amusing to see puppies or adult dogs chasing their tails. They try to catch their tails and even growl when they chance upon catching it. There are many factors contributing to this behavior. By simply analyzing the causes, owners can train their GSD to stop this behavior. Training them as a puppy is a good start. In adult GSDs, distraction can help. Lack of exercise and activity will cause them to chase their tails wider in circles and sometimes in eights. Genetics can also cause this behavior. The behavior might have been passed down by their parents to them. Stress and anxiety will make them chase their tail until they injure themselves. So it is very important to check for stress and anxiety triggers. Another inherited genetic fault that GSDs suffer from is the curled tail. A German Shepherd curled tail meaning it has a gay tail. Characterized by a tail that is carried higher than the horizontal level of the back, curling upwards, gay tail is a genetic fault. Since it is a genetic fault, chances of fixing it is next to nothing. Sadly, some owners and breeders will do anything for fame and money, so they will opt for surgery. Fortunately, not all German Shepherd puppy tail curls. For some it is just a mannerism that can be eliminated by training. Clicker training method can be used to train GSD show dogs to hold their tails in a particular position when standing. This method will need time and patience from the owner. It can also be hounded by a number of health-related issues, since they are genetically predisposed. Anal Furunculosis A chronic inflammatory disease of the skin under the tail and around the anus, it is usually caused by the inefficient response of the immune system and genetics. But how GSDs carry their tail and the thick coat around the anus may be partly responsible. To avoid such disease being passed down, breeding should only be between unaffected GSDs. German Shepherd hair loss tail, Itching and chewing are caused by allergies which may eventually become infected if left untreated. Cuts and scrapes or even dog bites on the tail are all possible reasons for infection, too. Topical antibiotics look enticing for GSDs that they will keep on licking their wounds. Oral antibiotics administered in proper dosage will be the best option. It is usually caused by overwork, injuries or spending too much time playing in cold water. Tail muscles become swollen and painful within 24 hours following exposure to freezing cold water. Long term confinement in cramped spaces may also trigger this syndrome. Prognosis for Limber Tail Syndrome is good as it will go away on its own. It serves as a tool of communication to their owners, helps stabilize them in water and balances them when walking. Owners may encounter some German Shepherd tail problems, some may be genetic and some may be acquired. Regular visits to the vet will ensure GSD tail health in check. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. It is big, bushy, long and sometimes curly. But it is there for more than just looks. It helps them balance, move around, and communicate with other animals and people. You can tell a lot about a GSD just from the position of their tail. From the happy wag to the embarrassed tail between the legs, it is a great way to tell how your dog is feeling. So what are the different German Shepherd tail types and what do they all mean? German Shepherd Tail Types: Similar to German Shepherd coat types , there can be three German Shepherd tail types depending on the length of their coat. It can be anywhere from inches depending on the specific dog and their genetics. According to show standards, the length should at least make it to the hock joint or ankle of the dog. It is bushy and has a sable-shape with a slow curve that is similar to the sword. This type of tail should not exceed the top of the back. Yes, a purebred German Shepherd can have a curly tail. Though it is considered a fault according to the breed standards , it is not uncommon for a GSD to have a tailpiece that curls more than the standard sabre-shape. If the German Shepherd is purebred, the curly tail could be the result of domestication over thousands of years. This is known as juvenilization or neoteny. As dogs were domesticated over the years, more resources became available which meant less competition. Because aggression was decreased, certain physical features became neotenized resulting in floppy ears and curly tails. It could have a hint of DNA from another dog breed such as an Akita. A DNA test is the only way to rule out the latter. For example, scientists have found that dogs wagging their tailpiece to the right are happy or excited and dogs wagging their tailpiece to the left are anxious or nervous. Additionally, they have more recently found that other dogs can recognize their tail wag and can tell what type of mood they are in just based on the tail wag alone. Aside from their right and left tail wag, there are several other positions to look for. Here are some common positions and what they mean. Between the legs: This means the GSD is afraid or scared. They could also be ashamed because they did something wrong and got into trouble. For example, if they peed in the house or rummaged through the trash while their owner was out. Down: This means they are feeling sad or unhappy, especially if their head is down as well. They may also submitting to you as the pack leader. Pointing straight up: The GSD is most likely mad or upset and possibly aggressive. The higher up the tail, the more assertive they are. They may be close to reacting to whatever they feel threatened by. Relaxed and out: This means that they are happy and content with their surroundings. This is a good sign that the dog is feeling at home and loves the people he is with. Straight out: This is a sign that the German Shepherd is apprehensive or worried about something close by. Wagging broad and fast: This means the GSD is happy and excited to see you. He may be full of energy and ready to play. This dog shows us the definition of happy tail wagging after finally recognizing his owner who had lost a significant amount of weight. Wagging slowly: This means that the German Shepherd is assessing the situation and is unsure yet whether or not things are safe. If a dog is holding its tailpiece in any of the positions that could signal he is aggressive, anxious or nervous around someone, grab on to his leash until he calms down. One of them is almost solely associated with GSDs. The repeated blows can cause the wound to worsen over time. It can become very painful for your dog should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage to the tail. Usually, a bandage will be wrapped around the tail to allow healing but antibiotics or medication may be necessary. In the worst case scenario, part of the tail may have to be amputated to avoid chronic pain and a continued infection. Hot Spots: Hot spots, also called moist dermatitis, are infected areas on the body or tail that result in bald spots or hair loss. They usually begin from allergies such as insect bites. Once the area becomes inflamed, the dog will attempt to lick and chew the infected area. This causes them to lose the hair surrounding that area. They can start off small and progressively get bigger and bigger the more the dog licks and chews the area. To treat at home, you can carefully clip the fur surrounding the infected area and then clean with a gentle and safe solution. A follow up with the local vet can help determine what allergy is causing the reaction. Often times a short-acting corticosteroid, like prednisone, is given through injection for treatment. Limber Tail Syndrome: Limber tail syndrome is a muscle disorder that causes most of the tailpiece to go limp. It is most common in sporting dogs but can be found in working dogs as well. The majority of the time it is caused from a dog swimming in water that is too cold. However, occasionally it can happen to a dog from water that is too warm. At the moment there is no known cause, but one theory is that the cold water causes the area surrounding the spinal cord to shrink limiting mobility in the tail. A GSD with this syndrome will have a tailpiece that is horizontal for approximately 4 inches and then goes straight down. It is painful around the base of the tail. It can be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs and dogs usually recover within a couple of days of rest. Masses or Tumors: Certain types of masses can grow on the body or tail. They can include several different kinds of growths from harmless cysts to life-threatening tumors. The first of these possibilities is an abscess. It usually forms when a wound becomes infected. The result is a soft, warm lump that is swollen and painful to the touch. Occasionally they will rupture and drain leaving a red bump that is raised above the skin. They can be treated with a warm compress to improve the blood flow but they must be drained by a vet to completely heal. The second possibility is a cyst. A sebaceous cyst is pretty common in dogs. It is a small benign growth that is painless and non life-threatening. This fluid filled sac is filled with sebum which is an oily secretion that keeps dogs skin moist and waterproof. This type of growth normally looks like a small volcano on the surface of the skin. Often times it will resolve on its own but it could also wall off or rupture. If it ruptures above the skin, the area should be cleaned and disinfected several times a day. If it ruptures below the skin, a vet should be seen to assess the situation. Last but not least, the growth could be a tumor. It could be either benign or malignant depending on the cause. Parasites: Certain parasites can cause issues with the tail, specifically heart worms, hook worms, round worms, tape worms, and whip worms. Similar to hot spots, you may notice bald spots or hair loss around the base of the tail. The worms can irritate and inflame the area around the anus causing the dog to lick or chew his rear end area or tailpiece. Aside from vaccinations, there are several things you can do to help avoid those pesky parasites. Perianal Fistula: Perianal fistula, also known as anal furunculosis, is a nasty medical condition that is common in German Shepherds. It is characterized by tunnel-like lesions, sometimes puss filled, surrounding the anal area. It is very discomforting for a GSD and causes a lot of pain around the anal region, especially when they are defecating. Along with the pain of going potty, they may have chronic diarrhea. There are several symptoms including carrying his tail real low, a foul odor, blood in the stools, struggling to defecate, crying out during potty, and excessive biting and licking of the tail. The exact cause is unknown but the theory is that it starts with the oil and sweat glands being inflamed and then progresses from there. This condition is serious and painful and a vet should be seen immediately to diagnose the issue. They will most likely perform a physical and rectal exam to determine the cause. They will most likely do a biopsy of the cells surrounding the anal area. Unfortunately, 8 out of 10 times, this condition recurs so treatment is absolutely necessary. There are several treatments including antibiotics, diet enhancements, and oral medications like cyclosporine and ketoconazole. Treatment usually lasts around 2 months with a major chance for recurrence in most dogs. In Closing: The German Shepherd definitely has one of the coolest tail types of any dog breed. The sabre-like sword shape only adds to the appeal of their already beautiful and majestic look. You can learn a lot from their tail as far as health and communication. Learn how to read their mood using body language and your bond will grow stronger. If you notice any of the aforementioned tail problems, make sure to contact your local vet! Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! What is your favorite tail type on a dog? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal experience! Share this:. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. Basically, this is a "picture" in text only of what the "ideal" German Shepherd Dog should be. Keep this in mind when observing your German Shepherd puppy and comparing it to the GSD Breed Standard - younger dogs obviously will not show the same level of maturity and perfection as their older, mature dog counterparts. Even so, keep in mind that the GSD Standard is merely a written guideline. Your German Shepherd Dog may not have the perfect ear set or the perfect gait but if your German Shepherd Dog is your favorite companion, then who is to say anything more. Tail carriage , coat color , ear size and all the other outer qualities have no impact on the German Shepherd Dogs working ability as detailed in the GSD standard. GSD's are well balanced, with harmonious development of the forequarter and hindquarter. Also, per the GSD Standard, the German Shepherd Dog breed is longer than tall, deep-bodied, and presents an outline of smooth curves rather than angles. The German Shepherd looks substantial and not spindly, giving the impression, both at rest and in motion, of muscular fitness and nimbleness without any look of clumsiness or soft living. The ideal German Shepherd is stamped with a look of quality and nobility difficult to define, but unmistakable when present. Secondary sex characteristics of the German Shepherd breed are strongly marked, and every animal gives a definite impression of masculinity or femininity, according to its sex as outlined in the GSD Standard. German Shepherd Size, Proportion, Substance The desired height for German Shepherd males, in the GSD Standard, at the top of the highest point of the shoulder blade, is 24 to 26 inches; and for German Shepherd bitches, 22 to 24 inches. The GSD standard length is measured from the point of the prosternum or breastbone to the rear edge of the pelvis, the ischial tuberosity. The German Shepherd's desirable long proportion is not derived from a long back, but from overall length with relation to height, which is achieved by length of forequarter and length of withers and hindquarter, viewed from the side. The German Shepherd Dog breed expression is keen, intelligent and composed. Eyes of medium size, almond shaped, set a little obliquely and not protruding. The German Shepherd Dog color is as dark as possible. German Shepherd Dog ears are moderately pointed, in proportion to the skull, open toward the front, and carried erect when at attention, the ideal carriage being one in which the center lines of the ears, viewed from the front, are parallel to each other and perpendicular to the ground. Seen from the front the German Shepherd forehead is only moderately arched, and the skull slopes into the long, wedge-shaped muzzle without abrupt stop. The German Shepherd muzzle is long and strong, and the GSD topline is parallel to the topline of the skull. Per the standard, the nose must be black. A German Shepherd Dog with a nose that is not predominantly black must be disqualified. The lips are firmly fitted. German Shepherd's jaws are strongly developed. Teeth in number upper and 22 lower-are strongly developed and meet in a scissors bite in which part of the inner surface of the upper incisors meet and engage part of the outer surface of the lower incisors. An overshot jaw or a level bite is undesirable. An undershot jaw is a breed disqualifying fault. Any missing teeth other than first premolars is a serious fault. German Shepherd Neck, Topline, Body The German Shepherd's neck is strong and muscular, clean-cut and relatively long, proportionate in size to the head and without loose folds of skin. When the German Shepherd is at attention or excited, the dog's head is raised and the neck carried high; otherwise typical carriage of the GSDs head is forward rather than up and but little higher than the top of the shoulders, particularly in motion. The back is straight, very strongly developed without sag or roach, and relatively short. The whole structure of the German Shepherd Dog's body gives an impression of depth and solidity without bulkiness. Chest commencing at the prosternum, it is well filled and carried well down between the dog's legs. The GSD standard further states that the chest is deep and capacious, never shallow, with ample room for the dog's lungs and heart, carried well forward, with the prosternum showing ahead of the shoulder in profile. German Shepherd Dog Ribs Well sprung and long, neither barrel-shaped nor too flat, and carried down to a sternum which reaches to the elbows. Correct ribbing allows the dogs elbows to move back freely when the German Shepherd is at a trot. Too round causes interference and throws the elbows out; too flat or short causes pinched elbows. Ribbing is carried well back so that the German Shepherds loin is relatively short. Abdomen-firmly held and not paunchy. The bottom line is only moderately tucked up in the loin. GSD Loin Viewed from the top, broad and strong. Undue length between the last rib and the thigh, when viewed from the side, is undesirable. German Shepherd Tail Bushy, with the last vertebra extended at least to the hock joint. It is set smoothly into the croup and low rather than high. At rest, the German Shepherd's tail hangs in a slight curve like a saber. A slight hook- sometimes carried to one side is faulty only to the extent that it mars general appearance. When the German Shepherd Dog is excited or in motion, the curve is accentuated and the dogs tail raised, but it should never be curled forward beyond a vertical line. German Shepherd Dog's tails that are too short, or with clumpy ends due to ankylosis, are serious faults. German Shepherd Forequarters The German Shepherd's shoulder blades are long and obliquely angled, laid on flat and not placed forward. The upper arm joins the shoulder blade at about a right angle. Both the upper arm and the shoulder blade are well muscled on the German Shepherd. The dog's forelegs, viewed from all sides, are straight and the bone oval rather than round. The German Shepherd's pasterns are strong and springy and angulated at approximately a degree angle from the vertical. Dewclaws on the forelegs may be removed, but are normally left on. The GSD's feet are short, compact with toes well arched, pads thick and firm, nails short and dark. German Shepherd Hindquarters The whole German Shepherd assembly of the thigh, viewed from the side, is broad, with both upper and lower thigh well muscled, forming as nearly as possible a right angle. The upper thigh bone parallels the shoulder blade while the lower thigh bone parallels the upper arm. The metatarsus the unit between the hock joint and the foot is short, strong and tightly articulated. The dogs dewclaws, if any, should be removed from the hind legs. Feet as in front. The dog's outer coat should be as dense as possible, hair straight, harsh and lying close to the body. A slightly wavy outer coat, often of wiry texture, on the German Shepherd is permissible. The GSD head, including the inner ear and foreface, and the legs and paws are covered with short hair, and the neck with longer and thicker hair. The rear of the dog's forelegs and hind legs has somewhat longer hair extending to the pastern and hock, respectively. Faults in the German Shepherd's coat per the GSD Standard include soft, silky, too long outer coat, woolly, curly, and open coat. Strong rich colors are preferred. Pale, washed-out colors and blues or livers are serious faults in the German Shepherd. A white German Shepherd dog must be disqualified. German Shepherd Gait A German Shepherd Dog is a trotting dog, and its structure has been developed to meet the requirements of its work. General Impression of a German Shepherd Dog The German Shepherd breeds gait is outreaching, elastic, seemingly without effort, smooth and rhythmic, covering the maximum amount of ground with the minimum number of steps. At a walk a German Shepherd Dog covers a great deal of ground, with long stride of both hind legs and forelegs. At a trot the German Shepherd covers still more ground with even longer stride, and moves powerfully but easily, with coordination and balance so that the gait appears to be the steady motion of a well-lubricated machine. The GSD's feet travel close to the ground on both forward reach and backward push. In order to achieve ideal movement of this kind, there must be good muscular development and ligamentation in the German Shepherd Dog. The hindquarters deliver, through the back, a powerful forward thrust which slightly lifts the whole animal and drives the body forward. Reaching far under, and passing the imprint left by the front foot, the hind foot takes hold of the ground; then hock, stifle and upper thigh come into play and sweep back, the stroke of the hind leg finishing with the foot still close to the ground in a smooth follow-through. The overreach of the hindquarter usually necessitates one hind foot passing outside and the other hind foot passing inside the track of the forefeet, and such action is not faulty unless the locomotion is crabwise with the German Shepherd's body sideways out of the normal straight line. Transmission The typical smooth, flowing German Shepherd Dog gait is maintained with great strength and firmness of back. The whole effort of the GSD's hindquarter is transmitted to the forequarter through the loin, back and withers. At full trot, the German Shepherd's back must remain firm and level without sway, roll, whip or roach. Unlevel topline with withers lower than the hip is a breed fault. To compensate for the forward motion imparted by the hindquarters, the shoulder should open to its full extent. The GSD Standard states that the German Shepherd Dog's forelegs should reach out close to the ground in a long stride in harmony with that of the hindquarters. The GSD does not track on widely separated parallel lines, but brings the feet inward toward the middle line of the body when trotting, in order to maintain balance. The feet track closely but do not strike or cross over. Viewed from the front, the front legs function from the shoulder joint to the pad in a straight line. Viewed from the rear, the German Shepherd hind legs function from the hip joint to the pad in a straight line. Faults of gait, whether from front, rear or side, are to be considered very serious faults according to the GSD Standard. German Shepherd Dog Temperament The German Shepherd breed has a distinct personality marked by direct and fearless, but not hostile, expression, self-confidence and a certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. According to the GSD Standard, the dog must be approachable, quietly standing its ground and showing confidence and willingness to meet overtures without itself making them. The German Shepherd is poised, but when the occasion demands, eager and alert; both fit and willing to serve in its capacity as companion, watchdog, blind leader, herding dog, or guardian, whichever the circumstances may demand. The GSD must not be timid, shrinking behind its master or handler; it should not be nervous, looking about or upward with anxious expression or showing nervous reactions, such as tucking of tail, to strange sounds or sights. Lack of confidence under any surroundings is not typical of good character. Any of the above deficiencies in character which indicate shyness must be penalized as very serious faults per the GSD Standard- and any German Shepherd exhibiting pronounced indications of these must be excused from the ring. It must be possible for the judge to observe the teeth and to determine that both testicles are descended. The ideal dog is a working animal with an incorruptible character combined with body and gait suitable for the arduous work that constitutes the dog's primary purpose. German Shepherd's with noses not predominantly black. Undershot jaw. Docked tail. White dogs. Any dog that attempts to bite the judge. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart. You owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion" -- Unknown Sign up for promotions, news, discounts, and the chance to win prizes for you and your German Shepherd E-mail Address. Unlike some breeds, they carry it low naturally, and an agitated, swishing tail is not ideal. If it curls under the dog, instead of being held out naturally straight from the body, the dog may be anxious and nervous. Long-coated Shepherds will have a fluffy plume, whereas short-coated dogs will have a sleeker tail. They will be between 18 and 36 months old before you can truly judge their tail type. While the dog is still developing, it can have a longer or shorter tail. Here are some common ones to look out for. High tails: usually a sign of alertness and excitement Hanging tails: troubled or submissive feelings Straighter than normal: exploring, but a little cautious Semi-raised and slowly wagging: usually happy Low and slow wagging: usually means unhappiness or concern Raised and fast wagging: Excitement Low and slow wagging: lack of enthusiasm, but responsive Very broad wagging: enthusiastic Short, curtailed wagging: can be a sign of anxiety Neutral: the dog is simply relaxed, alert, and happy Wiggly and loose: a happy puppy! It can be a sign of a mixed breed dog or a dog with a gene fault at the tail. Can Tails Get Sore? As an expressive part of the dog, tails can get sore or injured. However, these are some more severe problems to watch out for: Anal Furunculosis: This is a fancy term for an inflammatory skin disease around the tail and bum. Skin Infections: Like the rest of the body, the skin here can get infected. Because the skin is tight over the tailbone, it can be tough to treat too. Noted issues include chewing, allergy scratching, and itching. Dog bites can get infected too. Always treat skin issues at the tail seriously. The tail swells and is painful, it comes on about a day after exposure to freezing surfaces. Why do Dogs Chase Their Tails? Is It Bad? Pups and adult dogs alike may chase their tails simply for fun. But sometimes, it can turn into obsessive behavior. Luckily, training can help, especially with distraction and refocusing on toys or activities. What are the bad reasons for tail chasing? Small Spaces: The German Shepherd is a big dog, so narrow spaces can upset them. Stimulation: If your dog is under-exercised and stimulated, they can obsessively tail chase from boredom. Genetics: They may have the habit in their blood, or have learned it from parents. Stress: Anxiety can cause very dangerous tail chasing that often ends in injury, and you need to get to the root cause of the issue. It can cue you into their moods, and help you to avoid issues before they start. Likewise, knowing more about the breed standard for their expressive tail can help you identify potential issues with your dog and understand more about what makes them tick—or should we say, wag! Apart from having tail problems, the German Shepherds also develop other hereditary conditions. Some of the ailments are listed below. Dog Bites German Shepherds are playful and very energetic. They can quickly get hurt, and the tail is one part of the body that gets bitten readily. Dog bites should be cleaned and treated instantly. Megaesophagus Megaesophagus is a congenital disease characterized by an enlarged esophagus in dogs. It affects the esophageal motility that carries the food from mouth to stomach. Symptoms include vomiting, weight loss , anorexia, and bad breath. Tail-Wagging Related Injuries Generally, German Shepherds are tail-waggers, and if they get overjoyed, they may bang their tails on furniture or the wall. This can cause injuries like bruises, cuts, and even more seriously fractured tailbones. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive spinal cord disorder, specifically the part of the cord that carries information to the brain regarding the hind legs. The disease progresses to a case where the dog cannot walk. There is no cure most of the time, and the dog is put to rest. However, in a few rare cases, the condition is related to a lack of vitamin E or B.If this is the case, vitamin supplements might uphold the situation. Multifunctional Supplements for Dogs Buy at Amazon Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency is a pancreatic genetic disease in which the cells that produce digestive enzymes are damaged. As a result, the dog cannot digest and consume food. The first signs are gas, weight loss, loss of appetite, and change in stools. Next, the dog becomes lean and very hungry. With proper medication and guidance, most dogs recover. Zesty Paws Probiotics for Dogs Buy at Amazon Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus Commonly called bloat, a life-threatening disease that affects large, deep-chested dogs like German Shepherds, especially if fed one large meal a day, eat fast, drink large volumes of water after meal, and exercise vigorously after eating. Bloat occurs when the stomach is swollen due to pressure with gas or air and then twists. The dog cannot vomit to get rid of the excessive air in its stomach, and the average remit of blood to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure falls, and the dog goes into shock. Without prompt medical attention, the dog can expire. Suspect bloat if your dog has a swollen abdomen, is drooling excessively, and is retching without throwing up. They also may be restless, lethargic, depressed , and weak with a rapid heart rate. Getting your dog to the vet as soon as possible is crucial. Elbow Dysplasia This is a heritable disease common to large-sized dog breeds. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend medication to control the pain or even surgery to correct the problem. Elbow Hygroma An elbow hygroma is a fluid-filled usually yellow to red swelling occurring over the elbow joint. This problem is commonly seen in short-haired, large breed dogs such as German shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Mastiffs, and Great Danes. They can grow about two inches in diameter. Regardless of size, hygroma is generally non-painful. However, your dog may experience pain and discomfort if allowed to become large enough to prevent ulceration and abscessing. Your dog will probably not show any signs of illness or distress unless the hygroma becomes infected. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is an abnormality of the hip joint where the socket portion does not entirely fit the ball portion, resulting in an ascending risk for joint dislocation. Hip dysplasia may occur at birth or in early life. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Some dogs exhibit discomfort and lameness on one or both rear legs. Dogs who suffer from hip dysplasia should not be bred. Allergies Few German Shepherds suffer from various allergies, including contact and food allergies. Allergies in dogs are similar to those in humans. If your German Shepherd dog is scratching, licking at their paws, or rubbing their face, suspect that they have an allergy and take them to the vet. Bleeding Disorders The German Shepherd is prone to a bleeding disorder. After several diagnostic tests, the surgery is performed depending on the type. Hyperadrenocorticism This is caused by the malfunction of adrenal glands that produce excessive steroid hormones. The condition develops gradually and may be ignored, but one should be aware of the symptoms to prevent necessary damage. Symptoms include increased appetite, drinking, and urinating than usual. Cancer The German Shepherd has a higher life expectancy than the other breed, so they are prone to cancer as they grow older. Cancer can be cured by surgical removal of tumors and chemotherapy. However, it is essential not to ignore the symptoms and diagnose them earlier. Anal Gland Problems The area around the anus becomes inflamed or develops sores. The German Shepherd is more prone to this long-term disease. Symptoms include constipation, bleeding, licking of the area, straining or apparent pain when defecating, and smelly discharge around the rectum. Treatment includes lifelong medications and surgery. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a common disease among dogs. The German Shepherd has a higher vulnerability than other breeds. In diabetes, the dogs cannot metabolize blood sugar, causing increased drinking, eating, urination, and weight loss. Treatment includes medication and insulin injections. Cataracts It is a common cause of blindness in older German Shepherds. The lens of the eyes becomes cloudy and opaque. Treatment might require surgery for good results. Pannus Pannus is a disease in which the inflammatory cells penetrate the cornea the clear part of the eye and darken when exposed to ultraviolet rays, causing blindness. Epilepsy It is of three types—reactive, secondary, and primary or idiopathic epilepsy. Secondary attacks are due to a brain tumor, trauma, or stroke. If the above condition is not present, the disease is primary or idiopathic epilepsy. The signs of seizures begin as early as six months and three years of age. It causes tartar build-up on the teeth, infection of the gums and roots, and in extreme cases, loss of teeth and damage to the kidneys. Infections The German Shepherds are prone to certain bacterial and viral illnesses such as rabies, parvo, and distemper. Parasites The German Shepherds can be infested with worms , bugs, fleas, and ticks that can get into their systems through unclean water, contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. It can also be transmitted to you and your family. Symptoms include discomfort, pain, and even death. Obesity It is a significant health condition in German Shepherds. Excess weight can cause joint problems, back pain, digestive disorders, and heart disease. A healthy diet and regular exercise are the best ways to prevent this lifestyle disease. Spay or Neuter In spay , the ovaries or uterus in females is removed, and in the neuter, the testicles of the male dogs are removed. It is done to eliminate the possibility of pregnancy or fathering unwanted puppies and decrease the likelihood of certain types of cancer. Yes, they can have curly tails. Another genetic defect that the German Shepherds suffer from is the curled tail. It is carried higher, curving upwards. Since it is an inherited defect, it cannot be fixed right. Some pet owners may opt for surgeries. However, not all puppies have tail curls. It is just a mannerism that can be eliminated by training for some dogs. However, the owner may need patience and perseverance to train them. Suppose your German Shepherd has a curled tail. In that case, it depends on the gene play. Depending on the curve, it varies. If your pet has a highly curved tail reaching its back, it can be a mixed breed dog. This can sometimes be controversial. It is a process that must only be done on working dogs to protect them from injury. Since German Shepherds are often working dogs, many may doubt whether to dock their GSDs tail, but it is not needed. Some breeds that have their tails docked are Australian Shepherds and Corgis. This is done to safeguard their tails when working with livestock such as oxen and cows. However, German Shepherds work with sheep, ducks, goats, and geese. So there is only a negligible risk of injury to their tails. Generally, German Shepherds may chase their tails for fun; however, some reasons are listed below: Since German Shepherds are very active dogs, they may need mental stimulation. They may get anxious and chase their tails when they are not physically or mentally stimulated. Sometimes keeping German Shepherds in narrow spaces can cause uneasiness leading them to chase their tails. It can be an inherited trait from their parents in some cases. Keeping your dog away from stress is vital to avoid any undesirable behavior. German Shepherds love moving round and round by chasing their tails, and they growl in joy when they catch. However, it can result from their anxiousness, and they can hurt themselves while obsessively chasing their tails. German Shepherds are famous for their tails, apart from their fluffy stature. If your German Shepherd crosses this age and still has a less fluffy coat, that can probably be due to their bloodlines. A typical German Shepherd can take 18 — 36 months to complete their growth and fully mature. The tail will grow until your German Shepherd is two years old. However, it will start to change in eight weeks. Dog owners who would like to show off their German Shepherds at Dog Shows or Confirmation Competitions may be disqualified if they do not meet each performance guideline of their dog breed standard. There are many reasons why your German Shepherds bite their tails. Lots of different breeds do this at varying stages of their lives. They may bite their tail while playing or chasing their tails. If your German Shepherd has fleas or suffers from some allergy, they may bite. This is because many enthusiasts and dog experts have tried decoding the tail positions. It is anything from negative to positive feelings of the dog. So while next time you find any of them, please observe and note the new position that your dog does, which may be unfamiliar to you. Related Posts:. German shepherd tail positions April 11, "I wish my German Shepherd could speak to me; I would tell them how much I love them," say dog lovers, around the globe. Dog lovers also wish to understand their GSD's thoughts and emotions. This article explores German shepherd tail positions. German Shepherds' tails are essential to their communication system, conveying a wide range of emotions and responses. From excitement to anxiety, the position and movement of their tail can provide valuable insights into their mood and feelings. So even though they can't talk back, they can still communicate their love and affection uniquely. The tale of tails: Here's everything you need to know about GSD tails: German Shepherd Tail Description Let's start with a general description of the tail of a German Shepherd, which is long and bushy, with a slight curve towards the end. It is carried low when relaxed and raised when alert. The tail serves several functions, including balance, communication, and as a means of expressing emotion. German Shepherd Tail Length The length of a German Shepherd's tail can vary, but it typically ranges from about 12 inches to 18 inches. Some breeders may dock puppy tails for cosmetic reasons or even for utility and safety, but this practice is controversial and banned in many countries. This is often seen in dogs that are scared, anxious, or unsure of their surroundings. If your German Shepherd's tail is down, you must approach them calmly and reassure them. Tail lowered. A lowered tail usually means the dog is relaxed, but it's important to note that the tail is not between the legs in this position. Tail lowered between the legs. A lowered tail between the legs signifies fear, upset, or embarrassment, as the dog tries to make itself as small as possible. In some cases, it may be a sign of excitement or happiness. However, if the tail is tightly curled and held high, it could also be a sign of aggressiveness. It's essential to pay attention to the dog's body language and other cues to determine the context of every situation. A relaxed curled tail indicates a relaxed and happy dog, while a tightly curled tail indicates tension or anxiety. Sometimes, a German Shepherd may also curl its tail to protect its genital area when it feels threatened. If your dog is wagging its tail fast and wide, it usually indicates excitement, happiness, and energy, such as when a German Shepherd Dog greets their owner after a separation. The faster the wag, the more excited the dog is. Note that the tail is loose in this position. A stiff and fast wagging tail held horizontally is an aggressive stance, indicating agitation or a threat. The dog is ready to defend itself if necessary. A high, straight tail suggests confidence and control of a situation, indicating that the dog feels good. This high, stiff tail with a fast wagging tip generally means the pup is alert and aroused. Your puppy is feeling confident and enthusiastic and strutting its stuff. A loose and horizontal tail shows that the dog is not ready to challenge a person or thing but is not afraid either. A slow wag is a neutral position; your dog is feeling neither dominant nor submissive. In conclusion, understanding the different tail positions of German Shepherds is a critical aspect of communicating with and caring for these loyal and intelligent dogs. Please observe the dog's tail, body language, and other cues to determine its mood and needs. In doing so, we can develop a stronger bond with our furry companions and provide them the care they deserve. Here is a quick German Shepherd tail positions cheat sheet for you Tail Position. Why is the bushy tail important for the German Shepherd Dog breed? The German Shepherd Dog has a well-groomed, natural appearance. The correct tail is slightly longer than the height at the withers and it should be thick and tapering. It rests low and is never curled over the back nor excitedly switching side to side. The tail is carried low and straightened, but never tightly curled over the back, more like a plume than a buggy whip. A dog with a correctly functioning tail will hold it straight out or to the side when he is working or moving and will curl it between his legs when he is nervous or unsure of himself. German shepherd tail types GSDs will have mainly 2 types of tails based on the coat type, there is single coat german shepherd which will have a normal tail and whereas double-coated dogs or long-haired german shepherds will have a bushy tail. German shepherd tail length GSDs tail length is not too short, or too long. A standard GSD tail length should be long enough that the tail end should reach the hock joint. It should be hanging with a slight curve like a cavalry sword when GSD is at rest. The curve should be emphasized, and the tail should be raised when the dog is moving. German Shepherd Tail Positions and their Meaning: 13 signs and their inner behavior explanation Tail Position Meaning Raised high and curved over the back This can indicate uncertainty or a cautious approach. The dog may be assessing the situation or feeling uncertain. Horizontal and straight Indicates a neutral or relaxed state. It shows that the dog is calm and content. Slightly raised and wagging A confident and alert posture, is often seen when the dog is excited, confident, or on high alert. Low and tucked between hind legs Indicates fear, anxiety, or submission. The dog may feel threatened or uncomfortable in its current environment. Slow wagging Can indicate uncertainty or a cautious approach. Rapid wagging Shows excitement and happiness. The dog may be thrilled or anticipating something enjoyable. Stiff and straight up A sign of alertness and heightened awareness. The dog may be assessing potential threats in its surroundings. The tail held to one side Can indicate indecision or curiosity. The dog may be observing or evaluating something of interest. Tail held straight down Usually a sign of relaxation or calmness. The dog may be in a neutral state or feeling at ease. Tail held loosely and relaxed Generally indicates a relaxed and comfortable state. The dog is at ease and not currently on high alert. Tail wagging in a circle An extremely happy and enthusiastic expression. The dog may be showing great joy and excitement. Tail vibrating or quivering Typically a sign of high arousal, intense excitement, or anticipation. The dog may be highly stimulated. Tail held high and wagging Indicates a friendly and confident demeanor. The dog is likely happy and open to social interaction. Tail tucked and wagging Can be a conflicting or mixed signal. It may suggest submission or fear, combined with a desire to appease or seek reassurance. German shepherd tail positions The tail is usually carried in a curve when the dog is at rest. When the dog is excited or in an emotional state, the tail will sometimes be carried up in a curve or in an even higher position, like a plume. The tail may be carried between the legs when the dog is nervous or is anticipating trouble. German shepherd tail problems and diseases GSD tails are not the only measure of their current sensibilities. Because it is genetically predisposed, it can also be preyed upon by many health-related problems. Anal Furunculosis Chronic inflammatory disease of the skin under the tail and around the anus, which is usually caused by an inefficient response of the immune system and genetics. But how GSDs carry their tail and thick coat around the anus is somewhat responsible. To prevent such a disease, fertility should only be between non-affected GSDs. Skin infection GSD is very difficult to treat for skin diseases on the tail. The tails usually do not have that much skin, so this area is prone to infection. German Shepherd Hair loss is caused by allergies to the tail, itching, and chewing, which can eventually lead to infection if left untreated. Incisions and scratches or even a dog bite on the tail are all causes of infection. Topical antibiotics look lovely for GSDs as they keep their wounds smiling. Oral antibiotics that provide the right dose are the best choice. This is usually due to overwork, injuries, or spending too much time playing in cold water. The tail muscles become swollen and painful within 24 hours after exposure to freezing cold water. Chronic confinement in narrow spaces can also trigger this syndrome. The prognosis for the limber tail syndrome is good because it goes away on its own. Using a warm compress can reduce swelling and pain, but some veterinarians may prescribe painkillers. Puppies or adult dogs chasing their tails can be fun. They try to catch their tails and scream when they catch it. There are many factors that contribute to this behavior. By simply analyzing the causes, employers can train their GSD to stop this behavior. Training them as a puppy is a good start. In adult GSDs, distraction can help. GSDs are large dogs so keeping them in a narrow space can cause them anxiety, causing the tail to chase. Due to lack of exercise and activity they chase their tails in circles and sometimes eight widths. Genetics may also be responsible for this behavior. This behavior may have been passed down to them by their parents. Stress and anxiety cause them to chase their tail until they injure themselves. So it is important to check for stress and anxiety triggers. Do German shepherds have curly tails? The short answer is yes, it is possible for GSDs to have curly tails. However, the fact that not all GSDs have curly tails leads to the question of whether or not German shepherds are capable of producing curly tails. A German Shepherd may have a tightly wound tail that wraps over the backside. You can check out the official standard here. The normal German shepherd could take somewhere between 18 to 36 months to complete their growth and become fully mature. The tail will continue to develop until the animal is two years old. However, the tail will start to change in appearance at around eight weeks. Dogs communicate through a combination of body postures, facial expressions, vocalizations, and tail movements. The dog may be thrilled or anticipating something enjoyable, such as playtime or seeing a familiar person. The dog may be assessing the situation or feeling unsure about how to respond. Slow tail wagging is often associated with a more reserved or tentative emotional state, where the dog may be evaluating the environment or displaying a milder form of engagement compared to rapid wagging. The tail is so important that the German Shepherd, registered with the American Kennel Club AKC , appears prominently on the official breed standard performance and confirmation guidelines. Here are the main points described in the racial standard: The tail should be bushy. The tail should extend to the hawk joint kept away from the body parallel to the ankle joint. The tail should not be short or docked cut. Dog owners who want to show off their German shepherd at dog shows or confirmation competitions run the risk of being disqualified or points deducted if they do not meet each performance guideline of their dog breed standard.