Although the exact origin of the Bearded Collie is not known for sure, it is estimated that this dog probably originated from one of two breeds: the Lowland Polish Sheepdog or the Magyar Komondor. We do know for certain, by specific records, that two Lowland Polish Sheepdogs made their way to Scotland when Polish traders…
Nobody knows for sure the exact origins of the Collie dog breed, or even where its name came from. One specific theory is that the Collie was derived from the same bloodline as the Border Collie. Another theory concerning the name “Collie” is that it comes from the Gaelic word for “useful”, which definitely describes…
This dog breed originated in the western part of England and is said to be connected to the Russian Owtcharka or the Bearded Collie. At one time, the Old English Sheepdog’s sole purpose was to defend flocks and herds from being attacked by wolves. By the middle part of the 19th century, Old English Sheepdogs…
One of the most potentially serious conditions a German Shepherd can suffer from is something called Bloat. In scientific terms, it’s more commonly referred to as GDV, or Gastric Dilatation Volvulus. The stomach becomes bloated with air or fluid, often accompanied by a twist (volvulus), as it rotates around the esophagus and the duodenum. The…
German Shepherds require only modest grooming effort. They have a double layered coat, with the outer layer composed of medium-length, coarse hair and an undercoat that is soft and dense. The outer section provides protection against bushes and ground while the inner layer keeps the dog warm and protected from sunlight. Proper care for a…
Depending on where your German Shepherd walks the most, nail care may be needed often or only very rarely. Long walks on city sidewalks can slowly wear down a dog’s nails to an acceptable level. But if you live in the country, or the dog spends almost all its time in the house or the…
German Shepherds by and large are very healthy, no more prone to illness than any other breed and healthier than many. But there are certain conditions that tend to occur among some breeds more often than others. Ear inflammations are a case in point. As a long-eared breed a condition called Otitis Externa, an inflammation…
The German Shepherd breed was developed over 100 years ago, as the name suggests, for herding sheep. That activity is less common in the world today, but the basic skills are still much in demand. GSDs, as they’re sometimes known, will patrol a border for hours, keeping strangers at bay and protecting those within. Seeing…
German Shepherds, like all dogs, are primarily carnivores. Their digestive systems are relatively straight and some parts are shorter than even other large breeds. That makes digesting vegetable or plant matter more difficult. As a result, the German Shepherd’s diet should be chiefly meat-based. That doesn’t mean German Shepherds have to be fed nothing but…
German Shepherds are strong, agile and intelligent. Those attributes create special needs when you’ve made the decision to train your dog. A collar is fine for ordinary walking. But during training, a chest harness will work out better for both dog and trainer. They’re made of leather or very strong nylon with either metal or…