How to Groom for Your German Shepherd

Many people might not know this, but the German Shepherd actually has 2 layers of fur to protect its body. And it is surprisingly easier to take care of than expected. The first layer of the covering which is close to the body is close-knit and soft. It provides the German Shepherd with protection, acting as a thermal coat to maintain warmth during colder months and protects it from the harmful rays of the sun during the warm seasons. The second coat of the German Shepherd, the outer coat is rougher and of a medium length.

One principal to adhere to when making sure your German Shepherd is well taken care of is to ascertain that he is getting the right diet and nutrients. The German Shepherd is, after all, a strong carnivore and you need to make sure that the food he is getting is high in protein and vitamins. The dog needs a diet that is high in fat and protein. Meat such as beef, chicken or even lamb are great options. If you decide to concoct food for your dog, ascertain that it has the correct proportions of all the basic dietary requirements the dog needs to stay in tip-top condition.

Vegetables are harder for dogs to digest. Rather than the rounded or curved stomachs we see in humans, dogs actually have s straight stomach. This can result in them having issues with their digestion of vegetables. Corn or wheat and other plant based materials can be difficult for the animal and they should make up a small fraction of your dog's diet. Once you are sure that the dog is getting an excellent diet, you can move on to the grooming needs.

It is usually advised that you brush your dog's fur at least 2 times per week. You want to be sure that the oil in the fur is evenly distributed to prevent matting and tangles. You can also be sure to remove the dead skin cells and loose hair clogging the coat. A basic metallic brush or slicker will do an excellent job if used correctly. You must be careful not to cut or scratch your dog's skin while brushing.

When you start to brush, take the brush in the same direction as the coat hair. To ensure you tackle all parts of the dog's fur, do use a combination of different brushes with various sizes of brush heads.

Based on the dog's normal schedule, you wold probably have to bath your dog at least once or twice a month. The frequency of baths will be dependent on the location of you home and your dogs favorite pastime. For example, if your dog loves to be outside in the dirt and dust, he will require a bath more frequently than an animals that loves to be indoors. If the dog is an indoor dog, taking a bath every few months will be sufficient.

If you stroke your dog and dust you can see dust waft up, that's a clear signal it's time for a bath. In addition, if he is starting to smell odorous, a bath will be a solution to that and make him far more appealing during your bonding periods. If the coat is oily, it can be a signal that it is time for a bath.

The correct shampoo is essential to the dog's coat and condition. German Shepherds are easily affected by wheat and can have other allergies, so the correct shampoo is essential. For instance, oatmeal shampoo can be calming for your dog but they also cause material to collect on the coat far more easily, so you might have to bathe your dog more often. A shampoo with aloe added might be a good choice if you are not concerned with fleas. In any case, with constant grooming, your German Shepherd is sure to look well-groomed all the time.