Adopt a German Shepherd Dog Rescue Dog | Emma | Dogs Trust (2024)

FAQs

What is the hardest part of adopting a rescue dog? ›

So, dealing with bad behavior is one of the biggest challenges of adopting a rescue dog. You have to remember that these dogs have never been in this kind of environment before. So, you and your family must be patient and teach the rescue dog how to behave.

Bonding between an adult German Shepherd and a new owner varies based on the dog's previous experiences and individual temperament. Patience, consistency, and positive interactions are essential in building trust. Some dogs may bond quickly, while others may take weeks or even months.

The majority of German Shepherds in shelters arrive there as strays. Owner turn-ins are due to a variety of reasons. Currently, 2 of the most common reasons are owners moving (rental housing is difficult to find if you live with a German Shepherd.

They're Healthy. With the proper diet and enough exercise, German shepherds have fewer major health risks. The main risks are canine hip dysplasia (CHD) and elbow dysplasia, both of which are preventable.

A study published in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science in 2002 found that black coat colors negatively influenced adoption rates for both dogs and cats. Researchers said adoption rates were much lower in pure-black animals.

Understanding the 3-3-3 Rule for Adopting a Rescue Dog

It suggests that the first three days should be used for adjusting to its new surroundings, the next three weeks for training and bonding, and the first three months for continued socialization and training.

German Shepherds will generally attach themselves to one person in the family, but they can still be a good family dog. Although they have their fair share of behavioral issues, these generally stem from a lack of leadership on the part of their pet parents.

Known for their working dog mentalities, German Shepherds do best when they have a job. Protecting and being with their owners might be one of their favorite tasks of all, but when separated this breed can show severe anxiety symptoms.

The German Shepherd's attachment to their owners is rooted deeply throughout the generations of the breed's existence. These dogs are extremely loyal and protective of their owners, which makes German Shepherds vulnerable to separation anxiety.

German Shepherds are primarily prone to certain health issues due to their breed-specific genetics. Among the leading causes of death are hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and various forms of cancer, particularly hemangiosarcoma, and osteosarcoma.

What is the most rehomed dog breed? ›

Staffordshire Terriers (Pit bulls) are the most often adopted shelter dog simply because they are the most surrendered and the most found as a stray by Animal Control Officers.

Protection. Since our fur babies know that the door carries the possibility of danger, they might be sleeping there ready to paw-tect you by blocking any threat. This behavior is particularly common among dog breeds that are naturally protective and have guard dog tendencies, like German Shepherds and Rottweilers.

One experienced dog trainer and expert on dog development suggested that the optimum age for a puppy to go to its new owner is about 8-to-9-weeks, when the pup is ready to develop a strong bond.

The ideal time for a puppy to transition to a new home is between eight and 12 weeks old. The ideal age to buy a German Shepherd puppy is around 8 to 12 weeks. This period allows for proper socialization with littermates and the mother, which is crucial for their development.

So, if by "too young," you mean the GSD puppy you are considering is less than 8 weeks old, you should not take your puppy home prior to 8 weeks (when it is weened). But if your puppy is 8 weeks or older, she is not "too young" and you can certainly take the puppy home.

Rescue groups are picky — and for a good reason. This helps ensure a good match from the start, making it easier for you and your new dog to adjust. In some cases, the rescue you're adopting may have been previously rehomed due to a traumatic or stressful situation.

By the end of the first three months, your new dog should be fully adjusted to their new home and routines. They may exhibit more confident and affectionate behaviors as they bond with their new family. It's important to remember that every dog is unique, and some may take longer to adjust than others.

Your dog might not be comfortable coming out of their shell and may refrain from eating or drinking at first. This is normal behavior for a dog who has gone through a lot of changes. Speak gently, in a calm tone until they warm up to you and your family. Your dog may hide under tables, chairs, or in their crate.

A simple way to understand this process of getting your rescue dog adjusted and comfortable in its new home is called the 3-3-3 rule. This rule will help you understand the decompression process that your new furry friend will go through in the first 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months at a new home.