Is an Arch-Back Dog a German Shepherd?

1 Types of German Shepherds

The breed comes in two types: the short-coated arch-back and the long-coated flat-back. They differ only in build and coat, not in temperament or intelligence. Long-coated pups were once culled from breeding as a throwback, though many purebreds still carry the trait.

2 History of the German Shepherd

Originating in Germany, the Shepherd served as a war dog in World War I, tall and imposing with strong working ability. With over a century of breeding it is now a common companion rather than solely a police dog, split into East and West German lines, the West German being more show-oriented.

Despite its size, it is handsome, strong, and coated in black, white, or silver, and gets along well with children, making it a fine family pet.

3 How to Feed a German Shepherd

Food falls into kibble, canned, and treats; pick by age and size, not brand. Kibble keeps nutrients stable and cleans tartar, but avoid it if the dog has urinary stones unless prescribed. Canned food costs more for better ingredients and keeps vitamins intact but fouls the breath and stool; kibble digests more easily. Use treats for training, not human sweets, which cause decay, diarrhea, and pickiness.

Pups start on mother’s or goat milk, then soft food, then puppy kibble softened with water or milk by two months. Large breeds may get calcium powder. Never feed raw meat routinely, it risks bacterial illness and, if the habit forms, can lead a dog to bite people.

Feed roughly 3 to 4 times daily from weaning to 3 months, 2 to 3 times to 6 months, and twice a day after a year; wash bowls right after meals.

4 Stopping a German Shepherd from Chewing

A firm “No” is the fastest way to halt chewing; once the dog stops, have it settle in place until calm, then release. Train this on walks so the habit does not form.

Chewing is instinctive and hard to erase, so the real fix is teaching the dog to obey and to observe before acting. Never spoil the behavior or punish with violence; stay patient and consistent.