A German Shepherd is a big dog with a unique head shape—which makes it especially important to choose a properly fitted collar. Your dog's collar is where you attach vital information: ID tag, phone contacts, pertinent health info, etc. That's why fit is so crucial for comfort and to ensure that the collar stays on, whether he's running through the woods or crawling into tight spaces.

To measure for fit, place a tape around your dog's neck halfway between the back of his head and top of his shoulders. Then add at least one inch for correct sizing. When the collar is fitted properly, you should be able to slip two fingers between his neck and collar.

Keep in mind that German Shepherds have a unique head shape, with a thick neck (generally 18' to 24') in relation to skull size. That means shepherds can slip out of their collars if they are not fitted carefully. Also, choose a collar 1' to 1.5' wide to prevent a strong dog from slipping free.

Your German Shepherd is no Chihuahua. He's powerful with a strong pulling reflex and, even as a puppy, he can be a challenge to control. But when properly trained, your breed is a model of predictable behavior. Here are some frequently used training collars:

  • Choke Collar: Commonly used for temporary correction, it tightens around the dog's neck when the lead is pulled, getting his attention, then slipping loose. A choke collar can be dangerous if left on an unsupervised dog. Prong or pinch collars should only be used under the guidance of a trainer.
  • Head Collar: Also called 'gentle leaders' or 'halters,' these attach around the head and behind the ears. Currently popular, they allow gentle correction by pulling at your dog's weakest point, the muzzle, while allowing him to pant, drink, and bark.
  • Harness: Consider this option if your dog has a respiratory or throat problem that makes wearing a conventional collar uncomfortable. Just remember that harnesses were designed to give working dogs more pulling power. That means you'll have less control when walking your strong German Shepherd. You can also try a No-Pull Harness, which puts gentle pressure against the chest and discourages pulling.

For your German Shepherd puppy, consider having both a conventional and training collar on hand. And always speak to a qualified dog trainer if there's any question about the proper use of a corrective collar or training device. Remember, keeping your German Shepherd safe and comfortable is the first priority when selecting the perfect collar.

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How to harness train your dog

How to harness train your dog

Photo by Rajesh Kavasseri on UnsplashIf you're tired of your furry friend pulling on the lead when walking them on a regular collar, harness training may be the solution. While a harness is no substitute for proper training, it can be a big help during your dog’s walkies, as it provides more support and control for both of you. There are different types of harnesses to choose from, so it’s good to do your research to find one that suits what you’re after. It may take a while to get your pooch used to wearing one, so be prepared to give them the support they need while they adapt.The benefits of using a harnessThere are a few benefits of using a harness rather than just a regular collar. One main reason is that it can help prevent injury, as collars can put a lot of pressure on a dog’s neck and throat when they pull. A harness distributes the pressure more evenly throughout your dog's body, reducing the risk of hurting them. Harnesses also provide you with more control as you walk your dog, making it easier to guide them on walks and in other situations. All this said, it’s still important that your dog is wearing an ID tag when out in public, so you may want to keep their collar on as well or find a form of ID that can attach to the harness itself.Choosing the right harnessWhen choosing the right harness, there are different styles to pick from, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Front-clip harnesses can be great for dogs who pull, as they give you better control over their direction. Back-clip harnesses are easy to put on and take off but may not be as effective for controlling a strong or reactive dog. And dual-clip harnesses offer the best of both worlds but can be more expensive.Make sure you get the right fitOnce you've chosen a harness, it's important to make sure you get the right fit. To do this, you'll need to take a few measurements, including their chest girth and neck circumference. Be sure to check the manufacturer's sizing guide before you buy, as different brands may use slightly different measurements. A poorly fitting harness can be uncomfortable for your pooch and may not provide the support and control you need.Getting a puppy used to a harnessIf you’ve recently got a new puppy, it's best to get them used to wearing a harness early on. Puppies are generally more accepting of new experiences than older dogs, so it's a good time to introduce them. Start by letting them sniff the harness and rewarding them with treats when they show interest. Gradually introduce them to wearing it for short periods, increasing the duration over time.Getting an older dog used to a harnessIf you have an older dog who's never worn a harness before, it may take a bit more time and patience to get them used to it. Again, start by letting them sniff the harness, before gradually introducing them to wearing it for short periods of time, rewarding them with treats and praise. You may need to go at a slower pace, depending on your dog's temperament and previous experiences.Troubleshooting any problems during the training processLike with any type of training, there may be some hiccups along the way. If your dog seems uncomfortable or unhappy with the harness, try adjusting the fit or trying a different type. If they’re pulling or resisting the harness, it may be a sign that they need more time or training to get used to it. Be patient, offer plenty of rewards and praise, and seek the help of a professional trainer if needed. Harness training can be incredibly beneficial for both you and your dog. By choosing the right harness and taking the time to get your dog used to wearing it, you and your furry friend can enjoy stress-free walks and a happier, healthier life together. For more training tips and other pet-care advice, check out our Help Hub.© 2023 Mars or Affiliates.

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How To Prepare For a Foster Puppy

How To Prepare For a Foster Puppy

Foster parents play a really important role in the rehoming of dogs, especially when puppies are involved. Animal shelters in Australia are often incredibly busy and it’s not always easy to find suitable adopters quickly.By fostering puppies, you can provide them with the love, care, and attention they need during their early development, until they have a loving forever home to go to. But there are a few things you need to plan and prepare for, before taking a foster puppy under your wing. Puppy-proof your homeFor starters, you’ll need to get your home ready for a new little furry roommate. Puppies love to explore the world via their mouths, so this is definitely something to keep in mind. Plus you’ll also have to suss out any potential escape routes and risks.Indoor considerationsIn those early months, puppies will get their paws and teeth on just about anything, so the first step of puppy proofing your home is checking for potential hazards. Move electrical cords out of reach and keep things like human foods, cleaning supplies, and medications in high up cupboards. You’ll also want to store away any smaller items that could pose a choking risk and identify any poisonous houseplants that will need to be moved. If you have stairs in your home, it’s wise to place safety gates at the top to prevent your foster puppy from falling down them. They’re delicate at this young age, so a fall could lead to a nasty injury!Outdoor considerationsSecuring your garden should be a top priority before welcoming a puppy into your home, as they’ll take any opportunity to explore new territories! Check your fencing to make sure there aren’t any holes, loose panels, or gaps underneath, and block off any potential escape routes you discover. If there are any toxic plants in your garden, place secure fencing around them or remove them altogether. And if you keep bins outside, make sure they’re lidded and secured to avoid the pup eating anything they shouldn’t.Supplies you'll needThe next step in preparing for your foster puppy is making sure you have everything they’ll need to feel at home. Most foster organisations will provide you with some of, if not all, the essentials, including food, bowls, bedding and toys. Some also cover initial medical expenses, such as vet checks, and worming and flea treatments. Ask the organisation you are fostering your puppy through for a list of what you’ll need to get yourself.FoodThe organisation you’re fostering your puppy through will be able to let you know what they’ve been eating and advise you on their dietary requirements. They may even provide you with a supply of food, or cover the cost of buying some. These arrangements will vary between different organisations and are worth clarifying up front.ToysAs mentioned, it’s possible your foster pup will arrive with a toy or two, but it’s always nice to have a welcome gift there waiting for them. Before you go overboard and buy lots of toys, get to know their personality and what they like to play with. If a soft toy barely lasts a day before losing its stuffing, perhaps opt for something more durable like a soft rubber chew toy. These are great for soothing your pup’s sore mouths when they’re [teething], just be sure to select toys that are gentle on their teeth, if you can’t indent it with your thumbnail, it’s probably too tough for their teeth.Have veterinary arrangementsThe cost of veterinary care, such as vaccinations, will generally be covered by the organisation you’re fostering your puppy through. For this reason, many organisations look for foster homes local to where the puppy has been staying, so they can continue receiving care at the shelter itself or at an affiliated vet practice. If this isn’t the case, it’s important to have some sort of veterinary plan in place, so your pup can continue their routine vaccinations and get any care they may need. Discuss this thoroughly with the fostering organisation beforehand, so you have all the necessary information. Fostering a puppy is a really special and rewarding thing to do, but it’s important you’re fully prepared. Make sure you do plenty of research and get all the necessary information from your fostering organisation before you commit to the arrangement. Check out the [PEDIGREE Help Hub] for more advice on fostering or adopting a dog, as well as lots of handy tips on training and caring for them. @2023 Mars or Affiliates.

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Raising A Therapy Or Guide Dog Puppy

Raising A Therapy Or Guide Dog Puppy

Photo by Berkay Gumustekin on UnsplashPedigree What It Takes To Be A Therapy DogsFostering Future Therapy Or Guide DogsPreparing to become a foster carer for a therapy or guide dog isn’t quite like bringing home any regular four-legged friend. These incredible creatures provide invaluable assistance to people with disabilities, mental health conditions, or those in need of companionship and support. Before they can become fully-fledged assistance animals, they need to go through an important stage of growth and learning.What does fostering therapy or guide dogs involve?Fostering a future guide or therapy dog is a deeply rewarding experience, yet it comes with a set of responsibilities. It means welcoming a puppy into your home, treating them as part of your family, and committing to their care, socialisation, and early training. This period in their life is so important because it sets them up to become a best friend and assistant to someone who needs them.What is required of you?You will be nurturing,training, and preparing a puppy for a life of service, so you’ll need a whole lot of patience, commitment, and a willingness to learn new training techniques. It is usually best if you are around for daily walks and outings and able to cope with the physical demands of training. Make sure you follow the guidelines provided by the organisation you foster for, as these are designed to ensure the puppy's training is consistent. Remember you will have to hand your furry friend over to their new owner eventually –this can be an emotional and joyful moment. You will learn lots about dog behaviour and make a big difference to a puppy and the person who will receive them.The application processThe process can vary between organisations, but generally, they want potential fosterers to complete an application form, attend an interview, and allow a home inspection. They need to know that your home and lifestyle are suitable for fostering one of the severy special pups in this first stage of their life.How long do you foster for?Typically, fostering lasts from eight weeks old until they are between 14 to 18 months. This gives the dog a chance to mature and get ready forthe next phase of their intensive training before they start their service or therapy role.Your role in training and preparing the puppyYour main role will be to socialise the puppy, introducing them to various public settings, people, and other animals. You'll also be responsible for their basic training, including commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” as well as house and leash training.What kind of dogs will you train?Most therapy and guide dogs are known for their intelligence, adaptability, and temperament. Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds are among the most common, but many organisations also work with other breeds or mixes that have similar traits.Do you get paid?Fostering a guide dog puppy is a volunteer-based commitment, so you don’t typically receive money. However, most organisations cover the cost of veterinary care, food, and training expenses.Support available to youRest assured: you won't be on this journey alone. Organisations offering fostering programs for therapy dogs provide extensive support, including access to trainers, veterinarians, and a community of fellow foster carers. They're there to guide you through any challenges and celebrate every milestone.Applying to fosterIf you're interested in becoming a foster for a future therapy or guide dog, the first step is reaching out to an organisation like Guide Dogs Australia. They will give you detailed information about their specific requirements, the application process, and what you can expect as part of their fostering community.Getting involved in fostering future therapy or guide dogs is a significant and incredibly fulfilling commitment. You not only contribute to the puppy's growth and development but also play a part in transforming someone’s life for the better. To learn more about fostering a dog, check out the [Pedigree Help Hub]. ©2024 Mars or Affiliates. 

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Adopting the Right Breed

Adopting the Right Breed

Photo by Kampus Production on PexelsPedigree The Best Breed for YouAdopting the Right Dog Breed for YouWhen it comes to adopting a dog, you aren’t just choosing a pet, you’re choosing a new best friend. That’s why selecting the right dog breed for you is so important. So, if you’re wondering how to choose a dog to adopt, here are some helpful tips to consider.Why you should consider adopting from a shelterAdopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organisation is one of the most rewarding experiences a dog owner can have. It reduces the number of homeless pets and offers a dog in need a whole new lease of life, providing them with a safe and loving home to thrive in.Choosing to adopt from shelters also holds benefits for new dog owners. Australian rescue organisations often have dogs that are already house-trained and socially adjusted to make the transition smoother for you and your pup. On top of this, adoption fees typically include vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and microchipping, bringing great peace of mind.What to consider when choosing a breed to adopt Choosing the right breed involves more than just picking the cutest pooch. From allergy-friendly dogs to the cost of different breeds, there are several essential factors to consider before selecting a furry friend to welcome into your home. Lifestyle compatibilityYour lifestyle plays a critical role in determining which dog breed is the best fit for you based on their needs and how you can accommodate them. Consider how much time you can dedicate to your pup, how active you are, and what your daily routine looks like when choosing a dog to adopt.LocationJust like humans, different dogs require different living conditions to flourish and be their happiest, healthiest selves. Thus, the size of your living space can significantly impact the best dog breed to adopt. Larger breeds often require more space to move around, while smaller breeds can adapt well to apartment living. Additionally, when living in a hot country like Australia, it’s important to consider the climate of your location, as some dog breeds are better suited to certain weather conditions than others.AllergiesIf you or a family member suffers from allergies, it's essential to look for dog breeds that shed minimally and are allergy-friendly. Poodles and Shih Tzus are a great option to consider for people seeking allergy-friendly dog breeds. The Bichon Frises also does not shed frequently.Other pets and family membersAs the RSPCA Smart Dog Buyer’s Guide states, it’s important to consider the dynamics of your household and how a new pup will fit into it. This includes thinking about the temperament of any pets you already have. If they are unlikely to adjust easily to a new addition, getting a new pet is probably not a good idea at least until they have some training.For example, if you have other pets or young children, you'll want to choose a breed known for being good with kids and compatible with other animals. Breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Beagles are generally known for their friendly and gentle nature so would be an excellent option to consider for a young or furry family.Exercise needsDifferent breeds have varying exercise requirements and this needs to be taken into account when choosing to adopt a dog. High-energy breeds like Border Collies and German Shepherds will require more physical activity and mental stimulation, while lower-energy breeds like Mastiffs and Basset Hounds may be content with shorter walks and play sessions.Exercise is the cornerstone of any pup’s happiness so make sure you can meet the walk and playtime needs of your chosen dog breed before adopting.AgeThe age of the dog you adopt is another factor that can influence your choice. Puppies require more training and attention and some puppy proofing might also be needed to keep them safe at home. Older dogs, on the other hand, may already be house-trained and easier to settle, yet might have health and injury prevention considerations. Consider your ability to handle the specific needs of these different life stages so that you can provide the best care to - and in return receive the greatest joy from - a new addition.Costs to consider when adoptingAdopting a dog is a financial commitment that goes beyond the initial adoption fee. Understanding the ongoing costs of caring for a pet is a crucial part of responsible pet ownership.Healthcare costs Veterinary care is a significant aspect of owning a dog and can crop up when you least expect it. That’s why, when choosing to adopt a dog, it's important to factor in regular check-ups, vaccinations, and potential emergencies into your budget.Understand your breeds common health issuesSome dog breeds are prone to certain genetic and health conditions, so it’s important to research any health issues associated with a specific dog breed before adopting. For example, bulldogs are prone to respiratory problems, so it is important to do your homework ahead of time and get to know the breed you want to adopt. This ensures you know in advance what kind of care they may one day need, and also prevents any surprise healthcare costs further down the line. Food costs Providing your dog with a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for their well-being and long-term health. The cost of food can vary based on the size and dietary needs of the breed. Keep in mind that larger breeds will generally require more food, which can increase your monthly expenses. Dogs of different ages and life stages also need different kinds of nutrition so bear that in mind when considering costs.Adopting a dog is one of the most fulfilling and joyful adventures a pet parent can embark on. However, it does involve careful consideration of both your personal circumstances and the needs of your chosen dog breed to ensure a happy, healthy, and harmonious life together. Choosing to adopt a dog is a long-term commitment, but making an informed choice will ensure it is one of the best decisions you will ever make. For more advice on choosing and caring for a pooch, visit the PEDIGREE ® brand health hub. ©2024 Mars or Affiliates. 

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