German Shepherd Dog: Your Happy Healthy Pet

by Liz Palika

Overview

Packed with full-color photographs, this fun and practical guide gives you everything you need to make your relationship with your German Shepherd even better. Inside, you'll find: Characteristics to look for when choosing a German Shepherd; a list of supplies you'll need; advice on grooming, feeding, and training; a chart to keep track of important information. In addition, a bonus DVD shows you how to teach your furry friend basic commands and tricks, correct inappropriate behaviors, and understand his or her unique personality.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780470192313
Publisher:	TURNER PUB CO
Publication date:	04/01/2008
Series:	Your Happy Healthy Pet , #102
Edition description:	Second Edition
Pages:	144
Product dimensions:	5.50(w) x 8.58(h) x 0.56(d)

About the Author

Liz Palika is an award-winning author with more than 40 books to her credit, including All Dogs Need Some Training, The Ultimate Dog Treat Cookbook, Purebred Dog Rescue Adoption, Senior Dogs For Dummies, and several titles in the Your Happy Healthy Pet series.

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Table of Contents

Part I: The World of the German Shepherd Dog.

Chapter 1: What Is a German Shepherd Dog?

The Herding Breeds.

The GSD’s Physical Appearance.

The GSD’s Character.

The Stuff of Legends.

Chapter 2: The GSD Yesterday and Today.

The First GSDs.

The Changing German Shepherd Dog.

The GSD in the USA.

The GSD Today.

Chapter 3: Why Choose a German Shepherd Dog?

Are You Ready for a Dog?.

The GSD as a Pet.

The Working GSD.

If GSDs Could Choose Their Owners.

Chapter 4: Choosing Your German Shepherd Dog.

Breeder, Rescue, Shelter, or Free?

Finding the Right GSD.

Choosing the GSD for You.

Puppy Temperament Test.

Choosing an Adult GSD.

Part II: Caring for Your German Shepherd.

Chapter 5: Getting Ready for Your GSD.

Basic Supplies.

When Your Dog First Comes Home.

Puppy-Proofing Your Home.

Puppy Essentials.

Chapter 6: Feeding Your German Shepherd Dog.

The Importance of Good Nutrition.

Commercial Dog Foods.

Reading Dog Food Labels.

Homemade Diets.

Feeding Your Dog.

Seven Mistakes to Avoid.

Chapter 7: Grooming Your German Shepherd Dog.

Brushing.

Bathing.

Other Details.

External Parasites.

Making Your Environment Flea Free.

Chapter 8: Keeping Your GSD Healthy.

The Daily Check.

Internal Parasites.

Problems that Affect the GSD.

Emergency First Aid.

When to Call the Veterinarian.

How to Make a Canine First-Aid Kit.

Medicating Your Dog.

As Your GSD Grows Older.

Part III: Enjoying Your German Shepherd.

Chapter 9: Training Your German Shepherd Dog.

Understanding Builds the Bond.

Practical Commands for Family Pets.

Training for Attention.

Teaching Cooperation.

Chapter 10: Housetraining Your GSD.

Your Housetraining Shopping List.

The First Day.

Confine Your Pup.

Watch Your Pup.

Accidents Happen.

Scheduling Basics.

Appendix: Learning More About Your German Shepherd Dog.

Some Good Books.

Magazines.

Clubs and Registries.

Internet Resources.

Index.