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.

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.