10 best dog breeds to keep as pets! (part V)

German Shepherd

The German shepherd dog is typically 22 to 26 inches from the ground to the top of the shoulder. The normal adult weight is 75 to 90 pounds.

The German shepherd dog is very intelligent, easy to train, powerful and elegant. Though not overly affectionate, shepherds are loyal and faithful. The breed is renowned as a police dog and is often used in search and rescue missions. The German shepherd is also a popular companion dog, family member, assistance dog and guard dog.

Due to their tolerant nature, German shepherds are excellent pets for children and are natural protectors. With proper training, the shepherd is an effective and imposing guard dog.

Training should begin early in life. Untrained shepherds have a tendency to be difficult to handle and control. Since shepherds are intelligent and eager to learn, they can be trained to do a variety of tasks. They perform well in sentry duty, police work, tracking, obedience, search and rescue as well as assistance dogs for the disabled. Originally trained as a herder, the breed is still used in this capacity in some areas.

German shepherds do not require any special care. Daily grooming will help keep their coat clean and healthy.



Pug

From the top of the shoulder the pug stands between ten and eleven inches tall and weighs between fourteen to twenty-two pounds.

Not at all pugnacious, the pug is an affectionate, loveable, even-tempered breed with great charm and dignity. They are clever and mischievous with an outgoing disposition. Pugs love company and want to be everyone's best friend but they will sulk when left out of activities.

Pugs have always been friendly companion housedogs. They love being part of the family. Pugs are great watch dogs, playful companions for children and will happily curl up on your lap for a nap.

Pugs have a smooth, slick hair coat that is easy to groom with a firm bristle brush and comb. You should shampoo only as necessary and clean the wrinkles on their forehead to prevent moisture accumulation and facial fold dermatitis.

The pug is intelligent and easy to train using standard obedience commands. Their primary reason for living is to stay near the family and to please their owners.

Pugs are miserable in hot, cold or humid weather due to their short, square muzzles. They should not be left outside or in closed cars in the summer or winter months.