Dogs are one of the oldest human friends. Today, a great many different dog breeds are known. This article tells about the Greek Shepherd Dogs, their features and rules of care for them.
Breed description
Greek Shepherd - an ancient breed of herding dogs, bred specifically for the protection of sheep flocks. Northern Greece is considered the birthplace (the name of the breed speaks about this), the most likely ancestors are Turkish ak-bashi. The breed has still not received official recognition, but this does not prevent its use as a guard dog.
Greek Shepherd Dog - a rather tall dog: males can grow up to 75 cm at the withers (average height 65–73 cm), and females up to 80 cm (average height 60–78 cm). The average body weight of males is 45-50 kg, females 40-42 kg. The build is powerful, the chest is wide, the body is normal, covered with medium-sized hair, the tail is thick and long. There is no definite exterior in terms of color, the color of wool varies from white to black, and the spotted color is one of the most common. Eye color is usually brown, but other shades are also found.
The dog looks quite fierce - it is not surprising with such a powerful addition, but very obedient and able to instantly "turn off the attacking mode." Poses heat and big cities. This dog is created for service in nature, where its strength, endurance and agility are always in demand. She is not afraid of even large natural predators, such as a wolf, a fox or a bear.
Life expectancy ranges from 8 to 16 years. - It all depends on the conditions of detention, diet and health of the dog. Purebred Greek Shepherd Dogs are quite rare, most often you can meet them cross with other shepherd breeds.
There is even a community formed to preserve the purity of its blood.
Content Features
The ideal option for the Greek Shepherd Dog is a country house with a courtyard and relative freedom in movement, be it a spacious aviary, a long chain or a complete yard at its disposal - depends on how much you want to trust your dog. This breed really needs fresh air, the sky overhead and space, in the city it will wither or become embittered.
From an early age, teach Greek woman to the society of other animals, especially dogs, otherwise you risk getting a suspicious, aggressive and unsociable creature. Of course, these qualities are even welcomed by the guard, but this situation has its drawbacks: she will not get along with anyone, the weaker will bully, etc.
Spend much time raising a puppy - it should be tough, but not cruel. Puppy should voluntarily recognizing you as a leader, and the use of physical punishment will only embitter him and turn you against - Greek Shepherd dogs have a very good memory. The thick coat of the pet protects it from the vagaries of the weather, including frost, but requires increased attention, especially during the molting period, and it takes place every six months in the Greek Shepherd Dog. When the dog sheds, use a furminator for grooming.
This dog does not like water very much, but he refuses to swim. Therefore, conduct water procedures as needed, some experts believe that once every three to four months is enough. In order for the dog to be healthy and beautiful, do not save on nutrition - even though the dog is unpretentious in eating, it is better balanced and nutritious premium food than scraps from the table.Puppies need to be fed three times a day, adult dogs lack two meals: breakfast and dinner.
Immunity in the Greek Shepherd Dog is strong, but still it is better not to risk it - make the puppy all recommended vaccinations and do not forget about the examinations at the vet (at least once a year or at the first sign of indisposition).
Breeding tips
If you decide to start a Greek Shepherd, take a few small tips.
- This dog can not be kept in the apartment, next to the children - it is an excellent caretaker, but the high level of aggressiveness makes it dangerous.
- To improve the guarding qualities (hearing, sensitivity), puppies usually stop one ear.
- It is always better to take small puppies, but not adult dogs - this is also true of Greek women. If you can train a puppy correctly, you will not have a faithful guard.
- Never get lost on a dog - Greek women are vindictive and hot-tempered, it is better to adhere to good-natured rigor in education. You should not indulge too, nevertheless it is the future watchman.
- Provide your pet with the possibility of active movement - games with a stick, a tin plate are perfect for the development of a small shepherd dog.
- Check with your veterinarian about your puppy's diet - for harmonious development, he should receive all the biologically active substances he needs with food. The ideal option is holistic feed, but they are rather scarce and expensive, so discuss alternatives with a specialist. As mentioned above, Greek women are unpretentious, but still the health problems of dogs often begin due to malnutrition.
In the next video you will find the release of the program "Planet of Dogs" dedicated to the Greek Shepherd.
