The German Shepherd is a highly versatile working dog which is capable of being very successful with various different jobs, sports and activities. As a working dog, the German Shepherd is always happiest whenever its’ given some work to do. Whether it’s sport, service work or family activity; this breed mainly thrives whenever its’ provided with proper mental and physical stimulation.
5 Types of Work German Shepherds Can Perform
1 – Search and Rescue
The German Shepherd makes an excellent search and rescue dog thanks to their highly driven, and enthusiastic tracking abilities, along with their excellent noses. Search and rescue dogs, especially during emergency response times, are animals which require specific and stable working temperament, and hardiness so as to work in the stressful and harsh conditions. Thankfully, German Shepherds have all the necessary abilities and they make great search and rescue dogs.
2 – Detection
Due to the German Shepherd’s fantastic noses and their natural tracking and detection ability, these dogs excel at detection work. They are usually put in line of danger, to rescue and protect their human handlers.
German Shepherds can detect explosives, drugs, money notes and more.
Recent research has shown the ability of German Shepherds to detect several types of cancer by smelling patient breath and urine.
3 – Personal Protection
German Shepherds are perfect candidates for estate or family protection since they have the drive, the courage and the loyalty to ensure absolute protection for the family and the home.
4 – Therapy Work
Stable, calm, well mannered German Shepherds make wonderful therapy dogs. Therapy dogs basically provide important support, stress relief and joy to many different people. Senior citizens, hospital patients, kids who need assistance in reading, kids who have disabilities, and many others can all greatly benefit from the German Shepherd therapy dogs.
5 – Herding
The German Shepherd was originally bred for herding. It has a body built for long days of moving and guarding sheep over very great distances. Herding is a highly rewarding sport for the dog and the handler, and it’s readily accessible to many communities.
