If you want to keep a German Shepherd, but at home you have had a Pitbull, you may wonder whether they are able to get along. As we know that both of them are tenacious and stubborn. So, can they get along? Or, any methods to make them get along?
Can a German Shepherd Get Along With Pitbull?
If you ask whether a German Shepherd can get along with Pitbull or not, the answer can be yes or no. It depends on each dog. Both of them are stubborn an tenacious. If you put them together, it will be terrible. However, if you are able to introduce them properly, they will be able to get along. As you know that a German Shepherd is usually easy with other pets since they have happiness, loyalty and good vibes. In addition, they are also very adaptable and flexible to different living situations.
If you have these dogs at your home, you need to keep an eye on them in the first few weeks. It is done to make sure that they do not fights.
How to Introduce German Shepherd to Another Dog
If you are able to introduce your German Shepherd to another dog in a neutral territory, it means that you allow them to be able to get to know each other without the territorial instinct. You have to invite your German Shepherd to the new dog to meet at the training center, the park or the street. When you introduce your German Shepherd to another dog, you have to make sure that both dogs are on leash.
After they are introduced each other, you are able to take them for a walk together. So, they are able to get acclimated with the company of each other. You have to make sure that you have to keep distance between the two dogs on their first walk.
After their walk, you are able to ask your German Shepherd and the new dog to smell each other. You can let them do this for two minutes before you call them out. If you find that they start playing, you can let them have fun for a few minutes. It is important for you to end the playtime session in a happy one.
Then, you are able to invite your German Shepherd and the new dog to meet in your home. Then, you are able to let them meet in the garden first before going home. However, before you do the introduction inside your house, you have to take your German Shepherd outside first and then let the new dog come in. You have to allow the new dog to sniff around the house before you allow your German Shepherd in.
Make sure that you keep the interaction of the dogs short and again. Also, you have to be calm but observant. If you feel that there is tension which is arising, you are able to separate them and then repeat the routine next time.
The Peak Period For Socialization In German Shepherds
The socialization period of a dog can begin when they are born. They will be able to learn constantly from their mom and from the interactions that they have with their mates.
If they are in an ideal environment, they can be introduced to a new smells, sounds, tastes and people regularly. Then, if the puppy of German Shepherd reaches 8 weeks, they will be able to learn everything easily like a sponge absorbing water. The age between 8 weeks to 20 weeks is an important period in a life of puppy so that they are able to learn the habits which can help them to mold into who they will be as adult dogs. So, it is better for you to socialize them properly at this time period.
A Good Indicator That Your German Shepherd Likes Another Dog
To know whether your German Shepherd like another dog such as Pitbull or not, there is a good indicator.
- You are able to see how your German Shepherd dog behaves with other dogs on the street or in the parks.
- If you find that your German Shepherd likes to play and stay together with other dogs, it means that you can think of getting a new dog.
- However, if you find that the behavior of your German Shepherd is very aggressive, you are able to train and socialize him well before you bring another dog to your home.
Some Best Companion Dog for German Shepherd
There are some dogs which can get along with German Shepherd. Here they are.
- Siberian Husky
German Shepherd and Siberian Husky do not like being left alone for long periods. But, if you are able to introduce and socialize them well, they will be able to make a good companion for each other. These types of dogs have characters which give contribution to a high activity level. If you live with a lot of activities, these dogs can live together nicely.
- Labrador Retrievers
Labradors and Shepherds can get along very well because of the easygoing personality which is possessed by the Labrador. Both dogs have a high activity level which can encourage them to be able to explore and engage in other activities with their families. German Shepherd and Labrador are people-oriented. So, they do best if they get a lot of attention.
- Golden Retrievers
German Shepherd and Golden Retrievers are able to get along well. The smart levels that they have permits them to be able to be trained easily. The calm personality which is possessed by a Golden Retriever can provide a perfect counterbalance to the high energy level of German Shepherd. Nevertheless, both dogs have strong exercise requirements so that you need to give them stimulating activities. You are able to invite them to walk, hike regularly.
- Border Collies
Border Collies have strong herding instinct, so it makes them to be able to be a good companion for German Shepherd. The intelligence and athleticism that are possessed by Border Collies are the same characteristics which are possessed by German Shepherd.
