Benji came to our branch on the 4th September 2024 after his owner was struggling to cope with him as well as their other dependants, though he’s been with the RSPCA since March.
Unfortunately, he was kept in cramped conditions inside, but we’ve discovered his favourite thing to do is spend time outside, so make sure you have a suitable garden or can take him out for loads of walks to enrich his life.
He is a very energetic dog, so is looking for an experienced owner in order to teach him the ropes – he does everything at a million and one miles an hour, including eating, so the kennels have been soaking his food in water to slow him down: we recommend a slow feeder or puzzle mat!
He is also struggling to keep weight on at the moment, so we think a stable home environment will see him right – he gets on well with other dogs, but we think he would be best getting your sole attention for his training, as well as no young children as he may barrel into them!
Here are some common traits of GSDs that Benji may exhibit:
- GSDs are very loyal and affectionate, especially with close family members. They can be very protective, and may suffer from separation anxiety when family members are away, so it may be better if Benji’s new owner can be present a large majority of the time.
- GSDs are often very intelligent – but this comes at a price: their stubbornness! An ideal owner would have breed experience or have thoroughly researched the ins and outs of owning a GSD breed – training is paramount, especially in Benji’s case as he is a young dog that needs to learn the rules.
- GSDs are usually very athletic and active, so ensure you are able to provide Benji with plenty of walks, a large garden to run around in, and lots of playtime to stimulate him properly. We’d recommend some extracurriculars – like agility, tracking or herding (did you know this breed was originally bred for herding sheep?) to keep Benji on his paws!
- Positive reinforcement is often the best way to train a GSD – reward good behaviour verbally or with treats and tell them ‘no’ to any bad behaviours.
