[Bruce]

Paid DVDs and YouTube videos suit anyone still looking for the best resources for training German Shepherds. Here are recommendations based on recent available resources.

Best YouTube Channels For German Shepherd Training

• German Shepherd Man Official Channel
• German Shepherd Man Official Channel offers German Shepherd owners training videos ranging from basic obedience lessons to advanced training.

It is extremely informative to both beginner and intermediate dog owners due to the spectacular content.

Zak George’s Dog Training Revolution

Even though this channel does not include an exclusive feature for German shepherds, George’s channel serves all breeds due to his dog training and assisting effectiveness. The methods he emphasizes for German shepherds are effective and easy to implement.

Recommended Paid DVD Training Programs

Training DVDs from Leerburg

• EB Frawley, the founder of Leerburg, has worked in the dog training dummy community for a long time and is reputable for thorough practical explanations has now worked with Leerburg to create a range of DVDs specialized around different types of training focusing on German Shepherds.

K9 Training Institute

• German shepherds can benefit most from training DVDs if an individual wishes to specialize in teaching and is resourceful.
• These DVDs come with a well-structured program.
• The emphasis should always be building a stronger emotional bond between the dog and its owner.
• For German Shepherd owners, using free resources on YouTube, looking up relevant channels, and then watching a German shepherd-specialized DVD is ideal.
• This way, the absence of visual aids would not inhibit learning, and the lessons would become more tangible.

Learn more:

• German Shepherd Man Official Channel – YouTube
• Zak George’s Dog Training Revolution – YouTube
• Leerburg | Ed Frawley’s Philosophy of Dog Training

[Bruce]

Both The Libre 3 and Dexcom G7 are continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems designed to assist patients with diabetes in controlling blood glucose levels.

Below is a clear comparison of the two systems, explaining their differences and features in more depth:

Each System’s General Description

Libre 3:

Distributor: Abbott.

Working: The user evaluates the amount of glucose in the interstitial space under the epidermis by approaching the sensor and scanning it with a reader or smartphone for glucose results.

Length Of Sensor Wear: Maximum duration of up to 14 days.

Dexcom G7:

Distributor: Dexcom.

Working: It measures glucose under the skin and provides alerts. Unlike the G6, the G7 can provide Additional Alerts and send messages directly to your smartphone or other compatible devices.

Length Of Sensor Wear: Maximum duration of up to 10 days.

The Differences In Point Form

The Differences In Sensor Insertion And Design

Libre 3:

More compact and discreet sensor design.

Users are required to scan their glucose level with a reader or app.

Dexcom G7:

Although slightly bulkier than the Libre 3, they are still easier to insert.

It eliminates the need for a scan and pairs it with a device for automatic data transfer.

Displays Data And Alerts

Libre 3:

A sensor should be used to receive glucose readings.

Real-time alerts for data highs and lows are available only when scanning is performed.

The glucose monitoring device sends signals and alarms to notify the user of abnormally high and low glucose levels, using real-time data transmission.

Calibration

Libre 3:

The user requires no calibration as the sensors are factory-calibrated.

Dexcom G7:

Optional headings may be permitted for precise and accurate readings. However, most models are calibrated automatically when the monitor is turned on.

Other Devices Integration

Libre 3:

Primarily a stand-alone device that can be used with some insulin delivery systems.

It can be used with the LibreLink app on mobile phones.

Dexcom G7:

It pairs better with other forms of diabetes management apps and insulin pumps.

The information is also available on multiple devices, enabling the patient and their nurses or relatives to check the levels remotely.

Cost and Accessibility

Libre 3:

It is more cost-effective than other glucose monitoring systems like Dexcom G7.

The coverage relies on the plan as well as the provider.

Dexcom G7:

Due to the rich features, new technology, and 24-hour monitoring, the device is expensive compared to its rivals.

In some cases, the insurance available may require further approval, and coverage is not uniform from provider to provider in most cases.

The current technology level in the market shows a surge of CGM systems, such as the Libre 3 and Dexcom G7, which help patients monitor their glucose levels. The Libre 3 has the advantages of sensor scanning and a longer scanner life. In contrast, the Dexcom G7 only has a sensor and receiver with phone settings such as transmission or alerts. Choosing one of the two occurs with matching lifestyle requirements on how diabetes is best managed.

[Bruce]

“Under Pressure” by David Bowie and Queen: An In-Depth Breakdown

Release date: October 26, 1981

Album: Rhapsody: David Bowie and Queen (1982)

Genres: Pop Rock, Rock

Song length: 4:08

Writers cover: Queen With David Bowie

Producers include Queen And David Bowie

In the collection of R&B songs, the only one that deserves a round of applause is ‘Under Pressure.’ According to many singers, this song transformed the view towards those two phenomenal singers, David Bowie & Queen, and had a lasting effect on the pop music genre.

Who Are The People Involved

One amazing track and nine remarkable singers rightfully earned the last portion of the duo’s album, released in 1981. The song came to life in Switzerland when iconic singer Bowie approached Queen and offered to be a part of ‘Cool Cat,’ giving some backing vocals in the tracks. This spontaneous turn eventually led to a gravity-defying mashup of vocals that hit the charts.

Incorporating Ideas: Much like their jam sessions, where ideas were thrown around, a track began to take shape. Unlike many songs, the bassline was one aspect introduced during the session and set the tone for everything else.

Vocals: There is no debate about how singer Freddie Mercury amazed crowds with his brimming range and demon-like vocals. In contrast, singer David Bowie stunned everyone with his contrabass-toned voice. Sailors complimented the singer for his sheer will to take over most parts.

Moving on to ‘Under Pressure,’’ the song is a heartfelt rendition that addresses the issue of love and its relationship with the pressures of modern society.

Key Themes:

Stress and Anxiety: The song depicts a feeling that almost everyone has experienced at some point: the Pressure of life, whether from oneself or society.

Love and Compassion: It begs for love and compassion as an antidote to all the Pressure, thus highlighting our primal need for connection with the other.

Notable Lines:

“It’s the fear of what this world is as it’s knowing what this world is about…”

“Keep coming up with love but it’s so cut up and broken.”

“Love dares you to love the people who are in the darkness of the night…”

The Iconic Bassline

The bassline of this song has to be among the most popular in music history. John Deacon played it, and it became a sore point much later in Vanilla Ice’s Ice Ice Baby when it was sampled. Vanilla Ice has claimed it was a different thing to start with, but in the end, it all turned out to be an out-of-court settlement.

Performance and Legacy

Live Performances: “Under Pressure” gained popularity in Queen’s live concerts, even after Mercury died in 1991. Bowie performed the song in some live shows, including a duet with Annie Lennox at the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert in 1992.

Cultural Impact: In sports, the song was later instrumental in many movies, TV series, and ads that showcased the theme of strength and passion.

Reception

Chart Success: In the UK, the single peaked at number one, and in the Billboard Hot 100, it fell graceously to the 30th position. The song transformed into a phenomenal hit during its era and still stands as one of the most adored songs by both Queen and Bowie.

Critical Acclaim: This song has received extensive acclaim because of the incredible duet and the emotional delivery of Mercury and Bowie.

Music Video

The music video is enthralling, with love and war themes, but it differs from many others because it was created without Bowie and Queen.

Legacy

Under Pressure still stirs nostalgia and strong emotions due to the critical issues it addresses, such as societal turmoils, love, and devotion. Queen and David, Bowie’s genius, is celebrated through this timeless evolution in the rock genre.

[Bruce]

Distinguishing between Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac can take a lot of work. However, analyzing their key features can illuminate their function within the housing finance system. The following is a simple comparison of both institutions:

Basic Overview

Fannie Mae (Federal National Mortgage Association)

• A new deal venture was acquired during the expansion of the mortgage money flow in 1938.
• Primarily caters to commercial banks and other loan financing institutions to purchase loans.

Freddie Mac (Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation)

• It was originally established in 1970 to ensure that Fannie Mae had some competition and was able to broaden homeownership.
• Acquires loans from smaller credit unions and banks.

Loan Types

Fannie Mae

It specializes in conventional loans, which require a minimum credit score and a down payment of at least 3%.

Provides loans for multi-family and single-family homes.

Freddie Mac

Suites is the new market for lower-income and first-time buyers, offering conventional loans.

One of the major programs they offer is “Home Possible,” which allows lower down payments for people with variable credit scores.

Purpose and Function

Fannie Mae

Provides a stable, liquid, and affordable mortgage source to many lenders.

Freddie Mac also plans to boost mortgage credit availability after providing access to shunned market segments.

Freddie Mac: Provides more customized services and products to suit the specific profiles of the borrowers.

Sources of funding.

Sources of funding Fannie Mae: Obtains finance through the sale of mortgage-backed securities (MBS) and various debt instruments. Deals with commercial banks concerning loan purchases.

Freddie Mac: Yes, it sells MBS, including community lenders. Similar funding sources, but there are more deals with smaller commercial banks.

Regulatory framework.

Regulatory framework: Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae are GSEs, meaning they have unending goals but act as private institutions. They are also supervised by the Federal Housing Finance Agency, which regulates their activities to meet certain legal requirements—Borrower impact.

Borrowers impact Fannie Mae: Access to affordable mortgage financing. For Freddie Mac, there is a higher likelihood of incentivizing lenders to offer lower rates or better terms to certain targeted people, e.g., first-time homeowners.

In brief, Fannie Mae has close relationships with large commercial banks. She facilitates conventional loans, while Freddie Mac works with relatively small commercial banks and facilitates low-income homeownership programs.

Both have almost similar end goals but have differences in the approach that they follow.

With the proper emphasis on these differences pointed out above, you can now better discern the operations of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac in the US housing finance market. If, however, you still have questions about any specific areas, feel free to point me!

[Bruce]

There are differences in the underwriting guidelines between Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac that affect how a borrower would qualify for the said program. Some of the key differences when it comes to the underwriting guidelines are as follows :

Requirements for the Credit Score

Fannie Mae:

• A minimum credit score of around 620 is set for most loans.
• Some programs allow a lower score.
• For example, certain loans with higher down payments require a minimum score above 620.

Freddie Mac:

• The minimum credit score is 620.
• However, those with a lower score than this can avail of more options under the best possible program of Freddie Mac, which has some requirements and allows 580 as the minimum score.

Requirements for the Down Payment

Fannie Mae:

• The target is to reach a minimum down payment of 3% for first-time home buyers under the Home Ready program.
• A 5% target for other normal Loan Borrowers.

Freddie Mac:

• The aim is to achieve a 3% downpayment for first-time home buyers, particularly low-income people or borrowers likely to use the HomePossible program.
• A target for more leniency concerning the down payment with gifts and grants use.

Debt To Income Ratios (DTI)

Fannie Mae:

• This aligns with a maximum DTI of 50% for most loans, although it is worth noting that far lower ratios are preferable.
• However, higher DTI ratios are permissible, just with certain compensating factors, such as robust cash reserves or a top credit profile.

Freddie Mac:

• Like Fannie Mae, a maximum DTI ratio of 50% is permitted, but lower ratios are preferred.
• Has specific guidelines for higher DTI ratios under the Home Possible program.

Fannie Mae:

• Income must be documented.
• W-2s, tax returns, and pay stubs or letters from the employer.
• Certain types of income, like bonuses and commissions, are also possible with the right documentation.

Freddie Mac:

• Same as above, but may have different sources of income, such as self-employment.
• Other sources of income, such as rental income, are also allowed, subject to certain restrictions.

FANNIE MAE:

• Family housing, single-family homes, condos, multifamily (inter-units 1-4), and an acceptable variety of property types are available.
• There are detailed instructions for investment properties, too.

FANNIE MAE AND FREDDIE MAC SHARE:

• Another similar type of property is also acceptable, with multifamily being more such criteria are relied on.
• There is always a greater degree of relaxation concerning some housing within the confines of the home affordable possibilities program.

FANNIE MAE:

• Mortgage insurance becomes a prerequisite within the limit of a 20 percent down payment for the purchase or refinance.
• Borrowers can qualify for lower MI premiums if they opt to do so.

FREDDIE MAC:

• The type of mortgage lender in the U.S. we have regarding MI has some of the same requirements but a few additional MI of its own.
• While Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac have the same basic criteria for loan underwriting, they differ in credit score, DTI, down payment, income verification, and the type of properties eligible for loans.
• Such details can assist borrowers in optimizing their options when applying for a mortgage. If you require any further information or need specific aspects clarified, please don’t hesitate to contact us!

[Bruce]

Recognizing a puppy mill can be critical in making sure you select a good breeder and do not promote unethical variables in breeding. So, to aid you, the following are some signs and red flags when it comes to breeders:

Breeding Practices

Incorrect Breeds: Puppy mills breed various dog breeds in a breeding operation without following the breed standards. A healthy breeder normally deals in one to two breeds only.

Mass Production of Puppies: If a breeding person has too many litters at one time or always seems to have puppies for sale, this suggests it is a puppy mill.

Living Conditions

Unsuitable Surroundings: Make a turn to the kennel area. Any hints of puppy mill activity may be present if the animals are kept in unsanitary, crammed, and hazardous areas.

Isolated Dogs: A sound environment for a puppy to be reared should involve interaction with people and other pets, such as dogs. On the other hand, puppy mills normally keep dogs confined.

Health and Veterinary Care

No Security: Thriving breeders test their breeding dogs on common genetic health issues for the most common breed issues. Most of the time, puppy mills ignore this stage, hence the puppy will acquire various health conditions.

Who does not keep them: Puppies and their parents should have health records, so ask for them. A person who cannot provide them does not value the health of his dogs.

Breeder’s outlook towards the pets and insights into their abilities

Lack of Information: An esteemed breeder will possess information concerning the breed and will be able to communicate about the health, temperament, and training of the dog they provide. This is usually not the case with puppy mills.

Too many Selling Strategies: If a breeder tries to market to you aggressively, for example, persuading you to buy the puppy on an instance or trying to market the pet at a very fair price, it could be a warning sign.

Legal Documentation and Deals

No Paperwork: Responsible breeders provide their clients with a signed contract showing what to expect regarding the pet’s health and what happens if the pet has to be brought back. Puppy mills often do not provide such contracts.

No contact after selling: Good breeders or sellers will always keep in contact and be open to questions regarding the pet they sell. Typically, puppy mills do not provide this contact.

Example Questions

Parent section of the literature: Countercheck the health, history, and temperament of the breeding dogs from the puppy mill. Puppy mill responses are often vague or not to the point.

For Ask about Socializing: The responsible breeder will use hypothetical case imagery or feedback to explain the puppy’s socialization after birth. Puppy mills usually do not value this area.

Digital business footprints

Little or No Online Presence: Most puppy mills will not have an online presence, and if they do, ensure a motto or slogan for their business can easily be found. A better way would be to check out their sites and social networking for critiques of the puppy mill.

Negative Reviews: Pay attention to reviews to check a particular breeder’s complaints. If there is consistent negative feedback, then there are problems that need further examination.

If you are careful and ask the right questions, you can avoid breeders who run puppy mills and find a good breeder who cares about the health of her dogs. Always trust your instincts. It may be worth looking for alternatives if something seems wrong.

[Bruce]

It is very important to find a good German Shepherd breeder so the puppy can be healthy and have a good temperament and genetics.

To determine good breeders, here is a detailed guide checklist:

Research Breed Standards

Understand the Breed: It would help to know the German Shepherd breed standards, including its common health problems, size, and temperament.

Know What to Look For: Your search for a breeder will depend on whether you want an American, European, working, or show-line German Shepherd.

Seek Recommendations

Veterinarians: Your veterinarian should be approached to know the reliable breeders in your area.

Local Clubs: Organizations such as the German Shepherd Dog Club of America or local breed clubs should also be called for referrals.

Dog shows and competitions: German Shepherds can also attend dog shows or competitions to meet the breeders and their dogs.

Check Breeder Credentials

Experience and Reputation: Breeders who have been breeding German Shepherds for a while are well-reputed in the breed community.

Health Testing: Breeders should check for common issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, and other breed-specific conditions.

Tour the Breeder’s Facility

Concern: Visit the breeders’ home or premises to determine how the dogs are housed. The environment should be hygienic and not threaten puppies during their initial growth stages.

Puppy Raising: Notice how the separate puppies are raised. They are expected to be well-socialized, exposed to various stimuli, and warmly interact with people and other animals.

Parent Dogs Questions

Temperament: What is the disposition of the parent dogs? A reputable breeder will tell their dogs’ personalities and behaviors without hesitation.

Health Records: Ask for health testing papers and the pedigree of the respective parent dogs.

Rate the Breeder’s Codes of Conduct

Contracts and Guarantees: Any responsible breeder will require the buyer to sign a contract that sets his lapsus and guarantees on health and return policy.

Lifelong Support: It is preferable to approach breeders who actively follow up and answer inquiries long after you’ve brought your puppy home.

Gut Feeling Is Important

Communications: A competent breeder should be able to moderate his respect, readiness to respond to questions, and divulge basic facts about breeding practices.

Puppy Mill Indicators: Breeders have many litters simultaneously for sale many times. They do not let buyers come to see the puppies and never want to show papers to them.

Think About Adoption

Pet Rescue: If you are willing, you may also consider adopting from a German Shepherd rescue or shelter. Many organizations rehome German Shepherds.

Becoming the proud owner of a German Shepherd dog comes after a thorough selection process of taking time and searching for German Shepherd breeders. Doing background research, asking the necessary questions, and trusting your gut feeling constitute this research process, and you need to take your time. The time you spend will be relieved when you find a German shepherd that meets your requirements and lifestyle and, more importantly, is up to the standards of the particular breeder in terms of health and happiness.

[Bruce]

The typical sizes for each type of German Shepherd can vary based on their breeding lines and purpose.

Here’s a breakdown of the standard size ranges for American, European, Working Line, and Show Line German Shepherds:

American German Shepherds

Males:

• Weight: 90 to 105 pounds
• Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder

Females:

• Weight: 75 to 90 pounds
• Height: 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder

European German Shepherds

Males:

• Weight: 75 to 95 pounds
• Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder

Females:

• Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
• Height: 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder

Working Line German Shepherds

Males:

• Weight: 75 to 95 pounds
• Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder

Females:

• Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
• Height: 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder

Show Line German Shepherds

Males:

• Weight: 90 to 105 pounds
• Height: 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder

Females:

• Weight: 75 to 90 pounds
• Height: 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder

Males typically range from 24 to 26 inches in height and weigh between 75 to 105 pounds, depending on the line.

Females usually stand between 22 and 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 90 pounds.

These size ranges can provide a general guideline, but individual dogs may vary based on genetics, diet, and overall health. When considering a German Shepherd, choosing a reputable breeder who adheres to breed standards and emphasizes health and temperament is essential.

[Bruce]

Of course, some lines of German Shepherds possess some breed and size variations, which can be attributed to health issues. So here’s a list of how different types of German Shepherds might suffer about their health:

American German Shepherds

Hip Dysplasia is a hereditary defect common in big dogs. It is a condition of the hip in which the head of the femur does not fit well into the acetabulum, and arthritis and pain follow.

Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia is almost the same condition as the previous one, but it mainly affects the elbows. It may affect mobility and cause a degree of joint pain.

Degenerative Myelopathy: This condition slowly worsens and affects the functions and workings of the spinal cord, leading to movement-related issues.

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): This condition, also known as bloat, can be fatal. It occurs in bigger dogs, especially those with a deeper barrel chest.

European German Shepherds

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: These are joint problems that many European lines tend to have, although they lack practitioners to monitor selective breeding practices, which supplements this problem.

Skeletal Issues: European breeds with extreme angulations may have skeletal issues caused by structural stress.

Heart Conditions: Some regions may experience more heart problems than others, and some lines are more affected than others.

Working Line German Shepherds Joint Issues: Exercising and eating nutritious food can prevent the excessive strain that working lines endure on their joint abuse. Therefore, they have to be controlled, which is essential.

Injury Predisposition: Due to their heightened activity levels and engagement, working line dogs may be more likely to sustain injuries during challenging activities or extensive durations of physical training.

Show Line German Shepherds Hip Dysplasia: With extreme angulation, there is a high risk of hip dysplasia with hip dysplasia, an example of dislocation. Some Nazrul dogs also show this characteristic.

Spinal Issues: Show lines with back angulation, which may be at a higher risk of spinal issues due to body structure.

Respiratory Issues: They are less frequent than in extremely built breeds. However, some physical factors can cause mild respiratory problems, which some carriers experience.

Guidelines for General Health Recommendations Regular Medical Checkup:

Ensuring scheduled checkups can promote health by catching any issues that might come before they become problematic.

Nutrition: Proper dietary nutrition according to the dog’s age, size, and performance is important to maintain the dog’s well-being.

Exercise and Weight Control: Exercise should continuously maintain a healthy weight for proper joint support and health.

Responsible Practices in Breeding: The best way to prevent inherited problems is to use health screening to ensure that the husband uses a good breeder.

Like other breeds, German shepherds possess genetic health problems, which are influenced by genetic lineage, size, and owner initiatives. Being aware of these requirements enables owners to take preventative measures and maintain their dog’s health and status.