Taking a German Shepherd to the vet is not always easy. I have two very different dogs — Júpiter who has been known to bite at the vet since he was a puppy, and Pluto who is so sensitive he thinks I am abandoning him every single time. Both situations require patience, preparation and a lot of treats.
Here is our real experience and everything that helps us get through vet visits with two anxious German Shepherds.
Júpiter — the "difficult dog"
Júpiter has never liked the vet. From the very beginning he made it clear that being examined by strangers was not something he was willing to accept easily. The vet staff actually knows him as the difficult dog — and honestly, Júpiter would say he just has standards.
In one visit things escalated and he bit a nurse. It was not serious but it was a wake up call. From that point on we work closely with our vet to make sure Júpiter is safe to handle during his appointments.
What we do for Júpiter's vet visits
When Júpiter has a vet appointment our vet prescribes a mild sedative that we give him beforehand. This calms him enough to be examined safely without distress. It is not something we do casually — it is always under vet supervision and only when necessary. The medication makes the experience much less stressful for him and much safer for everyone.
Never medicate your dog without vet guidance. If your dog is anxious or aggressive at the vet, talk to your vet about safe options. There are prescription medications and calming supplements that can help — but always under professional supervision.
Pluto — the sensitive one who thinks he is being abandoned
Pluto's challenge at the vet is completely different. He is not aggressive — he is heartbroken. The moment a vet tech takes him to another room without me, he panics. He looks for me everywhere and when he finally sees me again he gets so emotional his whole body wags.
Pluto genuinely believes every vet visit is the moment I am leaving him forever. It is heartbreaking and adorable at the same time.
What helps Pluto at the vet
- I stay as calm and positive as possible — he reads my energy completely
- I talk to him softly the entire time telling him mama is here
- I give him treats before, during and after the visit
- I make the car ride fun so the vet is not his only association with the trip
- I always celebrate with him after — extra love and his favorite treat
What helps both dogs at the vet
Even though Júpiter and Pluto react very differently, there are things that help both of them:
- Lots of treats before, during and after — positive associations matter
- Staying calm as their owner — they look to us for guidance
- Talking to them softly and lovingly throughout the visit
- My husband comes with us when possible — having both parents there helps
- Never skipping vet visits even when it is hard — their health comes first
Never skip vet visits because your dog is anxious or difficult. Work with your vet to find solutions — medication, calming techniques or gradual desensitization. Your dog's health is always worth the effort. We are always there with them, talking sweetly and giving them treats the whole time. Mama and papa are always watching over them.
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We are always there for them
The vet is stressful for both Júpiter and Pluto but we never miss an appointment. We keep them up to date on all their vaccines and checkups because prevention is always better than treatment. And no matter how hard the visit is, we are always right there with them — talking sweetly, giving treats and reminding them that they are safe and loved.
Júpiter, Pluto, our baby and us — we are the happiest family of five in the world. And we will always make sure our boys are healthy and cared for no matter what it takes.
🐾 Written by Júpiter & Pluto's mom — real experience with vet visits and two very different German Shepherds. Always work with your vet to find the best approach for your dog.