Loyal, protective and reliable are some of the best qualities of a German Shepherd. A great family dog, it’s no wonder this breed is much loved by dog lovers.
In that regard, Khan checks all the boxes. Just ask his proud owner, Iris Chia.
Only a puppy when he came into Chia’s life, she named him Khan after Genghis Khan, the famous Mongol warrior. This once-small pup has since grown into a full adult and like his namesake, he is strong and intelligent.
Initially wishing to train Khan on mastering the fundamentals of good obedience, Chia later decided to train him for trials in a competitive dogsport called IGP.
IGP is akin to a dogsport triathlon involving tracking, obedience and protection. These activities test the trainer’s skills as well as reveal the heart and soul of the dog.
And Khan, being a German Shepherd through and through, loves every minute of it. Whether it’s speed, strength or intelligence training, Khan (if he can speak), would probably say “Bring it on, I’ll do it in record time!”
“He loves to work, as per his true genetics,” Chia told FMT Lifestyle.
In fact, the big black dog is happiest when he’s out training in the field, his eyes sparkling as he scales obstacles in a flash.
Aside from training, what is Khan like when he isn’t out there impressing his human and other onlookers with his agility and majestic aura?
Apparently, one of his favourite things to do is annoy Kara, Chia’s Golden Retriever.
Being a cheeky fella, Khan loves to bother Kara when she’s trying to sleep. And sometimes, he takes his cheekiness further by making off with her favourite toy.
When he’s done annoying Kara, he chases the birds in the garden, an activity that’s proving to be one his favourite pastimes.
When Khan and Kara hang out with Chia at home, they follow her around like Velcro dogs, insisting she be in their line of vision at all times.
“They follow me everywhere, even wanting to come into the bathroom with me! Imagine two large dogs staring at you as you walk in…” Chia said, shaking her head.
Even if Khan looks like a big black teddy bear, do refrain from coming on too strong with him as he might see you as a threat and get agitated.
Mealtimes are special times for the Khan as Chia specialises in customising raw and nutritious diets for dogs through her brand theRAWproof. Khan was raised on this special diet since a puppy.
“He’s always eager to please and ready to serve. As his dog mum, his transformation from a cute puppy to where he is now gives me immense pride and joy,” Chia said, smiling.
Follow Khan on Instagram for his IGP dogsport journey and adventures with sister Kara.
This article was written by Toon Kit Yi @ FMT Lifestyle. Read more pet stories here.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR PET: FMT Lifestyle readers are invited to send in pictures (landscape format) and a short video (if any) of their furry, scaly or feathery friends to [email protected]. Don’t forget to include details like your pet’s name, age, breed and a short story about them.