German Shepherds

Group:

Herding

History:

The ancestors of German Shepherd Dogs have acted as both servants and companions to humans for hundreds of years. Developed from from old shepherd and farm dogs, the GSD we know today was first introduced in Germany in 1899. Captain Max von Stephanitz is credited with the breed's beginnings.

During World Wars I and II, the word "German" was dropped, and the breed was referred to as the Shepherd Dog or the Alsatian (a name that stuck in some regions).

Worldwide interest in the breed began rising in the early 1900s and the GSD was recognized by the AKC in 1908. To this day, it remains one of themost popular dog breeds.

Size:

Males: 70-100 pounds
Females: 60-80 pounds

Color:

• Black and Tan (most common)
• Blue or Liver (unfavorable based on breed standard)
• White (not an acceptable color based on breed standard)

Health Problems:

Responsible breeders strive to maintain the highest breed standards as established by kennel clubs like the AKC. Dogs bred by these standards are less likely to inherit health conditions. However, some hereditary health problems can occur in the breed. The following are some conditions to be aware of:

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus
• Degenerative Myelopathy

About the Breed:

German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs) are noble, diligent, loyal and highly intelligent dogs. They are large in size and have very streamlined, athletic builds which make them both strong and agile. Though they are excellent herding dogs, German Shepherds are very well suited to service with police and military operations. They also make excellent guide dogs for the blind and highly effective guard dogs.

German Shepherds have coarse, sometimes wiry, medium length hair with thick undercoats. Their coats should be brushed every few days. German Shepherds have a relatively high shedding rate which can be lessened by routine grooming.

German Shepherds may sometimes become aggressive or anxious if not properly trained and handled. These dogs will ideally be trained to perform a duty, and will take pride in such. Routine exercise is also essential for the breed. German Shepherds can also be very gentle companions and family protectors with proper training and socialization.