About the Breed
Is the German Shepherd
the Right Dog for you?
If you are looking for a dog that is energetic, smart, very trainable, protective (but sensible) and mellow then the German Shepherd could be the dog for you. If you are looking for a dog that loves to play, is a great running companion and will be loyal to you for life, then the German Shepherd may be the dog for you.
If you don’t want to exercise the dog daily, find it stimulating things to do, and don’t like shedding then the German Shepherd may not be for you.
In May 1999, the United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized the White German Shepherd Dog as a separate breed known as the White Shepherd. The White Shepherd is a breed that has developed in the past 40 years by breeders dedicated to preserving the traditional German Shepherd Dog structure and the striking white color that was disqualified by the German Shepherd Dog Club of America in 1968. The white color has always occurred naturally in the German Shepherd Dog but because the white color blends with the sheep (making it hard for the sheep herders to see them) and that they would stand out to criminals when used for protection, it was determined the German Shepherd Dog should be a darker color. Although White German Shepherds can be registered with the AKC as German Shepherd Dogs and shown in AKC performance, obedience, tracking and agility trials they cannot be shown in conformation.
White German Shepherds have been bred over the years to have a much more mellow and sensitive nature than their colored counterparts. Because of their more mellow nature they can be shy, so early socialization is needed to ensure a more confident dog. While White German Shepherds are seldom dominant they can be hard-headed and need a confident and consistent owner.
The information listed below are the published standards however German Shepherd Dogs come in many sizes and colors not listed as “standard”.
Height
- Males: 24-26 inches
- Females: 22-24 inches
Weight
65-95 lbs
Coat
- Medium length, straight, hard and close lying with a dense undercoat.
- There is also a long-coated variety.
Temperament
- The German Shepherd Dog is highly intelligent, responsive to handler and should be consistent with their behavior.
- They are good with their own children but may be wary of other children.
- Are usually good with other animals but early socialization as a puppy is a must.
- German Shepherd Dogs make excellent watch and guard dogs.
- They make excellent family companions and should be socialized throughout life to maintain their social skills and demeanor. Training is a must and should be a fun activity for the dog. We recommend that all German Shepherd Dog Owners take their dogs to class for obedience as well as sociability.
Grooming
- Brushing daily will help cut down on shedding and an occasional bath will keep their coat shiny and in top condition.
- Nail trimming is also important to keep their paws in good health.
Training
The German Shepherd is highly trainable in many areas. They are used as herding dogs, service dogs, Search and Rescue, guard dogs and police work. Because of their athleticism and high energy they also do well in agility, obedience and tracking. Early obedience training will also help improve their social skills.
Their Home
City or country but should have large fenced area to burn off excess energy and to keep in condition. They love to take long walks and playing ball or frisbee with their owners. Can be apartment dogs but would need long walks daily and frequent trips to the dog park.
Health Problems
As with many large breeds hip and elbow dysplasia can occur. Other problems can include stomach disorders, seizures, eye and skin problems, EPI, Mega-E, hip, elbow and knee.
The German Shepherd is a intelligent, loyal, energetic and faithful companion. They need a job to do whether it is watching the house or herding sheep, they take their jobs very seriously and love pleasing their owner with their special talents.
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