| Overview |
| The German Shepherd is a breed of medium to large-sized working dog
that originated in Germany. Among the most intelligent of breeds, the
German shepherd dog is so intent on its mission — whatever that may be —
that it is virtually unsurpassed in working versatility. It is utterly
devoted and faithful. Aloof and suspicious toward strangers, it is
protective of its home and family. It can be domineering. It can be
aggressive toward other dogs, but it is usually good with other pets. |
| History |
| Originating in 1899 in Karlsruhe, Germany, the German Shepherd was
developed primarily by cavalry officer Max Stephanitz. Developed from a
diverse combination of sheepherding and farm dogs for the purpose of
herding sheep, the German Shepherd soon became very popular as a working
dog. The Allies recognized its heroism and bravery as a Red Cross dog
during World War I. Its strength, obedience, and ability to be trained
soon made it the preferred breed for a number of roles including police
and military work as well as search and rescue. The breed is also one of
the most recognizable in popular culture, being the star of 24 films as
Rin Tin Tin. Rin Tin Tin’s fame once garnered 10,000 fan letters a week
and helped save Warner Bros. from bankruptcy after starring in Where
the North Begins (1923). It also appeared in Batman comics as Ace the
Bat-Hound from 1955 through 1964. |
| Size & Weight |
| The ideal height for male German Shepherds is 60–65 cm (24–26 in) at the shoulder, for females, 55–60 cm (22–24 in).
There is no established weight requirement, but males range in weight
from 30–40 kg (66–88 lb) and females generally weigh between 22–32 kg (49–71 lb). They are longer than they are tall, with the ideal proportion being 10:8.5. |
| Coat & Color |
| German Shepherds have a double coat that developed over the years
to protect these herding dogs from rain, snow and burrs. Some dogs have
long hair, while most have medium-length length coats. The coat may be
either straight hair that lies flat against the body, or it may be wavy
or wiry. They come in a wide variety of colors and color patterns
including black, black and cream, black and red, black and silver, black
and tan, blue, bray, liver, sable, or white. White dogs can not be
entered into AKC competitions, but other organizations allow white dogs.
There are no color patterns that exclude a German Shepherd from being a
loving family dog, however. |
| Temperament |
| German Shepherd Dogs are highly territorial, making them among the
least likely of breeds to run away from a fight. They are not friendly
towards strangers and will stop unwanted visitors. The German Shepherd
Dog gets along fine with children and other animals, provided proper
socialization has taken place, but does not prefer the companionship of
other dogs. |
| Health & Lifespan |
| The German Shepherd Dog should be brushed weekly. During shedding, a
special comb to remove dead hairs may be required. Like other large
breeds, German Shepherd Dogs are susceptible to elbow and hip problems.
Meals should be spread throughout the day to avoid bloat. The German
Shepherd Dog has a life span of 10-13 years. |
| Training & Activity |
The German Shepherd requires early intensive and extensive
socialization and obedience training. They will not respond to harsh or
heavy-handed methods. This breed is obedient and quick to learn.
Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, reward, and
consistency. They are exceptionally talented in tracking, schutzhund,
agility, obedience, fly-ball, and ring sport. The German Shepherd is
often used in police work, search and rescue, as a guide for the blind,
and military work. Teaching your dog to sit, lie down, and stay is vital
to the training of your new puppy. There are several accepted methods
of house training your new German Shepherd puppy. Consider crate
training if you need to adapt your dog to a safe and confined
environment for various safety and comfort reasons.
This breed is happiest when given a job to do. They require
strenuous exercise and enjoy securely leashed walks, family play
sessions, and a large safely fenced area to romp and run freely in. The
German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling
provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention.
Socialization is one of the single most important things you can do for
your puppy. |
