This breed evolved just over 100 years ago, the deliberate product of a
breeding program designed to enhance inteligence, strength and an acute sense
of smell, begun in the late 1890's by 'The Father of the German Shepherd',
Rittmeister Max von Stephanitz. Part of the herding group, German Shepherds
are working dogs developed originally for herding and protecting sheep from
predators. Later, they gained prominence as working dogs in the German Army,
but the breed became truly famous with the introduction of Rin Tin Tin in the
movies of the 1930s.
Their noble reputation was well earned as these stalwart dogs became
police dogs, military scouts, tracking and guide dogs and canine actors
demonstrating again and again their intelligence and loyalty. The German
Shepherd, or Deutscher Schäferhund is among the most highly respected of
breeds and strong enough to perform considerable work. Perhaps because of
their size and strength they have gained a reputation for agressive
behavior... a trait which can be true of any dog if it is not properly
socialized, but obviously less of a threat in a small dog. Well trained and
kindly treated, the Shepherd makes a wonderful family pet, as he embodies a
gifted blend of gentleness and an assertive desire to protect his pack.
These natives of Alsace (which is why they were also known in some parts
as Alsatians) weigh in at 75-90lbs. The male is about 24-26 inches at the
shoulder, the female slightly smaller. With their distinctive black and tan
coat, deep brown eyes, large square head and alert ears, they look impressive
in motion and handsome at a stay. Less common are the sable, all black and all
white varieties, although the pure white German Shepherds are in great demand
these days, the result of both their native beauty and their even
dispositions. There is also a long-haired variety with standard German
Shepherd coloring, but the fur on its face and chest is much longer than the
standard short hair.
German Shepherds are regulars at international dog shows, often winning
top prizes. Their lean, angular bodies and eagerness to perform complements
well their innate beauty and good manners. However, the white and long-haired
varieties are considered 'faults' and both are often disallowed at shows.
German Shepherds are justly famous for their abilities as guard and
rescue dogs and will bond with owner or trainer within a short time. Like most
dogs, they have extraordinary scent detection abilities and so are widely used
by police.
Obedience Training for Your German Shepherd
While very robust in general, German Shepherds do have health conditions
which they are somewhat more prone to than other breeds. Bloat or Gastric
Dilatation Volvulus is more common in this breed and occurs when the stomach
dilates as a result of an excess of fluid, and then twists, causing blockage.
There is no definitive cause of bloat but there are a couple of steps one may
take to help prevent it. Feed the dog smaller meals twice a day, rather than one
large meal, and refrain from excercising him for an hour or more after eating.
Hip displasia and joint problems are as common in German Shepherds as in
other large, over-bred dogs. Be sure of the source when you are looking at
pups, and get as much history as you can from the breeder. With the popularity
of this breed among the top 10 in the US, poor breeding programs have
sometimes produced problematic dogs. Seek out a reputable breeder and require good documentation, particularly relating to Hip Dysplasia and other joint problems, as a condition of purchse.
German Shepherds have a double-layered coat comprised of a short, thick,
wiry overcoat and a soft, dense undercoat. The fur sheds somewhat in Spring.
Bathing the water-resistant coat is needed only occasionally, while regular
brushing is important to keep the skin and hair healthy.