German Shepherd Dogs

The German Shepherd Dog, a name that has been derived by literally translating the German name for this breed, the Deutscher Schaferhund, although it is also referred to informally as just German Shepherd or GSD, was originally bred for sheep herding work, as is quite apparent from its name. This breed of dog is also often called the Alsatian, derived from the Alsace-Lorraine region, which name was given after the two World Wars, when anything that was German became very unpopular.

It was back in 1899 that Captain Max von Stepanitz and other breeders used wire-haired, short-haired, and long-haired breeds of shepherd dogs from Bavaria, Thurginia, and Wurtemberg, to create this handsome, obedient and responsive breed of dog. In fact, it is said that Horand von Grafarth, Captain Stepanitz’s first German Shepherd, is the original dog of this breed from which has come all the German Shepherds of today.

The German Shepherd is also often used as a police dog, guide dog, for search and rescue, guard dog, in the military, and for therapy. In addition, the German Shepherd Dog makes a loving and loyal pet in the home. They are sociable and love being with people, children and other animals, though it is important for socializing them when they are puppies.

The Physical Features of the German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd is a strong and well proportioned dog, with a body that a little elongated, muscular, sturdy, and a solidly built bone structure. The shoulders are particularly muscular, with the thighs being powerful and thick. Although German Shepherd puppies have ears that droop a little, they become erect by the time it is six months old. Once fully erect, the ears are turned forward, and are pointed on top while the base is wide. They have dark to tawny, almond shaped eyes that have an expression of intelligence and alertness in them. The tail is bushy, which hangs down at resting position, reaching right up to the tarsal joint. It has a black nose usually, although it can sometimes be liver or blue, which cannot be shown because these colors are regarded as faults.

The coat is usually black and tan, completely black or sable, although it can also be white, liver, or blue, which are again regarded as faults. Nowadays, the white colored German Shepherd has been given recognition as a breed by itself, known as the American White Shepherd.

The Temperament of the German Shepherd

The German Shepherd is notable for being highly protective towards the ‘pack’ it belongs to, which includes the family it lives with, as well as its ‘den’, which includes the home, the property, the car, and so on. It is a breed that is fearless, alert, and eager and makes a great watchdog, companion, and guide dog for those who are visually impaired – thus having the ability to adapt itself to whatever circumstance it may find itself in.

Exercising your German Shepherd Dog

Since German Shepherd Dogs have been bred for long hours of hard work, they need to be exercised well, by taking them for long, brisk walks, runs or jogs daily. Also, because they are highly intelligent, they thrive on the challenging aspect of being trained for fairly complex activities.

German Shepherd Puppies

It goes without saying that a variety of factors are involved while choosing a German Shepherd puppy, which include the lifestyle and the personality of the person who wants to own one. Look for puppies that are inquisitive and full of curiosity. If a puppy seems nervous or shy, it may have some behavioral problems. Check for balance in the shape of its body, particularly its hindquarters. If a German Shepherd puppy lacks in balance, it is highly improbable that it will be rectified as it grows. The parents of the puppy should be certified by the OFA, for dogs in the US, and OVC certified, for dogs in Canada.