Facts and History on German Shepherd Dogs
Popular Dog Breed with Rugged Good Looks, Courage, and Intelligence
May 6, 2009
According to statistics from the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd dog is a favorite breed of families in the United States. It shares the top five most popular list with only two other large breeds--the Labrador and Golden retrievers. The German Shepherd’s beauty, loyalty, and history as a working dog serve to foster a deep respect for these powerful and fearless companions.
Appearance of German Shepherd Dogs
The German Shepherd has a sleek, athletic body. At 75 to 95 pounds, the Shepherd is a large dog yet it retains a lean and muscular appearance. Measured to the top of the shoulder blades, males are around 24-26 inches and females 22-24 inches in height. Their bushy tails are generally relaxed, hanging at a slight curve.
There is a distinctly noble bearing to the breed. Shepherd’s ears are pointed and held alert. Long, angular muzzles are paralleled to slightly rounded foreheads. And dark, thoughtful eyes give the breed a keenly intelligent expression.
Shepherds have a thick double coat which can be short, medium, or long. Though most people are familiar with black and tan dogs, German Shepherds can exhibit a wide variety of coat colors and patterns. According to AKC standards, most colors including silver, black, and buff are accepted, but liver and blue are serious faults in the show ring. White German Shepherds are registerable with AKC but not permitted to compete. Sable coats have black tipping at the end of each hair.
Temperament of German Shepherd Dogs
German Shepherds are revered for their confidence, courage, and intelligence. A loyal and protective nature is partially responsible for this breed’s popularity. Properly trained dogs are devoted, alert, and reserved but not aggressive.
Within this breed are found a variety of personalities. German Shepherds can be extremely energetic or calm. Some are playful while others are more serious. They’re happy working or guarding, but need frequent contact with their owners.
German Shepherds have a personality which often seems aloof. They are not a breed known for enthusiastically greeting guests with wagging tails. When meeting a stranger, a Shepherd trained for guard duty will bark and hold a visitor at bay until commanded to back down. Even family pets socialized to be friendly with everyone usually hang back and wait for their owner’s reaction to a newcomer.
History of the German Shepherd Dog
Due to their keen intelligence, German Shepherds are the top breed trained for police and military work. They are also the most popular choice as service dogs for people who are blind or visually impaired. Perhaps another reason the breed is so popular with the public has to do with iconic canine stars like Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart.
The German Shepherd breed has relatively recent origins. During the last part of the nineteenth century, several breeders including Captain Max Von Stephanitz bred local herding dogs to create a line with what they believed were the ideal Shepherding attributes. In April 1899, Von Stephanitz registered a dog called Horan as the world’s first official German Shepherd. In 1908, the breed was recognized by the AKC.
Before adding a German Shepherd to the family, individuals should do their research carefully. To achieve this breed’s most desirable traits, German Shepherds have specific, daily care and training requirements that must be met. And since proper breeding for temperament and early socialization are key, these dogs are best acquired from knowledgeable and reputable breeders.
Information gained in conversation with Lynne Brinkley of Excalibur Farms on May 1, 2009.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
