History of the German Shepherd Breed
The result of the effort to breed an ideal shepherd with many capabilities, the German Shepherd Dog has proved itself in many areas, including working as a police dog, as a guide for the blind, in the military and as a search and rescue dog. Some feel that this dog strikes a resemblance to a wolf, but it is not related to a wolf any more than any other breed. While the roots of this breed can be traced back as far as 7th century A.D., when it was considered a mountain sheepdog found in Germany, the true origination of the dog we know today can be credited to Captain Max von Stephanitz. Between the late 1800s and the early 1900s, he was the one to develop the German shepherd into an all-purpose working dog. It is said that von Stephanitz used local shepherd dogs of the long-haired, short-haired, and wire-haired varieties, found in such places as Bavaria, Thurginia, and Wurtemburg, to produce the modern-day German shepherd. The German army helped to modify the breed into a military dog around 1880. In 1882, Hanover hosted the first German shepherd exhibit. The success of the German shepherd is attributed to an organization called the Verein fur Deutsche Scharferhunde SV, which was formed in 1899 to oversee the breeding of the German shepherd. This group was interested in developing a herding dog that would also be courageous, athletic, and intelligent. It was in April of 1899 that von Stephanitz registered the first German shepherd, named Horan. Long-haired and wire-haired varieties of the breed were shown until 1915, but today, most countries only recognize the short-haired version at shows. The short-haired version was first presented in 1889 in Berlin. The German shepherd worked as a war sentry during World War I, and it was at this time that the name of the breed was changed from German sheepdog to shepherd dog by the AKC. In Britain, the name was changed to Alsatian wolf dog. The reason for the name changes was to separate the dog from its unpopular German heritage. Eventually the name wolf dog was dropped out of fear that people began to have of the breed. In 1931, the AKC added the "German" back to the name and the breed was known from that point on as the German shepherd. The dog became quite popular thanks to Hollywood's creation of Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart, and the German shepherd enjoyed status as the top ranked breed in America for several years. Although this breed has since lost popularity it is still viewed as a versatile and hard-working dog.
Size and Appearance of the German Shepherd Breed
Strong, handsome and well-proportioned, the body of the German shepherd is athletic and muscular. With a smooth outline, this breed is longer than it is tall, giving the appearance of substantial and agile build. The front legs are straight, while the thighs are well muscled. Short, compact feet feature well arched toes and thick, firm pads. The nails are generally dark and short. Chiseled and strong, the head is in proportion to the body and it features medium size, almond shaped eyes that are usually quite dark. This breed offers an intelligent and composed expression. The proportionate ears are pointed and carried erect when the dog is alert. The long muzzle is strong and features a black nose, strongly developed jaws with teeth that meet in a scissors bite. Muscular and strong, the neck is clean cut and leads to a straight, powerful back. The bushy tail hangs with a slight curve with the dog is resting, and it raises and curves more definitively when the dog is excited. The gait allows the dog to cover much ground in long strides. With a double coat featuring a very dense outer coat of straight, harsh hair, this breed varies in color, with strong, rich colors usually being the most desirable.
German Shepherd Temperament
Considered to be one of the most intelligent dog breeds, the German shepherd is famous for its loyalty and courage. This dog adores its family and is wary of strangers, making it an excellent watchdog and guard dog. It only barks when it feels it is necessary, alerting its family of something out of the ordinary. Early and extensive training will help to prevent the dog from becoming overly protective. It is generally good with other pets if trained at an early age, but it may be aggressive with other dogs. The German shepherd is very good with children in its own family, but may not trust other children. Purchasing the dog from a reputable breeder is important as some German shepherds may exhibit timidity or skittishness which might make them prone to fear biting. The ability to learn is high in this breed, but coercive training is not a successful approach. A firm, loving hand is important to good training. Because this dog enjoys being with its family, it should not be left alone for long periods of time. The German shepherd can be a valuable addition to the family, offering protection and affection, and it loves to have a job to do.
German Shepherd Recommended Maintenance
The double coat of the German shepherd requires regular brushing because it sheds bits of hair all the time. Seasonally, it sheds heavily. The coat should be brushed once or twice a week unless dog hair in the home is a problem which then a quick daily brushing is suggested. Bathing should happen rarely, optimally only once or twice a year to avoid the depletion of essential skin oils. The German shepherd should be provided with mental and physical challenges on a daily basis, consisting of exercise and learning games or lessons. This breed is mainly inactive when inside, making it a good house dog. But time spent outside is important, and a large yard in which to run is ideal. Apartment dwelling is acceptable as long as sufficient exercise is provided, such as long daily walks or more strenuous play. This breed is normally quite hardy, but can be prone to hip problems.
German Shepherd Dog Health
• Life span: 10 - 12 years
• Major concerns: CHD, elbow dysplasia
• Minor concerns: panosteitis, vWD, progressive posterior paresis, cauda equina, pyotraumatic dermatitis, skin allergies, malignant neoplasms, pannus, cataract, gastric torsion, perianal fistulas, cardiomyopathy
• Occasionally seen: pancreatic insufficiency
• Suggested tests: hip, elbow, eye (blood)
• Note: GSDs are especially susceptible to a potentially fatal systemic fungal infection from Aspergillus.
