German Shepherds Etc

Everything from A-Z involving the German Shepherd Dog

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German Shepherds have a beautiful thick coat, requiring regular and thorough care. In the first place, it involves the correct selection of a full-fledged diet and various hygienic procedures. The owner of such a dog should know exactly what and when to do to ensure that the coat of the pet is properly cared for.At What Age and How Often Should You Bathe a German Shepherd?Often German Shepherds tolerate water procedures and love to bathe if they were accustomed to it from an early age.A German Shepherd puppy's first bath time should not be started until he is three months old. During this time, the pet's body is strong enough to tolerate water procedures without consequences for health. Until the age of three months, wiping the baby's fur with a wet cloth or tissue is enough.Later on, an adult kept in an apartment should be bathed with special products two to four times a year: in autumn, spring and summer. In winter, the coat is sometimes cleaned with snow outside. Water procedures performed in winter can cause the dog to fall ill. If there is an urgent need to bathe the pet during this period, the room allocated for bathing should be well prepared and warmed up.If your dog gets dirty on a walk, wash him under the shower or use a wet towel to wipe his coat.If your pet is clearly attracted to water procedures in summer, you can shower him after walks.When keeping a Shepherd Dog in an apartment, you should wash it during the following periods:- after shedding;- 7 days before the treatment against parasites (ticks, fleas, and others);- before the dog shows.If the pet is kept in an aviary, bathing is performed no more than three times a year. With more frequent bathing, the protective layer of fat is washed away from the dog's hair, which may lead to catching colds.Small puppies should not be bathed several days before vaccination and during the 14-day quarantine after vaccination. The first vaccinations are given quite early, at 6 weeks or 2 months of age. Bathing a puppy at 1 or 2 months is still too early. After vaccinations, the baby's body is weakened, and bathing can provoke complications.How to bathe a GSD at homeBefore the German Shepherd puppy's first bath time, it is necessary to make preparations. The dog's attitude towards the following baths depends on how it goes this time. Try to communicate with the puppy calmly and gently, not frighten him with harsh motions. Allow him to settle in by sniffing and looking around in the bathtub. After that, you can start bathing your German Shepherd puppy.What you need for bathing at homePrepare in advance everything you may need for the procedure:- First, provide the bottom of the tub with a non-slip surface - a cloth or rubber mat - to prevent your dog from slipping.- Wear clothing suitable for this kind of procedure (a waterproof apron).- Lay out plant or castor oil for your dog's eyes and cotton pads for his ears in an easy-to-access area. These items are necessary to minimize discomfort from soapy foam or water getting into your pet's sensitive organs.- You can use a disposable shower cap to keep soap out of your puppy's ears.- Get shampoo for dogs' coats from a specialist store. Do not use soap on your Shepherd.- Prepare a bathing towel.Remember to take your pet for a proper walk outside before bathing. Otherwise, he will want to go for a walk again afterward and may get dirty or catch a cold.How to bathe a German Shepherd puppyTreat your GSD puppy's first bath like bathing a newborn baby. Prepare carefully and anticipate everything beforehand.Steps for bathing your German Shepherd puppy for the first time:- Fill the tub with water so that it covers the pet's paws or reaches most to the dog's chest. Make sure the water temperature does not exceed 35-36 degrees Celsius.- Drop one drop of plant oil in the pet's eyes and place cotton pads in his ears.- Place the dog in the bathtub and shower the pet's fur all over except the head.- Using a special shampoo and sponge, thoroughly soap his entire body, including his paws, belly, and neck.- Rinse off the foam with your shower. Repeat if necessary. Don't leave detergents on your pet's skin: their fur tends to clump together in these areas, and dogs' skin can be irritated by chemicals.- Turn off the water, take the pads out of the dog's ears and treat its ears with oil.- Wrap your puppy in a towel and get him out of the tub. Try your best to dry the pet's fur as much as possible. If the coat is still partially wet, let the puppy shake it off and dry himself by running around the house. If the puppy is not afraid of loud noises, try drying the coat with a hairdryer.After bathing, Shepherd fur dries for about 3 hours.Try to bathe your pet in 10 minutes. Exclude the possibility of draughts in the room to avoid the risk of catching a cold.After washing, walks are allowed only after 3 hours.How to bathe a German Shepherd outdoorsIn the summer heat, you can bathe your German Shepherd puppy in an open pond every day, starting at the age of 4 months. Such procedures will help strengthen the dog's muscles and are great for stimulating his physical development.If you take your pet to a river or lake, pay attention to the state of the body of water and the shore before bathing. Are there any sharp objects, shards of glass, or other trash visible? Such precautions will help avoid unwanted injuries and poisoning of your pet.After examining the area, let your dog off the leash and allow him to get acclimated to his new surroundings. German Shepherds are not timid, but each animal has its own personality traits.Swimming in a body of water is good for strengthening muscles and joints.How to act at a body of water:- If you see that your puppy is scared and takes his time getting into the water, don't try to drag or throw him in forcefully. Start by stepping into the water and calling out to your dog. Due to their high degree of trust in their owner, Shepherds are then eager to follow.- If he doesn't follow your call, try luring him into the pond with a toy or stick. Don't forget to use the "Fetch!" command.- When the weather is nice, there's no need to dry your dog's coat with a towel after a swim. Allow him to dry naturally, play and run with him.After sickness, it is better to wait about ten days after the pet has recovered before bathing.German Shepherd coat care proceduresThe German Shepherd's fur is one of the main indicators of a pet's health. If the coat falls out or it is dull and broken, it indicates a disease or lack of vitamins in the animal.German Shepherds are divided into long-haired and short-haired according to the fur coat.Their coats need daily brushing. While brushing, dirt, dust, and dander are removed from the coat and skin. At the same time, skin diseases are effectively prevented, and blood circulation and metabolism in the pet are stimulated.The following tools are necessary for taking care of the coat:- A frequent brush for the massage effect (for long-haired - with long teeth, for short-haired - with short teeth).- Metal comb: used to detangle fleece hair.- Scrubbing brush: used during the seasonal shedding of the pet and for detangling the tangles.In brushing, it is necessary to release the brush from the clogged hair and dirt periodically. If your pet is calm, you can use a vacuum cleaner with a small brush attachment.After dry brushing, wet-clean the coat with a special mop, then dry the coat with a dry towel, and do not forget to wipe the eyes and ears with a wet cloth.There are special complex procedures designed to care for the fur and skin of animals, the so-called grooming. It includes:- brushing the pet's coat;- bathing and drying;- haircutting;- claw care;- ear cleaning;- brushing the dog's teeth.The German Shepherd is not the kind of breed whose coat needs to be shaped often. The correct shape of the coat is inherent in its nature. But for hygienic purposes, experts recommend grooming German Shepherds by trimming the hair around the anus and between the pet's toes.The first bath of a 3-month-old German Shepherd puppy is an important procedure, which imposes its mark on all subsequent baths. Therefore, it is worth preparing in advance, behave with the puppy gently and calmly. It is recommended to bathe apartment dogs with special products no more than four times a year and the aviary dogs no more than three times.

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The German Shepherd (aka Alsatian and Alsatian Wolf Dog)The origination of the German Shepherd Dog’s name depends greatly upon its place in history. The breed originated in Germany, where Max Emil Friedrich von Stephanitz, an officer serving in the German military, desired to develop the dog as a unique breed. Von Stephanitz spent years in the field, where he witnessed the day-to-day work of these shepherd dogs, which were used primarily to herd sheep. As he traveled around the countryside, he saw many dogs with similar characteristics but realized there was no real continuity of type among the dogs. He determined to develop a true breed standard that would combine the best attributes of the various dogs he had seen. Focusing on function and attitude, he developed the standard for the German Shepherd breed. His efforts culminated in his discovery of the dog he believed would serve as the breed's foundation. Upon seeing this dog at a show, he immediately purchased him and renamed him Horand von Grafath. After this, von Stephanitz developed his breeding program, and the German Shepherd as a distinct breed was born.Purpose of German Shepherd aka Alsatian Wolf DogCentered on retaining the dog’s initial purpose as a working dog, Von Stephanitz soon promoted the breed in other areas, realizing that their courage would make them perfect for protection work and law enforcement purposes. The breed became wildly popular in Germany, with thousands of the dogs used during World War I.WW1 Alsatian-German ShepherdSoldiers returning from Germany to Great Britain were hugely enthusiastic about the dogs, immediately increasing their popularity in England. Unfortunately, the introduction of the dog to the general population of Great Britain coincided with the timing of World War I. Due to the British dislike of all things ‘German’, The British Kennel Club promptly changed the breed's name to the ‘Alsatian Wolf Dog’ in 1919.Although many people today believe that the Alsatian and German Shepherds are two distinct breeds, this is simply not the case. The British Kennel Club decided to refer to the dog as an ‘Alsatian’ because some of the earliest dogs brought to Great Britain were actually from the Alsace region of France, which bordered Germany. These were the same dogs that lived in farm family homes in Germany. The addition of the phrase ‘wolf dog’ is probably associated with the origination of the breed, which included wolves in its ancestry. Supposedly even Horand von Grafath, the foundation sire of the breed, was one-quarter wolf. Von Stephanitz’s original studbook referenced several wolves found in the ancestry of foundation stock.Reaction to the new Alsatian Wolf Dog BreedThe reaction of the public to this new name was two-fold. Although the popularity of the dog continued, there was also public outrage to the introduction of this breed with such definite recent ties to wolves, which were considered dangerous and unpredictable. Finally, the British Kennel Club dropped the reference to wolves from the breed's name, calling it simply the ‘Alsatian.’ This name continued to reference the dogs until 1977, when the breed's original name, the German Shepherd, was finally reinstated.The story was a little different in the United States. The German Shepherd Dog Club was established in 1913. In 1917, when the US joined the war effort against Germany, the name of the dog club was changed to Shepherd Dog Club. Dogs such as Rin Tin Tin enhanced the dog's reputation, and the dogs became popular family pets. In later years the United States changed the name of the breed back to the German Shepherd.Today, German Shepherds remain one of the most popular breeds in the world. Their temperaments make them ideal as family dogs: They are loyal, steady, and intelligent. They are perfectly suited for protection work and are often found serving in police departments as well as the military. They are excellent dogs for search and rescue work and are also used as guide dogs for the blind. It is easy to see why this is so: The German Shepherd Dog’s original calling was as a herding dog, where it was called upon to be a guardian.German Shepherds were bred so that the finest qualities of their loyalty, their courage, and their protective nature would be passed down from generation to generation, regardless of the name by which they are called Alsatian or German shepherd.

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German Shepherds are known for their obedience, comprehension and good-natured temperament. Representatives of the breed perfectly get along with people, even very young. German Shepherd and children can find a common language if their acquaintance and interaction are subject to specific rules.Features of the BreedThe German Shepherd Dog was bred from shepherd dogs. Its ancestors have been protecting and guarding flocks of sheep for centuries. The dogs made sure the animals didn't run away from the group, didn't spare themselves to ward off predators and kept them safe from other dangers. They are clearly aware of their role in the pack and are able to control their strength. Therefore, the German Shepherd can be a reliable and safe babysitter for the child.Character traits common to the breed:- courage;- communication skills;- high ability to training and comprehension;- a stable psyche.Males are more stubborn than females and more challenging to train. The methods are the same, but the male's owner needs to be more persistent in training. Females are calmer and their warmth toward children is reinforced by their maternal instinct.The German Shepherd treats children in a friendly manner. With proper training, they will not allow themselves to hurt a family member. The dog protects the child and gladly takes part in care and games.Shepherd and Children Under Three Years OldChildren under three years old require extra attention, and a small puppy under 5-6 months old, too. Taking care of a young German Shepherd and a child at the same time is a time-consuming task. If possible, it is advisable to postpone purchasing a dog until the baby begins to stand firmly on his feet and control his movements.In order for the adult German Shepherd to get used to the baby, you need to introduce him to the baby and let him sniff the baby's clothes.If the children and the dog already live in the same house:- access to the infant's room for the pet should be limited;- cleaning should be done thoroughly and at least once a day to prevent allergies;- the baby and the Shepherd should not be left alone but must be shown to each other regularly.If a newborn is expected in a family where an adult GSD lives, it is worth paying increased attention to their acquaintance. While the beloved owner is in the maternity ward, the Shepherd will be bored and show anxiety.To not scold the pet for the exuberant display of joy when meeting the mother with the infant, it is recommended that someone from the family take the dog out for a walk during the return. After that, it is necessary to change the mother at the newborn and let her go outside to the German. The joyful meeting will take place in a comfortable environment and the Shepherd will come home calmer.To get the adult dog used to the presence of a new family member, it is useful to let him sniff baby things. It's best to do this before you leave the maternity home.An adult GSD can be allowed to examine the baby in the stroller. Playing with the pet can only take place under parental supervision. A puppy can accidentally hurt a baby. An adult German Shepherd will not allow himself to harm the child, even if he is discomforted, but you should not abuse the patience of the dog.The Friendship Between a Shepherd Dog and a Child 5-14 Years OldWhether a German Shepherd dog and child will get along at this age depends mainly on the child. The parent should independently assess whether the younger members of the family are ready for such a neighborhood.The German Shepherd will be happy to actively spend time with the child: running, jumping and playing.Children should understand that:- a dog has daily needs and needs to be cared for;- a pet is not a toy. It has its own desires and plans that must be respected;- animals can be hurt and must be handled with care;- a dog's role in society and danger to others;A child can and should be entrusted with part of the daily care for the pet. A German Shepherd would enjoy spending time with children in active games. If the child is respectful towards the dog, they can be left alone without fear.German Shepherd and TeenagerA Shepherd will help to develop a teenager's responsibility and discipline.The German Shepherd gets on excellent with a teenager. In the growing-up period, the pet will become a real friend for the maturing personality. The young dog owner will be able to train the GSD, teach him commands and fun tricks. For the pet, the teenager is no longer the " smallest of the pack". A puppy raised by a man of 15 will accept him as a master and a senior member of the group.German Shepherd can easily find understanding with children. Parents may not fear aggression, or conflict situations, if the young people would consider the pet a living being with its own needs and character.

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German Shepherds are often famed for their bravery and devotion, but they aren't the first breed that immediately springs to mind when considering a water dog.However, how then do German Shepherds react to water? Is it something they enjoy? Are they able to swim well?Despite the fact that German Shepherds were not raised to be swimmers, the majority of them happily agree to spend time in the water. Their athleticism, slim physique, and inherent courage provide them with the necessary tools to succeed in the water.Do German Shepherds like to swim?Any German shepherd seems to be able to learn how to swim and keep it afloat in general, but whether or not they enjoy swimming is another matter. Some GSDs enjoy swimming, while others do not. This is true for all dogs, not just German shepherds.Certain German shepherds are terrified of water, which is why they don't enjoy swimming.Why Might a German Shepherd like the water?Many German Shepherds like playing in the water, despite the fact that they were not bred to swim.What makes them so excited?- In order to stay cool throughout the hot summer months.Whereas the German Shepherd breed is reasonably tolerant of extreme temperatures, they will gladly utilize the opportunity to cool down on a hot day. When they get in the water, they will indeed be able to spend time and play without becoming overheated, even if it is pretty hot outdoors.- To Exhaust Extra Energy.German Shepherds are high-energy canines who require about 90 minutes of daily exercise. Walking, running, and fetching at the local park are all examples of ways to get some exercise.Swimming is an especially good activity for German Shepherds. It will provide them with both the mental and physical stimulation they require.Why Might a German Shepherd Not Like The Water?It's impossible to generalize about German Shepherds; each one is unique and may or may not enjoy swimming. While your dog is not a fan of water, there might be reasons for their disinterest or fear of the water in the first place.- They Didn't Get Enough Exposure As A Puppy.It's no surprise that puppies are simpler to teach and affect than older, more stubborn canines. Whether the German Shepherd was not given adequate water exposure as a pup, they might well be hesitant to interact with it as an adult simply because they aren't used to it.However, they can still learn to appreciate the water and become proficient swimmers, but it may require a bit more patience and practice.- They Had A Negative Water Experience.When the German Shepherd has previously had a negative encounter with water, they might be a little more reluctant to do it in the future. If your German Shepherd used to despise bathtime or was afraid of swimming, you'll need to undo that negative experience before they would retrain how to behave towards swimming.Gradually start whether this is your dog. On a hot day, spray their paws with a hose or simply let them immerse their paws in a baby pool. Give them plenty of positive reinforcement to help them comprehend why this type of water is beneficial. This will set them up for a lifetime of water and swimming enjoyment.Are German Shepherds Good Swimmers?Because of their innate athleticism and fearlessness, German Shepherds can be excellent swimmers, but they are not natural-born swimmers like retrievers as well as other water dogs.The physiological structure of a German Shepherd, on the other hand, will aid them in becoming a competent swimmer. German Shepherds possess long, powerful legs that will make swimming much easier for them. Their lengthy snouts would also assist them in swimming by keeping their heads above water, allowing them to breathe more easily.Finally, the double coating will help them swim better. The outer layer is water repellent, so they won't be as burdened down by the water and will be able to travel through the water much more quickly. Their inner layer also shields against the chill, allowing your German Shepherd to swim a little longer than dogs with short coats, such as pit bulls.So, even though German Shepherds aren't naturally designed for swimming, they may learn to swim and flourish in the water!How to Help Your German Shepherd Enjoy the Water- Give Them What They Want.Is there a particular type of water your German Shepherd prefers? A kiddie pool or a sprinkler in the yard could be targeted, as could the hose you're using to water your flowers. It could be a game of fetch in a lake's shallows. It may be a full-blown leap into the pool's deep end as an alternative.Watch your German Shepherd's body language as you introduce them to various types of water to see what they're most comfortable with. They should be able to choose from a variety of water options.- Freshwater should always be your first choice.Because German Shepherds are prone to swallowing water while swimming, it is best to keep them in freshwater only. Dehydration and vomiting are also possible outcomes if saltwater is swallowed. The ocean's waves and currents may also be too much for your German Shepherd.- Bring Fun into the Situation.Despite the fact that the majority of German Shepherds can easily amuse themselves in water, they still have more fun when they're around their owners. While your dog is in the water, play with them! Play fetch in the lake, compete in the pool for the largest cannonball or chase each other in the spray. This is a great way to keep your dog occupied while they are swimming or doing other water exercises.- Maintain Their Wellness.When dogs are in water, taking water inside their ears is a regular occurrence. If water gets there, a dog's ear canals might become infected and develop other issues. Always use a soft napkin or cotton ball to dry your dog's ears after a swim.If your dog is shaking their head or scratching one's ear excessively in the days following a swim, you should consider taking them to the vet. If your dog's ears are red and swollen, they may have an ear infection.How To Train Your German Shepherd To SwimBecause German Shepherds are not born swimmers, you don't have to restrict them to hoses or child-sized swimming pools. Getting your German Shepherd into the water isn't as difficult as you would think.- Make It Easier For Them To Acclimate To The Water.Your German Shepherd may take some time to get used to getting wet if they have never been in the water before. They should be encouraged to get their paws in and play around.At first, they'll probably prefer keeping their feet firmly on the ground. The more time you spend in the water beside them, the better. As a result, they will feel more at ease with the concept.- Encouragement in the form of positive feedback is essential.It's a good idea to reward your German Shepherd if they get into the water and start playing about. Provide plenty of praise and recognition and head pats whenever your German Shepherd gets into the water to encourage them.- Make Certain They Have A Life Jacket and Do Not Keep Them Alone In The Water.You'll want to keep this as simple as possible for your dog whenever it comes to swimming. Your dog should be able to swim in a calm place where he can get used to the water. Your dog may fear or struggle if they encounter currents in rivers, creeks, or other waterways.As an added bonus, a canine life jacket will keep your German Shepherd afloat while they're training, so it will undoubtedly save them when they begin to feel tired or struggle.- Give Them a lot of time and practice.Swimming is a long-term commitment. It will take a lot of practice for German Shepherds, which are not natural swimmers, to understand how to swim well. Please make sure that they are swimming with all four legs to propel themselves through the water and that they can maintain their heads above water while doing so.Making a game of it, like fetch or making them chase you, might assist. Games like this will not only keep them interested, but they will also divert their attention away from swimming, forcing them to swim more naturally. After some practice, your German Shepherd will be able to float without any effort on your part. Frequently Asked Questions about German Shepherd Swimming AbilitiesCan German Shepherds Swim?This question does not have a precise answer. German shepherds, on the other hand, can swim in general. It's simply an issue of whether they like or dislike water that decides whether or not they could be taught.Are German Shepherds Natural Swimmers?Since German shepherds are agile and skilled swimmers, they can swim. They really aren't, however, natural swimmers. They were not designed for swimming, unlike some other breeds.On the other hand, German shepherds can become excellent swimmers with enough effort and training. Despite this, they cannot acquire the same degree of swimming as natural swimmers.Labrador and Golden Retrievers are excellent natural swimmers.Why is my German Shepherd afraid of the water?It really is controversial.Sometimes dogs have had quite a bad experience in or near water, and as a result, they have learned to fear water. Other dogs may simply be uncertain about what to do or whether or not the water is okay.Can You Breed Natural Swimmer German Shepherds?Certain German shepherds have natural swimming abilities. However, these dogs represent mixed breeds. In a nutshell, it's all about genes.If you're wondering whether or not German shepherds possess webbed feet, the reply would be no. They lack the necessary genetics.Labrador and Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, have these characteristics. So, if you cross them with a German shepherd, you'll get a German shepherd dog that is a natural swimmer.There are numerous other characteristics that a natural swimmer breed possesses. This includes things like leg length, coat length, and more. You can still train your GSD to swim in either case.Do German Shepherds Have Webbed Feet?A dog's webbed feet indicate that there is tissue connecting every one of its toes. Since all dogs' feet contain padding and some tissue at the bottom of each toe, dogs having fully webbed feet have skin connecting every one of their toes.Webbed feet, which help transfer water more efficiently than non-webbed feet, can indicate a natural swimming ability.Webbed feet are not present in a pure German Shepherd, as they are in a retriever or a water canine. They do have some connective skin among their toes, but it isn't long enough to be called totally webbed.Even if they don't have webbed feet, they can learn to swim successfully. It merely goes to demonstrate that the German Shepherd was not bred to work in the water.Can German Shepherds Swim in Pool?Absolutely, German shepherds could swim in a pool, though not for long, specifically if the water is heavily chlorinated, as in a public pool. The chlorinated water will dry up your GSD's coat, creating irritation to the skin and eyes.Can German Shepherds Swim in Cold Water?Swimming too much in cold water can cause hypothermia in dogs, just as it can in humans. Since your dog won't grasp that the cold comes from the water, it's up to you to determine if the water is just too cold for them. If indeed the water is too chilly for you to stay in to dip in, it is likely too cold to the German Shepherd too.How long Can a German shepherd Swim? This varies from dog to dog, but in general, well-taught German shepherds might be able to swim for 30 to 45 minutes at a time with no difficulty.

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If you are an owner of a German Shepherd dog or going to acquire one, you may want to know what German Shepherd colors you can encounter, what your pet's color means and what you can expect of it. German Shepherds are often associated with the police force. They have a severe look and they are strong and brave. These dogs are also very obedient and loyal. They make excellent protectors and perfect family pets. Since this breed's most widely encountered color variation is black and tan, many people don't even suspect that there are so many different colors of these dogs and many of them are quite unusual and rare.Today, we are going to consider the primary GSD colors. Some of them correspond fully to the standards of the breed and some don't.Common and Original ColorsThough there are a lot of variations of German Shepherd colors, the original ones are sable, black, white, and grey. There are also certain variations of these colors that developed in the process of breeding or are caused by genetic modifications. The main colors accepted by international kennel associations are black and tan, black and red, bicolor, black, sable, and grey. Some organizations are ready to accept liver and tan as well as blue. They believe that the purity of the breed depends on the intensity of the color, so the diluted hues are not acceptable.Black and TanBlack and Tan German ShepherdThis is the most widely encountered coat color for this breed. The pattern also matters. You may see the dogs with the saddleback and blanket back covering the dog's back and sides. The ancestor dog bearing this color was Horand von Grafrath, who was a little darker than the present-day dogs. The breed was registered in the late 1800s. This feature is recessive when mixed with sable but dominant when breeding with black and its variations. The puppies are usually born very dark and beginning with the 6th month they start to lighten up. The process finishes until the dog is two years old. Some female dogs have a gray stripe on their back that starts developing after two years. It is called a 'bitch's stripe'. Though black and tans are allowed in the show line, this color is usually seen in working lines.Black and RedBlack and Red GSDThis is the most appreciated color for show lines. Though, it is considered to be a variation of black and tan. The tan is replaced here by the rich red though the pattern is the same as for black and tan dogs. The black and red German Shepherd color gene pheomelanin influences the appearance of this variation. The shades of red can vary - from lighter strawberry blonde to darker and more intensive mahogany red. Such a combination is mostly preferable for all the conformation shows and experienced breeders highly value it. That's because the color is produced by the dominant genes, so such dogs are easier to breed.Black and SilverOnce again, the common patterns of a saddleback and blanket-back are preserved here. A silver hue replaces only the tan or red. This coloration can appear when the recessive color suppression gene is present in one of the parents.The variation is allowed for the show lines, but silver sable German Shepherd dogs are not quite common in them. You can encounter this coloring mostly in working lines. If you are an owner of such a dog, remember that it is not visible in the dark, so it needs a special collar for night walking.Black and CreamThis is a lighter variation of black and tan and the last officially accepted type of coloring for the breed. However, since the breeders understand that conformation rules account for darker and more intensive colors, they do not eagerly display their dogs colored like this at the shows.SableSable German ShepherdThis is the original color of this breed and it is a dominant gene that develops it. This German Shepherd color looks very similar to a wild wolf. Every single hair has about three colors on its string, so such dogs are also called tri-colored. The tips of the hairs end with black. These colors can be of different hues - grey, tan, red, or dark brown. The dark shades are more preferable for show lines. The sable gene should be present in at least one sample of the dog pair. It is a dominant gene and it never displays recessively. The two dogs, who are black and tan, cannot produce sable. When a sable color German Shepherd male is bred to a female of any color, their litter will be all sable. However, a puppy that was born sable may not be a dominant sable because it also receives a recessive gene of another color. The tri-color German Shepherd can change with age. The dogs become darker, or some of them can get even lighter. The color starts changing from 6 months and ends at the age of two years.The first registered sample of this breed color was a female born in the end of the 1800s. Bicolor Bicolor German Shepherd - Image SourceThis is believed to be a variation of black and tan. In fact, the dog's body is black though it has some little areas of tan, brown, or grey on its paws, around the eyebrows, or under the tail. It may also have some trace of another color on the cheeks. The true bicolor German Shepherd is very dark with just minimal spots of another color. When you need to see whether the puppy is bicolor just after its birth, you need to look for a brown spot under its tail.Bicolor is a recessive gene to the common black and tan. Bicolors can be commonly met in working lines rather than in show lines.BlackBlack GSDIt is one of the initial colors for this breed. Such black German Shepherd dogs have a fully solid color. Some hairs can be a bit brownish, especially on their paws, or they may carry a white spot on their chest.These dogs are not encountered so often as black and tan ones, but they are not considered rare. Black is caused by the most recessive color gene of all, so the litter of such a dog can be of any other color even if both parents are black. Though, the offspring all have this recessive gene. So, the subsequent litters of this breed can produce black shepherds quite unexpectedly.WhiteWhite German ShepherdIt may sound strange, but white is another original German Shepherd color, no matter what the breeder will tell you about its uniqueness. You may have seen white shepherds many times, but you didn't realize that this dog belongs to this breed.However, according to all breeding standards, white color in GSs is seen as a significant fault that disqualifies the puppy immediately. Such dogs are never shown in conformations and they are not allowed in any other shows. The AKC (the American Kennel Club), however, allows it for breeding. Some people also believe that the white color is the lack of color and such dogs are often confused with albinos. In fact, they are not. The main difference between a white German Shepherd and an albino GS is the color of their eyes. In albinos, it is pinkish blue, reddish blue, or just red. White-colored Shepherds' eyes are golden brown, hazel, or even blue. They also have some spots of other colors on their body, but albinos cannot have them because their body does not produce any color. The gene that is responsible for the appearance of a white puppy in the litter of black and tans, sables, or blacks is called a masking gene meaning that the genetic color of such a pup is masked.The white German Shepherd dogs are considered rare and there are special organizations that care about them and breeders strive for their promotion. There are many other misconceptions about these white GSDs. Some people believe that they are the same as White Swiss Shepherd or some other dog breeds like an American-Canadian White Shepherd, but they aren't.GreyGrey GSDGrey German Shepherds resemble wolves. That is why this variation is also called 'wolf-grey', or it is also known as Agouti. Though this color does not contain any others and there are no black tips in the hairs.Grey is one of the six primary colors recognized by the AKC. This GSD color is caused by the dominant gene. One parent can have it to produce the grey offspring. The gene can also be present in dogs in a recessive form, but it should be present in both parents to receive a grey puppy.The grey color in German Shepherds is not too rare but quite uncommon, so breeders do their best to breed puppies of this stunning color.SilverSilver German Shepherd - Image SourceThe same modification of genes produces silver and grey German Shepherd puppy colors. However, silver is recognized as a separate color. Unlike grey, silver is caused by a recessive gene that can affect the black pigment and dilute it. A silver German Shepherd can be widely seen in the police force and military service. Rare ColorsSome colors of GSDs are truly rare. They look stunning and such dogs cost very much to acquire. Though they are not allowed for conformation shows, the experts believe that they can break the breed's integrity.BlueBlue German Shepherd - Image SourceThese blue German Shepherd dogs do not have black in their coats. They display blue instead. This dog makes up a stunning sight. Its eyes are golden-brown or amber-colored and that provides an exotic look. A recessive dilution gene provides this German Shepherd color. The dogs may be mistaken for a Blue Belgian Malinois and its acceptance to the conformation shows is somewhat controversial. The AKC considers it inappropriate for the shows.Light BlueThis light colored German Shepherd is a blue color variation. The difference is in traces of silver on the light blue dog's back. While the AKC already accepts the blue GSDs, the light blue ones are not.IsabellaIsabella German Shepherd - Image SourceThis is the rarest color of GSDs' fur. The color is produced by the combination of the two dilution genes - blue and liver ones. The color of the eyes is also quite unusual, as well as the color of the nose which can be of any hue from pink to liver.The dog does not have any black pigmentation anywhere, even on the paw pads. Its eyes are either hazel or light blue.LiverLiver GSD - Image SourceIn this coat color, black is replaced by deep brown. The classic liver covers all the body of a dog. It is a solid color without any hint of tan or anything else. This color is rare, but some people do not know about it and do not think their pets to be so unique. The liver colored German Shepherd dog has amber-colored eyes and looks very distinctive and gorgeous. The gene that causes this color is recessive, so both parents need this gene in their DNA to produce the litter of this color.The AKC accepts the GSDs colored like that though they are considered faulty and not corresponding completely to the breed's standards.Liver and TanLiver and Tan GSDAgain, this is a unique variation of a black and tan color. Instead of being black, the dog acquires this deep brownish color.PandaPanda GSD - Image SourceThe unique pattern of a white German Shepherd color contains black spots on the body. Some people always argue that this is not an original genetic color, but such a panda colored German Shepherd dog is actually a crossbreed with a Border Collie. In fact, the color is caused by a rare gene mutation and does not have anything in common with crossbreeding. This piebald gene is the cause of coloring 40 percent of the dog's body in white.The first representative of the breed bearing this color was Lewcinka's Franka von Phenom. Though many people didn't believe that she was not a crossbreed, her DNA test proved the purity of the German Shepherd breed.AlbinoAlbino German ShepherdThis is considered extremely rare. Those people who claim that their dog is an albino German Shepherd are mistaken and just have a white-colored GS.An albino representative of any species lacks pigmentation completely. There is no color on the skin, eyes, hair, or even on the blood vessels. When you look at the German Shepherd albino, pay attention to its eyes and nose. Albino's eyes are red or pinkish and its nose is pinkish too. These dogs can suffer from some health conditions. For example, they are photosensitive, so they cannot withstand direct sunlight. Some Misconceptions About the Colors of German Shepherd DogsOnly experienced experts can differentiate all the colors and hues of this stunning breed. That produces many misconceptions and wrong ideas about these dogs. So, let's discuss some of them.Black and Tan and Black and Red Are Not the SamePeople usually think that black and tan GSDs are what they exactly should look like because they associate them with the police dogs featured in the films. However, they cannot distinguish between black and tan and black and red, thinking that it is the same coloring. It is not, of course. The black and cream and black and silver colors are not similar, either.Mythology Around Black German ShepherdsWhile breeders usually claim that black and black sable German Shepherd dogs are much stronger and more agile than other colors, common people still believe that meeting such a dog at night is a bad omen. The owners also argue that their black dog's coat is softer and more luxurious. Also, some people are afraid of these dogs more than others because they think they are more aggressive. However, the color does not influence the dog's behavior. Its breeding and ways of training are the factors that really matter.Rare-colored German Shepherd Dogs Do Not Have Health ProblemsThis misconception is widely spread referring to white dogs. They are believed to be deaf. Others claim that rare-colored dogs are more susceptible to infections and their lifespan is much shorter than those who have more common colors. Be sure that the dog's health does not depend on the color of their coat. German Shepherds belong to a large breed and they are vulnerable to such disorders as hip or shoulder dysplasia or bloating, but these diseases do not correlate with the color of their fur.The Color Does Not Influence the BehaviorAs it has just been said about the black dogs, other colors do not affect the animal's behavior, either. The dog's temperament is predetermined by the characteristics of the breed, care, and training. All German Shepherd colors possess such qualities as obedience, calmness, readiness to defend and protect, and alertness. Or they may be aggressive and even dangerous if not trained and cared for properly.Final ThoughtsBefore adopting a German Shepherd dog, think about your preferences, mostly why you want to have this dog. There are some requirements if you want it to be presented in the show ring. You need to think about the German Shepherd puppy colors and shades then. Or you may just want your dog to protect your house and family. In this case, any hue of the coating is suitable. If you want your German Shepherd just to be a family pet and companion, you may follow your personal preferences. Take your GSD puppy from a reputable breeder who can guarantee the purity of the breed and the excellent physical qualities of the parents and their litter. Your dog will become an excellent investment then.We hope that speaking so much about the GSD colors as we have done in this article will help you in making your choice. Or, if you are already a happy owner of this stunning pet, you might have learned many interesting things that will help you take care of your beloved fido in the future.

[germanshepherdsetc]

White German Shepherds have been in existence since the early foundations of the breed. The German Shepherd has its roots in Germany, where the countryside was populated by herding dogs that their farm families greatly cherished for their protective nature, ability to manage hundreds of sheep, and their companionship. White shepherds were common at that time, as well as the better recognized black and tan patterned dogs that are seen today.The German Shepherd is an easily recognized breed that has captured the hearts and imaginations of dog lovers for over a hundred years. The black-and-tan coat, erect ears, athletic body structure, and innate intelligence make it a perfect animal for various work tasks. From the beginning of the German Shepherd line development, the recessive gene of an all-white coated dog was evident.Today, enthusiasts of the White Shepherd breed descended from the original dogs are working to have this line recognized as a separate breed, with distinct characteristics that should be appreciated on their own merits.The White German Shepherd Dog HistoryThe first white German Shepherd to appear on the show circuit was a dog named Greif, who was shown at two shows in Hanover in 1882 and 1887. Years later, Max von Stephanitz, the father of the German Shepherd Dog as a recognized breed, saw and fell in love with a German Shepherd named Hektor Linksrhein. Von Stephanitz purchased him immediately. This dog, which von Stephanitz then gave the name Horand, became the first dog registered in Germany's German Shepherd Dog Registry. This dog was also the grandson of Greif, carrying the white recessive gene. White German Shepherds appeared in subsequent litters, with Horand’s grandson Berno v.d.Seeweise registered as the first white Shepherd in the German national registry. Von Stephanitz, in his well-known book on German Shepherds, decisively concluded:“The coloring of the dog has no significance whatsoever for service.”Max von StephanitzIn later years the Nazi party took over leadership of the German Shepherd registry, quickly moving to discourage all efforts to breed white German Shepherds. They believed there were two major problems that resulted from continuing to breed white German Shepherds. First, they thought that the white gene was responsible for causing genetic issues within the breed. Second, they also believed that the white gene was responsible for causing a general lack of dark pigmentation in the breed, thus ‘fading’ the coat colors of the tan and black shepherds. (Later work in the field of genetics has proven that the white recessive gene causing the white coat color masks the dog’s coat color; it does not cause fading or discoloration in subsequent litters.) According to reports at that time, numerous German Shepherd puppies born with white coats were summarily slaughtered. From that point on, there are no “official” records of the existence of white German Shepherds in Germany. White puppies still show up in the breed in Germany today, as the genetic trait can be passed down by a dog with standard coloring. But since white dogs are not registered, there are no official records that they even exist.White German Shepherds in the United StatesThis type of discriminatory thinking led to a move in 1968 by the German Shepherd Dog Club of America to pressure the American Kennel Club to disqualify all-white German Shepherds from participating in AKC conformation shows. The AKC agreed, disqualifying white German Shepherds from conformation events. Dogs could still be registered with the AKC and shown at events such as obedience, tracking, herding, etc. Avid white German Shepherd breeders formed an association to protect the white shepherds in the US, and the White German Shepherd Dog Club International, Inc. was born.White German Shepherds in CanadaFollowing the American decision, in 1980, the German Shepherd Dog Club of Canada requested that the Canadian Kennel Club disqualify white dogs from conformation shows. However, the Canadian Kennel Club refused to do this, and for years, white German Shepherds were shown in conformation rings. In 1998, however, the Canadian Kennel Club finally banned white German Shepherds from conformation shows altogether.In both America and Canada, the white-coated shepherds began highly valued, even as they were dismissed as being of a color that was unacceptable as part of the breed standard. Over time, breeders began to breed for the white coat, but they never used dogs other than German Shepherds since their arrival in North America.These animals were often less aggressive than their traditionally colored counterparts, making them highly esteemed as a family companion dog. They continued to exhibit all the intelligence, trainability, and strength of the traditional breed standard. They have a slightly less angulated line from shoulder to hip and a gentler nature. They are significantly different from the standard GS breed.In other areas of the world, they are recognized as a separate breed of dog. These white-coated animals are registered with a separate agency that ensures the line purity in America and Canada.White German Shepherds in EnglandIn England, the white German Shepherd fanciers took a different approach to keep white German Shepherds in the show ring. They developed a different breed standard and approached the United Kennel Club with a new standard and registry for white German Shepherds. Accepted by the UKC in 1999, white German Shepherds may be shown at conformation shows as a separate breed.The (Swiss) Berger Blanc Suisse aka the Snowy ShepherdThe Berger Blanc Suisse breed, often called the Snowy Shepherd, possesses all its standard cousins' power, strength, and trainability but is slightly different in structure. The steep angulation from the shoulders to the hindquarters that is seen in traditional registered German shepherds is less evident in the BBS. Instead, the line along the back is more even, giving the animals a look of greater strength and stability.The Berger Blanc Suisse white shepherd also has a gentler, mellower nature than the GS but still retains its protectiveness of the home and family members. Very social and easy to train, these dogs make great family companions but require a considerable amount of exercise to keep them fit and happy.The Rise of White German ShepherdsGermans Shepherds with an all-white coat have always turned up in litters. This recessive gene appears to have been a part of the original gene structure in this breed from the earliest times. However, dog breed registries determined that all-white dogs were unsuitable for the types of uses that the breed engaged in and named it a fault inbreeding.Despite this negative judgment, people who owned white shepherd puppies took note of the many positive characteristics of these dogs. White-coated shepherd dogs went through a number of transformations from country to country, giving them true international origins. These influences gave rise to three distinct categories of the white shepherd.The White German Shepherd AdvantageSome breeders saw the white coat in the German Shepherd as an advantage for some uses. The white coat could be easily distinguished from the darker-coated wolves that inhabited that part of Europe. In the 1900s, the Royal House of Hapsburg in Austria favored these white-coated dogs.By 1912, a woman named Ann Tracy of New York brought some of these white dogs to America. By the 1950s, white German shepherds were distinguishing themselves at obedience trials, which drew greater interest in these animals. In 1968, the American Kennel Club allowed white German Shepherds to be registered.The White German Shepherd dog retains all the characteristics of the standard German Shepherd breed. These dogs are still registered as German Shepherd breed with the AKC and must conform to all registry requirements. However, they are not permitted to be exhibited as representatives of the breed standard at dog shows.The Fight for Recognition for the White ShepherdsBecause white-coated dogs were dismissed from shows from the earliest days as the German Shepherd breed was established, supporters of these dogs began to form their own breed registries.American and Canadian supporters of their white-coated shepherds started their own registry, the American White Shepherd Association (AWSA) and the White Shepherd Club of Canada (WSCC). In 1999, the United Kennel Club, the second-largest dog breed registry in the United States, recognized the white shepherd dog as a separate breed.The American-Canadian white shepherds were brought to Switzerland as foundation dogs for the Berger Blanc Suisse breed, which was registered with the Swiss Stud Book (LOS) in 1991.Characteristics of the White German ShepherdWhite German Shepherds TemperamentDog breed experts believe that the white German shepherd is milder in temperament than the conventional coated type. In fact, breeders may choose lines not only for their pure-white color but also for the mellower disposition. However, this sometimes produces skittish and timid dogs, which can cause behavior problems when attempting to socialize the animal.Of course, each dog has its own personality, and there is some variation in every breed. Consistent training and strong leadership are important considerations for this type of dog. With their superior intelligence, white German Shepherds are easy to train and eager to learn. These dogs benefit from a daily workout for both mind and body to be contented members of the family.White German Shepherd Health IssuesLike other German Shepherds, some white German Shepherds can develop problems with hip dysplasia and shoulder dysplasia. In addition, the genes that contribute to the white coloring are sometimes associated with deafness. A good breeder will be able to certify that your dog has been checked for these problems.Life expectancyThe life expectancy of a white German Shepherd is 12 years. This is an average number for dogs of this size. The thing is that the large-sized dogs live less than their smaller relatives. The significant weight of the animal gives a greater load on the inner and other organs. The heart works more actively, pumps more blood, more load on the joints, etc. But regular training, proper, balanced nutrition and timely prevention and treatment of diseases can exceed the average statistics.Living With the White ShepherdThe many admirable qualities of the white shepherd make it an excellent companion dog, and many families are choosing this breed to join their families. However, it is not a good breed for people who are inexperienced with dogs or are not willing to provide for their particular needs.When puppies, white shepherds are boisterous and can be destructive when not properly exercised. They have an extended puppyhood that lasts about three years. During this time, they may be quite physically active and may not know their own strength.They can accidentally knock over a child or elderly person in their rowdy play. The white coat needs considerable care to stay clean and neat. White shepherds shed continuously and require regular brushing to remove loose hair and dirt. The most important consideration for these dogs is providing the exercise they need.Walking them several times each day will help to keep them in good physical and mental condition. Many white German Shepherd owners begin to do agility training with their dogs to give them both a physical and mental workout. Other owners take their white German shepherds along with them when they jog or bicycle.Though less known than their conventional cousins, white German Shepherds offer many advantages for families looking for a breed that blends well into an average household. Suppose you choose your puppy carefully and provide the appropriate care for this breed. In that case, you will be rewarded with many years of loving companionship and a devoted guardian for your family.The appearance of the White German ShepherdAs far as appearance, white German Shepherds are typically solid white with a medium-length coat, although a light cream color is also acceptable. These dogs are not albinos. Albino dogs have no pigment, giving them almost translucent skin and pink or blue eyes; other than that, they are completely white. White German Shepherds typically have pink or black skin, with gold or brown eyes and dark noses. The recessive gene that causes the white German Shepherd’s coat color masks the dog’s normal color. A white German Shepherd can produce standard offspring. A male should be approximately 24″-26″ tall at the shoulder, with the females 22”-24.” A typical dog should weigh between 75-85 pounds, with the female weighing 60-70 pounds.Discrimination Continues Even TodayDespite all evidence to the contrary, today, white German Shepherds, essentially the same animal as the tan and black shepherd, are discriminated against solely due to their color. Continuing beliefs that the recessive gene that causes the white color is responsible for unspecified genetic problems, many breeders today cull white puppies when they are born. Even though the siblings carry the same gene, they will survive. Later, if those puppies are bred to another dog carrying the white recessive gene, the resulting litter could contain white puppies. It is clear that the original foundation of the German Shepherd breed contained dogs with white coats; continuing claims that white shepherds should not be allowed to be shown or bred seem unfounded. The founder of the breed, von Stephanitz, registered the first German Shepherd foundation sire while knowing full well that the dog was the grandson of a white shepherd. Von Stephanitz’s position on color was clear: The German Shepherd dog should be judged based upon its ability to work, its courage, and its temperament.Max von StephanitzToday, German Shepherd breeders come down on both sides of the issue. Some believe that the white color is inconsequential: The dog is the same, no matter what color the coat. These breeders understand that the white recessive gene causing the coat color has not been proven to be linked to any medical problems. Other breeders still believe that the recessive gene is connected to genetic problems within the breed and continue to cull such white German Shepherds out of their breeding program.Fans of the German Shepherd Dog can educate others about the misconceptions about the breed, such as the white coat variation. Perhaps this will eventually lead to an outcry over the discrimination against white German shepherds based solely upon coat color.Frequently Asked Questions About White German ShepherdsHow much do white German Shepherds cost?Even if you have found out that the average German Shepherd puppy cost is $1,000-$1,500, white pups can cost you more. They are rarer, so their cost will exceed $1,000 for sure. This specific bloodline is also newer than others, so if you have decided to have a purebred white dog, you should learn a lot about its characteristics and peculiarities.The first thing to decide upon is where to buy such a puppy – from an enthusiastic lineage breeder or a traditional one who is mostly focused on the color you need.Are white German Shepherds rare?They are really rare. You can purchase them only from breeders who specialize in this color. Your puppy will keep its white coat without changes while growing if you get a guarantee that both of its parents are white-coated.Why are white German Shepherds disqualified?These dogs are still registered with the AKC as German Shepherds and must adhere to all registry rules. However, they are not permitted to be exhibited as breed standard representatives in dog shows.Despite contradictory data, white German Shepherds, which are essentially identical to tan and black Shepherds, are discriminated against simply on the basis of their color. Continually believing that the recessive gene responsible for the white color produces undefined genetic disorders, many breeders currently euthanize newborn white puppies. It is evident that the initial foundation of the German Shepherd breed included dogs with white coats; suggestions that white Shepherds should not be permitted to be shown or bred appear to be without merit.Where do white German Shepherds come from?Greif was the first white German Shepherd to appear on the show circuit in 1882 and 1887, when he was exhibited at two shows in Hanover. Later on, Max von Stephanitz fell in love with Hektor Linksrhein, a German Shepherd. This dog was Greif's grandson and carried the recessive white gene. White German Shepherds came in successive litters, with Berno v.d.Seeweise,

[germanshepherdsetc]

In the canine world, a German Shepherd is a large breed of dog with an extraordinary intelligence level. This breed hails from Germany, and it is just over one century old, which makes it a relatively new strain. They make awesome family pets, as well as skillful working dogs. Let's find out the main jobs for a German Shepherd Dog.German Shepherd as Police Dogs (K-9s)Police dogs that work within the realms of LE, are called K-9, which is short for the canine. K-9 or police dogs units exist in almost every community in the United States. They commonly work with officers at the county, state, and federal levels. In addition, German shepherds are employed by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF.)First, let’s look at the basic characteristics of the German shepherd and at the reasons why they make such marvelous police dogs. It takes more than just their intelligence and good looks to get them hired for the job. Traits that set them apart from the other breeds include a natural curiosity, athletic ability, and the desire to perform a job. Total obedience is also required of these amazing animals, under any circumstance and environment. This is why there are more German shepherd police dogs than any other breed.Characteristics Of German Shepherd Police DogsIts sense of curiosity helps to keep this clever shepherd focused during search and rescue missions, and its keen sense of smell aids it in finding drugs and explosives. In larger cities, a K-9 team has many more police dogs so each one can specialize in a single area such as weapon detection. However, smaller towns that only have a single K9 dog or police dog make it necessary for that one to receive training in all areas of police assistance. This includes sidewalk patrolling, suspect apprehension, and corpse finding missions. All areas of the USA would benefit from the use of police dogs.German shepherds are quick at learning hand signals by sight, and they eagerly obey commands given by their owner or trainer. When in training, their desire to learn is evident, and it soon turns to pride and self-assuredness as they go through their routines. However, real-life action brings into play the animal’s intellect, as it sometimes must decide on which skills to use if it is separated from its handler. This makes for excellent police dogs.Additionally, German shepherds as police dogs are highly protective of their owners and territory, which makes them perfect partners for LE officers. Police dogs who ride alongside officers in a patrol car are very protective of the vehicle and the officer’s equipment. The job of a guard dog is also a good one for this type of dog as long as there are enough mental stimuli to keep it from becoming bored. What Makes Good Police Dogs or k9′s ?Physically, the German shepherd is dignified and a beautiful dog to behold. Their stand-up ears add an alert look to their chiseled face, which features a long snout. One way to recognize a full-blooded German shepherd is by the bump on the upper part of their nose near the bridge. Their coloring is tan or red with a black saddle and mask, brindle, black or white. Additionally, their strength is apparent in their build, which is lean and muscular if they are active. These hardy dogs have a double coat of hair that causes them to shed quite a bit.Although German shepherds have many good qualities, these are the most pronounced:- Handsome and powerfully built- Intelligent and eager-to-please- Devoted and dependable- Strong-willed and courageous- Obedient and protective- Handy and agile- Hard-workingMilitary police dogTraining Police Dogs for WorkFirst, only dogs that have proven good temperaments are entered into training programs to become K-9 police dogs. Any German shepherd that displays signs of over-aggressiveness or an inability to focus and engage in their exercises is not right for this job of becoming a police dog. Moreover, a good candidate for becoming a K-9 or police dog must be 100 percent predictable and reliable because their future partner’s life can depend on it.Before they begin training for police work, German shepherds must first master advanced obedience training. Next, they must pass agility training on an obstacle course and learn to track by scent and by sight. Once the dog masters all of those skills, it is time to learn the art of protection and apprehension. This is where a special trainer begins bite-work training with the dog, using a padded bite-sleeve. The German shepherd is taught how to knock down a perpetrator and keep them there by biting down on the person’s arm. This is called the bite-and-hold command.Programs Dedicated To Helping Working Police DogsLike any human police officer, a police dog works with the threat of getting shot or receiving another injury as part of its job. It is important for K-9 dogs to wear bullet-repelling safety vests, but some police departments are unable to find funds for them. Donations from the public are welcomed and appreciated.Additionally, emergency and routine care need to come up. Police dogs need vaccinations, flea and tick treatment, and regular exams. Thanks to the wonderful veterinarians and vet technical assistants who work for reduced rates or give their services free of charge, many K-9 dogs recover from injuries and continue to work at safeguarding the public.Furthermore, police dogs must stay in shape with regular exercise just like any other athlete. Accidents are more likely to happen to a dog that does not receive ongoing training, exercise, and warm-ups. The National Police Dog Foundation (NPDF) helps K-9 handlers by being their ally and advocate for medical concerns like snakebite, all types of wounds, and accidental drug ingestion, among other hazards. The NPDF can also assist an officer in finding the closest veterinarian who provides free or greatly reduced fees for medical emergencies.Training a police dogGerman shepherd K-9s or police dogs are considered officers of their department, equal to their human counterparts. They are given badges and treated to the same funeral processions as are all police officers. K-9 police work is a noble cause that seems fitting for such a noble breed of dog.German Shepherd as Herding DogsGerman Shepherds originated from the German herding varieties used by local German shepherds for guarding and herding dogs of sheep. There was a focused attempt to standardize the breed in Europe during the 1800s. In local communities throughout Germany, shepherds bred dogs that displayed the necessary traits for sheep herdings, such as strength, intelligence, loyalty, and speed. There are of course several breeds suitable for developing herding dogs such as the Border Collie and Australian shepherd among others. Herding dogs were all adept at the herding of sheep, but they varied greatly in ability and appearance.Brief History of the German ShepherdMax von Stephanitz is credited with standardizing the German Shepherd breed. Von Stephanitz ran across a dog named Hektor at a dog show in 1899. Hektor displayed all of the attributes von Stephanitz believed herding dogs should have. Taken aback by Hector’s beauty, strength, intelligence, and loyalty, he purchased Hektor on the spot and changed his name to Horand von Grafrath. Horand became the first registered German shepherd and went on to sire hundreds of pups.German shepherd herding dogs have been specifically bred for obedience in order to view and help the shepherd as pack leader. Thus, they have a strong pack pride, and if training methods are used that do not consider this inherent drive, the German shepherd will not be capable of working independently, whether it’s herding dogs or any other kind of working dog. Thus, proper training is essential in establishing strong herding dogs, regardless of their breeding.Shepherds use German shepherd herding dogs to contain and control large flocks of sheep or groups of livestock like cattle. These animals must be contained in specific grazing areas and kept from neighboring crops. German shepherds use boundary control and flock containment in order to keep a shepherd’s flock from damaging crops among the many jobs of herding dogs.Selecting the Best German Shepherd for Herding When training German Shepherds for herding dogs, it is necessary to spend as much time with it as possible from the day it is born. This allows the pups to become familiar with the tones of your voice, which is crucial. The following tests should begin being performed when the pups are around three weeks old in order to determine which ones can become competent herding dogs:Start out by putting a pan of food in with the litter. When the puppies place their full attention on the food, go somewhere where they cannot see you and make a loud noise. Do this multiple times and take note of the ones that pay no attention to the noise.Training the Young German Shepherd When the pups are 4-6 weeks old, see which puppies come to you when you call them. Take note of the ones that show the greatest interest and attraction to you.Also during this period, put a lamb, or any other livestock they will be herding, in with the litter every other day. You want to start with a young lamb or other animal and increase the size as the puppies grow. Repeat the process every other day for three weeks and see which puppies show and maintain a keen interest in the animal. These have the best potential as herding dogs.After the potential herding dogs are seven weeks old, put an appropriate sized lamb or calf in with the litter and notice which puppies grip the animal in the top of the neck, above the hock, and the ribs, as these, are the three places allowed for gripping. Any puppies that grip the animals, not in these three places should be eliminated as potential herding dogs.More Puppy Testing for Herding PotentialAlso during this seven-week period, constantly watch the potential herding dogs puppies and see how each one reacts to your presence and responds to the tones of your voice. This will be important when training the chosen dogs in the field as potential herding dogs.Methods of Testing Puppies This allows you to accurately select German Shepherds with a strong drive for natural prey that is essential for self-confidence, acceptance of the shepherd as the leader of the pack, and sheep herding. Only select puppies for potential herding dogs that fully meet this criterion. However, even if a puppy does not seem to meet the criteria within this time frame, there is still hope, because a dog’s character and potential for work are not fully developed until it is three years old.These testing standards are extremely high and more than likely not suitable for a hobbyist. A working shepherd must be much more demanding of his dogs than someone pursuing shepherding as a hobby. A working shepherd must have a dog that will maintain its concentration all day long, day in and day out. This level of intense concentration can only be achieved by a German shepherd with the highest degree of natural instinct and attraction to sheep or livestock and make excellent herding dogs.Cornerstone Training for Herding DogsThe cornerstone of training for a German shepherd herding dog is the dog’s acceptance of the shepherd as the leader of the pack and its understanding of voice commands. This is the reason why it is necessary to expose puppies to the subtleties and variations of your voice from birth, both the pleasing voice and the sharp, displeased voice. Similar to how puppies learn from their mother’s tone of voice, your voice must be recognized as the means of correction and praise when training potential shepherd herding dogs.There should be no reason for physical correction if you establish confidence and trust as the pack leader from the beginning, and the German shepherd herding dog has been properly conditioned to understand the meaning behind the tones of your voice.Important Traits in Herding Dogs in Early TrainingDuring early training in the field, the German shepherd should be restricted on a leash, but the leash should only be used to guide the dog, not punish it. The German shepherd should only be taken off of the leash when it has begun to view the sheep or livestock as subservient members of the pack. The dog must feel it necessary to defend the flock and keep it in order. This comes with the dog’s understanding of boundaries and putting sheep that stray outside the boundaries back in place.Potential in Herding DogsWhen training potential herding dogs such as the shepherd dog, there is no place for punishment or forced training. This only weakens or completely destroys a dog’s self-confidence and its willingness to trust and follow its own instincts, which ultimately affects the ability of the dog to work on its own. These are qualities that every shepherd dog must possess. This goes back to testing a dog’s instincts. If a dog wants to help a shepherd and has the instinct and attraction to the sheep, then the dog’s natural instincts only need to be harnessed and directed. Force training only suppresses these natural qualities in potential herding dogs.During a German shepherd’s first year, obedience work should consist of establishing voice communication and play training. Early on, the aim of play training should be to build the dog’s confidence and establish a trusting and respectful bond between the shepherd and the dog. The dog should be praised when it does something right, but it should never be punished for doing the wrong thing. This is because all dogs have a desire to please the pack leader, and they will correct themselves in order to gain praise. Therefore, only voice corrections should be made, and you should always give the German shepherd the opportunity to correct itself. After the dog is one year of age, then serious training can begin, but only after the dog displays that it is ready.Do not Confuse Sheep Herding for Obedience TrainingHerding training should not be construed as obedience training. Rather, it is the symbiotic relationship between shepherds and their herding dogs. The German shepherd should be encouraged to work according to its own instincts more than the commands of the shepherd. The stronger a dog’s instincts, the better suited the German shepherd will be for working with sheep and livestock, and the less it will need to rely upon commands and become one of the many great herding dogs.German Shepherd as Search and Rescue Dogs (SAR)Search and rescue (SAR) dogs are used primarily to locate missing persons such as lost or missing children, lost hikers, avalanche victims, people trapped under debris during some sort of disaster, and even suspects in criminal investigations. SAR dogs locate numerous missing persons every year.https://www.youtube.com/embed/yxhpz5Zi2Mw?feature=oembedTraits of a Search and Rescue dogs SARThe German Shepherd Dog is well suited to perform the tasks required of a good SAR dog. The typical SAR dog or search and rescue dogs are highly intelligent, making the dog perfect for obedience work. A SAR dog must have a strong play drive, which means they are very focused on chasing and recovering play toys. They are anxious to please their owner and have an intense ability to focus on tasks. Another characteristic required of a SAR dog is that the dog is non-aggressive, especially with other dogs and with strangers. Finally, the dog must show strong ability in at least one of these areas: tracking or trailing, air scenting, human remains detection, and/or disaster recovery.

[germanshepherdsetc]

Our goal here is to help you find the best German Shepherd names. We will provide you with popular male dog names and female dog names, and we will discuss some ways to come up with German Shepherd Dog names on your own so the name you decide on will be uniquely your own.Of course, you can name your puppy anything you like. Some German Shepherds are named after a trait that they show at a young age. For example, if they are very smart and learn really fast, you might call them “Einstein” after Albert Einstein, the famous mathematician known for being extremely smart. That might work for a male name, but for a female, you might be searching for a more feminine name such as “Precious,” who may define who the puppy is and what she is to you. The following German Shepherd Dog names should help you with your own ideas to name your new puppy. Feel free to use any name listed or combination. There are thousands and thousands of names that won’t be covered here, but we hope you can choose a creative name or at least one that fits your puppy and lifestyle!There are many names for puppies that are interchangeable and can be used for male or female German shepherd names for puppies. Don’t let these names limit your imagination:) Come up with many fun names and select your best German shepherd names.German Shepherd Names ListsMale namesFemale namesNames and MeaningsNames from MoviesGSD Names Lists By ColorWhiteBlackBrownSableGSD Names Lists By JobMilitary namesPolice namesGSD Names Lists By CharacteristicBadass namesStrong namesCool namesCute namesPopular namesHopefully, some of these names will help you think of a good name for your German shepherd puppy. In the meantime, we will explain a bit more in detail some ways names are required registrations like the SV and others. When a breeder has their first litter of German shepherd puppies the very first litter must have all of the puppies names begin with the letter “A” and when that breeder has their second litter then all of the puppies in that litter must start with the letter “B” and so on even if different German shepherds were bred as long as they come from the same kennel or breeder.In the United States, the more commonly known AKC registration allows you to name your dog however you see fit as they do not have the same restrictions on German shepherd dog names as the German SV does. Make sure you check with the breeder for potential name requirements especially if you plan on importing a German shepherd puppy. German Shepherd Puppy NamesRemember your German shepherd puppy will grow into an adult German shepherd dog so try to make sure what you plan to call it as a puppy will still fit when he or she is an adult. Remember if you are getting an imported puppy your name will be more restricted however you can be very creative with your puppy's name and additionally his actual name can be different than his call name. For example, if your litter happened to start with the letter “Q” but you wanted to name your German shepherd “Princess” instead of saying “Queenie” you could put Queenie on the registration papers but call her Princess! You could also simply call her Queen’s “Princess”. Have fun with it and your German shepherd puppy name will come easy.Famous German Shepherd Dog Names and Other Famous Dog NamesThere are some very famous German shepherd dog names you might recognize like “Rin Tin Tin” and “Strongheart” from the movies. How about other famous dog names like Lassie? Remember Benji? There are many famous German shepherd dog names from Sieger show winners as well. You can name your German shepherd after something you like or enjoy such as Cocoa Chanel which is a fancy name for a spoiled or “uppity” female German shepherd or how about an unusual but fun name like “Pepsi”? Sounds funny but it’s a good name because you could easily buy personalized items for her such as Pepsi towels or hats etc…..I am sure you could think of many other names based on this example alone. What does the name mean in a German Shepherd's pedigree?Everyone is free to call a dog freely patrolling your yard or running around the streets as he likes. It is quite another matter if it has a name registered in the pedigree because there are fixed rules.The names for shepherd dogs, added to the pedigree, are not made up by the owners but are compiled according to a specific scheme.In the certificate of a German Shepherd puppy, after the verification of a litter (examination on the 45th day after birth for compliance to the standards of the breed), there should be entered data about the parents (they, of course, have their pedigrees), the description of the baby (height, weight, color) and the letter with which the name of the Shepherd should begin.According to FCI rules, all puppies born in the same litter get names that begin with the same letter - a letter of the alphabet.We can not call male dog Albert, as well as to call female dog Hanna if they are littermates and the breed manager has identified a litter with the letter "M" or other.The letter itself depends on what litter their mother brought and how it will be registered in the breeding book.The first is the letter "A."The second is the letter "B."etc.In addition to the obligatory attachment of a dog's name to an alphabetic letter and the number of litters, it is easy to find out which breeding line and kennel the Shepherd belongs to from the pedigree.The prefixes and suffixes in a pedigreeIt is enough to read the prefix or suffix before or after the dog's name, respectively.Such prefixes are not a tribute to the breeder's original thinking! It is a registered trademark, as mostly prefixes and suffixes contain names of kennels where this particular litter was obtained, or one of the pups' parents was born.All prefixes are registered in FCI or AKC. If you haven't found the breeder's name in the lists of both organizations, the pedigree of the German Shepherd dog offered to you is a fake.The name of the German Shepherd in the pedigree is made according to the rules, not the owner's wish.Let's look at two versions of the same full name in a pedigree with a prefix and suffix:- Adeline-DeniseHouseholdViscountStrauss(Adeline-Denise of the Viscount Strauss Family) is a German Shepherd female with the double name Adeline-Denise of Viscount Strauss Kennel. Before the kennel's name, there can be a preposition "from" or "of" - Adeline-Denise from Household Viscount Strauss.- Household Viscount Strauss Zanzibar Inberg is a male of the Household Viscount Strauss kennel named Zanzibar Inberg.Suppose the name of the kennel is long. In that case, it is registered in abbreviated form (no more than 15 characters), for example, HouseholdViscountStrauss - HVS with subsequent transcription in the registry of the FCI or AKC - ZanzibarInbergfromHVS.Each kennel strictly follows the spelling of its prefixes. If it is accepted in a kennel to use prefix, pedigree will not be considered valid if it is filled with suffix.Nothing can be changed in the pedigree at all! Your German Shepherd's name is practically a legal address of an individual. By such an official document, you can trace all the life of your German Shepherd and its ancestors from both sides.If you don't like the name at allUsually, buying a German Shepherd puppy, you already see the name written in the book, which cannot be changed, since the serial number of the litter, the number, and the name of the puppy is already filed in the registration book, but to add your "home" name is not forbidden.The second option is to reserve a German Shepherd puppy even before the birth or registration and tell the breeder the name you have chosen (corresponding to the serial letter of the litter) so that he can add it to the registration book.Breeder or kennel club? The difference in pedigreesWhat to do if the mating and birth do not go through any kennel club? If the mom and dad have pedigrees and are assigned to one of the city's breeders? The rule of "serial letter" remains in this case, but your German Shepherd dog won't receive a long beautiful name with the alma mater and length of almost 40 signs - no more. And it is not necessary! Let it stay just Adelina (Delia) or Inberg (Berg)!The absence of a prefix or suffix is not an indication of weakness in the breeding line, no! It is only an indication that the referral to mating, with subsequent registration of the litter, breeders of puppies parents have received not from the kennel.Perhaps someday you will be able to start your own line of breeding magnificent German Shepherd dogs, then the names of Inberg and Adelina's descendants will have the prefix "from"."Occupied" namesDo not try to enter the name of a famous show dog in the certificate - such names, entered in the breeding books of the kennel club, will be "occupied" for the entire 30 years. You can be severely punished for the attempt to misinform people, so great is the importance in professional canine science of the names for German Shepherds, inscribed in pedigree cards!Home NamesSo how do you name a German Shepherd puppy if you have a long and often hard to pronounce name in the family tree? What name does the Shepherd have in the registration book is one thing, but you need to find a name that allows you to communicate with your Shepherd without stressing. Why is this important? Because while you're getting your puppy used to all the details of proper behavior, you won't forget his name and confuse the dog in the process.All training begins with the very first conditioned reflex - getting your puppy to remember his own name.That's why there are home names - easy to hear and pronounce and therefore easy for your puppy to remember from a young age.Tips for choosing home namesTake another look at your puppy's birth certificate. Perhaps in this official "legal address of an individual," you can spot a word or two that might be appropriate as a home name.These words should be pleasant to the dog's ears and not cause a disturbance to others.A puppy's nervous system is no less sensitive to different combinations of sounds than Shepherd's sensitive ears. Sounds of muffled consonants alternating with exactly the same ones will be unpleasant to the ears and nervous system.For example, the name for a German shepherd girl, "Ushys" or "Shasha," will not be accepted favorably, and it will be difficult for you to work with this name because the Shepherd will "slow down".A completely different thing - a name for a German Shepherd boy "Red" or "Prince". The muffled and hissed consonants are balanced by the "R" sound pleasant for the dog's hearing in these names.The presence of a deaf or a resounding "R" sound in a name is desirable but not obligatory.Variant two is to completely translate a shepherd's name and proceed from the translated text. Many German Shepherds have German names due to their origin, for example, GutaussehendausderHand-Familyie (GutaushendausderHand-Family) - Handsome from the House of Hands.Playing with the letters a little bit, we get cool home names for German Shepherd boys:- Derhan, Derrick, Dare, Jog, Dinar, Dyman, Drogan;- Han, Hand, Haus, Hagen, Hyde, Hiss, Hafri;- Farm, Faust, Phil, Flint, Fram, Farim, Friend;- Asquet, Agul, Argo, Arman, Ampir, Anteus, Astan;- Groom, Grant, Hess, Garus, Ganges, Gaspar, Gurt;- Minor, Marty, Marth, Myrt, Mars, Murdock, Mirza;- Lynch, Lars, Louth, Laus, Life, Lykes, Lemur, etc.These same letters and syllables make sound and beautiful names for a German Shepherd girl:- Hannah, Helma, Holly, Haita, Chloe, Hanta, Horta;- Dara, Diva, Dixie, Dosya, Dasma, Dora, Digma;- Athena, Agatha, Astra, Agora, Ira, Agra, Arsa;- Gretta, Gordy, Hera, Gyurma, Gamma, Guta, Gessa;- Martha, Mirra, Mara, Merlin, Murga, Marsa, Magna;- Frieza, Forta, Fanny, Festa, Fabbi, Fronta, Fursa;- Luta, Lasa, Lira, Lady, Liva, Lisma, Linda, etc.Tips on choosing the best German Shepherd nameThe name given to the German Shepherd puppy should be consistent with this large breed of large, intelligent, and extremely understanding dogs with a strong character and an incredibly huge desire to serve you to his last breath.Respect your German Shepherd Dog! You should not give him a derogatory and dismissive name, which you can think is funny, and for others, it will be a good indicator of your dog and your "wit".Here are some tips to ease the pain of the choice:- The name should be easy to remember, short and distinctive, and be easy for both the dog and the person to hear.- Do not rush to give a German Shepherd boy a beautiful foreign name. In translation, this name can mean a female object or have a bad meaning at all.- It would be best if you did not choose common names, either.- For example, the name Blacky, stubbornly stuck to the black-colored German shepherds, is rather old-fashioned. - Avoid choosing a German shepherd's name from the human names - people don't like it when they are called by name; instead, the dog arrives. As an option, you can choose the names of foreign lands or names of historical heroes and names from fantasy movies and books.Names with special meaningFor example, a German shepherd named Sorel is simply obliged to become as graceful as the antelope Sorel.The 3-month-old puppy, which was named Buffalo, just can't help but grow as big and strong as a bull and as strong and fearless as a buffalo.For unexplained reasons, the German Shepherd's name somehow affects its behavior, appearance, character, and future fate.Therefore, many esotericists suggest that German Shepherd owners called their pets by the letter of the month in which the puppy was born + sign of the zodiac.For example:July + Cancer = Irakez, Acrylic, Rial, Lyra, Yucca, Cali;March + Aries = Manera, Omerta, Author, Tenor, Mentor.June + Cancer = Junac, Inca, Cain, Nar, Cure;April + Aries = Oval, Nevers, Venus, Faith, Anola.And so in all the signs.

[germanshepherdsetc]

Since the Germans registered the first Deutscher Schaferhund or German shepherd in 1899, the most impressive feature of the breed has been its working abilities. Therefore, the structure of the Sieger show ( "Sieger" means champion in German ) competition is based on showcasing the breed’s athletic abilities and stature. There are two main Sieger shows that take place worldwide. They are the German Sieger Show aka World Sieger Show, which is considered by some as the most impressive, and the USA Sieger Show. German Sieger ShowThe German Sieger Show (Bundessieger-Zuchtschau) aka World Sieger Show, dating back to 1899, is a veritable showcase of some of the best young German Shepherd dogs in the world. For a breeder or handler, attendance at this show is one of the highlights of the year, as it offers them the opportunity to witness firsthand the direction the German Shepherd breed as a whole is heading. It also serves as the culmination of a year’s worth of competition. For aficionados of the breed, it offers the opportunity to see some of the best the world has to offer and allows great first-hand contact with breeders of this wonderful dog.The German Sieger Show is held over a period of three days, at which time over 1500 dogs will be shown. This is the largest German Shepherd dog show offered in Germany. The annual event is offered in a different city each year, drawing 30,000 spectators.Requirements for EntrantsThe dogs exhibited at the German Sieger Show have already been judged on numerous occasions and hold a Schutzhund title. They must be of excellent conformation, have correct dentition, and must have hip certification. They must have already received a ‘VG’ rating at a recognized show during the previous year, ensuring that the dogs entered at this international event have already been recognized for excellence within the breed.Conformation and GaitingThe German Sieger Show competition is divided up over the course of three days, with different judges handling the various portions of the test. Divided up by sex and by age, dogs will be judged on several different factors. They are judged on conformation, where their physical structure is analyzed. They will also be judged on their gait and movement. German shepherds are expected to exhibit ground covering stride coupled with excellent reach in the front and exceptional power from the rear.Courage and PerformanceDuring the German Sieger Show competition, the dogs will also be judged on their courage and obedience, participating in a test in which a gun is fired in their presence to make sure that they do not unduly react to the gunfire. The dogs will also be tested for their courage by participation in a performance test, which reflects the Schutzhund title held by the dogs. The dog and handler will approach a blind, at which time the helper, who is wearing special padded clothing, will emerge from behind the obstacle and threaten the handler. The dog is expected to protect the handler by biting the helper and holding on until he is released by the handler. The dog is then expected to attack another threatening helper at the other end of the field. The dog’s attitude, protective stance, and bite are all judged, as well as his willingness to release the bite upon command by his handler.After proceeding through the various preliminary stages of the German Sieger show competition, the highest-ranking dogs will have their pedigrees examined, as the history and breeding of the dog plays a major role in the judge’s decision as to the ultimate award to be given to the top dogs in each class.Awards and TitlesThe judge will decide how to make his awards, giving the coveted award of Sieger to the top male dog, with the top female receiving the title of Siegerin. These awards indicate that these two dogs are the top German Shepherds in the world.The judge will also award ratings of ‘VA’, which stands for excellent select, to a handful of dogs that were in contention for the Sieger Award. This rating is generally accorded to less than a dozen dogs at the competition. Dogs with a VA rank are considered the top specimens in the world. Since this rating is awarded to so few dogs, a typical dog with a VA rating may bring upwards of $100,000 if sold on the open market. Dogs with the highest awards also garner very high stud fees. Dogs will be rated with an indication of where they fell in the ranks; for example, the dog considered the best in the ‘VA’ rating will receive a rank of VA 1.The remaining ratings which will be given to the dogs include ‘V’ (excellent), ‘SG’ (very good), ‘G’ (good), ‘A’ (sufficient), ‘M’ (faulty), ‘U’ I (sufficient), and ‘O’ (failed bite work).How Puppies are ExhibitedPuppies are divided into age groups, in groups of 6-9, 9-12, and 12-18 months. They will be given a rating as indicated above, although the puppy classes do not include gun sensitivity testing nor the performance test. Puppies are judged on conformation, gaiting and temperament.SummationGerman shepherd dogs were historically the herding dog of the average working-class farming family. The German Sieger Show reflects that history, emphasizing overall performance, health, courage, and conformation in determining the awards to be given to the superior dogs shown at the event. These traits can be witnessed in person at the national German Sieger Show aka World Sieger Show.USA Sieger ShowThe USA Sieger show event lasts three days and is a contest between registered German shepherds. It is open to only German shepherds who are recorded in the USA Breed Registry or other FCI-recognized breed registries. When entering a dog in the USA Sieger Show, entrants must submit proper pedigree and registration papers for the dog during the check-in process. Training titles that are accepted are the HGH, DPO, IP, SchH, and any others considered acceptable by the Breed Advisory Committee to be admitted to compete in the USA Sieger show.The following is a breakdown showing how the dogs are classified:Baby puppy class: Dogs from 4 to 6 months old are judged in the baby puppy class.Junior puppy class: Dogs from 6 to 9 months old are judged in the junior puppy class.Senior puppy class: Dogs from 9 to 12 months old are judged in the senior puppy class.Each dog judged in the USA Sieger show puppy class is given one of the following ratings:- Less promising (LP).- Promising (P).- Very promising (VP).Adult Dog ClassDogs over 24 months old without a working title will be judged under the adult dog classification. Each dog is given one of the following ratings:- Insufficient (M).- Sufficient (A).- Good (G).- Very good (SG).The above dog classifications will all be judged during the first day of the Sieger show competition. Some contests have eliminated the adult dog class altogether.The next classifications will be judged on the Sieger show event’s second day, they are as follows:Youth ClassesDogs from 12 to 18 months old fall in the youth class.Young Dog ClassesDogs from 18 to 24 months old fall in the young dog class.Dogs in the youth and young dog classes are each given one of the following ratings:- Insufficient (M).- Sufficient (A).- Good (G).- Very good (SG).Next in the Sieger show competition, come the working dogs that are judged on their performance during the second day of the event following the youth and young dog classes. The classifications for this class are as follows:Working Dog ClassesDogs over 24 months old with a working title are judged in this category. Each dog is given one of the following ratings:- Insufficient (M).- Sufficient (A).- Good (G).- Very good (SG).- Excellent (V).- Excellent-select (VA).Performance and Evaluation TestsAll canines within the working class must participate in the Sieger Show Performance Test. There are two aspects to this test. The first is judging the attack on the handler and the second is the pursuit and courage test. Each dog has three tries to successfully perform each exercise. Each attack must reach a predetermined distance from the blind to pass. This distance is noted as 20 feet. The attack will take place when the dog is between 10 and 15 feet from the blind. The distance from the blind to the starting point is over 60 feet.Judges will evaluate the grip work of each dog as laid out in the USA’s Schutzhund Rule Book. The rule book states that each dog should counter the attack securely and energetically. When a dog has lacking self-confidence in grip work, they are considered sufficient in courage.The out should show the dog is clearly off the sleeve and is moving into the guarding phase. The only permitted command is one word representing out. It can be any word that means out to that dog such as "aus". The commands to sit or down are not permitted during this part of the competition.After the attack, the handler should leash their dog without physical restraint. For example, no physically grabbing the dog to prevent re-grip. If a dog must be physically removed from the sleeve, they will be disqualified. Once the dog is on the lead, the exercise is completed.During the pursuit or long grip, the dog can be held by the collar but not physically or verbally encouraged. The handler releases the dog when signaled by the judge. Each grip work and out will be evaluated similarly to the attack on the handler.Dogs that do not demonstrate a correct performance test are ineligible for the excellent-select (VA) rating. The (VA) rating is the highest attainable award at the Sieger show and one the competitors strive for. Dogs that continue to bump or regrip post out will be placed at the end of their conformation rating. Dogs that do not perform the free heeling exercise within three attempts, do not perform the out, or received evaluations of sufficient or insufficient will be permitted from continuing in the competition.After the performance test, all dogs receive the evaluation pronounced and are then given a standing examination. During the standing examination the following attributes are noted:Judges look for the correct and proper structure, anatomy, and character of each dog. A gun sensitivity steadiness test is given to all age groups excluding the puppy classes. After this is completed, the dogs take part in a gaiting test. This showcases the muscles and bones and allows judges to determine if they work correctly and move in a certain rhythm. Strength, endurance, and liveliness are all evaluated during this aspect of the test.Examples of Trophies, Titles and Prizes Awarded During the USA Sieger ShowCash prizes awarded by the USA Sieger Show range in value from $50 to $250. Titles and trophies include the highest placing American breed, high-performance male, and first place trophies for male and female dogs representing every age group. However, more than any prize or trophy, the honor of winning a title in a Sieger show is the most sought-after award for any German shepherd owner or breeder.The Sieger shows exist to ensure the German shepherd breed is well-respected and highly valued. Each type of show has its own unique set of rules, regulations, qualifications, and titles. Therefore, it is important to check the standards on a regular basis to stay abreast of any changing requirements. However, the long history of the great German shepherd breed has not altered much throughout the years.

[germanshepherdsetc]

Admired and respected, the working class German Shepherd dog has been one of the most coveted dog breeds worldwide. Originating in Germany, the German Shepherd dogs proved to be excellent guardians and sheep herders in their earliest uses. They were, and have remained to this day, valued for their superior intelligence, ease of training, alertness, and muscular stamina. Officially introduced and recognized as a standard breed in 1899 by Captain Max Von Stephanitz, the German Shepherd has filled roles in police work, companions to the blind, search and rescue, security, herding, K9, and wartime participation. Today, the dog takes up 4.6 percent of the canine population among all registered breeds with the American Kennel Club. It can be recognized that Max von Stephanitz was the most important contributor in German Shepherd history.Original German Shepherd Dogs in Germany in the mid-1800sPurebred dogs and dog shows exploded in popularity all across Europe in the mid-1800s. New dog breeds were being defined and introduced into the show ring in unprecedented numbers. In Germany, where historically the value of a dog was based upon its utility and not what it looked like or whether it fits a breed standard, there were numerous different types of dogs working as shepherds and guardians in different parts of the country. Many were exceptional in their roles, but there was little uniformity in their size, appearance, or performance capability.The German Shepherd dog was first used as a working dog in the mountainous pastures of Germany, where herders needed an agile and competent dog to guard their sheep. This dog stood out as the most agile, intelligent, and faithful dog among other breeds, which were also used in this capacity.Phylax SocietyFormed in 1891, the Phylax Society was an attempt to create a standardized list of dog breeds in Germany. Society disbanded after three years of internal conflict over the most important traits of standardization—appearance and working ability.The Phylax Society Gets StartedIn 1891, a group of German dog fanciers got together with the intent of developing a distinct and uniquely German breed of shepherds. They called themselves the Phylax Society, a Greek word meaning "guardian" or "guardsman," and they set about searching for dogs to fit their idea of the perfect canine. Unfortunately, they had only a vague idea of what they thought the perfect canine should be. The biggest challenge faced by the Phylax Society was not a lack of quality dogs upon which to build a new, spectacular breed of dogs, but an inability to agree upon the traits that the perfect canine should possess. Some members felt that the dog's physical appearance mattered little as long as it could perform the tasks set to it with great agility and endurance. Others held that a conformation standard was most important, stressing beauty, or at least consistency of type, over ability. A few believed it was possible to have both beauty and physical talent and asserted that they would settle for nothing less.Phylax Society DisbandsThrough the mating of a number of dogs that fit no fully defined standard, the Phylax Society attempted to create a new German breed, but without success. Unclear as to whether beauty or brawn should prevail, they produced neither. Disappointed and frustrated, members began leaving the Society, and in 1894, it was disbanded entirely.However, the dream of a very special German breed of dogs did not die with the Phylax Society. A few of the members never lost sight of their goal, and one man, in particular, was poised to take up the cause in a decisive way.Max von StephanitzMax Von StephanitzMax Emil Friedrich von Stephanitz, credited with being the founder of the German Shepherd dog as a distinct breed, was born on December 30, 1864, in Dresden, Germany. His family ranked among the nobility, and his family expectations were that he would become a military officer, and even though he wanted to work in agriculture. He followed his family's wishes and ended up a career officer with the cavalry. This one choice proved to be pivotal, as it enabled Von Stephanitz to travel the country where he encountered a variety of working shepherd dogs.Later, he took the course at the Berlin Veterinary College, where he learned about biology, anatomy, and an area of study that some call "form to function," which is the science of movement based on conformation. During that time, he also gained much experience working with the Berlin Veterinary Hospital, which certainly influenced the formation of his ideas about what would comprise the ideal working dog. Von Stephanitz was an original member of the Phylax Society and felt that a superior German breed of herding dogs could be developed. The British were using breeding and culling techniques that they had developed to great success, and von Stephanitz believed he could do the same with German dogs.Once he retired from the military, Von Stephanitz purchased property near Grafrath in the 1890s and began experimenting with dog breeding. He was a common sight at dog shows and herding trials in Germany, where he observed that there were many quality dogs at the shows, but there was no standardization of type. Among the competitors exhibited, he preferred the wolf-like dogs with pricked ears and keen senses, possessing exceptional intelligence and willingness to work. He believed that by mating together superior dogs with these traits, he could establish an admirable breed for livestock herding and guarding throughout Germany.Max Von Stephanitz realized that the ideal working dog would need to be physically built for endurance as well as speed. Since a typical shepherd would be expected to keep a flock of over 200 sheep under control, the dog would need to be intelligent, obedient, and tireless. He would need to be courageous and have a strong instinctive nature toward protectiveness. He preferred that the classification be regulated to the dog's working ability and characteristics rather than appearance. Von Stephanitz's criteria called for a dog that could reason, even-tempered, agile, strong, and protective of its owner and his stock.In 1889, Max von Stephanitz attended a dog show in Karlsruhe, Western Germany in 1889 where a particular working dog caught his interest. Its name was Hektor Linksrhein and it demonstrated a powerful endurance, keen intelligence, and steady disposition. This particular dog was yellow and gray, mirroring the appearance of a wolf. Believing he had finally found the dog that encompassed so many of the characteristics he was looking for, the man quickly purchased the dog for the handsome sum of 200 German gold marks and renamed him Horand von Grafrath. This very dog became the first German Shepherd dog in 1889. Upon its foundation, Max von Stephanitz developed what is now known as the modern-day German Shepherd.Horand von Grafrath (Hektor Linksrhein) - First German Shepherd DogOrigin of German Shepherd BreedVon Stephanitz relied heavily on inbreeding of the German shepherd dog, tasking Horand and his brother, Luchs, to expand the bloodline through half-sisters and son's daughters. Three prime dogs resulted from the breeding: Heinz von Starkenberg, Pilot III, and Beowulf. Soon, unrelated bloodlines were introduced, which possessed herding origins, eventually expanding the bloodline. Heinz von StarkenbergMaintaining the German Shepherd as a Family DogMax von Stephanitz believed that the ideal breeders of German shepherds would be families with only a couple of breeding dogs in order to facilitate daily contact with the dogs as a way of carefully choosing the dogs which would enhance the breed in the future. He argued, "All the wonderful qualities of character possessed by a good shepherd dog will therefore only be brought to light when he remains in the same hands for a very long time, preferably from puppyhood, where having obtained a footing in the house, he shares the joys and sorrows of the family…and our dog is completely ruined in mind and body wherever he is treated only as merchandise…."Along these same lines, Max von Stephanitz did not believe in maintaining dogs in kennels on a regular basis and pointed out that such would necessarily result in dogs that would be unable to perform to their utmost ability. "Whenever the dog is kept in an enclosed kennel, he will not only degenerate physically, becoming stiff, sluggish and lazy but will also become mentally torpid and lose all his sharpness and vim."Breeding Methods and OutcomesA lot of work has been done to establish the new breed. Here are the most important stages and principles of breeding introduced by von Stephanitz.Creation of the Breed StandardAfter obtaining Horand, Max von Stephanitz worked to develop a standard for the breed. He created a studbook for German shepherds, registering Horand as the first stud dog. Max von Stephanitz, drawing upon his experiences with the Berlin Veterinary Hospital as well as his own observations, began a serious breeding program. Choosing dogs with desirable traits, he devoted years to establishing a recognizable breed type, focusing on the dog's abilities as a working dog. He also worked diligently to cull out physical traits which would weaken the breed as a whole.Versatility of the Breed Max von Stephanitz recognized a need to integrate German Shepherds into other areas of society and became a strong advocate for using the dog in military service, law enforcement, protection service, and rescue efforts. Von Stephanitz championed the resulting breed to serve in various branches of government service that would take advantage of its versatility. This included tasks in supply carrying, tracking, courier service, guard positions, and Red Cross duties.Always looking for ways to protect and improve the breed, Von Stephanitz paid close attention to trends in breeding and worked tirelessly to maintain the standard for which he is so well recognized. Discouraging breeding for beauty instead of purpose, Von Stephanitz's motto was: "Utility is the true criterion of beauty."Mating Combinations of the German Shepherd DogThe most lasting and notable mating combination of the German shepherd dog by von Stephanitz was an offspring of Horand, named Hektor von Schwaben. Hektor was inbred with another one of Horand's offspring, and this produced Beowulf. Beowulf produced 84 pups, mostly matings from Hektor's other offspring. Beowulf and his related bloodline are the German Shepherd ancestors of all dogs of this breed today, mostly owing to the efforts and attentive care of Max von Stephanitz. This was a huge factor in German Shepherd history and today's further development of the breed.BeowulfSociety for the German Shepherd Dog (SV)Von Stephanitz cannot be credited with single-handedly creating the foundation stock of the newly emerging German Shepherd Dog since Horand was himself the product of generations of selective breeding before von Stephanitz bought him. However, von Stephanitz was able to spot the dog's qualities from among all of the many specimens he saw regularly and calculate his potential as a breeding animal. On April 22, 1899, von Stephanitz was inspired to form a new organization, which he called Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde, or the Society for the German Shepherd Dog, commonly known as the SV. Along with long-time friend and co-founder Adolf Meyer, von Stephanitz recruited three sheep masters, two factory owners, an architect, an innkeeper, a mayor, and a magistrate to the SV.Von Stephanitz became the first president of the organization. He established the first criteria for the recognition of the breed. His motto was "Utility and Intelligence." He devised a blueprint that dictated the overall morphology, gait, and temperament, which became the primary identifiers for the breed.Right away, the SV established a breed standard against which all German Shepherd Dogs would be judged, along with a Breed Register to record bloodlines. The dog that von Stephanitz purchased earlier, Horand von Grafrath, was recorded as the first German Shepherd Dog in the new registry.A Grand DesignMax von Stephanitz wanted to do more than just fine breed dogs. He wanted a place in history. Taking what he had learned from his studies at the Berlin Veterinary College and through experience gleaned from his own prior dog breeding endeavors, he began a program of what some consider to be a rather ruthless approach to achieving goals. Ruthless or not, the steps taken by von Stephanitz in an era when genetics and DNA testing were not available proved to be almost prescient in their accuracy in extracting the best qualities of the dogs he bred and eliminating the unacceptable strains.Von Stephanitz knew that, in order to set a certain "type," dogs with similar backgrounds and traits must be bred together over several generations. He did not care to wait that long. To speed the process and to capitalize on the valuable qualities of his treasured stud dog, Horand, von Stephanitz quite intentionally implemented a process of line breeding and inbreeding to quickly stamp successive generations of puppies with the "right stuff."Inbreeding and Line BreedingPeople knowledgeable in animal husbandry understand that breeding like to like is the only way to establish consistent results when raising any type of animal. Every distinct species in existence owes its heritage to the concentration of its genes through either inbreeding or line breeding. Although frowned upon in some circles, inbreeding is the fastest way to concentrate genes. This method implies pairing close relatives such as brothers to sisters, fathers to daughters, mothers to sons, etc. Linebreeding is the pairing of less direct crosses, such as fathers to granddaughters or mothers to grandsons. The practice is still called line breeding even when the pairing is used for more distant relatives that are several generations removed.Linebreeding and inbreeding, when practiced carefully and with purpose, have the potential to produce spectacular results in the development of sought-after traits. Both inbreeding and close line breeding methods have their disadvantages as well. They are shunned by many breeders of all types of animals because along with a concentration of the good traits comes a concentration of the faults as well. It is to the credit of von Stephanitz that he understood which animals to select to continue the bloodline and which ones to cull without sentiment due to inferior qualities.Project ImplementationVon Stephanitz utilized both breeding techniques in pursuing what he called his "grand design." His goal was to produce dogs with superior conformation, loyalty, obedience, and courage. Toward this end, Horand was bred extensively and produced many offspring. Horand's most famous and successful son, Hektor von Schwaben, was bred to female offspring of Horand, thus producing the famous and influential Beowulf, among others. Beowulf and his brothers were bred back to daughters and granddaughters of Hektor, and it is to these offspring of Horand and Beowulf that all modern German Shepherd Dogs can trace their ancestry.Hektor von SchwabenBecause of the intense inbreeding of dogs early in the history of German Shepherd lines, the specific look and type that von Stephanitz was striving for became fixed in an amazingly short period. In particular, the pricked ears and the athletic, sloping angles of the shoulders, hips, and legs stamped his animals as the 'German breed'. Requirements and ControlVon Stephanitz knew, however, that he had to look for suitable unrelated dogs to create enough genetic diversity for the breed to survive. He did, of course, insist on remaining in complete control of choosing which dogs were registered and approved for breeding. Ultimately, he and the SV published the Korbuch, or Breed Survey Book, which was issued two decades after the founding of the SV. The Breed Survey Book detailed the guidelines to be followed when selecting German Shepherd Dogs for breeding. Von Stephanitz also insisted that dogs judged in shows be held to the same standards and not selected simply on the judges' preferences. He emphasized "utility and intelligence," but according to many, the dogs bred or culled in the beginning were selected based mostly on looks until there were enough dogs of sufficient age to begin judging them on their athletic ability and work ethic. Fortunately, the progeny of Horand inherited more than his looks.Continuing with his "grand design," von Stephanitz educated breeders on the form to function athleticism and essentially forced them to focus on the angle of the bones, the proportions and measurements of the body and legs, and the overall conformation of the dogs they were raising. The SV sent representatives to inspect litters of puppies recommended for addition to the registry. Those puppies deemed too small, weak, or imperfect were ruthlessly culled. Sometimes culling took place based only on the number of puppies in a litter. If the self-titled SV Breeding Warrens deemed that there were too many puppies for the dam to raise them adequately, pups were culled based on appearance and gender, with a slant toward preserving larger, more robust males.If by today's standards, the methods of the SV seem harsh, it is important to remember that such methods were not considered abnormal in the period. Animals were bred and raised primarily for utility, and the techniques used to establish the German Shepherd dog were considered normal husbandry. Certainly, the methods succeeded in creating a useful, recognizable breed in an amazingly short time.The 1925 SiegerBy 1925, Germany held a national conformation show to determine the best male and female German Shepherd each year. By the end of the show, only one dog in each gender would receive the coveted title of Sieger. Many of the most influential breeders would arrange to breed their best bitches to that year's Sieger dog, thus cementing the dog's impact on the breed as a whole.