German Shepherd

German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian) From local shepherd dogs from Württemberg, Thurginia and Bavaria, von Stephanitz and other people this dog type was bred. And in 1899 the first German Shepherd was registered. The German Shepherd was bred for herding of sheep. Throughout the years, the work ethic of this breed has been honed so that tracking, obedience and protection have been actively highlighted in the selecting breeding of this dog. They are most suited to active working environments, They can be found doing police work, guarding, therapy, search and rescue, military and as guide dogs. After the first world war the name was changed (in UK and France) to Alsatian to remove the stigma attached, and it has only been in recent times that the original name has been officially recognized again.

Naming

The German Shepherd is also known as Alsatian, or Schäfer and its official name is German Shepherd Dog.

Temperament

They are a direct and fearless breed, Bold, obedient and cheerful, also known for their great loyalty and courage. This breed has as its primary feature a complete willingness to protect its den (its home location)and pack (its human family). It is a calm dog, but if the need arises, will be eager and alert. The temperament as an adult is dependent upon proper socialization as a pup. They can be very wary of unknown people, so the socialization needs to be extensive to stop them from over-guarding the family. Some pups may be timid and skittish and may fear bite. However for a Shepherd to be happy it needs to have a purpose in life, German Shepherds also excel in agility, ring sport and fly ball. They have a very territorial nature which means that they have no tendency whatsoever to run away.

Grooming and care

The coat of this breed comes in black and tan, sable or all black, but also may come in blue, liver and white. Grooming with a special comb is required in the shedding period to get rid of dead and poorly attached hair. The German Shepherd will be ok in an apartment as long as they get enough exercise, however indoors they are relatively inactive a large outdoor space would be idea. As stated above this type of dog needs to have a purpose in life, so if it is not a working dog, then it would be ideal to join a breed group to participate in agility, obedience, police trial etc., to keep the dog mentally and physically fit. This breed will happily live outside in a kennel with sufficient exercise and good attention. The majority of this breed worship the main owner and have a great need for contact. So realistically if there is not enough time to be with the dog, then another breed should be sought.

Health

German Shepherds are more likely to get the following conditions:

Stats

Life span 10-12 years

Height: males 60-64 cm (20-24 in.), females 55-60 cm (22-24 in)

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