Known as the finest all-purpose worker, the German Shepherd is a large and muscular dog with a personality described as courageous, confident, and smart.
In this article, we will explore the history, physical characteristics, temperament, and health considerations of the German Shepherd, so you can decide if it is the right breed for you.
History and Origins of the German Shepherd
The German Shepherd breed was developed in Germany in the late 19th century by Captain Max von Stephanitz. He was a former cavalry officer who wanted a versatile working dog that could excel at herding, guarding, and search and rescue.
The Captain’s vision was successful, and the breed quickly became popular throughout Europe and eventually made its way to the United States. German Shepherds were originally bred for their intelligence, loyalty, and work ethic.
They were used as herding dogs in Germany, where they would help farmers move their flocks of sheep from one pasture to another. German Shepherds were also used as guard dogs to protect their owners and their property.
The Birth of the Breed
The first German Shepherd litter was born in 1899. The puppies were the offspring of a dog named Horand von Grafrath, whom von Stephanitz purchased because he exemplified the physical and mental traits the Captain was looking for.
Horand was the breed’s foundation, and all purebred Shepherds today can trace their lineage back to him. After the success, von Stephanitz continued breeding and established the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (Society for the German Shepherd Dog) in 1899.
The society was created to promote and maintain the breed’s high standards and to ensure that German Shepherds were bred for their working abilities and not just their appearance.
The Role of German Shepherds in World Wars
During World War I and II, German Shepherds were used by both the Allied and Axis forces as military and police dogs due to their intelligence, agility, and protective instincts.
German Shepherds were also used as messenger dogs, search and rescue dogs, and even as guard dogs in concentration camps. One of the most famous German Shepherds of World War I was a dog named Rags.
He served with the 1st Infantry Division in France and was credited with saving the lives of many soldiers. Rags was wounded in battle and was eventually adopted by a soldier who took him back to the United States.
German Shepherds in Modern Times
Today, German Shepherds are popular family pets and are still used in various service roles. They are also well-known in the entertainment industry, having starred in movies and TV shows such as “Rin Tin Tin.”
The breed has been recognized by all major kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club (AKC), since 1908. On the AKC’s scale of popularity, the German Shepherd ranks 4th out of 200.
Physical Characteristics and Traits
The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent and versatile breed known for its loyalty, courage, and protective nature, making it a popular choice for many roles, owners, and living situations.
Size and Weight
The German Shepherd is a large dog. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh 65 to 90 pounds. Females are slightly smaller – they stand 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 70 pounds.
German Shepherds are incredibly strong and enduring. They are capable of running long distances and can easily keep up with their human companions during outdoor activities.
Coat Types and Colors
German Shepherds have a thick, double coat. The texture of their fur can also vary, with some dogs having a straight, wiry coat, while others have a softer, fluffier coat.
The coat comes in a wide range of colors, including black, black & cream, black & red, black & silver, black & tan, gray, sable, white, liver, blue, and bi-color.
Proper grooming is essential for maintaining a German Shepherd’s coat. Regular brushing helps to remove loose fur and prevents matting, while bathing helps to keep their skin and coat healthy.
Distinct Features
The German Shepherd’s distinctive appearance includes a long, wedge-shaped head, pointed ears, and a thick, bushy tail. Their powerful physique and commanding presence make them an ideal choice for a variety of tasks.
Temperament and Personality
The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent and trainable breed known that form strong bonds with the owner and has a natural inclination to protect. It is also highly energetic and thrives on mental and physical stimulation.
Intelligence and Trainability
German Shepherds are super smart and are often used as working dogs. They excel in obedience training, agility, and other canine sports. They are also used as search and rescue dogs, as well as therapy dogs.
Training a German Shepherd requires patience and consistency. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are eager to please. However, they can be stubborn at times, so it’s important to establish yourself as the pack leader early on.
Loyalty and Protective Instincts
German Shepherds are known for their protective instincts, which make them excellent guard dogs. However, it’s important to remember that this trait can also lead to aggression if not properly managed.
Early socialization and training are essential to ensure your Shepherd is friendly towards strangers and other animals. Despite their protective nature, German Shepherds are also affectionate and loyal towards their owners.
Socialization and Interaction with Other Animals
German Shepherds can be wary of strangers and other animals if not properly socialized. It’s important to expose them to different people, animals, and environments from a young age to prevent fear and aggression.
When properly socialized, German Shepherds can get along well with other animals. However, it’s important to supervise interactions and never leave them alone with small animals, as their prey drive can kick in.
Health and Average Lifespan
Common Health Problems
The German Shepherd is prone to certain breed-specific health problems, such as:
- Hip Dysplasia: A hereditary malformation of the hip joint that causes joint incongruency, pain, lameness, and mobility issues
- Elbow Dysplasia: An umbrella term covering several conditions affecting the elbow and resulting in severe pain and lameness
Tips for Care and Maintenance
German Shepherds require plenty of exercise and playtime to prevent boredom. Daily walks, runs, and other physical activities are essential to keep your Shepherd healthy and happy.
They also need regular grooming to maintain their thick, beautiful coats. German Shepherds do best on high-quality dog food that is balanced for their age and lifestyle.
Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of the German Shepherd is between 7 and 10 years. This is relatively short, but dogs with good genetics and excellent care can live longer.
Conclusion
Overall, the German Shepherd is a loyal and intelligent breed that makes an excellent companion for those willing to commit to their training, care, and exercise needs.
Whether you are looking for a loyal family pet or a working dog, the German Shepherd is an excellent choice. Research the breed in detail and ensure you find a reputable breeder.
