German Shepherd Information and Picture


Dog Breed Group

Herding Group

History and Origin

German Shepherd Dog, GSD or Alsatian is a relatively new breed in the dog breeding history. This breed is founded and originated from Germany during the late 1800s. GSD breed is brought up by Max von Stephanitz which he purchased from the market after being impressed by their intelligence. This breed is originally breed for herding purpose but later due to their high intelligience and protective nature, GSD is later used as guard dog, police dog, military dog, search and rescue and many others.

Temperament

German Shepherd Dog is extremely intelligient and is well-known for their fearless, protectiveness and their termendous loyalty. GSD is the most versatile dog you can find; it can be an excellent guard dog, watch dog, herder, rescue and etc. GSD is a great family pet too; it should always be around human companion and should not left alone for a long period of time. Good with chidren and tolerate well with other animals if socialize from young. GSD has a natural instinct to protect, it may be very wary of strangers, firm training from young is essential to prevent over-protective.

Description (Appearance)

German Shepherd dog is one of the most famous dog breed in the world, and is hail the best guard, police and military dog. GSD is a large breed with well proportionate body. GSD should always appear strong, confident, attentive and reliable. The coat is quite long and rough, generally the color comes in black with tan, sable or all black, other colors are also possible but are a fault in most standards. Their ears are almost always erected. GSD are recognized differently according to different breed lines; Germany line, America line, East Germany line and DDR Line.

Size

Height--Dogs, 24 -26 inches. Bitches, 22 -24 inches at the withers.
Weight--Dogs, around 85 pounds. Bitches, around 78 pounds

Living Conditions

GSD do well in most climates and can live in an apartment, but enjoy most with a big yard to run around.

Exercise demand

This breed yearns for vigourous exercise, if not enough exercise, this breed may become destructive.

Health problems

Prone to Hip Dysplasia, ear infection, stomach disorder, skin allergies and von Willebrand's disease.

Life Expectancy

About 12 - 13 years.

Grooming

GSD has rough and medium length outer coat and thick undercoat. A daily brushing is important to remove dead hair. Bathing is rarely required, 2 -3 a year is enough to maintain a clean and health dog.

Special Concern

NA

Recognition

CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, GSDCA, APRI, ACR

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