The German Shepherd Dog is a medium to large-sized breed that is slightly elongated with a powerful and well-muscled body. The breed has a dry bone and firm overall structure. The height at the withers ranges from 55 cm to 65 cm for male dogs and 55 cm to 60 cm for female dogs, with the trunk length exceeding the height at the withers by about 10-17%. The head is wedge-shaped, and in proportion to the body size. The German Shepherd Dog has a double coat, which comes in two varieties – long and harsh outer coat and double coat with an undercoat. The breed comes in a variety of colors, including black with reddish-brown, brown, and yellow to light gray markings, as well as single-colored black, grey with darker shading, black saddle, and mask.
German Shepherd Breed
Courageous, Loyal, and Intelligent!
The German Shepherd Dog, also known as the GSD, is a versatile breed that was developed in Germany in the late 19th century. This breed was created to be a working dog capable of herding and protecting sheep, and eventually evolved into a highly valued police and military dog due to its intelligence, loyalty, and obedience. Today, German Shepherds continue to be one of the most popular dog breeds worldwide, prized for their versatility and adaptability to a variety of living conditions.
Characteristics
History
According to official documentation from the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) e.V., the German Shepherd Dog was established in the first general meeting in Frankfurt/Main on 20 September 1899, according to suggestions by A. Meyer and Max von Stephanitz. The breed was created by breeding the central German and southern German breeds of herding dogs with the ultimate objective of creating a working dog inclined to high achievements. The SV, as the founding club of the breed, is responsible for the breed standard of the German Shepherd Dog. The breed standard relates to the physical constitution as well as the traits and characteristics of the breed. Revisions and catalogued measures were resolved within the framework of the World Union of German Shepherd Dog Clubs (WUSV) Meeting on 30 August 1976.
Temperament
The German Shepherd Dog must be well-balanced in terms of character, self-assured, absolutely natural, and good-natured, except for a stimulated situation, attentive and willing to please. The breed must possess instinctive behavior, resilience, and self-assurance in order to be suitable as a companion, guard, protection, service, and herding dog. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable, making them excellent working dogs. They are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners and their ability to form strong bonds with their families.
Health issues
Like all dog breeds, German Shepherds are prone to certain health issues, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and degenerative myelopathy. These conditions can be genetic, so it is essential to obtain a puppy from a reputable breeder who has screened their breeding stock for these health issues. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and exercise are important to maintain the health of German Shepherds.
Living conditions
German Shepherds are highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living conditions. However, due to their high energy levels and need for exercise, they are best suited for homes with large yards or for active owners who can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are highly social animals and should not be left alone for extended periods. German Shepherds make excellent family pets when socialized properly and can coexist well with children and other pets.
