German Shepherd

With handsome and noble good looks, the German Shepherd was the original canine movie star. Hollywood loved the handsome breed and German Shepherd went on their way to the silver screen. The fame associated with Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart, two members of the breed whose movies played on variations of the boy and his dog theme, shot the popularity of the breed sky-high. But from the silver screen to silver stars German Shepherds lead the way as police dogs. Expert estimates the breed counts 8000 deputy dogs. They are fearless and would be the first to protect you at any costs.

This responsive, obedient and courageous breed was produced in Germany, by Captain Max von Stephanitz along with other dedicated breeders. The dogs were presented at Hanover in 1882, and the shorthaired variety was first presented in Berlin in 1889. In April 1899, von Stephanitz registered the first Deutsche Schäferhunde, which means “German Shepherd Dog” in English.

They are very athletic, watchful, alert, curious, obedient, loyal, confident and extremely intelligent. You can train them to do almost anything. The German Shepherd’s breed versatility beginning with his double layered coat, they have a very dense undercoat so they are very good all weather type of dog. Color variety include standard black and tan, all black and, in recent years, even white.

This breed also has pointed alert ears but in puppies the ears are floppy. And this is actually very close to the wolf (wolf puppies are born with floppy ears). The bushy slightly curved tail reaches below the hocks and hangs down when the dog is at rest. The front legs and shoulders are muscular and the thighs are thick and sturdy. The round feet have very hard soles. The Dutch breeders did cross wolves into the blood line into 1920s but the result dog could not be domesticated. Yet, the policemen are thankful for one wolfy hangover: the long muzzle, the better to track you with.

With the capability to exert up to 238 pounds pressure, the German Shepherd has a scissors bite that is second only to the Rottweiler in power. They are pretty healthy, although the breed’s body does wear down over the years and they are legend for hip dysplasia. For grooming, the German Shepherd need daily brushing as you will find clumps everywhere.

Adaptability is this dog’s middle name: you could have a German Shepherd into an apartment as long as you exercise them regularly. He is a biter so early training is important. With proper guide, love and attention, these dogs make loyal pets, they want to please and with the least bit of encouragement they will be all over you and make you a very happy owner. The German Shepherd is a warm, wonderful loyal family dog but outsiders, be aware: they can be very protective to what they consider their pack or family.

The German Shepherd is:

– very adaptable

– healthy but beware of bad breeding

– sheds heavily

– easy to train

– great family dog.