The German Shepherd Breed
Breed: German Shepherd Size: 22-26” Weight: 55-110 lbs.
The type of dog's coat comes in three varieties. There is a short coated version, one with a medium length coat or they can have long hair. They come in black-and-tan coloration, they can be sable or all black. There is also a white version (considered to be from a recessive gene) but the all white variety is considered a fault with the AKC Registry. The typical animal of this breed that most see comes in the black and tan color with a typical ‘saddle’ marking. These dogs have a fairly long and bushy tail which goes down almost to the hocks on his leg and hangs down when he is at ease. He has a muscular build in his front legs and shoulders and has moderately heavy thighs. This breed of dog is highly intelligent. They are agile and have a very strong work drive which makes them ideal for police work, guard dogs, or military applications. By nature, they are fearless and protective which also makes them excellent watch dogs. German Shepherds are especially good at detecting scent and they are one of the most widely used dogs for the scent-related line of work. They are often used in scent-work roles to detect drugs, detection of cadavers or are often used to find explosives. They are easily trained and extremely good in the line of obedience, herding and tracking. Although genetics can dictate their final temperament, proper socialization as a puppy can make them extremely desirable for a family pet. Sometimes, though, if this is ignored these dogs can have aggressive tendencies and be quite unsociable. As with any of the larger breeds of dogs, these dogs can be susceptible certain health issues. This can include hip and elbow dysplasia, which can be a potentially crippling disease. Other health problems this breed can encounter are: von Willebrand’s disease, a heredity abnormality concerning the coagulation of their blood, skin allergies, and canine degenerative myelopathy, which is a neurological disease that can result in lameness. Also like many larger dogs, this breed can also be prone to bloat, a serious condition of gas build-up in the stomach. It is also possible that some German Shepherds can be prone to pancreas deficiencies. Even with some of the health issues, this breed of dog is considered one of the most popular breeds of dogs today. If properly trained and handled they can be included successfully into a loving home environment, or trained to be excellent dogs in a working situation. They are intelligent, loyal, protective and have a great deal of spirit.
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