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The German Shepherd, originated in Germany is a medium to large sized dog, probably one of the most recognized dog breed in the world. It was initially used for herding sheep, but due to its intelligence, loyalty, trainability and strength, the German Shepherd has gained itself a reputation of an all round dog. Today, this breed is being used in different roles like, for, search and rescue, police and military, disability assistance, guard roles and many others. They make great companion dogs.
Origin : Germany
Avg. Age : 10 to 12 years
Group : Herding
History :
In the mid 18th century a need was realized to have breed standards. In those days there was no real categorisation to differentiate the breeds. All the herding dogs were considered the same. Max von Stephanitz, an ex-cavalry captain, played a great role in the development and recognition of the breed, today known as the German shepherd. Von Stephanitz wanted to create a German breed, that would be unmatched as a herding dog. In the year 1898, after his retirement Von Stephanitz, started studying about the English breeding techniques. He travelled and attended many dog shows across Germany in search of the perfect working dog, which embodied all the different traits like, intelligence, athleticism and obedience.
In 1899, while visiting a dog show Von Stephanitz, was shown a dog named HektorLinksrhein. He was very impressed with the power, intelligence and loyalty of the dog and immediately decided to purchase it. Von Stephanitz, later renamed the dog as Horand von Grafrath. He was so impressed with the dog, that he soon formed a society – Verein fur deutsche Schaferhunde (Society for German Shepherd dogs). Horand was the first ever registered dog of German shepherd breed.
Appearance :
The German shepherd is a medium to large sized dog. This is a strong, agile and muscular breed with heavy and dense hair coat. The German shepherd always carries the expressions of, intelligence, alertness, loyalty and fearlessness. It can look intimidating but has a sensible brain on his head. The German shepherd has a slightly longer neck. Whenever the dog gets excited, it raises its head and lowers it, while moving at a fast speed. The tail is bushy. Most of them have a characteristic black blanket type of hair coat on their back, leaving the legs, some portion of the neck and head and inner part of the tail.
Temperament :
The German shepherd is a highly intelligent and confident dog breed. They are job oriented and love to be busy performing some activity or work. The high level of intelligence and willingness to learn makes the German shepherd highly trainable. Their curious and suspicious nature makes them excellent guard dogs. They are reserved with the strangers and don’t make friends with them quickly.
