How Large Are Black German Shepherds
Its worth mentioning again, in detail, that Black German Shepherds are typically larger than the standard GSD version. Black German Shepherds can be up to 26 inches tall and weigh 88 lbs, surpassing the classic variety.
Black GSD puppies will reach their full-grown size between 18 months to 2 years old.
Black German Shepherd Vs Standard German Shepherd
The biggest difference between solid Black German Shepherds and standard German Shepherds is their coat color. However, there are a few other physical differences between the two breeds.
For starters, the pure Black German Shepherd is often larger than the normally colored German Shepherd. They arent profoundly larger than normal German Shepherds are, but they may be an inch or two taller and 10 or 20 pounds heavier in extreme cases.
Another important difference relates to the shape of their backs. Typical German Shepherds have a curved back, which is quite distinctive when viewed from the side. Black German Shepherds have a straighter back, like most other breeds.
Finally, the all-black German Shepherd often has a straighter coat than a regular German Shepherd. They can still exhibit the feathering and skirting that standard German Shepherd dog breed coats exhibit, but their coats are noticeably more straight than those of regular German Shepherds.
Popularity Of The Black German Shepherd
These dogs are, unsurprisingly, in demand. German Shepherds are sought after animals they consistently hold the position of the AKCs second most popular dog, pipped only by the Labrador Retriever.
And with long, black hair? They look incredible.
Since all black German Shepherds, and unusual colors like black and red or black and white German Shepherd dogs are rare, be prepared to join a waiting list when you find a breeder.
You might also find that these dogs command a premium price.
Make sure your breeder has health-tested their puppies parents, and their fee is based on raising healthy, well socialised and cared for puppies, not just their unusual coat!
But why are black German Shepherd puppies so rare in the first place?
To answer that, we need to look at their DNA
Recommended Reading: Is My German Shepherd Pregnant
Do Black German Shepherds Suffer From More Health Issues
Some people are under the misconception that black German Shepherds are highly different to regular German Shepherds, and have different temperaments and health issues or ailments. However, this is not always the case.
A great number of people seem to think that black German Shepherds are more aggressive than regular German Shepherds, and may be more prone to angry outbursts or aggressive behavior.
This is not strictly true, as most dogs temperaments depends on the dog themselves and not the color of their fur. German Shepherds are typically very active, intelligent, alert, friendly, loyal and loving animals, but there may always be some that show signs of aggression or misbehavior. This can be solved with a solid routine and expert or professional training.
You have to keep in mind that because German Shepherds are so intelligent, they need a lot of mental stimulation and attention to keep their minds engaged and active. This means giving them a lot of exercise, time, energy and toys to keep them focused and interested. Otherwise, you may notice some aggression, anti-social, destructive or bad behavior as they tend to act out and become naughty if they are bored.
German Shepherds Can Be Born In Three Different Colors
Even though German Shepherds can come in various colors, they are either born black, white, or gray.
You will see their true color by eight weeks of age, but it often can take up to two years to see the final color.
For instance, if you have a black and tan German Shepherd, the tan color will slowly appear around their legs, stomach, face, and tail as they grow.
If you are looking to buy a black German Shepherd, make sure that they are older than eight weeks, so that you know their true color.
If a GSD puppy is born black, they will either grow up to be black or another color. Here is a list of possible colors that your dogs coat can turn into:
- Gray
- Brown
- Black and silver
Not only is there a variety of colors your German Shepherd can be, but there are a few different textures their coat can be.
Hair length can vary from short to long.
Additionally, their coat can be dense and thick, medium-thick, fluffy, and thick, or they can have long, thick hair.
Lastly, most of the hair will be in certain areas such as the ears, neck, tail, chest, and the back of their legs.
Even if you find yourself with a black German Shepherd puppy, the likelihood that she will grow up to be pure black is very slim.
You will most likely end up with a black and tan dog since black and tan is a recessive gene and one of the most popular colors.
Also Check: How Much Do Full Grown German Shepherds Weigh
Black German Shepherd Grooming
For example, how does grooming black German Shepherds differ from grooming other colors?
Just like the rest of their GSD brethren, these dogs have a double coat.
This extra hair doesnt require much more effort on the grooming front, though. Twice weekly brushing of your black German Shepherd will usually suffice.
All German Shepherd dogs shed their coats quite significantly throughout the year, and blow their coat in spring and fall.
As you can imagine, an all black German Shepherd will really make an impact on your floors and furnishings as this happens!
In other words, there will be plenty of hair to clear up. So make sure you keep your vacuum cleaner close at hand.
Black German Shepherd Personality
Despite some rumors, black German Shepherds arent considered to be an aggressive breed. While they are protective and trained to become excellent guard dogs, most are simply loyal to the core and very courageous.
If you train and socialize them from puppyhood, they can even become amazing nanny dogs. Theyll do well with children and theyll watch over them all the time. In the end, all German Shepherds consider taking care of their pack as their full-time job, and this is what theyll gladly do.
Black GSDs will take some time getting used to strangers, and theyll gladly alert you if someone new is in the house.
However, they wont be aggressive, and if they notice that the new person smells like you, then theyll probably be friendly right away. When a German Shepherd becomes your friend, hell stick with you to the end.
Unfortunately, this family-friendly temperament has its downsides. They are prone to separation anxiety, and they hate being left alone, even for a short period of time. This can make them express some destructive behaviors.
Because of this, they are not the best fit for people working long office hours.
Black German Shepherds are smart dogs that might want to do things their own way. This can make them somewhat challenging for first-time dog owners.
Also Check: What To Feed A 1 Month Old German Shepherd Puppy
Which German Shepherd Color Should You Opt For
The personality and character traits of all these German Shepherds are the same, so it really comes down to your personal choice.
Theres no right or wrong choice for people looking to keep their German Shepherd just as a family dog. But, if you want your dog to stand out of all others around you, get one of the rare color varieties.
However, if you plan to take your dog to showings, make sure you get one from the qualified varieties.
The Black Coloring Material Has No Negative Impression On The Cad
here second where that negative mark comes in people can sometimes fear this pawl due to its fall black color. The color of this frump does not affect its temperament. The black german Shepherd is equitable as loyal, alert, activeand intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you shackle with her, she will be your companion for life . black german Shepherds are besides incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs . Look how obedient this 11-month old Black Shepherd puppy is :
just like any german Shepherd, their protective instinct can be impregnable. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack ! In the case of your class coming into danger, have no doubt this frankwill defend you . As a companion pawl, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make surely you socialize her from a young senesce so that she gets on well with people in adulthood.
Xem thêm: Top 8 Most Expensive Small Dog Breeds For Pets
Don’t Miss: How To Keep A German Shepherd Healthy
How Big Do Black German Shepherds Get
They are a large-sized dog that grows up to the same size or even bigger than regular German Shepherds.
The adult male Black German Shepherd has a height between 24 to 26 inches . The females are smaller with a size ranging from 22 to 24 inches .
The male ones have an average weight between 65 to 90 pounds while the female is on the lighter side, weighing 50 to 75 pounds .
Young Black German Shepherds mature and reach their full-grown size between 18 months to 2 years of age.
You May Like: How Big Is A 5 Month Old German Shepherd
Grooming Of The Black German Shepherd Dog
These dogs are often admired for their luscious, luxurious looks. Their coat lengths may range anywhere from short to very long and give off that appearance of flowing and skirting the dog.
The main issue when it comes to grooming and taking care of your Black German Shepherd is their notorious tendency to shed. And they shed quite a bit. This means that the medium to long haired types will require extra attention.
To avoid this, make sure to brush your dog at least twice a week. Put in the extra effort and purchase a de-shedding brush that will assist you in the job. This will help reduce the overall amount of hair found in your personal spaces. You can bathe him regularly just as you would for the standard type.
Donât Miss: When To Neuter A German Shepherd
Read Also: Can You Leave German Shepherd Home All Day
Black German Shepherd Aggressive
They are not much aggressive as compared to another typical breed standard. They are not aggressive by nature but they develop behavioral problems. The reason for their behavioral problems is their lack of socialization. If you want a well-behaved and well-rounded black German shepherd then socialization is the key to this. If you succeed in making a bond with them, they are great companions.
How Big Is A Black German Shepherd
It is a large-sized dog and is generally bigger than the other variations of shepherd dogs. It takes a black German shepherd puppy about 18 months to two years to fully grow up. A male black German shepherd dog can grow up to 24 in – 26 in , and the length of the female is somewhere between 22 in – 24 in , which is almost eight times bigger than an average chihuahua.
Also Check: What Do German Shepherds Eat
How Do They Reproduce
The mating process of the Black German Shepherd is similar to that of every other dog in the world. A dog reaches its sexual maturity during adolescence, that is, between the age of eight – 12 months. A black German shepherd female has a reproductive cycle of four phases. They have an estrus or heat period twice per year, and each lasts for about two to three weeks. Male dogs, on the other hand, do not have any specific cycle and can respond to a female dog any time of the year. The male and females are mated during the heat period. Four- nine puppies are born after a 63 day gestation period. Puppies are weaned at their third or fourth week.
All breeds of German shepherds can give birth to a black German shepherd, but both the mating dogs should have recessive genes. All German shepherds are either grey, white, or black at birth. It is not possible to distinguish them before eight weeks. A German shepherd puppy with solid black color can be alternatively reproduced if two solid blacks mate.
Exercise For Black Gsd
Your Black German shepherd can want a minimum of 2 hours of exercise each day. This could include walks and off-lead exercise during a safe space, with further playtime and coaching on high to offer them a good selection.
This could be displayed across the day and might include all kinds of high energy activity, like walking, running and enjoying. German shepherd puppies wont would like as much exercise as their adult companions.
Its necessary to not over exercise your puppy, because it may lead to joint and quality problems in later life. Puppy also will get lots of exercise from tearing round the house and enjoying, simply confirm theyre obtaining enough sleep.
Walks ought to be opportunities to explore their atmosphere, work on coaching and sensible behavior outdoors, and socialize with others and dogs during a controlled manner. Playing with them keep your Black German shepherd mentally active.
Running is nice a part of exercise. Theyre able to run fairly long distances. Theyre capable of running anyplace from five to twenty miles. Hiking with your dog is nice exercise for each of you however itll be additional mentally and physically stimulating for Misha than a circle in the neighborhood park.
Its suggested that you simply introduce him to family and friends which will often be visiting your home.
Don’t Miss: What To Do With A German Shepherd Puppy
Black German Shepherd Temperament
Weve learned about the physical differences between solid black German Shepherds and their sable cousins, and the unique genetic make up which makes them possible, but what about their personality?
Does a dog have a different personality if theyre all back? What about a black and tan German Shepherd?
The answer here is simple. At the time of writing, theres no evidence that coat color changes the German Shepherds disposition.
Whether, sable, black, or bi-colored, your GSD will be loyal, quick to learn new commands, and a tireless worker.
So where can you find one?!
But First Heres A Quick Overview Of The Black German Shepherd
Black German Shepherds are the same breed as standard German Shepherds.
Height: 22-26 Inches
Life Span: 12 14 Years
Temperament: Intelligent, Confident, Fearless, Devoted
Energy Level: Moderate to High
Exercise Needs: Moderate to High
Common Health Conditions:Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, Bloat, diabetes, epilepsy, hemophilia, cataracts, degenerative disc disease, urinary tract infections, dental disease, nose infections, panosteitis, allergies, thyroid problems, and bladder stones
A Few Clubs That Recognize The Black German Shepherd
Black German Shepherd Overview:
The black German Shepherd is a color variation of the German Shepherd purebred. While most health, temperament, and physical traits are similar to that of other colored German Shepherds, there are some differences that potential owners should consider when investing in a black German Shepherd.
Outside of color, however, most German Shepherd dogs are intelligent, focused, hard working and devoted. They do well with experienced dog owners who are committed and able to spend lots of time with their dog when it comes to exercise, training and socialization.
The black German Shepherd, like most German Shepherds, are family favorites. In fact, according to the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd breed sits at number 2 out of 196 on the American Kennel Clubs list of most popular dog breeds.
Read Also: Why Does My German Shepherd Pant All The Time
Black German Shepherd Health
Luckily, the black gene doesnt give black German Shepherds an increased chance of any health condition on its own.
Unfortunately, large dog breeds tend to suffer from more health issues than their smaller counterparts. As black German Shepherds are somewhat larger than standard German Shepherds, this also makes them more prone to various health problems.
Scientists have yet to determine the exact cause of shorter life spans in large dogs. However, they believe it has something to do with their fast growth rate.
Lets explain.
If you take a look at a German Shepherd puppy and, for example, a French Bulldog puppy, youll notice how there isnt as big of a size difference as there is between adult dogs.
Most dogs are born of similar size. However, large dog breeds need to grow larger at a much faster pace. This means their cells are reproducing much faster than the cells of smaller dogs.
This fast cell reproduction is what leads to the increased chance of bad organ development and even cancer.
Overall, a black German Shepherd is prone to:
Hip dysplasia
Osteoarthritis
Cancer
Not all of these health issues will endanger your pups life. Most orthopedic conditions cause the lameness of certain body parts, and they can affect their walking, but they wont directly make their lives shorter.
Others, such as cancer or bloat, can suddenly end your pups life.
How To Know If It Will Stay Black Or Become Sable
Sable German Shepherds will start out black but will start to show hints of grey around 8 weeks old.
If you are wanting a black German Shepherd for your family, you will want to wait for puppies to start showing alternate colors in their coat, before selecting your puppy.
Thiswill ensure that you will actually bring home a black puppy, and not a blackand tan or sable puppy instead.
Blackor white German Shepherd puppies will not change color. White German Shepherdsare born white and will remain that color throughout their life.
Black German Shepherd puppies will remain black, but remember, as we mentioned above, black parents can also have black and tan puppies, so it is important to watch closely to make sure that your black puppy will stay black.
Don’t Miss: Do German Shepherds Need Coats