Types Of German Shepherds By Hair Length
In the case of dogs, even the length of the hair is taken into account when talking about one variety or another. There are two types of German Shepherd taking this characteristic into account.
1. Short-haired German Shepherd
As their name suggests, they stand out for having a short coat. Likewise, they are very active dogs, therefore, they need to perform physical exercise daily.
In addition, it is noteworthy that the German Shepherd is among the most intelligent dog breeds, although they need training from puppies.
2. Long-haired German Shepherd
In this case, the opposite of the above happens â the animal boasts of having its long coat. This characteristic gives them great beauty and, for this reason, they attract even more attention.
The fur can measure up to 60 centimeters, making it very soft and shiny if it is cared for well. Thus, it is important to brush their hair twice a week with a metal brush.
How Do I Know What Type Of German Shepherd I Have
Examining the Dogs Coat One of the most obvious ways to tell a German Shepherd from other dog breeds is by simply looking at its coat. When we think of the typical German Shepherd, we think of tan coloring with black facial and saddle markings. The coat is typically dense and short and lies close to the body.
German Shepherd Breed Standards: Characteristics
The German Shepherd Dog should be well-balanced, firm in nerves, self-confident, utterly calm and impartial, and amiable.
They must possess courage, willingness to fight, and hardness to be suitable as a companion, watchdog, protector, service dog, and guardian.
They have a wedge-shaped head that is large but in proportion to the body and a forehead that is domed these dogs have an elongated square-cut muzzle with lips that are tight against the teeth and dark in color, and a nose that is large, wide and black.
The jaws on these dogs are strong they have a bite that can be compared with a scissor-like cut.
The eyes of the German Shepherd are medium in size, almond-shaped, and sparkling brown with an intelligent look that is self-assured.
The ears are generally large and always stand erect they are open at the front and parallel but are frequently pulled back throughout the movement.
The necks on these dogs are long, and it is lifted when they become excited, lowered when moving at a fast pace.
The German Shepherds tail is bushy and fairly long. The shoulders slope into a straight, strong back, and movement is effortless and long, with a smooth trot.
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A Short History Of The German Shepherd
As the name of the breed suggests, the German Shepherd originates from Germany. The history of the breed dates back to the late 1800s. In the 1850s, German dog breeders were trying to standardize dog breeds to preserve the best traits that assisted their job of herding sheep. This was practiced within small communities of people in Germany where shepherds bred dogs.
German breeders wanted to have a dog that had the necessary skills for herding sheep such as intelligence, strength, speed, endurance, and a strong sense of smell. The breeders got results but the ability and the appearance of dogs differed from one community to another. As a result, the Phylax Society was formed in 1891 with the purpose of creating native dog breeds but it was disbanded in just a few of years due to internal disagreements on the traits of the dogs the organization should promote. Nevertheless, Germanys efforts to create a dog breed of the nations own continued.
In 1899, Max von Stephanitz, an ex-member of the Phylax Society and a former student of the Berlin Veterinary College, was shown a dog during one of his visits to a dog show named Hektor Linksrhein. The dog was agile, loyal, fast, intelligent, and appeared pleasing to the eye. The dog satisfied his beliefs of what a working dog should be, and he purchased him.
Is A German Shepherd More Dangerous Than A Pitbull
The German Shepherd is more likely to bite a stranger than a Labrador Retriever, but it is not nearly as aggressive breed as a Pit bull or Rottweiler. The breed is powerful and naturally protective of its territory and family. Of course, caution should be used with any dog, especially a large breed.4 Sept 2019
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Where To Adopt Of Buy A German Shepherd
If you think you’d like to adopt a German shepherd, start by contacting one of the following organizations:
These groups will be able to provide guidance and next steps for adoption. If you aren’t certain the breed is right for you, you may be able to try foster care to test if a GSD is a good fit for your home.
Dog Breeds Similar To The German Shepherd Dog
While there are different accepted and unofficial coat patterns in the German Shepherd, it can be easy to confuse them with some other breeds which closely resemble them. This common confusions are due to similar body shape and size, with similar usage as working dogs. Some may even derive from similar parts of the world, but they are all considered distinct breeds. They include:
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When Do German Shepherds’ Ears Stand Up
When do German Shepherd ears do stand up? It is one of the most commonly searched German Shepherd puppy facts. As a puppy, every German Shepherd dog has floppy and soft ears. As the dog matures, the cartilage in the ears becomes hard and strong. Then the German Shepherd ears stand permanently. The ear tapering process happens between three months to eight months.
Here at Kidadl, we have carefully created lots of interesting family-friendly animal facts for everyone to discover! Learn more about some other mammals including Utonagan, or Brazilian terrier.
You can even occupy yourself at home by drawing one on our German Shepherd coloring pages.
Factors To Consider Before Buying Muzzle For German Shepherd
Its essential to think about the different factors before you buy a muzzle for your German Shepherd. You dont want something that will cause them discomfort, but you also dont want them to be able to escape from it either!
Before buying a muzzle for your German Shepherd, three main factors should be considered: comfortability, safety, and security.
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Sable German Shepherd: History Of The Breed
The German shepherd, also known as the Alsatian Wolf Dog, was originally developed in Germany principally for herding sheep. It has since become a popular working dog for roles such as search and rescue, police, and military due to its strength, trainability, and intelligence.
The breed emerged from the 1850s trend to try to standardize dog breeds to assist in certain jobs, such as herding sheep.
Max von Stephanitz was a leading thinker in this area and was specifically looking for canine specimens that matched his ideal vision of a working dog.
He found that ideal dog at a dog show in 1899. He purchased the dog and named it Horand von Grafrath and founded the Society for German Shepherd Dogs to promote the breed and others like it.
Horand, who was in fact a sable-colored German Shepherd, became the center point of a breeding program. Horand himself had 84 puppies, and extensive inbreeding was required to secure the characteristics of the breed.
When the German Shepherd was imported to the United States in the early 20th century, it became popular with gangsters and bootleggers for its strength, intelligence, and intimidating appearance.
It was also popular in Nazi Germany, and even Adolf Hitler loved the breed.
As a result, it has gained a reputation for being a fierce, intimidating, and even dangerous breed. However, this says much more about how the dogs were used than the natural temperament of the dogs themselves.
Looking For A Dog Like A German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is one of world’s most recognized and popular breeds. The breed is known as Alsatian in Great Britain and parts of Europe. They are intelligent working dogs and their devotion, courage, and intelligence are unmatched.
German Shepherds are very strong and energetic. Their front legs and shoulders are muscular and their thighs are thick and sturdy. They are tall, about two feet and two inches, and their body structure is rectangular. German Shepherds are among the best police and military service dogs. They are also excellent herders, search and rescue dogs, and drug detectors. They are loyal and faithful companions.
These qualities make them popular. Some people, however, would like a dog like a German Shepherd but with various other traits, including:
- bigger and more powerful
- less hairy and doesn’t shed
- smaller in size and more suitable for apartment life
- lower maintenance in terms of physical exercise and suitable for an inexperienced owner
- less aggressive and good with strangers, kids, and other pets
- cool and calm, but bigger in size
- can handle freezing temperatures
- can handle warm weather
- longer or shorter life span
For these specific requirements, investigate other breeds that look like German Shepherds. Read on to find out the many breeds to consider and their specific qualities.
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German Shepherd Breed Based On What They Are Bred For
The German shepherd is characterized by what he would be bred for. There are two distinct types based on body type.
German Shepherd Show line Dog breed
Show line GSD has a sloping body. They are typically calmer and relatively larger than working GSDs. They are bred to participate in dog shows.
German Shepherd working line Dog breed
German Shepherds were bred to be working dogs. They are most typically used as a Police or military dog. GSD was originally bred to be used as a shepherd dog to drive and protect the flock from the predators. Working GSD is relatively smaller and has more energy.
Types Of Shepherd Dogs
Shepherd or sheepdogs come in all shapes in sizes, with around 30 different types of shepherd dogs altogether. Some, like the Corgi, look unsuited for the role but perform surprisingly well. Others, like the Bouvier des Flandres, are more versatile farm dogs, undertaking a variety of roles, from guarding and herding livestock to pulling carts.
The following 16 types of shepherd dogs make great pets for energetic owners who are willing to put in the time necessary to keep them mentally stimulated and physically challenged.
Each type has its own physical traits and characteristics which can present problems in the wrong environment.
Find out what makes each of these shepherd dogs special and which would be the best dog for you and your family.
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What Is The Lifespan Of A German Shepherd
According to animal experts, German Shepherds can live anywhere from 9-25 years, depending on the quality of care. This means that it really depends on what you feed your dog and how often you take him/her out for walks. The best thing to do is commit to a regimented routine where you play with them after they eat and before bed every day . Now if not eating or playing is all your dog does then expect their life expectancy to be significantly shorter than the average family pet.##How do i delete my.
Bone And Joint Problems
A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in German Shepherd Dogs. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. With diligent observation at home and knowledge about the diseases that may affect your friend’s bones, joints, or muscles, you will be able to take great care of him throughout his life.
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Modern Utilization Of The German Shepherd
German Shepherds are seen as working dogs everywhere. The breed is well known for its police work, mostly used for narcotics detection, tracking criminals, and other types of detection. The ability to handle these tasks also make the breed a good candidate for the military. German Shepherds in the military detect items such as mines and explosives.
German Shepherd Breed Standards: Size
The modern German Shepherd is a medium to large-sized breed that is athletic, strong, well-muscled, and has an overall proportionate and balanced appearance.
The German Shepherd Dog is one breed that should definitively look masculine or feminine. Males are taller, heavier, and squarer through the face. Females are shorter, lighter, and narrower through the face and muzzle area.
The Breed Standard dictates the following ideal height and weight requirement for a GSD:
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What Places Typically Have Dog Breed R Estrictions
Notlong ago, I was making plans for a short trip and Allie needed a place to stay.Because Allie is so lovable , a friend offered todoggy-sit.
Fortunately,I was aware of breed restrictions and told her to double check that herapartment manager didnt have a restriction against German Shepherd.
Sureenough, after checking her lease, my friend discovered that German Shepherdsare a restricted breed at her complex.
Whilebreed restrictions at apartments are common, thats not the only place you mayencounter breed restrictions. Check out this list for other places where yourGerman Shepherd may not be allowed.
- Condos
- Great Danes
- Wolf Hybrids
Its also important to note that your homeowners insurance may have dog breed restrictions with a similar list of aggressive breeds. This means your insurance premium may increase if you own a dog on this list. Or the company may not cover any damage caused by an aggressive dog, period.
History Of The German Shepherd Dog Breed
The German Shepherd Dog is the officially recognized name for this purebred breed. The two distinct types we mentioned in the introduction are defined by the length of their coat either medium or long. Both types have a double layered coat, a softer and thicker undercoat and a coarser outer layer of guard hair.
As their name suggests, the German Shepherd began in Germany. While there were different progenitor breeds, the first officially recognized dog was called Horand von Grafrath. In 1899 von Grafrath’s owner started the breed as the epitome of what a working dog should be and it is from this one dog that all modern German Shepherd dogs originate. There has been some discussion over the years whether this dog may have been part wolf.
The working origins of this breed are very important as the standardization was established to promote the dog’s ability. This was something which was becoming lost as industry and urbanization began to reduce the need for working dogs. Thus, the German Shepherd was created to ensure these traits were maintained. While many GSDs are now kept as companion animals, they are still one of the most widely used working dogs in many different areas. Shepherding is not as common a practice as when the breed was established, but use in law enforcement, security and rescue operations is widespread.
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Why Are Dog Muzzles So Polarizing
Muzzles are polarizing because people either love them or hate them. But why? Well, some dog owners claim that muzzles can make dogs seem more aggressive. Others think that muzzles inherently make a dog appear dangerous or unfriendly, which is not always the case.
In general, dog muzzles are used as a training tool to teach dogs not to bite or bark excessively. In many cases, dogs with anxiety issues benefit from wearing a muzzle, especially if their behavior is exacerbated by stress.
Wearing muzzles can also help dogs that are uncomfortable around strangers or other dogs. For example, some owners keep muzzles on their pets during travel to ensure the safety of everyone in the car.
When introducing a dog to new people or pets, its not unusual for them to get nervous and snap at strangers when they get too close. In this case, a muzzle can help keep everyone safe while the dog learns to trust new people and animals in his environment.
When Should You Not Use A Muzzle
Muzzles arent the right choice for every dog. If your German Shepherd has a history of aggression, he should not wear a muzzle until his behavior is under control and you have worked with an experienced trainer to teach him good manners around people and other animals.
If your German Shepherd is older or suffers from health issues, he may not be able to wear a muzzle for long periods of time. You might consider using muzzles for short training sessions, which can be helpful if your dog suffers from anxiety or fear around new people or situations.
Dont use a muzzle for training if your German Shepherd has a bad reaction to it. For example, if he tries to rub the muzzle off on furniture or the floor, becomes aggressive with you while wearing the muzzle, or salivate excessively while wearing the muzzle, its not a good fit.
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Choosing A German Shepherd Breeder
Finding a good breeder is the key to finding the right puppy. A good breeder will match you with the right puppy, and will without question have done all the health certifications necessary to screen out health problems as much as is possible. He or she is more interested in placing pups in the right homes than in making big bucks.
Good breeders will welcome your questions about temperament, health clearances and what the dogs are like to live with and come right back at you with questions of their own about what youre looking for in a dog and what kind of life you can provide for him.
Put at least as much effort into researching your puppy as you would into choosing a new car or expensive appliance. It will save you money in the long run.
For more information about the breed or to find a list of breeders, visit the website of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America. Look for a breeder who abides by the clubs code of conduct , which does not permit the sale of puppies through brokers, auctions or commercial dealers such as pet stores. Breeders should sell puppies with a written contract guaranteeing they’ll take back the dog at any time during his life if you become unable to keep him, and with written documentation that both the puppy’s parents have the appropriate health and temperament certifications. Seek out a breeder whose dogs have working titles in sports that require athleticism and good health, not just ribbons from the show ring.