These dogs quickly became popular by interested parties and breeders because of their excellent skills for discipline along with their wonderful intellect. A German named Capt. Max von Stephanitz is most often noted as really giving rise to the breeding of this dog when he formed the Society for the Promotion and Breeding of German Shepherd Dogs, which lasted from the end of the 1800s into the 1930s.

During the time the Society was promoting German Shepherds, their trained skills and use as police dogs, as well as herding, rescue and even military dogs began to rise. They became the most popular for police and military use during WWI and WWII. After both wars many servicemen brought them home and thus they began to grow in popularity throughout the world. Although the breed became the most popular in America after WWI, it was actually already an established dog in the German Shepherd Club of America in 1913. This dog did not become popular with breeders in England until a few years later, when in 1919 the English Kennel Club recognized it as a distinct breed.

Description: German Shepard dogs are known for their beautiful, medium length black and brown all-weather coat, as well as their sleek and long body. There may be some variations in the coat, with all black or even a bluish or white coloring, but most breeders will note that black and brown are the standard breeding colors. Although their coat looks dense and can withstand various weather conditions, especially the extreme cold, they do not shed excessively. There is a very rare, and beautiful, completely white version of this breed that will undoubtedly be quite a bit more expensive to purchase from a breeder.

These dogs always seem to have a presence, with a wonderful poise, as well as a distinguished black face and pointed ears. Their hind legs are slightly shorter than the front, giving the appearance of a beautiful sloping motion as you gaze down from their head to their back side. Most male dogs will weigh between 75-90 pounds while females may be considerably smaller, weighing in 60-75 pounds.

Life Span: 11-13 years

Common Ailments: A breed that is very prone to Hip Dysplasia and Panosteitis. Dysplasia is prominent especially in working German Shepards or those that exercise very frequently. This will often lead to adult arthritis, which can usually be managed with pain medication. Panosteitis is a bone disease that is more common in male Shepherds and can cause lameness. The disease usually arises early in life, between the ages of six months to two years.

Suitability with Children: Yes, although they are not extremely affectionate dogs, so may take some time warming up to the affections of children.

Suitability with Other Pets: Yes

Living Conditions: While German Shepherds can and do make excellent family pets, they are happiest as working dogs, guide dogs or police dogs, so will do best when kept busy. This means a home with a large yard, on a ranch or in a house where the owners provide lots of walks and outdoor activity.

Training: With their high level of intelligence, it is best to begin using this breeds good qualities when they are puppies. They do best when trained from a young age and will then excel at whatever they are taught, whether it be guarding, herding or police work.

Exercise Required: High

Cost of Maintenance: Low

Breed Temperament: There is a breeders’ debate as to whether there is a difference between an American and a German breed Shepherd, but the conclusion is usually just that there is a difference in breeding standards from country to country. One thing that remains constant is the use of the German Shepherd as a guard dog, police dog and military dog. They have an excellent sense of smell that can be used for detecting drugs or even the enemy in a military situation. This dog is also becoming more popular for use as disability dogs, helping to guide the blind. Of course a guide dog will be trained as a puppy and most often used as a working dog for life.

Life as a working dog is perfectly suitable for the German Shepherd, as they are happiest when involved in an activity that uses both physical and mental capability. If being trained as a family pet, they will learn easily but they are definitely a dog that excels with discipline, and will succeed in a household that is consistent with commands and reinforcement of habits. Whether trained for the home or for working, the German Shepherd should be trained as a puppy to avoid any dominant behaviors.

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