German ShepherdCharacteristics, history, training and care

Wikipedia says that in the 1890s, shepherd dogs in Germany looked and worked very differently from one region to another. Max von Stephanitz, a former cavalry captain and a student at the Berlin Veterinary College, believed these dogs should be bred for work, but he could not find a breed that satisfied him.

In 1899, at a show, he saw a dog called Hektor Linksrhein, which he bought at once and renamed Horand von Grafrath. He then founded the Society for German Shepherd Dogs, and Horand became the first registered German Shepherd. Within a few decades, the breed had become one of the most popular in the world.

How the breed developed

• 1891 – The Phylax Society is founded, trying to standardise German breeds.
• 1899 – Max von Stephanitz buys Horand von Grafrath and founds the breed society.
• 1923 – The society has 50,000 members in Germany.
• After the First World War – The breed becomes known internationally.
• 1955 – The FCI recognises the breed.
• 11 August 2010 – The current FCI standard is published.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The standard describes it as a medium-sized, slightly elongated, strong and well-muscled dog, with lean bones and a firm build. The body is about 10–17% longer than its height.

General appearance

The head is wedge-shaped. The eyes are as dark as possible. The medium-sized erect ears are pointed and carried upright. The tail reaches at least to the hock and hangs in a gentle curve.

The accepted colours are black with reddish-brown, brown, yellow to light grey markings, solid black and grey with darker shading, with a black saddle and mask. The nose must be black.

The standard describes it as well-balanced, with strong nerves, self-assured, absolutely natural and good-natured, attentive and eager to please its owner. It must have instinct, resilience and self-confidence to be suitable as a companion, guard, protection, service and herding dog.

The AKC says it is a highly intelligent companion and an extraordinary worker. Consistency and positive, reward-based training give excellent results. Early socialisation and puppy classes are vital.

Tips for effective training

• Start puppy classes. The AKC says they are vital.
• Use rewards. Positive training gives excellent results.
• Give it a job. Without activity, it becomes frustrated.
• Do not leave it alone for long. The AKC says it is very attached to its people.

The AKC says that, as a very active and athletic breed, it needs plenty of exercise for its physical and mental health. A dog that does not get enough exercise becomes frustrated and may develop unwanted behaviour. Puppies start with short walks and play in a fenced area.

Tips for a balanced life

• Keep it on a lead outside the yard.
• It suits an active family.
• It sheds a lot: be ready for brushing.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says the double coat is easy to care for, usually with a quick brush every few days. However, it sheds heavily once or twice a year, and then it needs brushing more often.

Common health problems

The AKC says most German Shepherds are healthy, and responsible breeders test for:

Other care

• Check the ears and teeth weekly.
• Trim the nails when they start to touch the floor.
• Brush its teeth regularly.

The AKC says table scraps can cause digestive problems. Pieces of biscuit or kibble can be used as training rewards.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Split the food into two meals a day to reduce the risk of bloat.
• Do not let it run right after a meal.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months, but in large breeds it can be delayed until about two years. The body also reaches its adult form later than in small breeds.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In large breeds, a litter has around 7 puppies on average. Socialisation starts in the first weeks: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• The first German Shepherd. Horand von Grafrath was the first registered dog of the breed, in 1899.
• “Alsatian” in Britain. In Britain, the breed is also known as the Alsatian.
• Film stars. Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart made the breed famous after the First World War.
• Thousands of members. In 1923, the breed society had 50,000 members in Germany.
• A dog of all trades. It works with flocks, in the police, in rescue and as a guide dog.

Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart

Wikipedia says that after the First World War, soldiers returning home spoke very highly of the breed, and the canine actors Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart made it even more popular. Strongheart was one of the first canine film stars, in 1921.

Who created the German Shepherd?

Max von Stephanitz, from 1899 onwards.

How big does it get?

Males measure 60–65 cm and weigh 30–40 kg; females measure 55–60 cm and weigh 22–32 kg.

Is it a family dog?

Yes, it is very attached to its family and good with children, if it is socialised and gets enough activity.

Does it shed a lot?

Yes, especially once or twice a year.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 12–14 years.