German Shepherd Dog

From ArticleWorld

The German shepherd dog has a history the dates back to the late 1800s when the breed was originated by Captain Max von Stephanitz. The breeds rapid development is credited to von Stephanitz creation of the ‘’Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde’’ or SV as the governing body of the breed. The schutzhund trial was implemented by the SV as the standard for the breed and prohibited the breeding of any dog that could not pass the test.

After World War 1, a few soldiers from the allied forces, impressed by the breeds intellegnce and abitlies, brought home dogs to breed. The breed became very popular as pets, as well as working dogs, and is still considered to be one of the most intellegent breeds in existance.

When first brought to the United Kingdon, the breed was renamed ‘’Alsatian Shepherd’’, this was due to the anti-German sentiment post WWI. Only in 1930 did the Brittish Kennel Club allow the renaming of the breed back to the original German Shephard Dog.

Breeds

The North American Show Line, International Working Line and the International Show Line are the major lines. Dogs for the Internation Working Line are bred primarily for their abilities, as such their appearance is widely varied. Dogs for the International Show Line are bred primarily for their looks, as such their appearance is very consistant. Dogs bred for the North American Show Line are also bred for their appearance, however their appearance is somewhat different for the International Show line. Some differences include a sloping back and angular hind quarters. Because of these differences, there is currently some debate as to wether the North American line should be considered a separate breed.

Variants

The white German Shepherd, not albino, is considered a disqualifying fault by the AKC as well as the German breeding standards, although they do hold champion titles in United Kennel Club. The long-haired German Shepherd is also considered a disqualifying fault by the AKC and German breeding standards. Some owners and breeders contend that the long-haired German Shepherd is more affectionate, however there is no body of evidence to support this. The Giant Shepherd or Shiloh Shepherd Dog has been recognized by some organizations. This line is deliberatly bred to be a larger variation of the original line.