German Shepherd Qualities
The German Shepherd dog
TYPES: West German Show lines, East German working lines,West German Working lines, DDR, American show lines, Czech lines
HEIGHT: 22 to 26 inches
WEIGHT: 55 to 100 pounds
COAT: Stock coat and Long coat
COAT COLOR: Black and red, black and tan, solid black, sable, bi-color. (Note that blue, liver or white are unfavorable and proven to have faults from breeder’s focused on colors rather than the whole dog.)
LIFE SPAN: 9 to 14 years
TEMPERAMENT: Intelligent, courageous, alert, bold, loyal, protective, confident
ORIGIN: Germany Imported Black & red or All Black West German Showlines
GOLDEN RIDGE GERMAN SHEPHERDS:Imported Black & red or All Black West German Showlines
TRACING THE ORGINS OF THE GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG:
This remarkable breed was initially developed for herding sheep. Their intelligence, agility, keen sense of smell, and physical strength made them exceptional herders, and they have since evolved into versatile roles that include protection, tracking, and companionship.
German Shepherds are highly sought after for their work in various capacities, such as explosive detection, police & military applications, search & rescue, and as service animals. They are particularly renowned for their effectiveness in protections roles, while also capable as serving as loyal guardians in their family centered roles.
Their high intelligence which includes a strong emotional awareness, along with their even temperaments and motivation to train enhances their potential. Working along side a German Shepherd is not only a fulfilling but also offers a deeply rewarding experience.
Male
Size: 24-26 Inches
Weight: 65-90lb
- Males are typically larger and exhibit more masculine physical characteristics, including a larger head and a broader, thicker build.
- The size and masculine presence of males can be intimidating to unfamiliar individuals.
- Males tend to be more territorial regarding their “home and property”, this is exhibited from their natural teddies in a pack that they would ward off predictors while the females remained close to provide for the youngest members of the pack
- If not raised within a strong pack structure, males can exhibit dominant behavior and may be more prone to aggression in the absence of socialization.
- Males can be more accepting of new animals joining the pack, provided the newcomer does not attempt to assert dominance.
Female
Size: 22-24 inches
Weight: 50-70lb
- Typically, they are smaller in size and exhibit a more feminine physique, which enhances their agility. Their reduced stature often contributes to a heightened territorial instinct toward their “person” or “pack.”
- This strong inclination to remain close to their pack underscores their natural role in safeguarding the group, making them less likely to stray. For instance, female members often take on the responsibility of protecting another female with a litter.
- These individuals are generally more pack-oriented. While they may demonstrate low tolerance for other animals, this behavior is a natural adaptation; only the strongest members of the pack ascend the hierarchy to breed, while others assume supportive roles.
- Moreover, they tend to be more protective of their human companions than of their property.
Companion
German Shepherds are an ideal companion for families and individuals alike. Renowned for their high emotional intelligence, innate protective instincts, and amiable disposition, this breed has been cherished for generations due to these admirable qualities.
Responsibly bred German Shepherds represent more than just pets; they embody a commitment made before the creation of life to nurturing a relationship built on strong genetics, trust and daily care. Such investment contributes to the companion’s overall health, emotional stability, and lifelong loyalty. It is vital to approach this responsibility with care, considering the implications for quality of life, veterinary costs, and potential risks associated with ownership.
Protection
Schutzhund is German for “protection dog.”
German Shepherds are widely recognized as one of the most protective dog breeds. Their remarkable blend of strength, intelligence, and instinct creates a formidable presence in protective roles. Their innate drive to protect their territory and family makes them an effective deterrent against potential threats. Coupled with their athleticism and a bite force exceeding 200 pounds, they demonstrate an impressive capacity to confront challenges and intimidate adversaries. Many individuals seek this inherent protective nature, and with appropriate training, a German Shepherd can be conditioned to respond effectively to various threats.
It is important to note that a German Shepherd with weak nerves cannot be relied upon for effective protection. Such a dog may respond in fight or flight mode, lacking the crucial quality of confidence necessary for dependable defense.
Sport/ Working
German Shepherds can exhibit high energy levels and strong working drive. Understanding the significance of pedigrees allows us to trace these attributes beyond the individual dog, providing insights into breeding practices. German Shepherds characterized by high energy and drive are not only motivated to please but also enthusiastic about engaging in work. They are vigilant and thrive in active environments. If you lead an active lifestyle, enjoy intensive training, and have an interest in dog sports, these German Shepherds can make excellent companions.
It is essential to understand the genetics of German Shepherds and collaborate with a reputable breeder to assess their potential. Not all German Shepherds are suitable for family life or for first-time owners of this breed.
According to the revered documentation of the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) e.V. (Society for the German Shepherd Dog, affectionately known as “SV”), with its legal domicile nestled in Augsburg, Germany, and as a proud member of the Verband für das Deutsche Hundewesen (VDH, the German Kennel Club), the “SV” stands as the esteemed founding club of the breed, entrusted with the preservation of the German Shepherd Dog’s breed standard. Born from the inaugural General Meeting in Frankfurt/Main on 20 September 1899, inspired by the visionary A. Meyer and the illustrious Max von Stephanitz, the breed standard has since evolved through various gatherings.
The majestic German Shepherd Dog, whose deliberate breeding commenced with the society’s founding in 1899, emerged from a blend of central and southern German herding breeds, with the noble goal of creating a working dog of exceptional prowess. To fulfill this vision, the breed standard was meticulously defined, encompassing physical attributes, traits, and characteristics.
General Appearance
The German Shepherd Dog is of medium size, slightly elongated, powerful, and well-muscled, with a structure that exudes strength and poise.
Important Dimensional Ratios
For male dogs, the height at the withers ranges from 60 cm to 65 cm, while females stand at 55 cm to 60 cm. The length of the body exceeds the height at the withers by approximately 10 to 17%.
Character
This noble breed must embody balance, with strong nerves, a self-assured demeanor, and a naturally good-natured disposition, exhibiting attentiveness and a desire to please. Instinctive behavior, resilience, and confidence are essential for fulfilling roles as companions, guardians, service, and herding dogs.
Head
The head is elegantly wedge-shaped, proportionate to the body size (approximately 40% of the height at the withers), neither plump nor overly elongated, and dry in appearance with a moderate width between the ears. From both the frontal and lateral views, the forehead is gently arched with only a faint median furrow.
The cranial region and facial region share a harmonious ratio of 50% each. The width of the cranial region closely matches its length, tapering evenly towards the nasal bridge, which features a gently sloping stop in the wedge-shaped foreface. Both upper and lower jaws are robustly developed.
The nasal dorsum is straight, with any dips or bulges deemed undesirable. The lips are taut, closely fitting, and dark in hue.
The Teeth
Strong, healthy, and complete (42 teeth according to the dental formula), the German Shepherd Dog possesses a scissor bite: the incisors interlock like scissors, with the upper jaw’s incisors overlapping those of the lower jaw. Faults include occlusal overlay, overbite, retrusive occlusion, and noticeable gaps between teeth. A straight dental ridge is also considered a flaw. The jawbones should be robust to securely anchor the teeth.
The Eyes
Medium-sized, almond-shaped, slightly slanted, and not protruding, the eyes should be as dark as possible. Light, piercing eyes are frowned upon, as they detract from the dog’s overall impression.
Ears
The German Shepherd Dog features erect, medium-sized ears, carried upright and aligned (not drawn in laterally). Pointed and forward-facing, tipped or drooping ears are considered faults. Ears that relax or are carried backward during movement are not deemed defective.
Neck
Strong and well-muscled, the neck should be free of loose skin (dewlap), angling towards the trunk at approximately 45 degrees.
Body – The Upper Line
The upper line flows seamlessly from the base of the neck through the high, long withers and the straight back to the gently sloping croup. The back is moderately long, firm, and well-muscled. The loin is broad, short, and robustly developed, while the croup is long and slightly sloping (approximately 23 degrees to the horizontal), merging smoothly into the tail’s base.
The Chest
Moderately broad, the chest’s lower portion should be as long and pronounced as possible, with a depth measuring approximately 45% to 48% of the height at the withers.
The Ribs
Should feature a moderate curvature; both barrel-shaped and flat ribs are considered faults.
The Tail
Extending at least to the hock but not beyond the midpoint of the hind pastern, the tail boasts slightly longer hair on its underside and hangs down in a gentle curve. In moments of excitement or motion, it may be raised but should not surpass the horizontal line. Operative corrections are strictly prohibited.
Limbs
Forequarters – The Forelimbs
Seen from all sides, the forelimbs should be straight and parallel when viewed from the front.
Shoulder Blade and Upper Arm
Equal in length, these are firmly anchored to the trunk through powerful musculature. Ideally, the angle between the shoulder blade and upper arm is 90 degrees, extending up to 110 degrees.
The Elbows
Must not turn outward or inward while standing or moving. The forearms are straight from all angles and parallel to each other, exhibiting a dry and firm musculature. The pastern measures approximately one-third of the forearm’s length, angling at about 20 to 22 degrees relative to the forearm. A slanted pastern (over 22 degrees) or steep pastern (under 20 degrees) impairs work suitability and stamina.
The Paws
Rounded, well-closed, and arched, the paws feature hard yet not brittle soles, with strong, dark nails.
Hindquarters
The hind legs are positioned slightly backward, parallel to each other when viewed from the rear. The upper and lower legs are approximately equal in length, forming an angle of around 120 degrees; the legs are robust and well-muscled.
The Hocks
are strong and firm, with the hind pastern standing vertically beneath them.
Gait
The German Shepherd Dog exhibits a trotting gait. The limbs must coordinate in length and angles, allowing the dog to shift its hindquarters towards the trunk without significantly altering the top line while reaching forward with the forelimbs. Any tendency towards over-angulation in the hindquarters may compromise stability and stamina, thereby affecting workability. Proper body proportions and angulations yield a gait that is expansive and smooth, conveying effortless movement. The head is held forward, and the tail is slightly elevated, resulting in a consistent, fluid trot that showcases a gently curved, uninterrupted upper line from the tips of the ears, across the neck and back, to the tail’s end.
Skin
The skin should fit loosely yet without forming folds.
Hair Texture
The German Shepherd Dog is bred in double coat and long, harsh outer coat varieties, both featuring an undercoat.
Double Coat:
The guard hair should be dense, particularly harsh and close-fitting: short on the head, including the inside of the ears, short on the front side of the legs, paws, and toes, somewhat longer and denser on the neck. The back side of the legs features hair extending to the carpal joint or hock, forming moderate ‘trousers’ on the rear haunches.
Long and Harsh Outer Coat:
The guard hair should be long, soft, and not close-fitting, adorned with tufts on the ears and legs, bushy trousers, and a bushy tail with a downward tuft formation. Short on the head and inside the ears, on the front sides of the legs, on the paws, and toes, the neck features longer hair that almost forms a mane. The back sides of the legs have hair extending to the carpal joint or hock, creating distinct trousers on the rear haunches.
Colors
Colors range from black with reddish-brown, brown, and yellow to light grey markings; single-colored black, grey with darker shading, and black saddle and mask. The undercoat may display a light greyish tone. The color white is not permitted.
Long Coat German Shepherd
The guard hair should be long, soft, and not close-fitting, adorned with tufts on the ears and legs, bushy trousers, and a bushy tail with a downward tuft formation. Short on the head and inside the ears, on the front sides of the legs, on the paws, and toes, the neck features longer hair that almost forms a mane. The back sides of the legs have hair extending to the carpal joint or hock, creating distinct trousers on the rear haunches. This coat type is highly sought after from breed enthusiast.
Most are a result of the recessive gene in both parents.
Stock Coat German Shepherd
Short coat with dense undercoat. The guard hair should be dense, harsh, and close-fitting. It is short on the head and inside the ears, as well as on the front side of the legs, paws, and toes. The hair is longer and thicker on the neck, extending to the carpal joint or hock on the back of the legs, forming moderate ‘trousers’ on the haunches. This is the most commonly known coat type.
Grooming
Both Coat types require brushing, and same frequency of grooming, just the use of different tools. Shedding is equally comparable. The long coat may shed a bit less but the hair is longer.
Bloodlines and Pedigree's
