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German ShepherdBased on 2006 American Kennel Club statistics, German Shepherd Dogs are the third most popular breed in the United States with 43,575 registrations. Those considering a German Shepherd Dog as a family addition should make sure that this breed is the best fit for the situation. The German Shepherd is not recommended for the novice, apathetic, or sedentary owner. The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention. In Germany, the dog was used as a military dog during each world war, but German Shepherds can also make loyal and loving pets inside the home. As long as parents realize that they will need an extra dose of patience, the German Shepherd puppy can grow up side by side with the children and be a source of lasting memories for all. Even given the name "Shepherd", some people are surprised to hear that german shepherds were bred for herding, as the german shepherd is more often found working as a guard dog , police dog , detection dog , search and rescue dog , or companion pet than in the field working sheep. The original purpose for the German Shepherd Dog was to herd sheep, cattle, or other animals that might require the assistance of a shepherd. A German Shepherd Dog's instincts to herd might manifest themselves by the dog closely watching or even nipping at members of its family as they go for walks. The breed traces its ancestors to a widely diverse group of sheepherding and farm dogs in Germany. Today, the german shepherd is divided in two distinct lines, German and American. Both German and American lines have their passionate advocates, but the decision of what bloodlines to purchase is ultimately a matter of taste, need and expectations. The best thing you can do is determine what you want from your German Shepherd Dog and want to do with him/her, and find a line and breeder that breeds for those traits in a responsible manner. German line German Shepherds are generally stockier than their American counterparts and more moderate in both structure and movement without the severe angulation found in American lines. A poor-quality German-line German Shepherd may be too heavily built for real agility and/or may have a temperament that isn't suitable for any but the most experienced owner. German Shepherds from American lines are typically longer and leaner than German Shepherds from German lines. If you are more interested in competing in Schutzhund, training for protection work, herding, or other working discipline, you may be better getting a German Shepherd from German lines. German breeding stock is required to pass minimum standards for both conformation and working ability, so german shepherds from German lines are rarely lacking intelligence. Max von Stephanitz formalized the competitions under the auspices of the SV - Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (GSD Club of Germany) and included tests of performance in tracking, obedience, and protection. It is important to note that the Nazis took the SV (German Shepherd Club of Germany) breeding program away from Max von Stephanitz (1899 founder and president of the SV until 1935) and then outlawed the white coat color. In his 1921 book, Stephanitz stated, "The coloring of the dog has no significance whatsoever for service." The prime directive of Stephanitz breeding mandate was that the German Shepherd Dog breed must embody all the qualities of a working herding dog. Today, the German Shepherd is distinguished for his loyalty, courage, and ability to retain training for a number of special services. German Shepherds are also often trained as police dogs , due to their trainability, size, work drive, and general appearance which commands respect. German Shepherds have a very strong protective instinct, so they should be extensively socialized to prevent over-guarding when they are an adult. The German Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball, and ring sport. German Shepherds are prone to such health issues as blood disorders, elbow and hip dysplasia, epilepsy, flea allergies, digestive problems, and chronic eczema. The German Shepherd Dog is respected and admired throughout the world for its versatility, intelligence, and loyalty. Stumble It! • Submit To Netscape • del.icio.us • Y! MyWeb |
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