The German Shepherd

One of the Most Popular Breeds

The German Shepherd Dog is sometimes known as the Alsatian (in France and the UK) and was originally bred for herding sheep. Because of its size, athleticism and intelligence, that role has been expanded to include police work, search and rescue, service with the military and use as guide dogs for the blind.

It is one of the most popular breeds, being third behind the Labrador Retriever and Yorkshire Terrier in the United States and fourth most popular in the UK.

The German Shepherd  is large and strong, weighing typically between 75 and 110lbs and standing about 24 to 26 inches. Females average 22 to 24 inches tall. The hair is a double coat consisting of under coat and outer coat, which is very resistant to harsh weather conditions. 

Due to its original breeding and work, in herding and guarding livestock, the German Shepherd is extremely protective of its home and family (what would have been its den and its pack, in the wild) and careful, expert training is necessary to ensure that these characteristics are not over emphasised.

If this breed is to be kept as a family pet, then proper socialization into the family unit needs to take place while still a puppy. Any aggressive tendency to any family members or visitors should be corrected quickly and firmly. The size and strength of this dog means that it can be extremely dangerous if it is not trained properly from an early age.

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The other factor affecting the dog's temperament is in its genetic history. If it comes from a long line of dogs which have been bred specifically for police work or as guard dogs, then no amount of training and socialization will curb its aggressive tendencies sufficiently to make it a suitable domestic pet.   

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Here are The Breed Standards for The American Kennel Club

Here are The Breed Standards for The Kennel Club UK

The "ideal" German Shepherd should be alert and fearless in defense of its den and pack, but loving and non-aggressive within the home environment.

Michael Tapscott is an expert on German Shepherds owned several  (even a white one once) and has also been a volunteer with a dog rescue organization for years, so he has a lot to tell you about this wonderful breed. Some people have even called him the "German Shepherd Dog Whisperer"...  

Get more details on The German Shepherd Training Book which deals specifically with owning and training this particular breed.