Nickname        : The Alsatian Wolf Dog

Breed Origins : Germany ( 700’s )

Breed usage     : Herding and guarding sheep

Dog Weight      : 75 - 95 Pounds

Dog Height       : 24 to 26 inches to the shoulder

History
The German Shepherd Dog comes from Germany and was bred originally for herding and guarding sheep .
It’s origins can be dated back to the 700’s. The German Shepherd Dog is also known by the other names of Alsatian and Deutscher Schaferhund. The advent of the two World Wars influenced the history of this dog. The association with Germany was unpopular following the wars and the breed was therefore given the name of the Alsatian Wolf Dog after the German-French border area of Alsace-Lorraine. The term ‘Wolf Dog’ was then dropped as it was believed that this would also prove to be unpopular. Finally, in 1977, the breed name was changed back to the German Shepherd Dog. This dog is classified as one of the Herding Dog Group. The German Shepherd Dog was first Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1908.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Coat and Colours information
  The German Shepherd Dog’s coat is normally a shade of solid black, grey, tan, gold and white. The coat is normally medium, straight and hard.

• Health information - potential problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the German Shepherd Dog, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the German Shepherd Dog can include:
  • Hip dysplasia (abnormal development of hip joints)
  • Skin disease
  • Congenital heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Panosteitis (an inflammation of long bones in the legs).
  • The life expectancy for this particular breed is 12 – 14 years.

• Grooming and Care
  German Shepherd Dog requires weekly care and grooming. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.