Nickname        : The German Shepherd 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
Alsatian Dog comes from Germany and was bred originally for herding and guarding sheep. It’s origins can be dated back to the 1700’s. The Alsatian Dog is also known by the other names of the German Shepherd Dog and the 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 Alsatian Dog was first Registered by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1908.

Dogs in the Herding Group ( sometimes referred to as the Pastoral Group ) include the Alsatian, were developed to perform a variety of tasks relating mainly to the herding of livestock. The types of livestock that these dogs are associated with are quite diverse and include sheep, cattle, reindeer and any other cloven footed animals. The Herding groups of dogs are eminently suited to these pastoral tasks as many of the breeds have a weatherproof double coat to protect them from the elements when working in severe weather conditions. Their natural abilities have been fully recognised and the initial livestock herding function have been extended to include police work and Search & Rescue amongst other duties.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Coat and Colors information
  The Alsatian 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
  Solving dog health issues, including those of the Alsatian Dog, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining canine health insurance. The most 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 Alsatian 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 the Alsation breed is 12 – 14 years.

• Grooming and Care
  Alsatian 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 helps to ensure that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.