The German Shepherd Dog

The most popular breed in the world, the German Shepherd Dog is recognized by just about everyone. Maybe they don't know the breed's official name and call it "Police Dog" or "Alsatian" -- but they recognize it as a dog known for it's ability to help people.    This ability isn't an accidental happening. Through careful breeding from the shepherd dogs used for tending sheep in Germany for centuries, this breed developed quickly and was an almost instant hit with anyone needing a dog who could be an intelligent and courageous "working partner". A look at the historic uses and the characteristics and the working style of those dogs allows us to understand why the German Shepherd Dog of today looks and acts like he does.    Picture a flock of 700 to 1000 sheep grazing in an unfenced field. It's a pleasant sight -- quiet and relaxing. As the sheep graze along they spot the neighboring field and decide to head for greener pastures there. You are the shepherd responsible for this flock. You can't allow the sheep into the adjoining field and do damage to the crop as your herding insurance could be canceled and you'd be out of a job. But you aren't concerned. Patrolling the side of the field are your canine partners -- German Shepherd Dogs whose job it is to act as your fence.
	You stand there watching your dogs move effortlessly up and down the sides of the field. They don't bother the sheep unless the sheep start to leave the designated grazing area. Then they are quick to react using enough force to quickly turn the sheep back across the boundary. They then resume their patrol. They do not wait for your command, but rather know what their responsibility is and carry it out.
It takes most of the day for your flock to finish grazing in the appropriate field. Your dogs have spent the entire day patrolling the boundary of the field and have everyone in their place. Now it's time to walk the flock back home and the dogs will act as a movable fence walking the sheep along the road, keeping them out of traffic, and delivering them safely to the barn yard. These dogs easily trotted 15-20 miles while doing their boundary work and they will do it again tomorrow and the next day.     It seems like a simple job -- any dog with endurance should be able to do it. But it is much more involved. These dogs must be intelligent enough to be able to quickly define a boundary even as it changes while the flock is moved. These dogs must be assertive enough to keep large and often determined sheep out of an area they really want to enter. They must be aggressive enough to be willing to discipline the sheep as needed and controlled enough to bite only wool and to stop biting when there's no more need. They must be protective enough to defend the human shepherd and the flock from harm. They must be willing to do much of this on their own without constant direction from the handler.        That's the heritage of the German Shepherd Dog. It required a dog that was unique. It required a dog who was very trainable, a willing worker, courageous, and  physically sound. It required a dog who could work on his own making correct decisions without owner input. It also required a fluid, suspending gait that could be maintained for hours. These same traits will allow this breed to work endlessly searching for victims or evidence, work diligently as patrol partner for police or military, bring the crowd to their feet at a dog show, or patiently baby sit the kids. While not every German Shepherd Dog may excel at every activity, the basis should be there in every member of this breed, waiting for the right trainer and human partner to bring out the best in him.

   German Shepherd Dogs are intelligent and willing. But like any intelligent youngster, a GSD pup needs the proper education to be able to shine. That is the responsibility of the owner -- to educate this marvelous bundle of potential and help him turn into the marvelous representative of the breed that we all admire.

The Illustrated Standard of the German Shepherd Dog. Learn about the correct structure and character of the breed.

Frequently asked Questions about German Shepherds:

Where do I get a German Shepherd Puppy?

   The GSDCO does not recommend breeders other than offering information on the availability of puppies bred by club members. We suggest that you research all breeders carefully to find one that suits your needs. Even in the best bred litters, not all puppies are suitable for all buyers. It is in your best interest, and the best interest of your future puppy, to become familiar with the breeder and the dogs produced by that person. Adding a puppy to your family requires serious contemplation. The roster lists the members of the club and we encourage you to contact them for more information. We also encourage you to come to club events to become more familiar with the breed.

Should I get a puppy or an adult?

Puppies are cute! There is no getting around that fact. Puppies require a lot of work and attention. There is no getting around that fact either. While most people want to be able to raise their dog from puppy hood, there are often wonderful adults available, either as rescue animals needing to find new homes for a variety of reasons, or adults or older pups who were kept by their breeders for a variety of reasons and are now available. Here are some things to consider:

Puppies:

• Puppies need housebreaking and house "proofing"
• Puppies will go through adolescence -- not much different from the two legged teens!
• Puppies will go through many stages before adulthood and you are purchasing "potential" rather than a finished product. 
• Puppies come with genetic traits that will be influenced by what you teach them. These traits will be influenced, but not replaced. by how you raise them 

Adults:

• Adults are ready for training and have the power of concentration to learn quickly.
• Adults are either house trained or are ready for it.
• What you see is what you get -- there are not as many stages to go through and you are  looking at the "finished product"
• Adults have previous life experiences - good and bad.

Where do I take my dog for training?

There are many trainers available in the Portland Metro area. Consult your breeder, ask friends who have attended classes, go watch the classes. Much of your success will be determined by your relationship with the trainer -- take the time to check it out. Depending on the circumstances, you may elect either joining a class or doing private training.

How much exercise should my dog get?

If you are starting with a puppy, limit the exercise to what the puppy will willingly do without stress. Do not allow the pup to jump off ledges or jump into the air as their immature bones and joints are not yet equipped to handle the stresses. Keep the pup lean and fit and allow for lots of rest periods and he will grow up to be a healthy adult.

Adults can handle a lot of exercise as long as they are fit. If your dog is out of condition, first take him to the vet for a check up. Then put him on an exercise program. A healthy adult will be able to jog or walk as long and far as you can. Other good forms of exercise are playing ball and swimming.

What should I feed my dog?

There are as many answers to that question as there are dog owners! Check with your breeder as s/he will be able to tell you what works and what this dog has been eating.

When in doubt, check with your vet. There are many good quality dog foods available. Nutritional requirements depend on the dogs age, condition, activity level, and health.

What about Hips?

Like most other medium to large sized dog breeds, hip dysplasia is a problem in the breed. There are many influencing factors and responsible breeders will do their best to breed sound, healthy dogs. Responsible breeders will also provide a hip and health guarantee for your protection. Check our "Links" page for a link to the OFA - the certifying body in this country, for more information regarding dysplasia.

There are many resources available by checking the web. Here are links to some good breed information articles:

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