German Shepherd

Other Names: Deutscher Schäferhund, Alsatian
Date of Origin: 19th Century
Place of Origin: Germany
Original Use: Sheep herding
Modern Use: Guarding/ security dog, assistance dog for disabled, search and rescue, companion
Size: Height: 55-66cm (22-26 in)
Weight: 34-43kg
Colors: Variety (black-tan, black-grey)
Average Lifespan: 7-10 yrs
Considered to be one of the world’s most popular dogs, German Shepherd was a result of a breeding program for strong, agile shepherding dog. Presently, this watchful, intelligent and handsome creature is a popular selection for working dog and is also used for tracking criminals, patrolling troubled areas and detection and holding of suspects.
The origin of this breed dates back to 1800s when dogs were being bred in order to standardize breeds. Originally German Shepherd was bred to preserve traits that assisted people in their job of herding sheep and protecting flocks form predators. Later during World War 1, this breed was put in to military use: trained as messengers, as medical couriers carrying drugs and bandages, as search dogs locating wounded soldiers and as guard. Though the creator is uncertain, Von Stephantiz is credited with being the creator of this breed since he founded the Society for the German Shepherd.
The temperament of this responsive, energetic, obedient and loyal breed is such that it makes an effective security dog, great working dog and a loyal companion. Bred specifically for their intelligence, German Shepherd is the 3rd most intelligent breed.  This highly active and self assured breed is marked by willingness to learn and an eagerness to have a purpose. Hence is it not difficult to train German Shepherd . A study has shown that this breed has the ability to learn simple task after only five repetitions and obeyed the first command given 95% of time. Though not inclined to become immediate friends with stranger, Shepherds bond well with children as well as other people they know and are extremely loyal. However, it has the tendency to be overprotective of family and territory if not socialized correctly. In fact, German Shepherds have a reputation for aggression. But this is a problem with big dogs in general and can be easily controlled through proper socialization.
German Shepherds are healthy in general. However, they are prone to ear infections since they have large and open ear. Additionally, like all large bodied dogs, they have the tendency to bloat. One major health disorder detected in this breed is the high incidence of an inherited bleeding disorder named Von Willebrand Disease.