German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog was almost completely developed in the 20th century. In 1899, Capt. Max von Stephanitz invented the Deutsche Schaferhunde in Germany. This dog was a mix of shepherd dogs. Its purpose was to be a herder and help farmers, soldiers, and the police. In 1901, the German Shepherd Dog was standardized. It entered the United States about six years later and quickly became a popular working dog and household pet. Available in three varieties, shorthaired, medium-haired, and longhaired, German Shepherd Dogs usually comes in black and tan, black, or sable, but are also available in blue and white. Attractive and intelligent dogs, they are eager to learn and take on challenges. Thus, they do extremely well with tasks and excel as seeing eye dogs and police dogs. At home, these dogs are very interactive. They do not like being left alone and do well with kids and pets. When it comes to new guests entering the home, they are suspicious and may bark. Protective of their homes and families, these loyal dogs make perfect guard dogs. They need a lot of exercise and activity. A German Shepherd Dog may develop skin allergies, pancreatic ailments, and hip and elbow dysplasia. Heavy shedders, they need daily brushing.