A Super Star…. GSD: German Shepherd Dog

Amazing! Elegant! Royal!…… these are the words that come out of one’s mouth as soon as you see a German shepherd. This breed of dogs has been ruling the world since 1890. And the craze doesn’t seem to get over. GSD is also known as the Alsatian and relatively is a young breed, having only been recognized as a distinct breed in the last 90 years. Tracing their roots back to a range of shepherding dogs in Germany.

In 1920, a German shepherd dog became a Hollywood star as a movie RIN TIN TIN based on his adventures became a huge success. The movie shows the brave dog rescued from a bombed out kennel in France during World War I. German shepherd are loved and cherished by people all over the world. They have been amongst the top four breeds in the whole world for last 50 years. And have been kept by personalities like President Franklin D. Roosevelt, performers like Shania Twain, writers like Robert Ludlum, and other celebrities like Picasso.

Size of German Shepherds ranges from medium to large, weighing from 35 to 40 kilos. The standard height is 60 to 65 cm (24 to 26 inches). And live an average of 13 years. They have a domed forehead, with strong jaws and a black nose. The eyes are medium and brown with a lively, intelligent and self-assured look. The ears are large and always erect, open at the front and parallel, which are pulled back during movement. And has a two-layer coat that is close and dense with a thick undercoat.  One common thing in all German Shepard’s is that they shed profusely, and it worse during their shedding season. However, they do not require any special care.

There are many traits which make GSD so popular. They are handsome, courageous, intelligent, vigilant and noble. GSD is not only a show dog but also a hard working service dog. Because of their strength, agility and intelligence, GSD are considered as all-purpose service dogs. The name shepherd is given to them because they were used to herd sheep in old days. They are quite laborious and honest workers. This is the reason they are used in police and military services to search and apprehend criminals. As a working dog that likes to please, German shepherds will do very well with obedience training. They are able to learn quickly and interpret instructions better than other breeds. They are able to learn simple tasks just after five repetitions. Making them ideal choice for guard and rescue dogs. German Shepherds do also make a good family pets. They enjoy being in the company of their human family but not the other pets.

This glorious breed of dogs is unmatched and irresistible. They have become synonym of royalty and nobility. They are the best example of canine perfection of elegance. Undeniably, it’s a matter of pride for anyone to own a German Shepherd Dog.