German Shepherd dogs–aka, GSD’s–are one of America’s canine sweethearts. From the famous Rin-Tin-Tin to your local police dog, to your next-door neighbor’s pup (or maybe there’s one in your own backyard!), we see these pooches everywhere, and for good reason. A versatile breed, these dogs are loyal, protective, intelligent, and lovable, possessing a myriad of desirable traits that you’d think would be impossible to exist in the same dog.
Whether you’re curious to learn of the GSD’s many talents or are considering adopting one into your own home, check out these eight fascinating factoids about German Shepherds.
1. German Shepherds are the second most popular dog breed in the United States. (Labs are first). The American Kennel Club (AKC) describes them as “confident, courageous, and smart.” Between their protectiveness and familial love and loyalty, no wonder GSD’s are such popular pets! Plus, who can resist those big, fuzzy ears?
2. As puppies, their ears flop down. When they get a little older, they point upward!
3. They were bred to be working dogs. A German soldier wanted to create the “perfect” working dog and developed GSD’s for these specific qualities:
- Good sense of smell to track lost sheep when herding
- Endurance to work all day
- Speed
- Ability to focus and work independently
- Courage to fight predators–lions, coyotes, and bears
- Strength to overcome aforementioned predators
- Super intelligence
4. German Shepherds make great military and police dogs …because of their intelligence, bravery, and desire to please. They won’t hesitate to risk their lives for their handlers, are smart enough to learn important skills, and disciplined enough to follow instructions.
5. They have the second most powerful bite of all the dog breeds. (Rottweilers have the strongest.) This is another trait that makes them a preferable police breed. While their jaws can be considered weapons, trained GSD’s will let go on command; a bullet, however, cannot be “un-shot.”
6. They come in 11 different colors, according to the AKC. They come in different variations of black, tan, and white, solid or mixed-colored coats.
7. Some things to consider before adopting a German Shepherd:
- While their grooming is relatively low-maintenance, they are heavy shedders!
- GSD’s can be prone to hip dysplasia
- They should be socialized (as should all dogs), because they can be overprotective of the family when meeting strangers
- Because of their intelligence and desire to work, they must be exercised and mentally stimulated
8. But they make great family dogs …and are incredibly adaptable. Because of their double-layered coat, GSD’s can live in warm or cold climates. They can handle apartment life as long as they are adequately exercised every day, and are very trainable.
While these dogs are fierce protectors, they are gentle and lovable toward their family members, including small children (but as always, use extreme caution when introducing any dog to a young human!). No wonder German Shepherds are one of America’s favorite breeds!
Sources:
- “Breed All About It-German Shepherd” by Animal Planet via Youtube
- “Dogs 101-German Shepherd” by Animal Planet via Youtube
- “The German Shepherd Dog” page and “Most Popular Dog Breeds In America” by The American Kennel Club
Are you crazy for German Shepherd Dogs? Then you’ll love these GSD-inspired tees! Each purchase feeds 7 shelter dogs waiting to find their forever home.
Drink Wine & Pet My German Shepherd, $22.00
Vintage German Shepherd USA, $22.00
Nicer Than My German Shepherd, $22.00
Toledo, United States.
