German Shepherds are well known as police dogs. But, how did they get to become them? In WWI Germany was training these dogs to aide in the daily activities of their blind soldiers. In the 1930s, the United States started using them for similar purposes as well. Now, these dogs, like Golden Retrievers & Labrador Retrievers are used to aide police, aide in rescues, & to be assistance to physically disabled, blind, & deaf people all over the world. But, dogs don't just get to this point overnight. It takes intense, harsh training, which begins from 6 weeks, & lasts generally about 2 years for full assistance, & about 6 months for specific assistance (just hearing, just seeing, etc.)
DESCRIPTION
These dogs are large & powerful with a strong & rhythmic walk. Secondary sex characteristics are quite obvious with each dog exhibiting clearly defined masculine or feminine looks about them. They have thick double coats, which is medium in length & comes in black, black & tan, sable, & occasionally, white & cream (sable, & white & cream are NOT accepted in the AKC as show dogs). They have backs that are higher about the chest area & slope downward towards the rear end. They have erect, mobile ears, long muzzles, & deep-set eyes, which gives them an intelligent look. They are large dogs with a height of 22-26 in (56-66 cm) & a weight of 75-97 lb (33-43 kg), & their grooming needs are moderate (they do shed almost constantly).
PERSONALITY
-Excellent watch/guard dog.
-Obedience training is met with a good attitude.
-Intelligent, courageous, & athletic.
-Devoted & faithful.
-Known to concentrate intently on 1 task.
-Early obedience is essential to curb & prevent behavior problems.
-lack of exercise can cause behavior problems.
-Should never be allowed to roam around loose in public areas.
-Some tend to have issues with cats & other small animals, & many have issues with livestock (farm animals) due to there strong herding instincts.
-Commitment, time, & energy is a must for owners of these dogs.
-Unneutered males can become agressive (see health for more)
-Unspayed females can become moody & difficult (see health for more)
-They are good with other dogs if well socialized & trained from an early age.
-They tend to love & dedicate themselves to their family & are especially fond of children (even so, use common sense when it comes to small children & ANY dog, particularly larger breeds, because of obvious accidents.)
-German Shepherds are for EXPERIENCED dog owners who are willing to exert the time & energy it takes to raise a happy healthy dog of this breed.
HEALTH
Life Span: 10-13 Years
-Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: Abnormal hip or elbow joint development.
-Spinal Disorders
-Low Thyroid
-Skin Problems: Flea Alleries, etc.
-Canine Epilepsy: Seizure Disorder.
-Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
-Panosteitis
-Males are at a higher risk of cancer if unneutered.
-Females are at a higher risk of uterine problems & cancer if unspaded.
Remember, always use common sense when it comes to your dog. If you notice your dog isn't acting quite right, take your him/her to the veterinarian right away. It's better to take them & find out it's nothing then to assume it's nothing & find out it was serious when it's too late.

German Shepherd, Standard Black/Tan: