In April, 1899, a German, Captain Max von Stephanitz, founded an organization called the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (SV). This was the original parent club of todays German Shepherd Club of America. The very first show German Shepherd dog registered with the American Kennel Club, in 1908, was Queen of Switzerland. The German Shepherd dog has earned a reputation of faithfulness, family companion, guide dog, police dog, and of course, herder. The GSD is an excellent house-dog, excellent travelers who love to ride in the car for long trips, a companion who can be taken everywhere - fishing, swimming, boating, hiking, etc. The first impression one has, when seeing a good German Shepherd dog, is that of a strong, agile, well muscled animal, alert and full of life. The GSD is longer than tall and deep-bodied. The ideal dog is stamped with a look of quality and nobility--difficult to define, but unmistakable when present. The German Shepherd has a distinct personality, one of fearlessness, but should never be hostile. He should be approachable, quietly standing his ground, confidant and willing to meet overtures of friendship and contact from others. Ever poised, but also alert and eager to please, the GSD has earned another important reputation, as being an excellent Guide Dog for the blind. The head is noble and cleanly chiseled, without coarseness. The typical expression is keen, intelligent and composed. The coat, ideally is double of medium length. The outer coat should be as dense as possible, hair straight, harsh and lying close to the body. The German Shepherd Dog varies in color, and most colors are permissible, with strong rich colors preferred. White is considered a disqualifying faulty color. The typical gait of a GSD is a ground covering trot, seemingly without effort, smooth and rhythmic, covering the maximum amount of ground with the minimum number of steps. For more information on this faithful, intelligent dog, please contact the German Shepherd Dog Club of America. On a side note, I'm proud to say that I am owned by two GSDs, myself. Joplin (Lynstorm's Half Moon) was sort of an unexpected purchase. I wanted a long-haired Shepherd and went to see Joplin's sister. Unfortunately, I observed abuse from the breeder to the six-month-old sisters. I was certain the long haired girl I'd gone to see, would be a fear biter, so no way I'd bring her home to be around my grandchildren! Joplin was also fearful, had no self-confidence, but was willing to trust me. If I'd had the money, I would have gotten both girls away from their "breeder" (read it as I'm using the title loosely!) She will be four this month of June, 2023 and has earned the title of - Fckn Psycho. |