German shepherds are big dogs. They require plenty of space to settle and breed. They belong to the herding group and are known as the second most popular breed of the USA behind the Labrador retriever. Their puppies will not suit you if you live in a small apartment without a garden. German Shepherd requires plenty of movements and exercises to stay fit and healthy.
In this article, we will explain all the facts about a German shepherd that you never knew, and in fact, you need to know before adopting a German shepherd. But before that, let us first discuss the history of the German shepherd.
History Of German Shepherd
Introduction – As the name suggests German shepherds are from Germany. They were initially used for herding and guarding purposes. However, they are now known for their loving nature and intelligence. Europeans introduced these wonderful dog breeds in the middle of the 19th century. People loved to keep them. As time went on, they became the second most popular dog species throughout the globe
Photo Credits: angesgardiens .
Discovery of German Shepherds
In the year 1889, Max von Stephanitz (a dog breeder) noticed a wolf-like dog that has black and yellow markings at a dog show in western Germany. The breeder became very impressed by this beast’s discipline and intelligence
. He purchased the dog and changed its name from Linksrhein Hector to Horand von Grafrath. Max von then started the Dog Club for a German shepherd and set up guidelines for the breed’s standard. His unique motto for the breed was intelligence and utility, good looks came second.
Role of Max von In Securing German Shepherds Breed
As Germany became more industrialized, Max von thought that the need for his dogs might decline. To maintain their dignity, pride, and importance, he worked closely with other service workers and police to secure a place for the dogs in the working force. Since they were very athletic and intelligent, they were easy to tame and were tireless workers. This whole credit goes to Max von, who aided in improving the diligent canines findnd work as messengers and guards.
Interesting Facts About German Shepherd
Here is the complete list of interesting facts about German Shepherds:
1. World War I Brought German Shepherds Out West
German shepherds were more often known as guard dogs. They also proved very beneficial in World War 1. These aiding dogs brought first aid to wounded soldiers after the battle and would stay near mortally injured soldiers to keep them company as they passed away. Others worked as messengers or worked as guard dogs. Americans then became very captivated with their nature and thought and brought them home. After that, the new era of German shepherds in America begins.
2. America Loves Them
According to the Kennel Club in the United States of America, German shepherds were ranked as the second most popular dog breed in the country in 2014. However, in major cities like Miami and Nashville, they also ranked number one.
3. They Are Smart
Photo by Басмат Анна on Unsplash
German Shepherds are the smartest and brightest dog breed. They can play, dance, swim, and much more. Additionally, they are very energetic and active creatures.
Read Also: “German Shepherd Husky Mix Dog Breed – The Ultimate Guard Dog“
They adjust in the environment and fuse themselves easily after a little training. Breeders have introduced a new intelligence test through which they can check and determine the smartness and sharpness of their dogs.
4. A Temporary Name Change In Shepherds
After the first and the Second World War, many Europeans and Americans were a little touchy of anything related to German. It is so clear that they couldn’t digest a dog, namely a German Shepherd. To resolve this trouble, the Kennel Club of America named them shepherd dogs, and the English people started calling them as Alsatian wolf dogs. This kept happening until 1997.
5. Dwarfism In German Shepherd
In rare but certain cases, German shepherds can have pituitary dwarfism. As a result, these dogs are forever puppy-like, keeping their puppy fur and staying small in structure. Although some people love their figure and frame, Dwarfism leads to the early death of these strong dogs.
6. German Shepherd As a Great Actor
In the middle of the 1980s, Whim Schipper A Ditch Director developed a play that involved six German shepherds. The dogs’ owner told us that these dogs were sent to drama lessons in Amsterdam and given treats as an encouragement to act. The play featured a traditional family plot, with the name Going to the dogs. In this play, there is a daughter who brings home a new boyfriend, and love, jealousy, and parental worries come into play.
7. The Biggest Star Of German Shepherd’s Breed
From the battlefield of WW1, a shepherd was rescued whose name was Rin Tin Tin. An American soldier named Duncan Lee was his savior who trained the dog to work in silent films. The dog became a residential star whose draw was surprising that Warner Bros would release a Rin Tin Tin movie whenever it was having financial problems
Photo Credits: slideshare.
In fact, in the academy awards in 1929, Rin Tin Tin became the best ‘dog actor’ for the first time in history.
The German shepherd has a great history. People love having it in their home as a family pet.
Wow, this is very fun to read. Have you ever considered submitting articles to magazines?