The German Shepherd Dog scores high marks in both form and function. They are an intelligent, powerful, and agile breed with a high aptitude for many kinds of work and are the world’s leading police, guard, and military dog. In addition, they excel as family companions, herders, guides for the blind, show competitors, and almost any other canine occupation we present them with. They were developed by Captain Max Stephanitz, among others, in the late 1800s at Karlsruhe, Germany from old breeds of herding and farm breeds. They were first exhibited in America in 1907 and later, TV shows such as Strongheart and Rin-Tin-Tin served to cement the breed in the hearts of Americans and send the German Shepherd Dog’s popularity skyward. They are highly interactive and loyal breed and make affectionate family pets and alert watchdogs. Proactive training is a must, as with any strong, energetic breed and they require plenty of exercise and frequent brushing.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health, and care requirements. They also work to assure that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed become members of the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission. The nation’s top breed experts are members of the parent club.
The national parent breed club is the first and best place to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
