German Shepherd - a dog smarter than you?

At a Glance

Big and Tall Olympic Athlete The Life of the Party/The Body Guard Hip and Happening

Famous Owners

U.S. President John F. Kennedy (dog’s name – Clipper)

Musician Amy Grant (dog’s name – Ork)

U.S. General H. Norman Schwarzkopf (dog’s name – Orso)

Actor Chuck Norris (dog’s name – Angel)

Entertainer Roy Rogers (dog’s name – Bullet)

Fitness Guru Jack Lelanne (dog’s name – Happy)

U.S. President Franklin D. Roosevelt (dog’s name – Major)

Actor Rudolph Valentino (dog’s name – Prince)

Breed History

The German Shepherd as we know it today is a relatively new breed having been developed in Germany around the beginning of the 20th century. The German Shepherd was originally called the Alsatian and is still sometimes referred to as such today. His ancestry is of unknown origin, though it’s likely he is descended from a wide variety of farm dogs who displayed excellence as herders. In 1899, German Captain Max von Stephanitz began a club dedicated to the development of the breed and is largely responsible for the creation of the handsome and intelligent dog we know today.

German Shepherds Today

German Shepherds are between 22 and 26 inches in height and weigh between 75 and 95 pounds. He comes in both long and shorthaired varieties and a wide range of colors, including sable, black and tan, solid white, and solid black. Though his coat may vary in color and length, generally only those dogs with short coats and who are not of the yellow, cream, or white variety are permissible in the show ring. His intelligence and calm nature have made him invaluable as a guide dog, police assistant, search and rescue dog, and family pet.

Personality and the Perfect Owner Looking for a dog that might be smarter than you are? The German Shepherd is an amazingly intelligent animal who is capable of performing a wide variety of tasks. In fact, he is so smart that it is imperative his owner provides him with mental stimulation to keep him happy, healthy, and of sound temperament. He’s easily trained and enjoys his work. He is a confident dog who displays a calm personality and loyalty toward those he loves. Though he’s even-tempered, he is a courageous dog and will fiercely protect his family if called to do so.

Common Health Problems

Before adding a German Shepherd to your home, ask your breeder about the dog’s health history. Common German Shepherd ailments are: