The German Shepherd Dog
Page updated October 19, 2001
The German Shepherd Dog is one of the most intelligent and versatile breeds in the world. A properly trained German Shepherd Dog is willing and able to defend her master, yet is a loving family member and companion.
The Structure of the German Shepherd Dog
The Sporting GSD
Whatever sport you are interested in, the German Shepherd can likely be succesful in it. These include the more popular activities such as:
Schutzhund
Schutzhund
Agility
Agility
Flyball
Flyball
The Working GSD
The GSD is probably best known as a working dog. Police Services are reknowned for their K-9 Units.Canine officers, many of which are GSD's, help their human counterparts to seek and apprehend criminals, find victims, detect drugs and bombs. Everyday, a Police canine officer places his or her life in danger all in the line of duty.For other police dog resources visit: K9 Resources,
The GSD is also an excellent Search and Rescue Dog (SAR). SAR trainers spend numerous hours training their dogs for this difficult job. Its all worth it when a lost child is found by a well-trained SAR dog.
GSD's are also used as Service Dogs, giving aid to the blind or infirm. They can be seen in hospitals and nursing homes as Therapy Dogs. Although the GSD was first and foremost a herding dog used on sheep farms, few are used today on working farms. Some GSDs are involved in hobby herding and there are some that do work as herding dogs.
Public Perception of the GSD
The public image of the German Shepherd Dog is formed in many ways by the stereotypes such as Rin Tin Tin and other "movie" dogs. The public perception is mixed - on one hand it perceives the GSD as a hero - a rescuer of children, a defender of justice. On the other hand, many people have an image of the GSD as a "guard dog", a fierce and dangerous animal. While the German Shepherd Dog can be trained to guard his or her home and master, the majority are family members who romp and frolic with adults and children alike and whose loyalty to their families is admirable.It is up to those who breed and own the German Shepherd Dog to ensure that their dogs present the best possible public image. A well-behaved dog of any breed is a joy to have. A well-behaved German Shepherd Dog is no different. Every time a member of the public views a GSD working, excelling or just plain enjoying a sport, obeying his or her master, cheering up an elderly or infirm person, the breed in general gains. It is for this reason that responsible breeders take the time to educate themselves about how best to breed for temperament and ability.
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