The History of the German Shepherd Dog

The History of the German Shepherd Dog

Captain Max von Stephanitz Founds a New Breed

In 1889 Captain Max von Stephanitz began the standardization of the breed. It all started at a dog show in Karlsruhe in western Germany. A medium-sized yellow-and-gray wolflike dog caught his attention. The dog was of the primal canine type, supple and powerful, and possessed endurance, steadiness, and intelligence. He was a working sheepherder, requiring no training other than direction and finish to become proficient at the task. This dog, Hektor Linksrhein, was purchased by von Stephanitz, renamed Horand von Grafrath, and became the first registered German Shepherd Dog.

Founding the SV

Von Stephanitz founded the Verein für Deutsche Sch·ferhunde, SV, becoming the first president, and in a short period of time achieved the standardization of form and type in the breed. A standard was developed based on mental stability and utility. The captain's motto was "Utility and intelligence". To him beauty was secondary, and a dog was worthless if it lacked the intelligence, temperament, and structural efficiency that would make it a good servant of man. A breed standard was developed as a blueprint dictating the exact function and relationship of every aspect of structure, gait, and inherent attitude.

Von Stephanitz inbred heavily on Horand and also Luchs, his brother, to consolidate the bloodline. Horand's best son, Hektor von Schwaben, the second German Sieger, was mated with his half-sister as well as through daughters of his own sons, Beowulf, Heinz von Starkenberg, and Pilot III.

Intense inbreeding also concentrated undesirable recessive originating from the mixing of the original strains. Von Stephanitz then inserted unrelated blood of herding origin through Audifax von Grafrath and Adalo von Grafrath.

The First German Shepherd Dog is Exhibited in America - 1907

Mira von Offingen, imported by Otto Gross, was shown by H. Dalrymple, of Port Allegheny, Pennsylvania in the open class at Newcastle and Philadelphia. The first championships awarded German Shepherd Dogs was in 1913.

The German Shepherd Dog Club of America is Born in 1913

In 1913 the German Shepherd Dog Club of America was formed by Benjamin Throop and Anne Tracy, with 26 charter members.

The German Shepherd Dog Club of America's first specialty show was at Greenwich, Connecticut in 1915. In 1917, when America entered World War I, all things German became tabu. The American Kennel Club changed the name of the breed to the Shepherd Dog and the German Shepherd Dog Club of America became the Shepherd Dog Club of America. In England, the name of the breed was changed to the Alsatian.

German Shepherd Popularity after WWI

With the end of World War I came a new appreciation for the breed. The German Army had made good use of the breed as a war dog. Tales told by returning U.S. fighting men, some bringing shepherds with them, and the intelligence and striking appearance of the dogs caught the attention of the general public. Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart, whose movies played on variations of the "boy and his dog" theme, shot the popularity of the breed sky-high. Puppy factories flourished to meet the demand, gutting the American market with poor quality "German police dogs", resulting in a down-turn in popularity of the breed.

Serious breeding did continue such as by Mrs. Harrison Eustis, of Fortunate Fields Kennels, in Switzerland. Her approach was completely scientific with exhaustive research of breedings undertaken. The most widely known usefulness to which her dogs were put was as guide dogs for the blind at the famous Seeing Eye in Morristown, New Jersey.

In 1922 Germany introduced a system of regular breed surveys - a criticism of each dog, with a graded description and recommendation for (or against) breeding. This type of system never caught on in America due largely to the cultural differences inherent in American society. However, good dogs were still produced as German dogs were easily available for American dollars highly sought after in inflationary Germany.

After WWII

The German Shepherd Dog was widely sought after during World War II, employed by Allied and Axis forces, as mine detectors, sentinels, guard work, messenger, and other services. In America, Dogs for Defense was formed, providing thousands of dogs to the army.

The paths of German and American shepherds diverged after World War II. The Americans continued largely with the Pfeffer and Odin lines while in Germany the breed was in poor shape. Many dogs had been killed or destroyed due to lack of food. The best that was left was bred, frequently outcross breedings, since there was no great selection of line-bred stock. Soon the breeders had individual dogs dominant in the desired virtues. They then began to line-breed or inbreed so that by about 1949 quality specimens began to appear at German shows. The pedigrees of these "new" dogs were largely of the result of "type" breeding without the influence of Pfeffer but having the great dogs behind him. Prepotent sires emerged, Axel von der Deininghauserheide, Rolf vom Osnabruecker-land and Hein v. Richterback, representing preserved pre-war genetics.

Through Pfeffer, American breeders established a beautiful type. This was concentrated by inbreeding, and in combinations with descendants of his half-brother Odin vom Busecker-Schloss. Many well-known kennels of the day, utilizing these lines were Long-Worth, founded by Lloyd Brackett, Liebestraum, owned by Grant Mann, and Hessian, owned by Art and Helen Hess.

Troll von Richterback in the 1950s

In 1950's America, some breeders recognized the need for some infusion of outcross blood and this was done through Klodo Boxberg and Odin Stolzenfels lines which blended well with American taste for topline, croup length and rear angulation. The Axel/Rolf/Hein combinations were also brought in notably by Troll von Richterback. Troll, 1957 Grand Victor, had remendous appeal. He was dominant in producing rear drive, hindquarter strength, muscle, bone, and head. He was also dominant in producing straight uppper arm, weak ears, blues, and fading pigment.

Bernd v Kallengarten & Falk v Eningsfeld

Imports critical to the breed in America were Bernd v Kallengarten and Falk v Eningsfeld. Bernd was imported by Ernie Loeb. Bernd was dominant for shoulder, forehand, bone, feet, substance, suspension, head, croup, tailset, and body length but also weaknesses for ears, steep croup, loose ligamentation, long coats, and high percentage of hip and elbbow dysplasia. Of note is the fact that Bernd introduced the solid-black gene into the American breed.

The Famous "F" Litter

During the 1960's there was an emergence of strong families of stud dogs. In Germany the SV was in control while in America breeders were open to follow their own preferences. Troll wielded a large amount of clout in America by producing the famous "F" litter Arbywood, including Fels, Field Marshall, Fortune and Fashion, bred by Lucy Woodard. This pedigree combined Odin Stolzenfels/Klodo Boxberg/Pfeffer/Utz as well as the Axel/Rolf/Hein combination. The Arbywood males contrasted with their pure American counterparts, being stallion males with the desired type.

Lance of Fran-Jo

Fortune was bred to Fran and Joan Ford's Frohlich's Elsa v Grunestal producing Lance of Fran-Jo, American and Canadian Granvd Victor. Lance represented a new era in American shepherds - angulation, topline and sidegait. Lance's popularity in the sixties was also due to the American tendency to turn away from imports, perhaps due to cost and poor quality. Lance was geographically convenient to all parts of the U.S.A. and was widely used.

Lance produced many offspring which in turn became pillars of the breed in America, including Lakeside's Harrigan, Cobert's Reno of Lakeside, Eko-Lan's Morgan, Cobert's Golly Gee of Lakeside and Mannix of Fran-Jo. Important offspring of these dogs included Doppelt-Tay's Hammer and Hawkeye who figured prominently in the late seventies.

Also important during Lance's time was Yoncalla's Mike, a Bernd v Kallengarten grandson consolidating the Pfeffer/Odin blood. Mike was a potent sire transmitting balanced structure, rich colour, strong bone and good feet. Mike's best known son was Grand Victor Hollamor's Judd whose daughters were also widely used.

Horand & Mari - The first registered German Shepherd Dogs

Horand v Grafrath S.Z.1 (lying down) and

Mari v Grafrath S.Z.2 the first two German

Shepherd Dogs registered in Germany

Download this brochure for more information about the German Shepherd Dog.

 The German Shepherd Chronology

1864

Max Emil Friedrich von Stephanitz was born and became known as the “Father of the Breed”.

1886

Birthday of Dorothy Eustis. Founder of "THE SEEING EYE".

1893

The Scientific American publishes an article about the “German Shepherd Dog” together with an illustrative sketch of German Shepherd Dogs discussing the Phylax Society

1899

On April 22, von Stephanitz founded the Verein für Deutsche Sch·ferhunde (SV). Founding members of the SV were Artur Meyer, 3 sheep masters, two factory owners, one architect, one mayor, one innkeeper and one magistrate.  The S.V. established a breed standard and a Zuchtbuch (Breed Register).  Twenty years later they published the Korbuch (Breed Survey Book), which outlined the suitability for breeding based on physical  and mental characteristics. The S.V became the largest breed club in the world. Von Stephanitz was also responsible for introducing the breed to other types of work including messenger, rescue, sentry and personal guard dogs.  Stephanitz died on April 22, 1936 in Dresden on the 37th anniversary of the club he founded.

 1901

The first Schutzhund trail is held in Germany.

1904

German Shepherd Dog first came to the United States. The Complete Dog Book (1920)

1906

Otto H. Gross imports three German Shepherd Dogs including Myra von Offengen that he shows at Westminster in Miscellaneous in 1908.

1908

First German Shepherd registered with the American kennel club is in 1908, “Queen of Switzerland” owned by Adolph Vogt. American Kennel Gazette.

1909

Five German Shepherds are exhibited at the Westminster Kennel Club show.

1909

 Ernie Loeb's date of Birth October 13, 1909

1911

The American Review of Reviews carries an article entitled “The German Police Dog and What He Does”.

1912

Benjamin Throop of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Miss Anne Tracy of Highland Falls on Hudson, New York, each register their first German Shepherd Dogs (termed by AKC as German Sheepdogs). Sportsmans Review, by way of The Dog Fancier

1912

Seven German Shepherd Dogs are exhibited at Westminster Kennel Club by Anne Tracy, William Neuhoff, Herman Scheitlein.

1913

"Prior to the 1913 Westminster KC show William Neuhoff launches the idea of a club for the breed. At the Westminster Kennel club show The German Shepherd dog Club of America is organized. Present were:  Mr.  and Mrs. Benjamin Throop,  R.G.Stewart,  Miss Anne Tracy,  L. S. de Winter,  William Neuhoff,  T.G.Ford,  F. Emkin,  Arthur Fox, H.T. Baer, Miss Marion Dennison, the step-daughter of ex-New York Lieut Gov. Horace White,  Mrs C. Halsted Yates (Eleanor),  C. Halsted Yates, Otto Gross, Hans Loersen, G. Muss Arnoldt, Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Tubino,  J.F. Voickman,  Frank Spiekerman,  Mr. and Mrs. Joel Fischer, and Herman Scheitler.   Dr. Henry Jarret and J.Seargent Price sent letters of regret but promised hearty support."  (The Dog Fancier)

1913

At the annual American Kennel Club meeting Robert J. Stewart is elected to represent the German Shepherd Dog Club of America.

1913

August 23, 1913 the German Shepherd Dog club of America held an exhibition at Cortland Park, New York City demonstrating how German Shepherd Dogs could be used to apprehend criminals. 5000 attended. New York Times August 24, 1913

1914

First issue of the Bulletin published by the German Shepherd Dog Club of America is issued February 20, 1914.

1914

The first GSD specialist, Baron von Fortner, judges Westminster.

1914

There has been considerable discussion as to whether the German Shepherd dogs now so popular in America should be called sheepdog or Shepherd dog. The club devoted to the interest of the breed is the German Shepherd Dog club of America. Dog Fancier, 1914.

1915

First complete list of members is published December 15, 1915.

1915

The German Shepherd Dog Club of America publishes “Schooling and Training the German Shepherd Dog” written by Max von Stephanitz and translated by Anne Tracy.

1915

The German Shepherd Dog Club of America holds its first National Specialty in Greenwich, Connecticut. Founder Anne Tracy judges the entries.

1917

A special hero of World War I, a German Shepherd named Filax of Lewanno who had brought 54 wounded soldiers to safety, was exhibited at Westminster. Historic timeline Westminster Kennel Club website

1917

The American Kennel Club decrees the elimination of the word “German” from the German Sheepdog, thereafter called Shepherd Dog.

1917

November 24, The Shepherd Dog Club of America stages a demonstration of the war dog capabilities of the German Shepherd dog at the Westminster Kennel Club show.

1918

April 20, 1918, German Shepherd Dog Club of America founding member and war hero, Vernon Castle, dies in training accident sacrificing himself to save a trainee.

1918

The Shepherd Dog Club of America establishes a breeders’ futurity. Bulletin of The Shepherd Dog Club of America

1918

May 12, The Shepherd Dog Club of America holds a field trial for police and Army dogs at Weequakhc Park, Newark, New Jersey,

1919`

Minneola, Long Island, November 22, 1919 The Shepherd Dog Club of America’s fifth specialty show, entries 227, benched 138, exhibitors 75, Anne Tracy judges the National Specialty for the third time.

1920

At the seventh show of the Washington DC Kennel Club, First Place, American bred dog was Chief of the Mohawks owned and shown by Anna E. Roosevelt, daughter of Franklin D. Roosevelt. American Kennel Gazette.

1922

“The Silent Call”, a motion picture starring the German Shepherd Dog Strongheart runs for over 13 weeks at the Miller theater in Los Angeles, drawing a gate of over 600,000. The 1920 census for Los Angeles County was 936,455 and Los Angles City was 576,673.

1922

Dr. Kurt Roesebeck of Germany judges the Shepherd Dog Club of America National.

1923

Exhibited at the shows for the first time German Shepherd Dogs from Giralda Farms Kennels

1923

Marie Leary establishes her Cosalta Kennel at Greenwich Connecticut.

1923

The Shepherd Dog Club of New England was organized in 1923.

1924

The initial issue of the Shepherd Dog Review was published January 1924.

1924

Otto H. Gross judges the first show of the Shepherd Dog Club of New England at Auburndale, Massachusetts.

1924

June 30, 1924 the American Kennel Club Gazette features a cover photo of Strongheart. ”The World's Most Celebrated Shepherd.”

1924

February 3, 1924, Strongheart and Lady Julie are due to make an appearance at the Garden Show (Westminster Kennel Club) and visit the offices of the New York Times.

1925

Strongheart is reported to have earned a total of $2,500,000.00

1925

The Shepherd Dog Club of America holds a breed survey by the Oskar Sickinger, sponsored by the Shepherd Dog Club of New England, and Otto Kaempfe, sponsored by the Shepherd Dog Club of America and published the results in a volume titled Breed Survey 1925 the surveyors came over from Germany to evaluate the American dogs. 163 dogs and 196 bitches were surveyed.

1926

The Bulletin founded in 1914 became “The Shepherd Dog” in 1926.

1926

Shepherd Dog registrations reached 21,596, approximately 30% of all breeds registered with the American Kennel Club.

1926

The American kennel club decrees the title “Grand Champion” which for eight successive years was awarded to the best dog and best bitch at the national specialty was contrary to AKC rules. Thereafter the best dog and best bitch will be called “Grand Victor” and “Grand Victix”.

1926

AC Gilbert imports the German Sieger Klodo von Boxburg.

1926

September 12, Anne Tracy weds Prince Simon Constantine Sidamon Eristoff, Time Magazine.

1927

December 9, 1927, jury awards a verdict of $125,000 for the death of Peter the Great a German Shepherd movie star. Los Angeles Times

1927

Geraldine Dodge establishes the Morris and Essex dog show

1927

A.C. Gilbert, industrialist and the world's largest toy manufacturer becomes president of the Shepherd Dog Club of America

1927

National specialty entries through 1927.

1915, 48; 1916, 110; 1917, 123, 1918, 83; 1919, 143; 1920, 113; 1921, 103; 1922, 205; 1923, 94; 1924, 136; 1925, 172; 1926, 224; 1927, 235

1929

June 25, 1929, Strongheart dies New York Times

1929

Mardex kennels imports Sieger Utz von Hause Schutting.

1929

Mrs. Harrison Eustis establishes “The Seeing Eye” to train German Shepherd Dogs as leader or guide dogs for blind people.

1929    Utz vom Haus Schuetting becomes German Sieger and is exported to the US. Utz has a lasting impact on the breed in Germany, Great Britain and the US.

1930

May 24, 1930, at Morris and Essex, Captain Max von Stephanitz judges German Shepherd dogs.

1930

May 19, 1930 members of the Shepherd Dog Club of America voted to change the name of The Shepherd Dog Club of America to The German Shepherd Dog Club of America.

1932

Rin Tin Tin dies August 11, 1932. New York Times     rintin

1932

The titles Grand Victor and Grand Victrix were not awarded, the German judge officiating deemed none of the entries worthy of the title.

1933

A German Shepherd belonging to New York Yankee great, Lou Gehrig, is among this year's entries. "Afra of Cosalta" takes second in the Open Bitch class; Gehrig goes on to some success on the baseball field instead, finishing with a .340 lifetime batting average as one of the most beloved Yankees of all time. Westminster KC

1934

Ernie Loeb comes to America. He becomes known as "Mr. German Shepherd". His first import, a dog owned in Germany, was Ch. Brando von Heidelberberg. Brando was imported late in 1934.

1935

Ch. Brando von Heidelberberg won Best of Breed from the classes at Westminster Kennel Club under a former president of the GSDCA, Mrs. Ann Tracy.  

Brando finished his championship in the US, but later was sent back to Germany.

1936    Max V Stephanitz dies.

1936    The AKC recognizes Obedience titles thanks to the efforts of Blanche Saunders.

 1936   Ernie Loeb's first trip back to Germany. He bought dogs on that trip for Paul Tishman to start Ruthland Kennels.  It was a dangerous time for Ernie Loeb to return to Germany, but his mother and sister were still living there.

 Pfeffer V Bern goes German Seiger and American GV in the same year.

 1949   Ernie Loeb owned and handled, Doris vom Voftlandshof, winners bitch at the National that year, who went on to Grand Victrix that year. Winning The Grand Victrix Perchta von Bern Memorial Trophy for the first time.

 1969   Geisha von der Hardberhohe, handled by Butch Loeb, won The Grand Victrix Perchta von Bern Memorial Trophy for owner Ernie Loeb. second time won by Ernie.

 1971  

The Grand Victrix Perchta von Bern Memorial Trophy was retired by Ernie Loeb.

This trophy was a challenge trophy that was retired by Ernie Loeb at the 1971 National.The trophy was to be permanently awarded to an owner for owning the Winners Bitch at the National three times. Gigi vom Silberbrand was the winners bitch that year, handled by Butch Loeb, Owned by Ernie Loeb.

The German Shepherd Dog - It's History, Purpose and Future

The German Shepherd is not only one of the world's most popular companion dogs, but also probably the most widely used breed for service work. The development of the German Shepherd Dog, along with a number of existing breeds, helped pioneer the modern use of dogs for service and community work that we can see today. For a breed of dog that has only been officially recognised for just over 100 years, it has made an outstanding contribution to mankind worldwide.

The origins of the breed came from various sheep dogs found in Germany during the last century. In the second half of the 19th century, dog breed fanciers began to fix the type of sheep dog found in Germany that would eventually form the basis of the modern German Shepherd Dog. Various attempts were made to form associations to develop the German Sheep Dogs such as the Phylax Club, which was formed in the early 1890’s, but disbanded in a few short years. Not only were dog fanciers discussing the breeding of dogs, but also the training of dogs was becoming of great interest. A driving force of the time was Doktor Gerland who presented the world’s first trained police dogs just prior to the turn of the century. These events helped to bring the development of sheep dogs to the attention of many influential people in Germany.

During 1899 a German dog fancier and cavalry officer Captain Max Von Stephanitz purchased a dog named Hektor Linksrhein which greatly impressed him. Von Stephanitz subsequently renamed the dog Horand v Grafrath. On 22 April 1899 Von Stephanitz, Adolf Meyer, Ernst Von Otto and others, formed the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (SV) in Germany. The translation of this name is roughly "The German Shepherd Dog Club of Germany". The SV started a registration book and Horand v Grafrath became the first registered German Shepherd Dog. On 20 September 1899, the SV adopted a breed standard based on the proposals of Meyer and Von Stephanitz and later held its first specialty show at Frankfurt-am-Main, using the titles Sieger and Siegerin. The development of the German Shepherd Dog had begun.

Von Stephanitz who became President of the SV realised that increased industrialisation in Germany would reduce the demand for sheep dogs and, in co-operation with German authorities earlier this century, began trialing the German Shepherd in other roles to ensure its survival as a working breed. Through his firm guiding hand the SV became the largest single breed club in the world, and the breed became one of the most versatile breeds known to man.

German Shepherds slowly grew in popularity, and clubs for the development of the breed began to form in countries where the breed had been exported. As early as 1904, it is believed unofficial imports of the breed had arrived in Western Australia. By 1910 the breed had a firm foot hold in Europe, and in Germany the service potential of the dogs were realised by helping to equip over 500 Police stations throughout Germany with trained Police Dogs. Still being used as a sheep dog, the German Shepherd was also finding popularity with the German military. Von Stephanitz was adamant that the breed should remain a working dog, and constantly looked for new tasks to keep the breed working.

The onset of the First World War, saw both the German and French military using the German Shepherd as well as a number of other breeds for various functions, including search and rescue of casualties in 'no mans' land, providing what was to become the basis for modern search and rescue dog teams. Dogs were also used to carry ammunition, messages, cables and first aid supplies between the trenches, often through artillery and small arms fire. Many allied soldiers, impressed by the bravery of the dogs, took captured German Shepherds home with them after the war.

Many soldiers were blinded during the First World War and German Shepherds were trained in large numbers by the German authorities as 'seeing eye' dogs for the blind. Other countries, including Great Britain, then attempted to train dogs based on this German program. The British dog trainers, however, experienced a great deal of negativity from the general public at first, and it took some time to gain public acceptance for the program. The success of guide dogs has since been proven worldwide. The United States also later formed a Seeing Eye Dog School using German Shepherds. This occurred in 1929 in the US State of New Jersey. Although the Labrador Retriever does the majority of guide dog work in Australia, the German Shepherd remains one of the most popular choices for this type of work worldwide.

During the 1920's, canine movie stars such as Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart made the breed extremely popular outside of Germany. Great harm was caused as unscrupulous breeders, keen to cash in on this newfound popularity, introduced poor breeding practices which, along with some irresponsible owners, worked against the founding principles of the breed.

Anti German sentiment following the First World War, caused the British to re-name the breed as the Alsatian Wolf-Dog. Although all dogs are thought to have evolved from wolves, the name Alsatian Wolf-Dog led some people to believe the German Shepherd had been directly bred from wolves. The truth is that the German Shepherd carries no more wolf's blood than any other breed.

The year 1925 saw the breed's official Australian history begin with the importation of Crufts winner Ito of Fallowdale into Australia. Also on the same boat was Pinkerton Rhoda. As a number of further importations followed, graziers and pastoralists in Australia began to express concerns that the breed was dangerous. This was partly based on the British re-naming of the breed, Alsatian Wolf-Dog. Australian graziers and pastoralists started to express fears that German Shepherds would mate with dingos and produce a powerful and intelligent sheep killer. Powerful lobby groups such as the Western Australian Pastoralists and Graziers Society started to call for the breed to be declared a dangerous noxious pest.

The most significant year in the early Australian history of the breed was 1929. This year saw the founding of the Alsatian Club of Victoria, which is now known as the German Shepherd Dog Club of Victoria Inc (GSDCV). On 22 February of that year, the dog KCC Ch Claus von Eulengarten arrived in Melbourne. This dog was the 26th German Shepherd imported into Australia and was not only a show champion, but also a trained Police Dog.

The year 1929 also saw the Australian Government respond to the continued fears of the graziers and pastoralists by placing a directive against the import of the breed into Australia. The Government then passed legislation in the next few years to officially legislate against the importation of German Shepherds into Australia. At this stage only about 55 to 60 official imports had entered Australia.

The early 1930's saw the popularity and the numbers of German Shepherds wain. This meant that purist breeders were able to slowly rebuild the reputation and standing of the German Shepherd. The outbreak of the Second World War saw the German Shepherd pressed into military service in large numbers. The breeding stock in Germany was greatly reduced, as large numbers of dogs were lost during the war. The tragedy of war once again highlighted the breed's useful qualities and helped to restore the reputation of the German Shepherd. This conflict also saw large numbers of dogs being trained to detect the presence of various types of unexploded devices. This activity has evolved into today's explosive and drug detector dog programs, which have been extremely effective for law enforcement agencies world wide.

The years following the Second World War saw world wide resurgence in the popularity of the German Shepherd. The situation in Australia, sadly, had not improved with the import ban still in place. The lack of new blood lines made it difficult for Australian breeders to make improvements to the breed and Australian German Shepherds were unable to progress to the level of those found in Europe. Breeders in Australia had to make the most of a bad situation and struggled on. However, breed clubs such as the GSDCV, and other groups started to promote the positive aspects of the breed. They hoped that common sense would win through and that the import ban would be lifted in the future.

In 1963, the German Shepherd Dog Council of Australia (GSDCA) was formed with the intentions of improving the standing of the German Shepherd and removing impediments, such as the Federal Government import ban. Owners of German Shepherds in Western Australia and the Northern Territory were not even allowed to breed from their existing stock.

Through various lobbying of the Australian Government a one year trial lifting of the ban on importing the breed into Australia commenced during 1973. The then Customs Minister, Mr Lionel Murphy, saw that the ban was ludicrous, and through the help of other politicians such as Mr Don Chipp (current Patron of the GSDCA), was able to allay the fears of the farmers and graziers. The trial was a success and in 1974 the import ban was permanently lifted. At last breeders were allowed to bring in new blood lines from Europe which allowed great advancement and improvement in the quality of the breed in Australia. 1974 also saw the formation of the World Union of German Shepherd Dog Clubs, with the aim to promote breeding and training according to German standards. This organisation was formed out of the former European Union of German Shepherd Dog Clubs due to the wishes of non-European clubs.

In the immediate years that followed the lifting of the ban a steady improvement to the standard of German Shepherds found in Australia took place. The importing of new blood lines made available to Australian breeders the genetic material that they required to advance the breed and this has enabled them to move towards the standard of dogs found in Germany. In fact in an ironic twist the Federal Government during the early 1980’s funded the Kamarn Breeders Foundation Ltd which produced about 70 litters of German Shepherds. A large number of these puppies went on to become working dogs such as police and guide dogs. After three years of grants the Federal Government removed support and the program eventually ceased. We can only wonder how much more contribution could have been made to the Australian community by the breed if the Federal Government had supported the breed earlier. The Australian Customs Service currently benefits from a breeding program for Labrador Retrievers funded by the Federal Government.

In 1993, the GSDCA with the assistance of the Australian National Kennel Council (ANKC), took advantage of an opportunity to revert to Country of Origin standards and adopted the full FCI and SV Breed Standard. These recent developments and various GSDCA breed improvement schemes have resulted in a vastly improved quality of the German Shepherd Dog in Australia, from that available prior to the lifting of the import ban.

In 1999 the 100th anniversary of the German Shepherd Dog was marked by world wide celebrations. To help celebrate that historic milestone the GSDCV hosted the Centenary German Shepherd Dog Exhibition on Saturday 13 November 1999 at Bundoora Park, Bundoora, Victoria. The Right Honourable Sherryl Garbutt officially opened this historic event, who was the then Minister for the Environment and Conservation, and paid tribute to the service done by the breed. Highlights of this great day included exciting Agility, Fly Ball and Obedience Demonstrations. These demonstrations not only entertained the crowd, but also demonstrated the intelligence, agility and speed of the German Shepherd Dog.

The working side of the breed was also highlighted and included various demonstrations and displays. These featured Police Dogs, Search and Rescue, Pets As Therapy, Seeing Eye Dogs, Bomb Dogs, Sheep Herding and more. The claim of the German Shepherd Dog to be the most versatile breed of working dog was clearly evident as people walked about the various Government and Community Displays.

Today the German Shepherd remains one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the world. The founding club has grown to over 100,000 members which makes the SV the largest single dog breed club in the world. The founder of the breed Captain von Stephanitz believed that, "The breeding of shepherd dogs is the breeding of working dogs; and this must always be the aim, or we shall cease to produce shepherd dogs. The breed is still extensively used as a working dog around the world, however most are owned as companion animals, where they make an ideal family pet because German Shepherds are good with children and other pets.

The breeds’ high intelligence, well balanced temperament, physical size, courage and affinity for people continue to make it a very versatile service dog. These attributes can also be utilised in obedience training allowing the breed to exercise its intelligence and drives. German Shepherds also enjoy physical exercise and their owners must be prepared to regularly exercise them. Many owners test this training and fitness by competing in various conformation and obedience competitions. Conformation shows allow individual animals to be compared against the breed standard.

The S.V./F.C.I. breed standard states that the German Shepherd Dog should be suitable as an all round working, herding and service dog. To achieve this a dog must be of well balanced temperament, steady of nerve, self assured, absolutely free and easy, and (unless provoked) completely good natured, as well as alert and tractable. He must have courage, combative instinct and hardness, in order to be suitable as companion, watch, protection, service and herding dog. The breed standard also describes the breed as being medium sized, slightly elongated, powerful and well muscled, the bones dry and the overall structure firm. The height of the withers for dogs is between 60-65 cm, and for bitches is 55-60 cm. The length of the body is greater than the height at the withers by about 10 to 17%. The physical make up of the dog is described in further detail and helps enable the breed to carry out its intended purpose.

In relation to movement the Breed Standard describes the German Shepherd Dog as a trotter. The limbs must be of such length and angulation that the hindquarters may be thrust well forward under the body, and the forequarters reach equally far forward, without noticeable change in the topline. Any tendency towards overangulation of the hindquarters lessens their firmness and endurance, and thus the dog’s utmost working ability. With correct structural proportions and angulations, a roomy, smooth, ground covering gait results, that gives the impression of effortless forward propulsion. With the head pushed forward, and a slightly raised tail, an even and calm trot results in a softly curving and unbroken topline, running from tips of the ears, over the neck and back, to the tip of the tail.

It is believed that dogs that closely fit the breed standard will have the physical and mental characteristics to enable them to have the potential and willingness to work in a variety of tasks without undue stress. As with most dog training effective socialisation and training is of utmost importance in any attempt to capitalise on this genetic potential. The other area of importance is the general health of the animal. It is not worth putting extensive training into an animal that may suffer from potential health problems, such as Hip or Elbow Dysplasia.

Like all breeds of dogs the German Shepherd does have a few potential health problems and owners should be aware of these. Some of the prevalent problems are being addressed by a number of breed improvement schemes administered by the GSDCA through the relevant state clubs such as the GSDCV. Affiliates of the ANKC such as the Victorian Canine Association (VCA) provide support by recording a pass in these schemes on the dog’s pedigree. These schemes are designed to asses the incidence and inheritance of Hip Dysplasia, Haemophilia, and Elbow Dysplasia. The identification of these problems and the removal of severely affected dogs from breeding should greatly decrease the incidence of these health problems.

The Hip Dysplasia scheme allows for dogs to be X-Rayed and scored for hip dysplasia. The ‘A’ Stamp is awarded to those animals that pass the scheme, and are classified as having Normal, Near Normal, Acceptable, or Boderline graded hip status. The X-Raying of elbows is used in the Elbow Dysplasia scheme, with animals clear of this condition being awarded a ‘Z’ Stamp. The Haemophilia Scheme tests males as potential carriers. Dogs cleared are given the "H-Neg" Classification. These schemes together with the Breed Surveying of dogs, are helping to improve the health and quality of dogs bred in Australia.

Performed by licensed specialist judges who are further qualified breed surveyors, the Breed Survey publicly records the physical and mental characteristics when assessing the breeding value of individual dogs and bitches. All the presenting dogs are measured and compared against the breed standard and must have passed the other breed improvement schemes before presenting to the Breed Survey. The dogs must also have acceptable temperament and are subjected to both crowd and gun tests where they must not show any unwanted behavior such as fear or aggression. The knowledge gained from the Breed Survey is published annually and is available to all Breeders to use in their breeding program. The classifications are Breed Survey Class 1 and Class 2. Certain specified faults can bar a presenting animal from obtaining either of these classifications. Presenting animals must have a five generation pedigree and be identifiable by either tattoo or microchip.

The member clubs of the GSDCA such as the GSDCV offer training, lectures, and film nights to promote responsible ownership and knowledge of the breed. Breeders are also able to utilise the Tattoo Scheme which allows their own three letter prefix combined with three digits which forms the tattoo identification that is placed in the right ear. The tattoo number is registered with the GSDCA and makes for easy identification throughout Australia.

The GSDCV also keep a list of puppies bred utilising the breed improvement schemes. Persons contemplating purchasing a German Shepherd Puppy in Victoria, can contact the clubs puppy listing officer for further information. Readers from outside Victoria should contact their local German Shepherd Dog Club for more information. As for the breeds future? That depends on all of us!

Personality

The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is perhaps best known as the strong, courageous and obedient guide dog for the disabled and service dog of police K-9 and search-and-rescue units, valued for its tenacity, intelligence, loyalty and focus. GSDs are often sought as guard dogs and protectors. However, while they are first and foremost a herding breed, GSDs can make outstanding, loving family companions. German Shepherds have a rather distinct personality marked by a direct and fearless expression, obvious self-confidence and reluctance to develop indiscriminate friendships. They tend to be indifferent to strangers and can be aloof; however, once they befriend you, their devotion is life-long.

Activity Requirements

German Shepherds can be as energetic as they are large, although they should be of even disposition and unflappable, with a restrained, composed and confident temperament. They should be patient, attentive, faithful and determined. They can be bold but should not be unnecessarily aggressive. They do not require an enormous amount of daily exercise, but they certainly are not the ideal breed for apartment dwellers or people who live alone and work long hours. They tend to bond well with children and enjoy participating in family activities like hiking, swimming, picnicking, running and the like. Farmers are often partial to German Shepherds because of their great intelligence, solid herding skills and seemingly endless energy. Regular walks will suit most GSDs just fine; many also enjoy off-leash romps in secure dog parks. They are particularly well suited to obedience training.

Trainability

To combat boredom, mental exercise is excellent for the GSD. They are extremely intelligent and, like many other breeds, enjoy working with their owners. German Shepherds thrive in advanced obedience work and on agility courses. They also can thrive with regular games of fetch with a stick, ball or Frisbee.

German Shepherds can be trained to do almost any task set before them. They are smart, bold, alert, and single-minded when necessary and eager to please their people. They are powerful but still agile. While highly trainable, they should be socialized and trained young in life. This requires a firm, consistent and kind handler. German Shepherds frequently project dominance if they feel that they can get away with it, which is unacceptable in a companion animal living in a world filled with dogs, cats, children and other distractions.

Behavioral Traits

GSDs are protective by nature, which is why they make excellent guard dogs and police dogs. Once a GSD bonds with its family, it may become protective of them when approached by strangers or by friends. This protectiveness may be appropriate or inappropriate, depending upon the situation, and the dog may not always be able to discriminate between those situations. It is important to train GSDs to recognize welcome and unwelcome guests. They may bark as strangers or familiar friends approach your home, but proper socialization and training from an early age will help this very intelligent and proud breed to become well-integrated into a normal social routine. Neither aggression nor timidity should be tolerated. Reputable breeders and trainers generally agree that aggressive tendencies or excessive shyness in GSDs usually are a product of poor breeding, poor training, or both. Potential GSD owners should explore their dog's background and commit to an appropriate socialization and training protocol before making a life-long commitment to the dog.

A German Shepherd Dog can provide years of loyal companionship and faithful service. Because of their size, trainability, self-confidence and poise, proper training and socializing is very important. People without the time or dedication to commit to really working with their German Shepherd should perhaps select a different breed. Those who are willing to devote the time and energy to train their GSD properly will find their investment returned tenfold in a well-adjusted, loyal family companion.