German Shepherd Resource Guide

German Shepherd Resource Guide: Helpful Dogs and Their Descent

Whether you’re drawn to their intelligence, loyalty, or versatility, German shepherds make wonderful companions for those who can provide the time, training, and care they need to thrive. German shepherds have been loved by families all over the county for decades, and they’ve proven to be a very helpful breed to have around. But they’ve not been without their controversy and challenges when it comes to their reputation.

History of the German Shepherd

The German shepherd is a dog breed of German descent originating in the late 19th century, bred by Max von Stephanitz. He aimed to create an intelligent, loyal, and exceptionally hardworking herding dog. The breed quickly gained recognition for its versatility and became a popular breed for working dogs. The first German shepherd, named Horand von Grafrath, set the standard for what has become one of the world’s most popular, beloved, and sometimes feared breeds.

During the breed’s early years, German shepherds were primarily herding dogs. However, von Stephanitz believed that their potential extended far beyond farming. By collaborating with law enforcement and military units, he demonstrated the breed’s suitability for tasks such as guarding, tracking, and messenger work. This innovation gained the breed international recognition. German shepherds played a significant role during World War I and World War II, serving as guard dogs, messengers, and search-and-rescue animals. Their bravery and loyalty in these roles further solidified their reputation.

The German shepherd served in various capacities on both sides of the conflict. The dogs were bred and trained for a variety of military purposes and became a symbol of loyalty and efficiency within the German military. Nazi forces used German shepherds extensively, and Adolf Hitler himself was known to own a German shepherd named Blondi, which further popularized the breed in Nazi Germany. German shepherds were also used by Allied forces, particularly in the United States and Britain. Their effectiveness on the battlefield could not be denied, and they continued to serve in key roles. However, the breed’s association with Germany meant that they were sometimes overlooked in favor of other breeds. During World War I and World War II, anti-German sentiment in the U.S. led to bias against the breed. In fact, the name “Alsatian” was adopted in some countries to avoid the direct reference to Germany. While this bias has faded over time, it is a formative part of the breed’s history.

After World War II, the breed’s military contributions gained widespread recognition. Many German shepherds were adopted by soldiers or repurposed for civilian roles, such as police work, search-and-rescue missions, and services for people with disabilities. This solidified the breed’s reputation as one of the most versatile and capable working dogs in the world.

The History of the German Shepherd

Roles and Jobs

German shepherds excel as police dogs, military dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and service animals. German shepherds were among the first breeds trained as guide dogs, helping blind or visually impaired individuals navigate environments safely. Their intelligence and focus allow them to assess situations and make critical decisions quickly, such as stopping at curbs or avoiding obstacles. For individuals with mobility challenges, German shepherds can provide physical support, helping their handlers maintain balance, retrieve items, and open doors.

German shepherds can provide crucial support for individuals with mental health challenges, too, such as PTSD, anxiety, or depression. They can perform tasks like grounding their handler during a panic attack, waking them from nightmares, or creating a physical barrier in crowded spaces to reduce anxiety.

For children or adults on the autism spectrum, German shepherds can offer companionship and a calming presence. They may help with sensory regulation, improve social interactions, or ensure safety by preventing the handler from wandering into dangerous areas.

Their intelligence and trainability also make them ideal for roles in detection work, such as sniffing out narcotics, explosives, and even diseases like cancer. With their acute sense of smell, German shepherds are often used to detect medical conditions. For example, diabetic alert dogs can sense changes in blood sugar levels and alert their handler to take action; some German shepherds can detect subtle changes in behavior or scent that precede seizures, warning their handler in advance; and allergy detection dogs can sniff out allergens, such as peanuts or gluten, and ensure that their handler avoids dangerous exposure.

Fun Facts About German Shepherds

German shepherds are the third most intelligent dog breed, following border collies and poodles.
Rin Tin Tin, a German shepherd, was one of the first canine movie stars and helped popularize the breed in the United States.
They are incredibly fast, capable of reaching speeds up to 30 miles per hour.
German shepherd puppies have floppy ears that usually stand up as they grow older, typically between the ages of four to seven months.

Health Concerns

German shepherds are generally healthy dogs but are prone to some hereditary health conditions. Common health issues include hip and elbow dysplasia, a genetic condition that can lead to arthritis and mobility issues. They are also susceptible to degenerative myelopathy, a neurological disease affecting their hind legs, and gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), which can be life-threatening if not properly treated. Routine vet checkups, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can help manage these risks and ensure a long, healthy life.

Public Perception and Overcoming Bias

In the U.S., German shepherds are generally viewed in a positive light, valued for their intelligence, bravery, and versatility. However, stereotypes of aggression or intimidation persist in some circles, often influenced by media portrayals or isolated incidents. Due to their strong protective instincts, German shepherds are sometimes stereotyped as aggressive or dangerous. Their use in police and military roles, while showcasing their abilities, has also contributed to the perception that they may be overly intimidating or unapproachable. In some parts of the U.S., German shepherds are included in breed-specific legislation that restricts or bans breeds perceived as dangerous. While these laws are controversial and criticized for being discriminatory, they have contributed to a stigma against German shepherds in certain communities. Despite these challenges, cultural biases against German shepherds have diminished due to their widespread positive representation and the breed’s versatility. Organizations and advocates have worked to highlight the importance of proper training and responsible ownership in shaping any dog’s behavior, countering stereotypes of aggression.

Rescues and Shelters

Some German shepherds end up in rescues and shelters due to their high energy and specific training needs, which can be overwhelming for inexperienced owners. Organizations such as German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions and the American German Shepherd Rescue Association specialize in helping these loyal dogs to find better living situations with owners who are prepared to invest the time, energy, and financial support needed to properly care for and train this exceptional breed. Adopting from a German shepherd rescue is an excellent way to provide a second chance to a dog in need while bringing joy and love into your home.

German Shepherd Dog Club of America

This page was last updated with help by Marco Permunian