German Shepherd Dog
FCI Standard No. 166
Classification
Group 1 - Sheepdogs & Cattle dogs
Section 1 - Sheepdogs with working trial
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Utilisation
Versatile working, herding and service dog
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Origin
Originally breed for herding in Germany. First German Shepherd, Horand von Grafrath, was registered in 1899 by von Stephanitz.
General Appearance
Medium size, slightly elongated, powerful and well-muscled, with dry bone and firm overall structure. The nose is black, ears are pointed and upright, and the coat may be double, plush or longhaired. The colour is a combination of black, tan and sable.
Height: males, 60-65cm; females, 55-60cm
Eliminating faults
Weak character and weak nerves which bite
Hip and/or elbow dysplasia
Monorchid/cryptorchid dogs
Disfigured ears or tail
Dental faults including lack of: 1 premolar 3 and another tooth, or 1 canine tooth, or 1 premolar 4, or 1 molar 1 or molar 2, or a total of 3 teeth or more
Jaw overshot by 2mm or more, undershot, level bite in the entire incisor region
Over/under- size by more than 1cm
Albinism
Long straight topcoat without undercoat
Character & Temperament
The GSD is a focused and extremely intelligent breed who is eager to please and learn. It should be well-balanced, self-assured, absolutely natural and good-natured. It must possess instinctive behaviour, resilience and self-assurance, It thrives on mental stimulation. It prefers company. Firm training is vital. The GSD with the correct characteristics is suitable as a companion, guard, protection, herding and service dog.