The German Shepherd Dog
Each breed of dog that is recognized by the American Kennel Club
, or any other dog registry for that matter, has a written description called the "standard." This portrays the perfect dog of that breed, describing every aspect in detail. The standard is written by people with expert knowledge of the breed, usually a club or committee composed of long-time breeders, exhibitors and judges.When a dog competes in a dog show, it is judged not only against the other dogs of its breed competing that day, but also against the written standard. The dog that wins is the dog that most closely compares with the written description, as compared to the other dogs competing.
The standard is also used to choose dogs for breeding. Breeders use the standard as a tool to see which dogs or bitches should pass on their genes to future generations.
Here's some excerpts from the German Shepherd Dog standard, as approved by the American Kennel Club. The complete standard can be acquired from the American Kennel Club.
General Appearance
The first impression of a good German Shepherd Dog is that of a strong, agile, well-muscled animal, alert and full of life. It is well balanced, with harmonious development of the forequarter and hindquarter.
The dog is longer than tall, deep-bodied and presents an outline of smooth curves rather than angles.
He looks substantial and not spindly, giving the impression, both at rest and at motion, of muscular fitness and nimbleness without any look of clumsiness or soft living.
The ideal dog is stamped with a look of quality and nobility - difficult to define, but unmistakable when present. Secondary sex characteristics are strongly marked, and every animal gives a definite impression of masculinity or femininity, according to its sex.
When judging the appearance of a German Shepherd Dog, there are three things to look for. The first relates to the dog's overall appearance: The dog should be strong, agile, well muscled and nimble. German Shepherds are meant to work, and the dog should look capable of doing so.
Next comes the dog's expression. Each dog should be aware of the world around it: alert. The word "nobility" is also used to describe the German Shepherd and is synonymous with the breed's intelligence and character, as well as its impressive physical bearing. A German Shepherd's expression is hard to define but is easily recognized: the "look of eagles," some people have said.
The breed has a distinct personality marked by a direct and fearless, but not hostile, expression, self-confidence and a certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. The dog must be approachable, quietly standing his ground and showing confidence and willingness to meet overtures without itself making them. It is poised, but when 'occasion demands, eager and alert; both fit and willing to serve in its capacity as companion, watchdog, blind leader, herding dog or guardian, whichever the circumstances may demand.
The dog must not be timid, shrinking behind its master or handler; it should not be nervous, looking about or upward with anxious expression or showing nervous reactions, such as tucking of tail, to strange sights or sounds. Lack of confidence under any surroundings is not typical of good character.
Unfortunately, many German Shepherds do not have the correct temperament or character. Highly excitable, nervous, fearful, shy, timid or overly aggressive dogs cannot do the work the breed was designed to do. In addition, such dogs can be a danger to themselves, to their owners and to the public.
A German Shepherd with correct character is a dog willing to work with his owner, a dog to be respected for his dignity and intelligence.
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