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If you look around your community, you might just see a German Shepherd hard at work. Classified as a herding dog, German Shepherds were originally bred for protecting sheep. These days, however, they serve many different roles, from helping people with disabilities navigate the world to using their powerful sense of smell for search and rescue missions. And, of course, they make excellent companion dogs as well.
German Shepherds are also known as Alsatians in the United Kingdom. This name was often used in Europe after World War I and World War II to disassociate the breed from German origins. However, the wars were what initially spiked the GSD’s popularity abroad, with soldiers bringing back their stories and even actual dogs to their homes.
In this article, with the help of Waggel vet Dr. Aimee Warner, we’ll explore the origins and history of the beloved German Shepherd.
History of the German Shepherd
According to Dr. Warner, the German Shepherd originated in late 19th century Germany. Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry captain, carefully selected and crossbred various herding dog breeds across the country to form “the ultimate” herder, thereby creating the GSD.
Von Stephanitz then spent 35 years improving and promoting the breed, even co-founding the world’s first German Shepherd club.
In 1908, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the German Shepherd as an official breed, and the U.K. Kennel Club followed suit in 1919. However, German Shepherds didn’t become especially popular outside of Europe until the 20th century, thanks to Hollywood canine stars like Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart.
What Jobs Did German Shepherds Have?
We often associate the German Shepherd breed characteristics of intelligence, speed, agility, and strength with the police force. However, German Shepherds were originally bred for the farm pasture. Their main purpose? To herd sheep.
But during World War I, their roles started to shift. German soldiers began employing the breed for various tasks, such as delivering messages, hauling ammunition, alerting troops to intruders, and hunting rats in front-line trenches to prevent diseases from spreading.
Wartime German Shepherds would also guide injured soldiers off the battlefield, leading them to become seeing-eye dogs after the war for veterans throughout the U.S. and Europe. When World War II broke out, both the Allied and Axis forces used the breed again to serve as mine detectors and guard dogs.
After World War II, the military and police employed German Shepherd Dogs to work alongside them. Their high drive and adaptability also led GSDs to other working dog roles, such as medical assistance dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs.
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Becoming Companion Dogs
The characteristics that have made German Shepherds successful in military and police work have also made them appealing as companion dogs. After all, who wouldn’t want a brilliant dog that can keep you and your family safe?
While GSDs were rarely household pets back in their herding and farm work era, they’re incredibly popular as companion dogs now. Breeding practices have also helped shape their personalities to be calmer and more people-friendly.
However, while GSDs make wonderful pets, they’re not exactly couch potatoes or lap dogs, and their high-energy needs may not make them suitable for every family.”Without enough mental and physical stimulation, German Shepherds tend to develop anxiety and destructive behavior,” says Dr. Warner.
As such, German Shepherds do best in homes with guardians who have enough free time to devote to their physical and mental enrichment, including daily exercise and walks, play sessions, and plenty of love and attention.
How Long Do German Shepherds Live?
The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is between 9 and 13 years. Since breeding preferences have changed over time, it has impacted the GSD’s lifespan and overall health. “Breeding for specific looks, including the sloped back shape, in the past has created health issues, particularly hip and elbow dysplasia,” explains Dr. Warner.
However, there are several ways pet parents can help prevent these predisposed health issues. For instance, Dr. Warner recommends guardians keep their GSDs at a healthy weight with proper nutrition and daily exercise. She also recommends joint supplements and regular vet exams as part of their ongoing routine.
Don’t overlook the importance of mental enrichment, either. “Mental occupation remains essential to a German Shepherd’s well-being, whether it’s obedience training, puzzle toys, or purposeful exercises like agility and scent work,” adds Dr. Warner.
With preventative care and daily mental and physical enrichment, GSD parents can help their dogs live the healthiest and happiest lives possible.
