In addition to its dazzling white coat, athletic build, and keen mind, the White German Shepherd is also well-known for its high intellect. This rare dog is a product of selective breeding between German Shepherds and a white furred coat recessive gene. Because of this, if you don’t mind spending a little more time on grooming, you can have a loving and loyal German shepherd as your faithful companion.
Keep reading to learn more about this unique breed of dog and decide if it’s the ideal fit for your family.
History of the White German shepherd
Despite its fluffy white coat, the White German Shepherd is genetically indistinguishable from a regular German Shepherd. Like some people with blonde hair, the White German Shepherd is affected with a recessive white furred gene. Due to the lack of longevity of the white coat, the German shepherd white was never as popular as other coat colors.
According to the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd is the second-most popular dog breed (AKC). They are well-known for their service as police dogs, military dogs, and herding dogs, among other occupations. Because to their devoted and protective character, they are also frequently kept as family pets.
Breed Origin
While trying to trace the ancestry of the White German Shepherd, it’s important to start with the original German Shepherd. The German Shepherd was initially recognized by Von Stephanitz, who saw one at a dog exhibition and believed the breed was ideal for a working dog. After taking in one of these dogs and naming it “Horand,” he founded the Verein für Deutsche Scha white german shepherdferhunde (DSH), or German Shepherd Dog Club.
Dogs of a similar appearance to the original breed standard, Horand, produced the first litters of German Shepherds. It is estimated that they arrived in the US in 1906, and the AKC officially recognized them in 1908. The American Kennel Club does not recognize white German Shepherds since they do not conform to the breed standard for the breed. Despite this, white German Shepherd dogs continue to be bred, and the United Kennel Club now recognizes them as a distinct breed.
White German shepherd Facts
The White Shepherd has eleven intriguing facts.
- The United Kennel Club classifies white shepherds as a breed despite their genetic similarity to tan and black shepherds.
- Female white shepherds are smaller and tamer than males.
- White hair recessive genes give them white fur.
- All White German shepherds make ideal family pets.
- White Shepherds need two hours of daily exercise.
- According to the AKC, German shepherds were the fourth most registered breed in 2021. Despite having a separate United Kennel Club breed standard, white German Shepherds are included in this breed.
- Germany banned white dogs in 1933.
- German Shepherds are not wolf-related.
- Although their calm demeanour, White Shepherds must be socialized to avoid jealousy and aggression towards strangers.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia are major health issues in this breed.
Characteristics of the White German shepherd
White German Shepherds share many traits with their black and tan counterparts. They have a price range of $700 to $1000 as puppies, and a litter size of five to ten is typical.
White German shepherd Appearance
White German Shepherds range in size from medium to large and have a white coat and a muscular build. White German Shepherds typically have short fur, but some have longer coats. Male White German shepherds often reach a height of 25 inches. If you have a limited amount of space, this is not the greatest breed of dog to consider. White German Shepherds, unlike albino dogs, have the same brown or gold eyes and pink skin as regular dogs.
Coat
There are two lengths of coat that can be seen on a White German Shepherd. If your dog is a White German Shepherd, its lengthy coat will be far longer than that of a regular German Shepherd. There is a significant amount of maintenance involved because to the thick, straight fur, but we shall get into that below. White German shepherd puppy typically have extremely soft, fluffy coats. There is a gradual transition to a coarser texture as they age, but their ears keep their fluffy youthful appearance throughout. Its double-layered coat provides further defense against the cold and wet weather.
Color
The White German Shepherd has a white coat since that is its natural hue. That’s what sets them apart; it’s what makes them special. The absence of pigmentation in the skin and eyes is unaffected by the white coat recessive gene. This makes it easy to recognize a white German Shepherd and is reminiscent of their wolf origins. Except for their lighter coat, their appearance is identical to that of a typical tan German Shepherd.
Temperament
German Shepherds, even White ones, are known for their loyalty. They make good security dogs due to their extreme protectiveness. Because to their loyalty and friendliness, they make great family pets and working dogs. Without adequate socialization, they may attack strangers to protect you. They may bark at strangers, but they’re protecting you. The high-energy and clever White Shepherd needs regular mental and physical training. These canines love playing outside due to their working heritage. When alone or confined, they become destructive.
Lifespan
A White German Shepherd can expect to live until a ripe old age. Their lifespan is estimated at 12–14 years.
Known Health Issues
A White German Shepherd, like any dog, is susceptible to a few illnesses. The health issues that are more common in this breed are also common in other types of German Shepherds. Elbow dysplasia and hip dysplasia are the most common health issues for German Shepherd dogs. Joint malformation illness known as dysplasia affects a disproportionately high number of huge canines. Extreme discomfort in the joints is possible, as is progressive lameness.
Getting health certifications for both parents and buying from a reputable breeder are the greatest ways to reduce your pup’s risk of developing any of these diseases. You should keep an eye out for these symptoms and take your dog for regular checks to the vet.
Daily Life
Now that you’re familiar with the history and breed standards of the German Shepherd, it’s time to see what life is really like with one of these dogs in the present day. What kind of food is best for this large breed of dog, how much exercise they require, and how they should be groomed will all be discussed. As could be expected, this is a high-care canine breed; yet, it is well worth the effort.
Food and Diet
A huge dog like a White Shepherd requires a substantial diet. You should give them a diet designed for giant dog breeds, and you should always refer to the dog food’s packaging’s back in order to determine the appropriate amount of food to give your pet each day based on its weight. A White German Shepherd needs about 3 cups of food each day, or about 1500 calories, according to experts. You should feed your puppy three times a day, and then once they’re an adult you can cut back to twice a day. If you lead a really busy life, you may need to reduce this to just one meal each day.
They need healthful, wholesome fare. Protein, fat, and carbohydrate needs, for a dog of this size, should all be met. Some dog owners choose to feed their dogs raw food, but high-quality dry kibble is also an excellent option.
Exercise
This white dog breed’s high activity levels and exercise requirements come as no surprise. They require a lot of mental and physical exercise because they are working dogs and because they are a popular breed of police dog.
Your German Shepherd needs at least 60 and preferably 90 minutes of daily exercise. This can be accomplished through physical activity, play, or creative thought. If you live in a cramped apartment and don’t have a huge backyard, your dog won’t get the exercise it needs. Frustration and boredom can lead to dangerous and harmful conduct if they don’t get enough exercise.
Family Compatibility
White Shepherds are great family pets. Their strong desire to protect their master makes them superb guard dogs. Your dog may bark for hours if you don’t teach them early on that not all noises are dangerous. German Shepherds need a lot of exercise daily. Working dogs need lots of exercise and mental stimulation, making them perfect pets for outdoor enthusiasts. Their unbounded energy makes them great running or hiking partners and thrives in active households. This large dog needs a big yard. They can play in the shaded backyard. A tight city apartment will make your German Shepherd feel confined and destructive.
Training
To that end, the White German Shepherd is a highly trainable breed because of its high IQ. They are highly adaptable and make wonderful companions for people of all ages and living situations because to their high trainability. Beginning training early and consistently employing praise is essential. Treats and verbal encouragement can go a long way towards showing someone they’re appreciated.
German Shepherds are known to be a bit stubborn, thus it is important to remember that they should never be scolded or punished. Also, if you allow them a long period of time to work out before starting a training session, they’ll perform much better. Great sniffers, they’ll have a blast playing a game of “sniff the treat to find the treat.”
Grooming
Your White German Shepherd will shed throughout the year. Because of the extreme thickness of their coat. Brushing them at least twice or three times a week can help reduce shedding. They just need to have a bath when they start to look dirty. Even eating daily dental chews might help keep their teeth clean, brushing their teeth is still the best way to avoid cavities and gum disease. Grooming your German Shepherd at a young age can help make the experience less stressful for your dog. As a result, they will realize there is absolutely nothing to worry about.
