Straight Backed GSD List - Page 5

A reason (not previously mentioned by Hundmutter) the idea of a list is met with "resistance" is because there are oodles of them already. There are topics on this very forum, for example. There are many other forums. There is your old friend, Google, as well. Look at some websites. If you think you like what you see, call the breeder. Talk to them. Tell them what you want. See if it sounds like a fit. Then, if so, go see the dogs. Meet them inside their own homes and interact with them (if safe, but it doesn't sound like you're looking for that much aggression) and then if you want to see more, and more isn't available on video or whatever, ask the breeder to take the dog somewhere and have it work. Some will tell you to go to hell, but then you just move on. I've taken dogs to decoys to show a buyer what they wanted to see. I was happy to do it- far better than risk a broken neck because a novice wants to catch the dog himself.

If you see dogs that are close to what you want but the breeder doesn't suit you, then look at the bloodlines and search for those bloodlines elsewhere. You're not looking for anything super unique, I promise. They will vary in terms of quality, but what you seem to want is a lower drive working line dog. And they're not an endangered species ;)

Christine...nice dogs!

I disagree with a lot of posters. I know this may come as a shock.... but german working line shepherds are NOT on the mind of the mainstream person. So, I get what they are saying when looking for a "straight backed" german shepherd. What most people are familiar with in America is the American line. That's just fact. People think my GWL is a mix because they didn't know shepherds "came in black". The average pet owner doesn't know we have so many different branches and they think all shepherds look like the ones on tv. So, I completely get what they are trying to say and I am not going to make fun of them or talk down to them for it. I am happy that they are looking for dogs that in their mind...are not extremely angulated which in common man language means..a straight back to them.

So, to the original OP...thanks for posting on the forum!! I know it can be daunting to know where to look for a certain type of dog. I encourage you to look into german working line (GWL) dogs and I believe you will find what you are looking for!! That will help you narrow down your search and also help you be able to find breeders. You will find GWL dogs with many drives so be sure to speak to as many breeders as you can to ask about their dogs. Drives are what makes a dog have an off switch, want to play or chase things, or defend and only you know what would be best for your family. Most people who want a companion or sport dog look for a moderate drive. I hope this was of some help to you and, hopefully, you were not scared off this site. Just look at everything as a learning experience when it comes to shepherds! I know I never stop trying to learn!! Thank you again for your suggestion and I hope you continue to post here!

I believe one of the best breeders around is Wendelin Farm in Canada. The dogs are structurally sound and temp. is flawless. They have excellent work ethic and I have followed several litters. Structure has allowed for workability and longevity. Very respected in the field and great people to work with...very knowledgeable.

Do they title their dogs?

The best lists on this site were about what to look for in a breeder, not just a listing of breeders for a certain style or line.

That is because you don't know the credibility of those who are adding to the list. Some will do it as a selling tool and how will you know?

You can spend the next couple of months going through this link for lists:

http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/community.search?f=&s=How+to+find+a+good+breeder

wow, what a way o start a thread. you want a straight back "rin tin tin/lassie go get help and let's win Westminster next week", then breed it and I'll send you a deposit for first pick. Let me know.

Rik

Welcome back?

Hi bee, since the last time I've been here, I've buried a daughter, adopted her son, (my grandson), beaten, so far, lymphoma and still love life and my GSD.

My new son was 43-7 wrestling this year (9th. grade) and I'm working hard on him winning state next year.

My GSD (2011 regional winner) is 10 yo this year and I'm not sure where I will go from here.

It will be either AKC or 100% working.

No more GSD SL. If you see me at a SL show I will be at the end of the line with a very ugly dog or at front with a monster. No more faking.

but what do I know,

Rik

😊 Life has thrown you some curve balls, those must have been rough. Glad to hear you are also blessed in life, too. I would say what you know is hard learned and very valuable!

Thanks for the update and good luck with your monsters! Lol!

Wow, Rik. Very sorry to hear and great to see you.