Stephanitz's 'real' dog? - Page 1

Earliest criteria by Stephanitz: "any sheepdog living in Germany, which thanks to constant exercising of its sheepdog qualities attains perfection of body and mind in the scope of its utilitarian function is a German Shepherd" And a description of SZ no.1 - Horand von Grafarth - by Stephanitz himself "His character was in line with his external qualities, marvellously loyal and very obedient with respect to his master. Above all he had the disposition of a true gentleman and loved life to the full...well disposed with regard to friendly people, but never a bootlicker, he was also very attracted to children...when someone paid attention to him in the kennel he became the most docile of companions..." ALSO, for those who disregard German Shepherds who are not civil, scary biting machines that will send you to the hospital if you so much as blink wrong, please consider the following - - guide dogs for the blind - Canine Companions for Independance (for those who are physically disabled) - International Association of Assistance Dog partners, which provides dogs trained to assist those who are mentally ill - other animal assisted therapy - hearing assistance dogs - Seizure detection dogs - cancer detection dogs - diabetes detection dogs - termite detection dogs - avalanche dogs - SAR dogs - cadaver dogs - arson dogs - drug dogs - police dogs - military dogs (including here medic dogs, carrier dogs, patrol dogs, mine detection dogs, scout dogs, etc) - sport dogs - not just Schutzhund... German Shepherds can be found doing agility, flyball, AKC tracking, PSA, french and mondio ring, American street ring, KNPV, and more. And if they are lucky enough to have the right home, German Shpherds are fantastic companions. Consider carefully his phrase "attains perfection in body and mind in the scope of its utilitarian function" Seems to me that a dog that is physically and mentally sound and works in it's own job - whatever it may be -is a 'real' German Shepherd.

LaPorte, you are so correct. Thanks for pointing out what normal GSD temperament and character should be. Its great versatility, utility, intelligence, loyalty, devotion and companionship is almost incomprehensible. The GSD is truly the greatest canine breed!

That is why we all are mad about the German Shepherd. I dont think there is any other site like this devoted to the single breed. And so many dogs are registered daily on the site, and people fighting and exchanging information regularly. I take this oppurunity to thank all those known and unknown breeders who helped bring GSD to this level.

LaPorte, Perfect this is what I am always saying the temperament cannot be left out for any GSD. A crazy dog who bits everything that moves a lot of people think is a hard dog and this is a weak dog with nerve issues. The shepherd is the most amazing dog in the world, other breeds can do work as well bits and pieces of things agility, drug work, protection, companion, herding, Police, therapy, assistance, schutzhund, etc. but the shepherd can do it all.