White German Shepherds, also known as “American White Shepherds,” are a charming and unique breed of dogs. They possess a distinct blend of intelligence, loyalty, and beauty.
They have some similarities with regular German Shepherds, but their striking white fur and well defined characteristics make them stand out in the world of canine companionship.
Let’s delve deep into the history of these enchanting creatures.
Historical Background of White German Shepherds
The history of White German Shepherds takes us back to somewhere in between the late 1800s and early 1900s, in Germany. At that time clever and hardworking dogs were needed, especially in herding and guarding.
Soon, Captain Max Von Stephanitz recognized German Shepherds as working dogs and they became very popular because of their smart, strong and reliable nature.
However, the emergence of White Shepherd Dog was somewhat unexpected. They weren’t considered as valuable and were seen as different from the regular ones due to their snowy white fur.
Later on in the mid 1900s, people started realizing that these white-coated Dogs were incredibly beautiful plus, they had the same intelligence and loyalty as their regular-colored cousins.
Over time, White Shepherd earned their special place in the world of dogs as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club on April 14, 1999, cherished for being clever, loyal, and having that striking, snowy appearance that sets them apart.
Appearance of White German Shepherds
White German Shepherds are known for their unique and beautiful appearance. The most noticeable thing about them is the pure white coat. There are various types of German shepherd coats, ranging from long-haired to short-haired varieties.
These dogs are of a good-sized build and usually stand between 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder. Their weight can range from 50-90 pounds and they have an athletic and well proportioned physique.
Their facial features include almond-shaped eyes, often dark in color, and pointed, upright ears that give them an alert expression.
They also have a fluffy tail that reaches their back legs, giving them an elegant and beloved appearance.
Characteristics of White German Shepherd
The remarkable characteristics of White German Shepherds sets them apart as extraordinary dogs. They are among the most intelligent dog breeds, displaying quick learning abilities and problem solving skills.Their intelligence and adaptability makes them suitable for various roles including:
- Search and rescue
- Police work
- Service dog tasks
These dogs share a strong bond with their human families. They have a loving nature and enjoy spending time with their loved ones. They are extremely loyal and caring companions, often forming deep connections with their owners.
Shepherd Dogs have a natural instinct to protect, which makes them careful around the people they don’t know. This protective nature is one of the reasons why people trust them to keep their homes and families safe.
They are incredibly hardworking and are always ready to take on tasks and challenges. It’s like they enjoy having a job to do, and they’re always ready to help out. Their dedication to work hard makes them great partners for many tasks.
Interesting Facts About the White Shepherds
Here is the list of 8 amazing facts about the White Shepherd you need to know:
1. Despite being recognized as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club, White Shepherds are no different to the standard German Shepherds in terms of temperament, life span or health.
2. White German Shepherds have appeared in various films, books and television shows, contributing to their iconic status in popular culture.
3. Rin Tin Tin, a famous canine actor, was a White German Shepherd who starred in many films and tv shows during the 1920s.
4. White Shepherd Dogs have a high energy level and need a subsequential amount of physical activity to stay healthy and content. To meet their exercise requirements two hours of exercise each day is recommended.
5. They have a double coat that sheds moderately year-round, with heavier shedding during seasonal changes.
6. Compared to their male counterparts, Female White Shepherd Dogs typically have a more petite structure and tend to exhibit a calmer and gentler temperament.
7. Early socialization is crucial to ensure that they are well-adjusted and comfortable around other animals and people.
8. The white coat color in German Shepherds is the result of recessive gene mutation.
Nature and Behavioral Traits of White German Shepherds
White German Shepherds have distinct temperament and personality traits. They cannot be isolated for a longer period of time. As they thrive on human companionship, they may become agitated or show undesirable behaviors, if left alone for a long time period. Families who are busy with their schedules should consider their ability to provide adequate interaction and exercise.
White Shepherds are usually protective and serious in nature but sometimes they can also be playful and enjoy interactive games and toys. Due to their sprightly and fun-loving spirit, they make great playmates for children.
White German Shepherds are known for their watchful nature. They are naturally hypervigilant and have an excellent sense of awareness, which makes them reliable as guard dogs. They will alert their owners to any possible threats or uncustomary activities in their surroundings.
These White coated Dogs are super intelligent, extremely loyal and protective in nature. They make excellent family pets for the ones who like to stay active and can give them proper exercise and lots of playtime.
It is really important to teach them good behavior and make them get used to different situations at a very young age so that they become polite and comfortable dogs as they grow up. The white shepherds breeders are dedicated to carefully choosing for temperament and health in their breeding programs.
Diet Requirements and Eating Habits
Just like all other dog breeds, White German Shepherds also have necessary calorie requirements that should be carefully considered to preserve their overall health and vitality.
They should be provided with high quality dog food. Ensuring that they receive proper nutrition throughout different phases of their life whether its puppyhood, adulthood or their senior years.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to nourishing your White German Shepherd at every life stage:
Puppy Stage (0–12 Months)
During early years of their life (up to 1 year old), White Shepherd pups undergo rapid growth and development. At this time it is really important for them to consume a diet that is packed with proteins, fats and all the essential nutrients they require to support their developing muscles, bones and overall health.
So, their diet must contain 22% of protein and 8-10% fat. More importantly it is encouraged to use puppy specific dog food, specially designed to meet the needs of growing pups.
Adult Stage (1-7 Years)
As these White Shepherds enter adulthood, their dietary requirements change. The amount of fat and protein becomes slightly less than the amount they previously consumed.
At this age, a well rounded diet with about 18% of protein and 5% of fat is suitable for most of the White shepherds. It is typically sufficient for adult dogs to consume high quality commercial dog food.
Senior Stage (7+ Years)
Senior White German Shepherds might need less energy because of their low energy requirements and may benefit from a diet that is specifically made for their age related requirements.
Senior dog food often has things that can assist in maintaining joint health and managing their weight. It is more preferable to consult a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your senior White German Shepherd.
Common Health Concerns in White German Shepherds
There is no inherent difference between White German Shepherds and regular German Shepherds but specific health issues have been more prevalent in White Shepherds.
It is extremely essential to be well informed about these conditions and seek timely treatment to ensure their well being and longevity and to provide them with the best possible health and quality life.
Here is a list of the most common issues that are frequently observed in White German Shepherds:
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is an orthopedic disease that is commonly found in White German Shepherds and other dog breeds as well. It’s primarily a genetic disorder where the hip joint does not form properly, which results in instability, discomfort and eventual arthritis.
Causes
It is strongly influenced by genetic components. Yet, environmental factors also play a part. Moreover, excessive weight, intense exercise and rapid growth during puppy hood can worsen the conditions.
Symptoms
Limping, difficulty in rising, hesitating to jump and showing signs of pain and discomfort when the hip area is touched are some of the common signs of hip dysplasia in White Shepherds. On noticing these signs immediately consult a veterinarian for diagnosis and appropriate care.
Treatment
Hip dysplasia in White German Shepherds can be treated with weight control which helps in reducing stress on joints and controlled, low impact exercise. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications also help in easing out the pain.
Moreover, physical therapy also enhances joint health. In severe cases surgery might be necessary.
Degenerative Myelopathy (DM)
Like the previous disease, Degenerative Myelopathy is also common between White Shepherds. It is a progressive spinal cord disease that is primarily seen in older dogs. It’s a neurological condition which occurs due to the breakdown of the spinal cord’s white matter which makes it difficult with hind legs movement and maintaining balance.
Causes
Degenerative myelopathy(DM), in White German Shepherds, is specifically caused by a gene called SOD1. This issue is inherited. However, not all dogs with this problem will get DM. Other things like their environment and individual factors can also play a part in whether they develop this disease.
Symptoms
DM in White shepherds usually starts with back leg weakness, which makes it difficult for them to walk or even stand. Overtime, they may lose balance and have trouble getting up or in severe cases their back legs can paralyze. Losing control of bladder and bowels is also another symptom.
Treatments
Supportive care works best to help with DM in White Shepherds. This includes daily exercise to keep their muscles working, using tools to help them move, medicine for pain relief and managing any bathroom issues. Moreover, special food, lots of love and comfort can also help to make them feel better.
Allergies
Like other dog breeds, White German shepherds can also experience allergies. It can be due to various reasons, one of which is the reaction of certain substances with the immune system. Here are some of the common allergies found in White Shepherds:
Food Allergies
White Shepherds can develop allergies, especially to certain ingredients like chicken, beef or grains such as wheat or corn in their food. These things can cause symptoms like itching, vomiting, diarrhea or even ear infections.
Various tests and food trials are conducted by vets to identify allergy triggers. Once found, a special diet is set to improve the dog’s health.
Environmental Allergies
Environmental allergies, often referred to as atopic dermatitis, can affect White German Shepherds and can lead to various skin and respiratory issues. These allergies are caused by pollen, mold, dust mites and certain plants present in the environment.
Itchy skin, excessive scratching and ear infections are some of the symptoms. Can be treated with medications, allergens avoidance and fatty acid supplements.
Contact Allergies
White Shepherds can get allergic by making contact with certain things like poison ivy, cleaning products, fabrics and metals like nickel. These allergies are known as contact allergies or contact dermatitis.
Major symptoms of these allergies are skin irritation, itching, redness and sometimes blistering. Treatment involves changing collar or beddings. Use of oral meds and creams prescribed by vets can also provide comfort.
Guidance and Grooming of White German Shepherds
White German Shepherds exhibit remarkable intelligence, but it’s a good idea to start their training and grooming when they are still puppies so that they can smoothly adapt to their surroundings.
Training them is not that crucial, it just requires some time and proper attention. The training process can be initiated with fundamental obedience commands like sit, stay and come.
Rewarding them with treats and praises is also a good idea to boost up their energy. Early socialization is extremely important. To make sure they grow up confident, introduce them to different people, animals and places.
Being kind and investing time and efforts into their training will build a stronger bond between you are your white shepherd and you will nurture a well-behaved and emotionally balanced canine companion.
One of the most important parts of White German Shepherd care is grooming. Their thick fluffy coat is visually really appealing but it takes a lot of care and maintenance. Brushing it regularly can be difficult so 2 to 3 times in a week is enough to stop unnecessary shedding.
Over bathing can strip their natural oils , so bath only when they really need it. It is recommended to use special dog shampoo to keep their coat healthy.
Basic hygiene care should be done regularly to prevent any kind of discomfort or infections. Teeth should be brushed regularly. Dental chews or toys can also be used to keep the teeth clean.
What Is the Average Lifespan of White German Shepherds?
The typical lifespan of a White German Shepherd ranges from 10 to 14 years, a duration shorter than many other breeds due to their larger size.
Interestingly, the life expectancy of the female White German Shepherd dog is longer than the male.
Individual factors such as genetics, diet, exercise, and overall health play crucial roles in determining lifespan, providing a nurturing environment can positively influence a White German Shepherd’s longevity.
FAQs
Are White German Shepherds the Same As Regular German Shepherds?
Yes, White German Shepherds are essentially a color variation of the traditional German Shepherd breed.
Are White German Shepherds Good Family Pets?
Yes, White German Shepherds can make excellent family pets with proper socialization and training from an early age.
Are White German Shepherds Good With Children?
With proper socialization and supervision, White German Shepherds can be great companions for children, often forming strong bonds with their human family members.
What Is the Typical Lifespan of a White German Shepherd?
The average lifespan of a White German Shepherd ranges from 10 to 14 years, with females generally living slightly longer than males on average.
What Is the Cost of a White German Shepherd in the United States?
The price range for a white German Shepherd in the United States falls between $1000 and $1500.
Final Words
The White German Shepherd represents a rare variant of one of the most globally recognized dog breeds, known for its wonderful suitability as a family companion. They struggle when home alone for long periods. Luckily, this breed is very good with children.
Like any other dog, White Shepherds require training and consistent exercise to prevent behavioral issues. If you work from home or have a family member at home a lot of the day, then a White German Shepherd is an ideal dog.
Whether you are a new or experienced dog owner, the White Shepherd’s qualities make it a desirable addition to any home.
While all dogs need love and affection, the exceptionally intelligent German Shepherd craves it more than most in order for them to truly feel settled in their home. Luckily, the investment of effort in providing this affection yields manifold returns in the form of the deep affection your dog shows.
