For nobility of character, purpose, and appearance, few animals can surpass the German Shepherd Dog. This breed’s courage, steadfast heart, and keen senses have endeared him to mankind—for avalanche and earthquake search and rescue, narcotics and bomb detection, tracking missing persons, and guiding the blind. He is the world’s leading guard, police, and military dog, probably owing to his steady nerves.

The German Shepherd Dog also makes a wonderful companion. He is active, but dignified, and will delight in joining you in fishing, swimming, or hiking. He’s very fond of children once he gets to know them. Experienced owners know just how far to assert their authority over this dog in training.

German Shepherd Dogs are descended from various old breeds of German herding and farm dogs. They can live almost anywhere as long as they get exercise and attention.

The German Shepherd Dog’s outer coat is harsh; it is of medium length. He sheds profusely and needs brushing every other day, year round. The coat is usually tan with a black muzzle and “saddle” over back and sides, but any rich color is allowed.

Excerpts from the Standard

General Appearance: Strong, agile, muscular, alert and full of life. Never timid or nervous. Longer than tall. Unmistakably noble and intelligent.

Size, Proportion, and Substance: Height—males, 24 to 26 inches at withers; females, 22 to 24 inches.

Fun Facts

Bob of Carmel, California, was a famous German Shepherd Dog who learned many skills. He could wipe his feet on the doormat, take money to the grocery store and pick out what he wanted to buy, balance a glass of water on his nose, and other tricks. His most unusual achievement was learning to play the piano. He held the toy piano steady with one paw, while he tapped out tunes with the other. He had his own toy piano, which he would play while “singing” along.

Excerpted from The Complete Dog Book For Kids © 1996, John Wiley & Sons, Inc.