In European countries you can hardly find a white German shepherd, but this breed is widespread in Canada and America. An animal with pronounced makings of a shepherd is distinguished by nobleness, external beauty and attractiveness. It is no coincidence that these dogs, easily amenable to training, often act in films.
Origin history
The white German shepherd has common roots with individuals of a more familiar color. In dogs with a non-standard coat color, the recessive gene appears, which is inherent in the German shepherd breed itself. Snow beauties are not albinos by nature. Except for the color of the coat, there are no other "oddities" in their appearance.
The first white shepherd is a dog named Verno, which was registered as a representative of the breed back in 1913. His grandfather, by the way, was also white in color, was used as a shepherd dog. A man named Max von Stefanitz, engaged in breeding such interesting four-legged animals, sought to breed a breed ideal from the point of view of herding qualities.
In the German Club of German Shepherds the white color of the coat was recognized as an unacceptable deviation from the standard. Dogs with this color were disqualified.
However, the “breed” also found supporters who did not consider the unusual marriage.
The formation of appropriate clubs has begun, attracting lovers of the original breed. The registers of the corresponding dogs have been known since the 70s of the last century. A full-fledged independent branch of development among the domestic animal population, the white German shepherd was recognized in the USA at the end of the last century.The breed returned to Europe under the name "Canadian-Canadian White Shepherd."
Since 1991, white shepherds began to be registered in the Swiss Register of Studs. And in 2002, the concept of a white Swiss shepherd appeared, which has a very distant relation to Switzerland itself. Although this does not negate the fact that many breeders around the world still consider the light coat of such dogs to be a disqualifying sign.
Breed features
The coat of a white shepherd in the presence of a thin short undercoat is usually long, thick and stiff. It is tougher to the touch than ordinary German shepherds of a dark color. The weight of the dog sometimes reaches 38-40 kg, depending on the sex of the animal. The growth of individuals is 55-65 cm.
Color is not the only thing that distinguishes such shepherds from the background of traditional German. Unlike the usual ones, white cereals are not chamfered. The body structure is more harmonious:
- the chest is broad, muscular;
- pronounced withers;
- beautiful neck with a noble bend;
- elongated muzzle;
- nose color - black;
- brown almond-shaped eyes;
- powerful jaw, black lips;
- high and erect ears.
In these dogs, most often there are no problems with the back and hind legs.
Nature and behavior
The gentleness of character is one of the reasons why people give birth to white German shepherds, and not owners of the traditional black and gray color. In contrast to the usual ones, such dogs are practically not taken for “police work,” since their watchdog capabilities are limited by a warning bark about the approach of an outsider. White does not need a share of aggression. But their character is enough to be rescuers or guides.
Such handsome men are often shy, timid, and even shy. So that they can adapt to life among people and their own kind, they need to start their education as early as possible. Then from this creature will turn out a faithful companion.
These dogs are "different mind and quick wits ”, as stated in one of the popular Soviet cartoons. Engaging with a white friend is a pleasure. He easily makes contact, loves the complex tasks that his master poses. In addition, it shows excellent "sports" opportunities. He enjoys being given the opportunity to swim, play with the ball, as well as take long walks and accompany him on trips.
Thanks to the affectionate disposition of the “white shepherd dogs” easily converge with children, patiently bearing their immediacy and pranks. Small family members are treated as objects of guardianship - in the canine nature at this moment shepherd's instincts turn on. With indulgence and benevolence, they look at other domestic animals, even cats.
Need frequent communication. “Talkativeness” is an interesting trait of their character. Such dogs are masters of complaining about life or expressing their opinion in intonations on a particular occasion, which not everyone likes. But if he is sociable and always ready to talk with a four-legged friend, such a dog will be very helpful.
When someone unfamiliar appears in the house, white shepherds avoid contact with him. Instead, stay away from the guest. But if they see that the owner or children are in danger, they can show aggression towards the ill-wisher, and the reaction of the pet will be instant. In this respect, whites are no different from their ordinary German counterparts.
Conditions for keeping
It is not advised to start such a big dog for owners of small-sized housing, since the four-legged inhabitant will be very uncomfortable in it. But in a separate house with a large yard, located in the private sector, the pet will feel at ease.
Keeping in the yard does not present a problem because the white shepherd has a warm coat. You will not have to worry about the fact that they will freeze if there is a reliable booth in which the wind does not walk.Many consider the dog’s yard lifestyle to be the most preferable, given the fact that his beloved handsome man molts all year round.
If apart from the apartment there are no other pet accommodation options, a powerful vacuum cleaner must be “attached” to the dog, since the wool will be all over the house, and it is very noticeable on any items.
It is advisable to have a convenient walking area near the place of residence so that the dog always has the opportunity to physically load himself while moving, playing and communicating with the owner. “Whites” cannot be locked up for a very long time, requiring activity and impressions. If they are constantly kept at home, they will be harassed by barking, whining and mournful songs.
Feeding
The German white shepherd is picky in food. It will suit both special dry food from the store, and ordinary food cooked at home (just do not confuse it with the remnants of the master's dinner).
If you feed the dog with special food, it is undesirable to choose ready-made nutritious mixtures of untwisted brands that are in every supermarket. It is better to consult with the breeder in advance on this matter. You need to choose food, taking into account the weight and age of the animal, so that the diet is balanced. It is best to offer pet food premium class. Cheap options can provoke the development of cholelithiasis, kidney stone disease and even oncology.
When deciding to get a white German shepherd in the house, it should be borne in mind that saving on eating such a dog is basically impossible.
Even a puppy needs to eat 200 grams of meat, a couple of eggs and 150 grams of cottage cheese every day to turn into a strong healthy individual. In addition, bone meal, cereals and greens should be in the diet.
How to care?
The well-being, appearance and attractiveness of a dog depend on the proper care of the dog. If you constantly pay attention to the pet, it will be near a good 15 years, or even more.
- So that your beloved dog does not suffer from joint dysplasia, characteristic of large breed dogs, up to 6 months of age, or even up to a year, it is better not to burden it with serious physical exertion during training and walking.
- It is also not recommended to use drugs that stimulate the growth of the dog.
- For an adult white shepherd to feel alert, she needs a systematic run, including overcoming obstacles. If the energy does not find a way out, you can prepare for the fact that it will be directed to the "destruction of the house" when a bored dog wants to frolic.
- Not grabbing the destructive virus will allow strict adherence to the vaccination schedule, and hygienic procedures include daily combing of the hair.
- Bathing a white pet is also possible, but no more than 3 times a month.
- Attention should be paid to the eyes of the white German shepherd, especially if the pet is already aged. Over the years, representatives of the breed become more sensitive to the effects of dust and salty sea water. To prevent eye irritation, you will have to rinse them with sparse tea or chamomile infusion.
- Ears also require attention. They are systematically cleaned with a cotton swab.
Parenting and training
The easiest way to deal with a small puppy. He more easily accepts living conditions near the owner, quickly understands what rules of conduct in the house need to be clearly followed, he easily learns basic commands. Thanks to this, a grown dog is much easier to train. If she came into the house as an adult, it is more difficult to establish relations with her and make compliance with the rules of conduct, although this is quite achievable.
It is very interesting to train a white German shepherd. She quickly remembers teams and rapidly replenishes her skills baggage. It is unacceptable and useless to use force against a four-legged friend. He is already obedient by nature.
If one is diligent in demonstrating one’s superiority over an animal, it will end with aggressive behavior on his part.
At the same time, if you do not devote enough time and attention to the white German shepherd, it again becomes aggressive - in relation to other representatives of the dog’s tribe, especially to individuals of its own gender. Her behavior can be unstable, with sharp attacks on the background of fear.
To avoid trouble, as with any dog, you need to observe consistency in their actions, patience and goodwill. And then for the behavior of the caudate will not have to blush. Over the years, he will be a reliable friend and favorite in the family.
All about the white German shepherd, see the next video.