The predominant color of the very first breeds was precisely zonary. It represents dark and light areas of wool, with the addition of gray and reddish colors. In the wild, such shades are very beneficial, because they help the animal disguise itself, which is very convenient for hunting. We will talk about how the German shepherd zonar color looks today, what features and characteristics it has, we will discuss in our article.
Origin history
Zonar tone for a long time prevailed among the colors of the German shepherds. This coloring originates in antiquity. The ancestor of this breed had a very spectacular appearance, a bright zon-gray color was transmitted to most of the descendants.
German shepherds of just such a color were found everywhere at the beginning of the 20th century. However, time and fashion have done their job. Nowadays, special attention is paid to dogs with black-print colors. For this very reason, representatives of the zonar breed breed rarely occupy the upper steps of the pedestal in competitions in which appearance is evaluated.
But among other “Germans," zoning is still predominant.. This applies, for example, to work lines, participants in training contests, and others.
In fairness, I must say that breeders are still not going to completely abandon representatives of this color, because it has a direct effect on the quality of pigmentation, strengthening it. The effect is fixed for many years.
Is it a marriage?
The zoning can never be considered a marriage, except with the exception of those moments when the light gray shades are not too pronounced. It prevails now in the working lines of the breed and is very appreciated by dog handlers. People working with such animals say that German shepherds of this color are more resilient and work better than dogs of other colors, however, this theory has not found scientific confirmation.
The use of zoning in breeding Germans helps consolidate pigmentation. And this means that breeders can not afford to abandon the representatives of the breed of zoning colors.
Character
Dog handlers believe that zoned dogs are the best representatives of the breed, as they took the most necessary qualities from their first parents. German shepherds of this color have a stable nervous system, courage and determination. They are very active, are born security guards, and are also very balanced.
Owners of zoned Germans should bear in mind that dogs are very loyal to both the owner and other family members, they are obedient and friendly to relatives. However, in relations with strangers, shepherds tend to be wary and distrustful. At the same time, dogs do not behave aggressively without a serious reason. This applies both to interactions with humans and with other animals.
Orientation of the breed to humans is not in doubt. The Germans lend themselves well to training and clearly carry out the commands of the owner.
A well-bred dog understands well that it is possible to show aggression only in exceptional cases - when the danger threatens the owners or their property. In this case, the shepherd will do everything to protect the person.
Breed features
Dogs of the German Shepherd breed are about 60-65 centimeters tall, bitches are slightly smaller - 55-60 centimeters. Their weight is 30-40 and 22-32 kilograms, respectively. The body of the animals is slightly stretched, the head is not very large and wedge-shaped, tapers closer to the nose. The wide ears resemble a triangle in shape, set quite high, the tips are pointed.
The almond-shaped eyes of the Germans are dark brown. The neck is not too long, the lifting angle is about 45 degrees. When running, she bends, and if the animal is wary, on the contrary, it rises a little. The back is broad and muscular.
The front legs of German Shepherds are straight and straight, the hind legs are slightly shorter and very well developed. The tail has the shape of a saber, slightly curved. Wool depends on the type of animal, in some cases it is stiff and short, in others it is quite long and much softer, with well developed or, on the contrary, slightly pronounced undercoat.
Varieties of shades
If we consider the zonal color, we can distinguish two of its groups, which are considered to be the main ones. One of them includes zonal-gray, the other includes zonally-red representatives of the breed. Consider the characteristics in more detail.
- Dogs of zonar-gray colors were especially popular in the 20th century. Now this color is much less common. The individuals representing it are darker than the classic ones; their sides and back are almost black. On the face is a dark mask. Lighter hair is found in the chest, paws and abdomen.
- As for the red-headed dogs, they have much fewer connoisseurs. This color is not always recognized by dog handlers, although it is approved by the list of the Russian Cynological Federation. Zonar-red individuals have a very dark, almost black head, back and sides. A dark mask may be placed on the face. But the paws, stomach and chest have a rich brown-reddish hue. Also, red hair is found on the face and behind the ears.
When puppies grow up, their pigmentation is more pronounced. For example, babies of zonally red color have light red or light brown parts of the body. Over time, they become more vivid.Sonar-gray Germans at a tender age look completely nondescript, the color saturation appears a few months later, when the puppies are already teenagers.
Life expectancy and health
It is very important for each owner to know what his pet's life expectancy will be. On average for German shepherds, this indicator is kept at the level of 10-14 years. The immunity of the breed is quite strong, dogs are in good health. However, a tendency to a number of diseases may occur.
Among the most common diseases of zonar Germans can be noted digestive problems, allergies, eczema and dermatitis. Hip joints may be difficult. Ears are also a vulnerability, so the dog may show otitis media.
Serious infections can pose a serious threat to the health, and even the life of a pet. Therefore, experts recommend that German shepherds be shown to veterinarians on time and not to refuse the necessary vaccination. Without vaccination, the risk of illness increases, and the dog is not recommended to leave the house.
Care Rules
Caring for zoned Germans is usually not difficult for the owners. These are quite unpretentious animals. During molting, the shepherd must be brushed every day, at normal times it is enough to carry out this procedure 3-4 times a week. For combing, you can use a furminator or a special mitten.
Every day, the eyes, ears and mouth of the pet must be examined for contamination and possible inflammation. Clean as necessary. The clipping procedure for this breed is usually irrelevant, enough walks, during which they grind on hard surfaces on their own. However, if necessary, you can use a conventional nail clipper.
Bathing should also not be abused. Detergents can cause an allergic reaction. For a German zonar, it will be enough to take water procedures once every 2-3 months.
Price range
The cost of zonary shepherd puppies depends on many factors. Among them: the presence of a pedigree, the region of sale, the quality of the animal. On average, for such a baby will have to pay from 20 to 50 thousand rubles. It will be a dog with documents.
Since blood quality affects the cost, the price range is very diverse. Some representatives of the breed are invited to buy for 1.5-2 thousand dollars. To be sure that a purebred dog is purchased, experts recommend buying nurseries for a purchase. This is a guarantee of quality.
How to choose?
Before starting to choose a zoned shepherd, the owner will need to decide for what purpose he needs such a dog. These can be show animals, animals for work or sports. It is recommended to purchase only puppies that have pedigree documents. If you plan to have a working dog, you should check your parents' training diplomas. Their medical certificates confirming the absence of hereditary pathologies are also required.
You can not pay attention only to the external characteristics of the animal. Of great importance is his health and psyche. The puppy should have normal sizes and weight, be active, agile, and also keenly interested in the outside world. When purchasing a dog for an exhibition, it is recommended to pay attention to medium-sized babies. TOIt is also not recommended to buy puppies with signs of illness.
Thus, we can conclude that German shepherd zonar color - a true friend and reliable assistant that can cope with a wide variety of tasks. Doggie has a mind and a tenacious memory, is very efficient and quick-witted. However, at exhibitions such a color is not popular.Therefore, the main condition for selection should be the purpose with which such a four-legged pet appears in the house.
Next, you can look closer at the puppies of the German shepherd zonar color.