Very few breeds can live up to the versatility, workability, loyalty and appeal of the German Shepherd Dog.  It seems that once owned by one, always owned by at least one and for most people, many during their dog owning years. 

The German Shepherd was developed in Germany at the turn of the 20th century, most notably by Captain Max von Stephanitz who realized the value of the various strains of herding dogs found in Europe during that time and made it his goal to create a breed with a standardized type and style, a dog of great intelligence and utility.  The qualities that these herding dogs possessed at the inception of the breed are the same qualities that are found in German Shepherds today, and are the qualities that make this breed so versatile in the many jobs it has excelled at over the years.  

From police service and military dogs, search and rescue and scent detection work to guiding the vision impaired, therapy dogs, competing in tracking, obedience, Schutzhund and other dog sports and most of all as beloved family companions the German Shepherd can do it all like no other breed.

The German Shepherd Dog is an active, athletic breed and may not be suited for all lifestyles.  However, it is a breed which is biddable and intelligent, and many families, singles and seniors enjoy the company of their German Shepherds.  All dogs benefit by early positive training, and the German Shepherd will be a lifelong reliable friend if dedication to it’s development is done during the first year.  It is a breed which reaches maturity late, not fully physically or emotionally developed until after 2 years of age.  

          

The German Shepherd is a hardy breed able to withstand the weather of a Canadian winter and summer.  It’s double coat is water resistant and a great insulator against the cold as well as the summer heat.  Some German Shepherds may have a long coat; a softer, silkier texture with longer feathering around the ears, legs and tail. The coat colour most recognized is the black and tan but sable and solid black are also accepted colours in the German Shepherd standard. White, and the dilutions liver and blue are colour disqualifications in the show ring.  Visit the  Breed Standard to find out more about the appearance of the German Shepherd Dog. 
   

The German Shepherd has a distinct personality which defines the breed.  It displays a direct and fearless but not hostile expression, and shows self-confidence and aloofness that discriminates against immediate friendships.  However, the dog must always be poised and approachable, quietly standing it’s ground and showing confidence in its surroundings and should be willing to meet overtures without initiating them.  The dog must not be timid, shy or nervous in any situation, and should never tuck its tail or shrink behind its owner.  Impeccable and trustworthy character is the hallmark of the German Shepherd Dog.

The popularity of a breed such as the German Shepherd often lends itself to indiscriminate breeding, sometimes by those with little knowledge of the dogs used in their breeding program or concern about maintaining good temperament, health and longevity.  Reputable and responsible breeders will make every effort to use exceptional breeding animals who possess these qualities and they will stand by their efforts by offering advice and assistance with your new puppy and paperwork such as health guarantees, a pedigree and a sales contract.  

The German Shepherd Dog Club of Manitoba does not encourage people to purchase dogs from pet stores or other sources where many breeds of puppies are being sold, but offering a dog a second chance from the Humane Society or Animal Services is an honorable and heartfelt way to find a great companion.  Contact any member of the Club Executive for information about GSDC Manitoba members who may be able to assist in helping you find a dog, or visit the Member Services page for more information.

We hope your journey with that special dog is an enriching experience.  The bond between dogs and people is an ancient one, and no breed can fill that spot like a German Shepherd Dog.