tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14463011680013528322024-03-12T01:23:44.019-07:00Ultimate German Shepherd Guide - Puppies Behavior Study, Raising & Training GSD DogIn-depth information about German Shepherd Dog. Behavior study of German Shepherd puppies, Training, Raising, Feeding, Exercising GSD...Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.comBlogger159125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-72783968884143889392024-02-15T09:21:00.000-08:002024-02-15T09:24:38.918-08:00Factors For The Decline in GSD Population in The UK - A 2017 Study And The Data Driven Conclusion The German Shepherd Dog breed has been widely popular across the globe since the very beginning. Especially post the World War II the breed popularity got a big spike and the GSD become one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. The popularity of this breed was also at its zenith in the UK.
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This article describes a study conducted by Dr. Dan G. O’Neill, Dr. Noel Robin Coulson, Dr. David B. Church and Dr. Dave C. Brodbelt to identify the specific factors responsible for the decline in the population of GSD breed in the UK. The study was published on July 28, 2017. This was the largest study ever till 2017 and it was aimed at evaluating the veterinary clinical records (VetCompass data) to identify the factors that contributed the mortality rate of the GSD breed in the UK till 2017.
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Note: The study still remains relevant today, because the factors that the study had explored continue to endure.
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The study included all dogs under veterinary care during 2013 withing the database of Veterinary Companion Animal Surveillance System project (VetCompass). All relevant data pertaining to the demographic, mortality and clinical diagnosis on GSDs were extracted and reported had come from the VetCompass records. The total sample size of the German Shepherd Dogs recorded was 12,146 (2.7%) of the 455,557 GSDs in the VetCompass database.
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Findings of the Research:
</b><br /><br />
1) GSDs dropped from 3.5% of the annual birth cohort in 2005 to 2.2% in 2013. <br />
2) The median longevity of GSDs was 10.3 years<br />
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Factors:
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1) The most common causes of death: Musculoskeletal disorder (16.3%) and inability to stand (14.9%). <br />
2) The most prevalent disorders recorded: Otitis externa (7.89%), osteoarthritis (5.54%), diarrhoea (5.24%), overweight/obesity (5.18%) and aggression (behavioral) (4.76%).<br />
3) Aggression was more prevalent in males (6.75%) than females (2.78%)
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What all were the reasons to conduct this study?
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Over some decades till 2017, it was strangely noticed that demand of specific characteristics in the show-rings had been an instigating factor that influenced the breeders to design breeding programs in such a way that it started changing the overall conformation of the dogs that sparked some debate about the overall health of the breed. Between a span of 2005 and 2017 the yearly KC registrations for GSDs in the UK had dropped sharply.
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GSD were initially bred as medium-sized dogs to meet their original purpose of herding (which was why the UK Kennel Club (KC) classified the breed under Pastoral groups). But over the period of time with the demand for the change in the characteristics and traits (shift from original herding purpose), there had been an eventual and consistent phenotypic shift. The continued favoritism for traits deemed preferred in the show rings, had a continuous adversely influence on the breed conformation. The focus of breeding German Shepherd Dogs totally shifted the dogs were specifically bred for show purposes. Hence the breeder continued to selectively breed GSD to get the characteristics favored in the show rings, Not for herding.
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There was widespread expression of concern for the health and welfare of the GSD breed. The UK Kennel Club's (KC) Breed Watch system classified the GSD as a Category Three breed. Categorizing the breed as s Category Three breed necessitated close monitoring and additional support owing to the breed's increased susceptibility to certain health issues linked to exaggerated conformation. Identified Breed Watch concerns encompass traits such as cow hocks, excessive turn of stifle, nervous temperament, sickle hock, and weak hindquarters.
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The condition has worsened at a global level - even beyond the UK. Even today the situation has not improved. <div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b>About VetCompass </b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div>The Veterinary Companion Animal Surveillance System (<a href="https://www.rvc.ac.uk/vetcompass" target="_blank">VetCompass</a>™) is an initiative focused on improving companion animal health. This not-for-profit research project is part of, and wholly owned by, <u><b><a href="https://www.rvc.ac.uk/" target="_blank">The Royal Veterinary College (RVC)</a></b></u> and aims to investigate the range and frequency of companion animal health problems and identify important risk factors for the most common disorders. </div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>About the Researchers</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><div>Dr. Dan G. O’Neill: Associate Professor Companion Animal Epidemiology (Pathobiology and Population Health), The Royal Veterinary College</div><div>Dr Noel Robin Coulson: BVetMed MRCVS, The Royal Veterinary College. Veterinary Surgeon at Wendover Heights Veterinary Centre Ltd. </div><div>Dr. David B. Church: Clinical Sciences and Services, The Royal Veterinary College</div><div>Dr. Dave C. Brodbelt: Pathobiology and Population Science, The Royal Veterinary College</div></div>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-303441530921128662023-05-20T11:01:00.002-07:002023-05-20T11:02:44.769-07:00VA (BSZS 2021 & 2019) +VA(BEL 2019) Asap Vom Aldamar Retires from Show Fields<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCswsp9USQJP67kg5Kt2QHaSdbAMranP6MGE_x04WkGCW6Glel-emP1m1YIE5ktK0bdAvkfrAygKiSBL97bY0VhPzBCDHErsmuZ2dekuLwM_VnRzJUm6x_ILGZ9YZgkjAWBN4BOfYIxtq8unuwq6WcLN-6-480iR3gV_Ua6e20QLATCFOcRPKAyaC5/s1080/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-05-20%20at%2011.25.11%20PM.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="1080" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCswsp9USQJP67kg5Kt2QHaSdbAMranP6MGE_x04WkGCW6Glel-emP1m1YIE5ktK0bdAvkfrAygKiSBL97bY0VhPzBCDHErsmuZ2dekuLwM_VnRzJUm6x_ILGZ9YZgkjAWBN4BOfYIxtq8unuwq6WcLN-6-480iR3gV_Ua6e20QLATCFOcRPKAyaC5/w397-h217/WhatsApp%20Image%202023-05-20%20at%2011.25.11%20PM.jpeg" width="397" /></a></div><br />
<br />Asap vom Aldamar, the legendary German Shepherd Dog, has officially concluded his illustrious show career and is embarking on a new chapter in his life. At the age of six, he has reached a significant milestone and is now prepared to make a valuable contribution to the global genetics pool within the esteemed community of German Shepherd Dogs.<br />
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<br />Having achieved notable success throughout his show career, Asap has demonstrated exceptional qualities and traits that exemplify the breed's standard. His superior lineage, coupled with his remarkable physical attributes, makes him an ideal candidate for enhancing the genetic diversity and overall quality of future generations.<br />
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<br />Recognizing the importance of preserving and improving the breed, Asap has been carefully selected to participate in breeding programs in Europe. His responsible and planned participation in these endeavors is aimed at fostering the advancement of German Shepherd Dog genetics on a global scale.<br />
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<br />With his retirement from the show ring, Asap's focus now shifts towards fulfilling his duty as a breeding sire. His contribution to the genetics pool will undoubtedly have a profound impact, shaping the future of German Shepherd Dogs and ensuring the preservation of their exceptional qualities for generations to come.<br />
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<br />By flying back to Europe, Asap is poised to embark on this crucial phase of his life's journey. Under the guidance of esteemed breeders and genetic experts, his mating partners will be carefully chosen to optimize the diversity and quality of the offspring produced.<br />
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<br />Through his commitment to excellence and dedication to the betterment of the breed, Asap exemplifies the spirit of responsible breeding and the desire to maintain the German Shepherd Dog's esteemed reputation worldwide. His contribution to the global GSD community will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy, further cementing his status as a distinguished figure within the breed.<br />
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<br />As Asap takes flight back to Europe, we eagerly anticipate the invaluable impact he will make within the genetics pool of the German Shepherd Dog community. His journey marks the beginning of a new chapter, one in which his genetic heritage and exceptional qualities will continue to shape the future of the breed for years to come.<br /><br />Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-78080715761628398422023-03-08T10:02:00.000-08:002024-03-08T10:50:31.945-08:00Long Hock in German Shepherd Dog and Its Severe Adverse ImpactWhen it comes to German Shepherd Dogs, every detail of their anatomy plays a crucial role in their ability to perform tasks efficiently. The hock length is of no exception. The length of their hock — a seemingly insignificant aspect but one that holds immense significance in their biomechanics and endurance of the dog. As the GSD gracefully trots or diligently navigates through fieldwork, its hock serves as a vital joint in the hindlimb, allowing for the necessary flexibility and extension to move forward.
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Let's dive into the realm of bio-physics. Here, the principle of leverage takes center stage. A longer hock essentially means a longer lever arm, requiring more force to be exerted to move. This increased mechanical disadvantage translates to the dog needing to exert greater muscular effort to propel its body forward with each stride. Consequently, this leads to quicker fatigue and a decline in endurance over time — a critical consideration for a breed known for its stamina.
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But it doesn't end there. The strain placed on the musculoskeletal system due to a long hock can have far-reaching effects on the dog's overall health. The heightened effort required to support and move the body forward places additional stress on muscles, tendons, and ligaments, potentially culminating in overuse injuries and joint problems like arthritis -- issues no owner wants their loyal companion to endure.
<br /><br /><center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdWoJOEFnCig0JceV2F_HSU5bwj0Ne1NylX1CNNpwmoMrHclGohpA9U_OXUSHYsdJySDMB4QVGrwKZ6CMoRDxPQlkzq-ji1EiirB53JVwbmy4zyFDLeFx4IdjU7a1AdJHDD-kWQJaoGuR35J3EpCjP5LXlfXD7SwJeYEI7LXbFohGGCZxxK7YfbsmoMk/s940/Untitled%20design%20(100).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDdWoJOEFnCig0JceV2F_HSU5bwj0Ne1NylX1CNNpwmoMrHclGohpA9U_OXUSHYsdJySDMB4QVGrwKZ6CMoRDxPQlkzq-ji1EiirB53JVwbmy4zyFDLeFx4IdjU7a1AdJHDD-kWQJaoGuR35J3EpCjP5LXlfXD7SwJeYEI7LXbFohGGCZxxK7YfbsmoMk/w223-h186/Untitled%20design%20(100).png" width="223" /></a><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7rYkLnmCeIFlTtbQeb8Aqcnboq5y6W-48auxDL6o2s1IOyBgt-ij-BFLO3Lf9ISyEzrDXiAjm_xIDyEZZXWaaBgCv9oqLCFW09JXmV1G6FwWXuHBv5moaHjvu31CBjOW6QYLX1AbPk_1MxjJIz09lC-RsdcVKSA6u3Sdn_VACECUfjEdS3IzrnFNSiU/w221-h186/Untitled%20design%20(99).png" style="text-align: center;" width="221" /></center>
<br />And let's not forget about the impact on the cardiovascular system. With increased energy expenditure comes a heightened demand for oxygen by the muscles, placing a heavier load on the heart. This prolonged stress can lead to elevated heart rate and blood pressure, potentially predisposing the GSD to heart health issues that could compromise its ability to sustain prolonged physical activity, a cornerstone of its role in the fields.
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In essence, although the length of a hock might appear trivial at first glance, its biomechanical implications hold significant weight when it comes to a German Shepherd's performance, endurance, and overall well-being. It highlights the criticality of maintaining an optimal hock length to enable the dog to partake in sustained physical activities with efficiency and minimal risk of injury or health complications. It's a seemingly minor detail that can make a world of difference in the life of a GSD.<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-size: medium;">Related Reads:</span></b></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/12/cross-steps-cross-over-gait-assessment.html"><span style="font-size: medium;">Cross Steps and Cross Over Gait Assessment</span></a></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2022/01/fci-standard-german-shepherd.html">FCI Breed Standard</a><br /></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho7rYkLnmCeIFlTtbQeb8Aqcnboq5y6W-48auxDL6o2s1IOyBgt-ij-BFLO3Lf9ISyEzrDXiAjm_xIDyEZZXWaaBgCv9oqLCFW09JXmV1G6FwWXuHBv5moaHjvu31CBjOW6QYLX1AbPk_1MxjJIz09lC-RsdcVKSA6u3Sdn_VACECUfjEdS3IzrnFNSiU/s940/Untitled%20design%20(99).png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><br /><br /></div>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-25061466752981636432023-03-05T06:26:00.001-08:002023-03-05T06:28:14.647-08:00Herding - The German Shepherd Dog Way vs The Collie Way<br />When it comes to the task of moving sheep or cattle from one location to another, various breeds of herding dogs exhibit distinct herding styles. The differences in herding styles among various breeds of herding dogs may have been influenced by various factors, such as the specific requirements of the shepherds and the unique setups or conditions of the agricultural area where they are raised to work. As a result, there are herding dog breeds that utilize tactics such as running and barking, nipping at the heels of the animals, and even walking on the backs of sheep.<br />
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<br /><b>Sneak Peak of Herding - What do we actually mean by herding when it comes to working dog in action?</b><br />
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<br />In this context, herding refers to the practical work performed by farm dogs, which includes tasks such as "gathering", "moving", and "sorting" sheep. These tasks are essential to the operation of a farm and require the specialized skills and abilities of herding dogs.<br /> <br />
<br />There are two primary methods of herding livestock: "Fetching" & "Driving" and "Tending".<br />
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<br /><b>Fetching & Driving Methods - Exhibited Mostly by Collies</b><br />
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<br />"Fetching" involves bringing the sheep towards the handler; while "Driving" involves pushing them away. When a dog is sent into a field to round up the stock and bring them to the handler at the gate, this is an example of the "Fetching method". When a dog is used to push dairy cattle out of the milking barn and towards their pasture, this is an example of the "Driving method".<br /> <br />
<br />American Kennel Club's herding program includes three courses - Course A, Course B and Course C. The dogs that use either the fetching or driving methods are entered for the trial into either the Course A or Cousrse B. This is where Collies are introduced mostly, because Collies usually are bred and trained for "Fetching" and "Driving".<br />
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<br /><b>Tending Methods - Exhibited Mostly by German Shepherd Dogs</b><br />
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<br />"Tending" is a distinct type of herding (very much different from Fetching & Driving), that involves using dogs to move, feed, and protect a flock. In the past, breeds like German Shepherds, Belgians, and Briards were used for tending, which involved moving, feeding, and protecting flocks. Before the industrial revolution, tending was a full-time occupation that required daily movement of sheep to various grazing areas, such as harvested or vacant fields, government land, or roadsides, where there was available grass. Rather than using fences to contain the sheep, the dogs were responsible for keeping the flock together and protecting them from predators by patrolling a boundary, whether it was natural or man-made. In addition to protecting the flock from predators and keeping them together, the dog also ensured that the sheep did not graze or wander into other areas/farm lands. At the end of the day, the dog gathered the sheep out of the pasture and followed the shepherd, leading the flock home for the night.<br /> <br />
<br />Tending dogs compete on the Course C in the American Kennel Club's herding program, where typically German Shepherd Dogs (not Collies) are entered to compete in the trials.<br /> <br />
<br />Now that we know about the different formats of herding. Let's get into a vivid details of herding styles - The GSD way and The Collie way. The herding style of German Shepherd Dogs is particularly distinct from the style followed Collies - because the purpose are different; hence the tasks are different; therefore the ways are naturally different.<br />
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<br /><b>Herding - The German Shepherd Dog Way</b><br />
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German Shepherds do not gather sheep into a flock or employ the "EYE" technique to control or separate them, unlike Collies.
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<br />The Tending style of sheep herding involves training the sheep to respond to the shepherd's calls and follow him to new pastures. Meanwhile, the dogs act as a living fence, ensuring that the sheep remain within the boundaries set by the shepherd.<br />
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<br />Controlling a large flock of sheep with just one or two dogs is no easy feat. In Germany, the flocks that were observed had an average size of near about 500 sheep or even more, at times. The dogs are responsible for preventing the sheep from entering the farming lands, having fresh vegetables or plants, which can be the most challenging tasks for the dogs, especially if the sheep are hungry or have been eating dry stubble for an extended period. Therefore, the dogs' only way of maintaining control is by nipping/grabing/biting/gripping the sheep - especially the stubborn ones.<br />
<br /> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBuprP-a7Fy7z3jR8hH5PYUAm-5NQAqrioidiWwJ8lTDuXH_Q-RhumcyRdu1WHXF4HvSGYWzSKhk6rn0VXNTwQ3zYnLOyJ9bSyvicjWgZdrGiLVyKe0_vNHoRN1wQX55mvNsWRar3XdaTmg1gMbK34pF2IACzh3vRA02sa7uA8Radxgb1B20EllFfK/s450/Untitled.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="302" data-original-width="450" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBuprP-a7Fy7z3jR8hH5PYUAm-5NQAqrioidiWwJ8lTDuXH_Q-RhumcyRdu1WHXF4HvSGYWzSKhk6rn0VXNTwQ3zYnLOyJ9bSyvicjWgZdrGiLVyKe0_vNHoRN1wQX55mvNsWRar3XdaTmg1gMbK34pF2IACzh3vRA02sa7uA8Radxgb1B20EllFfK/s320/Untitled.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKjmneihT_GzuAcDxb29A4HIqv_iNGMFcVGnxa7JG1obKL30ePNbDnZkJdnnv-vlvV-adBW65lXE7CMve6zX0lW4CmDP6uSGYSTCYd88M0rdtlIfz2-wfDY551Torn-UhHD-5zHTol_QTj3_6z7R9MJSoFgUzSiBgkT6oXdgD4wiF253G-iBEnZmR8/s497/Untitled.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="272" data-original-width="497" height="175" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKjmneihT_GzuAcDxb29A4HIqv_iNGMFcVGnxa7JG1obKL30ePNbDnZkJdnnv-vlvV-adBW65lXE7CMve6zX0lW4CmDP6uSGYSTCYd88M0rdtlIfz2-wfDY551Torn-UhHD-5zHTol_QTj3_6z7R9MJSoFgUzSiBgkT6oXdgD4wiF253G-iBEnZmR8/s320/Untitled.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy6HOiBY4jD46yTO27LXVEb_4s5fnQ-x7wnFNVRVLymLW-idtsTrSByF1iSyTYoJpLZ9C3fGCLvlyWvrl52eA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><b>Herding - The Collies Way</b><br />
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<br />Collie exhibits a different style from GSD. Border collies will stare intently at the sheep, "giving them eye." So, What does "giving eye" means in Collie? What does the border collie accomplish from giving eye to the sheep?<br /> <br />
<br />The term "giving eye" in the context of border collies and herding refers to the dog's intense gaze, which is used to control the motion of the sheep. The border collie's stare can be quite intimidating to the sheep and can prompt them to move in the direction that the dog desires.<br /> <br />
<br />Border collies typically use a herding techniques, including giving eye, stalking, and chasing, and may occasionally nip, especially when managing stubborn sheep. However, the nipping/gripping is usually not very hard. It is generally considered inappropriate for herding dogs to exhibit the grab/bite behavior commonly observed in cattle heelers.<br />
<br /> <br /><center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMfHoWPWhmYUWIE7SOi6ZwNdXdiYN1k8hRth5c1sLIb5z4pCiukyX3Ebpx68sUEPBTiklgf9GQE9FtBrSnUs6o2jyqDRypiSHIXLPE_dSWWYTSJMUONBLesOCigfIdPJKPH3Ltf6zHKLxrD4y63a3rrABbHyRSkgjSNbRT5AUOPtm5FzzcxdUw5FE/s507/Untitled.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="507" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijMfHoWPWhmYUWIE7SOi6ZwNdXdiYN1k8hRth5c1sLIb5z4pCiukyX3Ebpx68sUEPBTiklgf9GQE9FtBrSnUs6o2jyqDRypiSHIXLPE_dSWWYTSJMUONBLesOCigfIdPJKPH3Ltf6zHKLxrD4y63a3rrABbHyRSkgjSNbRT5AUOPtm5FzzcxdUw5FE/s320/Untitled.jpg" width="320" /></a></center><center><br /></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UswLJzx8rrzIpJljRc6qsExcoiqU9eGX2TQSVhnUoQHbzJQpXKLEpu44fq-P_bhjG1RxHU8p4qHnoHPpwkCV5eicrkjh7FIJA-kHfSQDot-sGdbyMn1Qp32aSmC9vDmIeRA74SFRG3U03pt_LnlNyM5cKqXIQBQg7rqsMq8ZhqY0OPOPhis7a6qD/s516/Untitled.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="392" data-original-width="516" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4UswLJzx8rrzIpJljRc6qsExcoiqU9eGX2TQSVhnUoQHbzJQpXKLEpu44fq-P_bhjG1RxHU8p4qHnoHPpwkCV5eicrkjh7FIJA-kHfSQDot-sGdbyMn1Qp32aSmC9vDmIeRA74SFRG3U03pt_LnlNyM5cKqXIQBQg7rqsMq8ZhqY0OPOPhis7a6qD/w320-h222/Untitled.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><center><br /></center><br />
<br />However, nipping/biting/gripping is consider it a significant fault in both breeds, because the herding as a purpose doesn't including the sheep being hurt.<br /> <br />
<br />The Herding program by the American Kennel Club involves tests and trials for herding dogs. The program includes a non-competitive pass/fail format, and the tests are conducted in a fenced arena and require the dog to work with livestock such as ducks, sheep, or cattle. The herding dog must demonstrate its ability to control and move the livestock by either fetching or driving them, while maintaining the appropriate balance point to move the stock forward on the course. The dog must also have sufficient training to perform these tasks.<i> What is important here is that just having a good coformation and endurance ability is NOT enough</i>. The most important factor here is the <i><b>dog's thinking ability</b></i> - which is the psychological parameter. <u><b>Breeding for conformation is, hence, half the task done.</b></u> Right breeding includes breeding for:<br />
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<br /><b>1) Conformation</b> (that contributes to the dog's physical ability to perform the task he is bred for)
<br />and<br />
<br /><b>2) Thinking Ability</b> (that contributes to the dog's psychological ability to perform the task he is bred for)<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br />Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-54148012387735578352023-02-16T05:55:00.004-08:002023-02-16T08:31:54.219-08:00An Insight Into The Coefficient Of Inbreeding (COI) in Dog Breeding<div><i><b>Please Note:</b> Please seek permission to reproduce/use this article. Please reproduce this article with the link of this post after getting permission. </i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><i><br /></i></div><div><br /></div><div>The coefficient of inbreeding (COI) is a measure of the probability that an individual's two copies of a gene are identical by descent, meaning they are inherited from a common ancestor. In other words, the COI is the probability that an individual inherited the same gene from both parents because they have a shared ancestor from whom they inherited the gene.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>COI is often used in genetics and animal breeding to quantify the level of inbreeding within a population. Inbreeding occurs when closely related individuals are mated, and it can increase the likelihood of expressing deleterious recessive traits, such as genetic diseases or defects.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>The COI is expressed as a percentage and is calculated by examining the pedigree of an individual and identifying all common ancestors in the pedigree. The probability of inheriting the same allele from a common ancestor is then calculated for each generation and multiplied together to obtain the COI.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>For example, if two individuals share a common ancestor, their offspring will have a COI of 12.5%, meaning there is a 12.5% chance that they inherited the same gene from that common ancestor. If the individuals are more closely related, such as full siblings, their offspring will have a COI of 25%.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>By calculating and managing the COI in dog breeding, breeders can avoid excessive inbreeding and maintain genetic diversity, which can reduce the risk of inherited health problems and improve the overall health and welfare of the animals.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>In dog breeding, the COI is an important tool for managing genetic diversity and reducing the risk of inherited health problems.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>When developing a breeding program for dogs, it's important to consider the COI of the prospective mating pairs to avoid excessive inbreeding. Excessive inbreeding can lead to the expression of deleterious recessive traits, such as genetic diseases or defects, which can be harmful to the health and welfare of the dogs.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>To consider the COI in a breeding program, the first step is to calculate the COI of each potential mating pair. This can be done using specialized software, such as the online tool available from the Kennel Club in the UK.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Once the COI of the mating pair is determined, breeders can decide whether the potential offspring will have a high or low level of genetic diversity. The aim is to minimize the COI of the offspring to maintain genetic diversity in the breeding population.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>To achieve this, breeders can use various strategies, such as outcrossing, which involves breeding two individuals from different but related breeds or lines, or backcrossing, which involves breeding a purebred dog with one of its own offspring or with a closely related dog from the same breed or line. Other breeding strategies that can be used to manage the COI include the use of artificial insemination and embryo transfer.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Summary of the above discussion</span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: medium;">When making a breeding program for dogs, it's important to consider the COI of the potential mating pairs and use appropriate breeding strategies to maintain genetic diversity and reduce the risk of inherited health problems.</span><span style="white-space: pre;"> </span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Related Link </b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2023/02/how-to-calculate-coefficient-of.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">How to calculate Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI)</span></a></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2023/02/is-very-low-coefficient-of-inbreeding.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">Is Low Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) Always Good in Breeding Dogs?</span></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>What is high coefficient of inbreeding (COI) index?</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><br /></div><div>A high coefficient of inbreeding (COI) index indicates that an individual has a higher probability of inheriting the same gene from both parents because they have a higher degree of relatedness, which is usually due to a history of inbreeding or line-breeding within their ancestry.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>In practical terms, a high COI index means that an individual has a higher likelihood of carrying two copies of a deleterious recessive gene, which can increase the risk of expressing a genetic disease or defect. In dog breeding, for example, a high COI index can increase the risk of inherited health problems, such as hip dysplasia, heart disease, or vision problems.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Therefore, when breeding animals, a high COI index is generally undesirable, as it can increase the risk of producing offspring with genetic problems. Breeders may try to reduce the COI by outcrossing with unrelated individuals, which can introduce new genetic variation and reduce the prevalence of deleterious genes in the breeding population.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Overall, managing the COI is an important aspect of dog breeding, as it can help maintain genetic diversity and reduce the risk of inherited health problems in the offspring.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Related Link </b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2023/02/how-to-calculate-coefficient-of.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">How to calculate Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI)</span></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2023/02/is-very-low-coefficient-of-inbreeding.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">Is Low Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) Always Good in Breeding Dogs?</span></a></div><div><br style="text-align: left;" /></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><b>What should be the ideal coefficient of inbreeding (COI) in dog breeding?</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><br /></div><div>The ideal coefficient of inbreeding (COI) in dog breeding depends on the breed and the breeding goals of the breeder. In general, a low COI is desirable because it indicates a higher degree of genetic diversity and reduces the risk of inherited health problems.</div><div><br /></div><div>However, it's important to note that the COI is just one of many factors to consider in breeding, and a low COI does not guarantee the absence of genetic health issues or the production of high-quality offspring. Breeding decisions should be made based on a variety of factors, including temperament, conformation, health, and genetic diversity.</div><div><br /></div><div>The acceptable range for COI will vary depending on the breed and the breeding goals of the breeder, but in general, a COI of less than 5% is considered low, while a COI of over 12.5% is considered high.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's important to note that some breeds have a naturally high COI due to their limited genetic diversity or small population size. In these cases, breeders may need to use careful breeding strategies, such as outcrossing or line breeding, to maintain genetic diversity while still working toward their breeding goals.</div><div><br /></div><div>Ultimately, the goal of responsible dog breeding is to produce healthy, well-tempered dogs that meet the breed standard, and this should be the guiding principle in all breeding decisions.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Related Link </b></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div><div><a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2023/02/how-to-calculate-coefficient-of.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">How to calculate Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI)</span></a></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2023/02/is-very-low-coefficient-of-inbreeding.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">Is Low Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) Always Good in Breeding Dogs?</span></a></div><div><br style="text-align: left;" /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-8427367955311136282023-01-03T07:38:00.003-08:002023-02-16T07:42:13.878-08:00Popular Sire Syndrome - A Curse for German Shepherd Dog & Other Popular Breeds Today<p> I have been a GSD enthusiast and sharing my life with Shepherds for over two and a half decades. I have been a keen and close observer of what's going on the breeding platforms. Insofar my observation, many of the breeders (not all though) are not sparing serious thoughts on Popular Sire Syndrome while continuously breeding their dogs. Sadly, many others have not even heard of Popular Sire Syndrome, still breeding; and breeding just for cash! </p><p><br /></p><p>This is an crisp aareness post for spread the words out about Popular Sire Syndrome and high coefficient of inbreeding (COI)</p><p><br /></p><div style="background-color: white; color: grey; font-family: Georgia, Times, serif; font-size: 12.96px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify;"><i style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><b style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">Please Note:</b> Please seek permission to reproduce/use this article. Please reproduce this article with the link of this post after getting permission. </i></div><div><i style="margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></i></div><p><br /></p><p>The <span style="font-size: large;">Popular Sire Syndrome</span> is a phenomenon in dog breeding where a few top-performing stud dogs are extensively used in breeding programs, resulting in the majority of offspring within a breed being closely related to a small number of popular sires.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>The syndrome can occur when breeders choose to breed their females to popular, successful stud dogs without considering their genetic diversity or potential for passing on hereditary health problems. This can lead to an increase in the COI within the breed, a reduction in genetic diversity, and an increased risk of inherited health problems.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>While using successful stud dogs can help to improve certain desirable traits, such as conformation or temperament, breeding only from a small pool of popular sires can lead to a loss of genetic diversity and an increased risk of inherited health problems. Over time, this can have serious implications for the health and well-being of the breed as a whole.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>To avoid the popular sire syndrome, breeders should strive to maintain genetic diversity by choosing breeding partners with low COIs and carefully evaluating the health and temperament of both parents. By avoiding overuse of popular sires and working to maintain genetic diversity within the breed, breeders can help to ensure the long-term health and viability of the breed.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>How the dog breeders going wrong by unknowingly contributing to Popular Sire Syndrome?</b></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>There are several ways in which dog breeders may unknowingly contribute to the Popular Sire Syndrome:</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Focusing only on physical traits: </b>Breeders may choose to breed their dogs based solely on physical characteristics, such as coat color or conformation, without considering the genetic diversity of the breeding pair.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Breeding without proper health screening: </b>If breeders do not perform proper health screening before breeding their dogs, they may inadvertently pass on hereditary health problems to their offspring, which can become more prevalent in the breed if popular sires are used extensively.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Breeding too closely related dogs:</b> If breeders repeatedly breed closely related dogs, such as siblings or parents and offspring, they increase the COI and reduce genetic diversity in the breed.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Lack of knowledge about COI:</b> Some breeders may not fully understand the concept of the coefficient of inbreeding (COI) and the importance of maintaining genetic diversity within the breed.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Important Reads (Not to be missed)</b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2023/02/an-insight-into-coefficient-of.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">An Insight Into The Coefficient Of Inbreeding (COI) in Dog Breeding</span></a></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2023/02/how-to-calculate-coefficient-of.html " target="_blank"><span style="font-size: medium;">How to Calculate Coefficient Of Inbreeding (COI)</span></a></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>To avoid contributing to the popular sire syndrome, breeders should focus on selecting breeding partners with low COIs and carefully evaluating the health and temperament of both parents. Breeders should also work to expand the gene pool by incorporating new bloodlines into their breeding programs and by avoiding breeding too closely related dogs. Finally, breeders should educate themselves about the importance of maintaining genetic diversity in their breeding programs and the risks of the popular sire syndrome.</p>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-64526377998119505932022-06-07T08:47:00.005-07:002022-06-07T08:48:41.368-07:00Evaluate Breeding Values By DNA & Performance Tests<p><em>German Shepherd Dog Breeding Goal</em></p><p><em>Performance & DNA Tests Should Be a Must For Ethical Dog Breeding Practice</em></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4UD5YYAGBggjrbjNKFRM-FZPou6PYeEH-lY9VwhvBNsBlj9SJc_wVCnLo-c7xfqIY17oyP8xG9bfVox3WJieTubEdpPSepeQudYmQiAyVgmvIlPY2RBNapN21iFlM5ZJzxRmLaFxH7TOqhZLp0BT6VCDGzkCImtSLhoxyvdERz9TGojFQmyZgQpF/s1722/fsfs.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="909" data-original-width="1722" height="237" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4UD5YYAGBggjrbjNKFRM-FZPou6PYeEH-lY9VwhvBNsBlj9SJc_wVCnLo-c7xfqIY17oyP8xG9bfVox3WJieTubEdpPSepeQudYmQiAyVgmvIlPY2RBNapN21iFlM5ZJzxRmLaFxH7TOqhZLp0BT6VCDGzkCImtSLhoxyvdERz9TGojFQmyZgQpF/w450-h237/fsfs.jpg" width="450" /></a></div><br /><p>In an attempt to spread an awareness of ethical practice for dog breeding, <a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2022/06/evaluate-breeding-values-by-dna.html" target="_blank">Aringsburg German Shepherd Dog Bloggers</a> seek to bring in this chapter that talks about how DNA tests can contribute in evaluating breeding values. Not only owners, but aspiring dog breeders should be benefited from this chapter and may be more inclined towards setting a breeding goal, aiming towards scientifically eliminating genetic defects – both mental and physical.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Breeding Value for a Dog: </b>So what is this? Breeding value for a specific dog is the set of genetically governed qualities that helps you decide whether to breed him/her or not. Since breeding goal should be development of the breed by eliminating defects and carriers of defective traits, a dog is considered to have a higher breeding value if it genetically close to the standard, insofar psychological, physiological and physical traits are concerned and is capable to pass on the strong traits to its progenitors, which in turn contributes to the breed development. Dog breeding values can be effectively evaluated by understanding the degree of contribution a dog (dam or sire or both) can genetically make. Passing on the traits (desirable or undesirable) to progenitors is simply quite natural. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Evaluating the statistical estimation of breeding value can be done through:</b></p><p> </p><p>1) Testing the performance of direct parents, close relatives and their progenitors</p><p>2) Testing the DNA of direct parents, their offspring, close relatives and their progenitors</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>Performance Test to Evaluate Breeding Value:</b> Dog breeders should adopt the practice of evaluating breeding value, and clubs and canine organizations have to encourage breeders to keep closer eye their dogs’ overall performance with respect to behavior, temperament, traits, gait, and other physical and psychological features. Success can be achieved only through testing 100% of the offspring and it should be an ongoing and consistent process. In an article appeared in GKF Info 26 Dec. 2007, pages 13-19, Gesellschaft zur Förderung Kynologischer Forschung e.V., Bonn, Germany, Dr. Helga Eichelberg said it right: “breed clubs must look after the prerequisite, which is to find ways to increase the rate of performance testing and making the data available.” (Translated in English by Joe Schmutz)</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><b>DNA Tests to Evaluate Breeding Value: </b>DNA tests for dogs are not yet available everywhere, which is an excuse for overwhelmingly growing numbers of backyard breeders for not getting a chance to effectively determining the breeding value of their dogs. Implementing the practice of DNA tests in dog breeding will efficiently filter out the genetic defects, which should be the one most important breeding goal. Through DNA tests more and more complicated traits can be determined to contribute to the evaluation process of breeding value. Proper DNA tests will help filtering out the defects and undesirable traits and characteristics and also effectively filter out the carriers of defective psychological, physiological and physical characteristics. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p>DNA tests are important to evaluate the actual genetic characteristics of a dog. Even if a dog has a rich bloodline with all desirable traits, still more complex and subtle undesirable traits may not be noticeable without an appropriate DNA trait. A seemingly close to perfect dog when combined with a very good female with apparently high heritable qualities may still produce unreliable progenitors with subtle or pronounced defects. Very nice dogs may still have siblings that many educated and ethical breeders may consider as unreliable and non-breedable. DNA tests help to effective determine all strengths and weaknesses of a dog which helps a breeder to make valuable decision when it comes to breeding his dogs.</p><p> </p><p><br /></p><p><b>Takeaways From This Chapter:</b></p><p>Dog breeding is a serious activity that demands a responsible approach that should be backed with scientific knowledge and an inclination towards breed development, and not just making money. Emotional approach in breeding dog is bound to make mess.</p><p><b>Great Related Read On GSD: </b>True type <a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/breeders-should-understand-german-shepherd-instincts.html" target="_blank"><b>German Shepherds have typical basic instincts</b></a> that should be retained while breeding. FCI - Fédération Cynologique Internationale has drafted German Shepherd standard which need to be kept in the forefront of your mind while breeding GSD. Check out <a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2022/01/fci-standard-german-shepherd.html" target="_blank"><b>FCI GSD Standard</b></a>. GSD breeders should draft an effective and <a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/breeding-goals-for-german-shepherd-dog.html" target="_blank"><b>scientific breeding goal to eliminate of defects</b></a></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-2283149952559846952022-01-15T08:12:00.002-08:002022-05-17T08:30:41.879-07:00German Shepherd Dog History Time Map<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWcKKHfJANW9w3ufuhZK-PVIFVo3oVBwSAqYG7y0T90F9sRGb5C5t3uNAKxph4uvJrlqUt2sllNqF9t3p96DKRdVT1kVtZWjC6abMLpAXbGFxfANdWG42m46EXjr8hX4YiR_8hDvfnu8_hXundcnab48RoyKafZcDCLy3pHnSgGwjFu8ACOnQ3e5X/s612/GSD-Aringsburg-German-Shepherd-Dog-History-Time-Map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="German Shepherd Dog History Time Map" border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="612" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAWcKKHfJANW9w3ufuhZK-PVIFVo3oVBwSAqYG7y0T90F9sRGb5C5t3uNAKxph4uvJrlqUt2sllNqF9t3p96DKRdVT1kVtZWjC6abMLpAXbGFxfANdWG42m46EXjr8hX4YiR_8hDvfnu8_hXundcnab48RoyKafZcDCLy3pHnSgGwjFu8ACOnQ3e5X/w396-h280/GSD-Aringsburg-German-Shepherd-Dog-History-Time-Map.jpg" width="396" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>German Shepherd Dog History - Years of Special Occurrences, which has been considered as Time Map of GSD History in this post.</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Here is the detailed time map in the history of German Shepherd Dog breed since the start</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1891 - </b>Phylax Society was formed. With very short life span, this dog club was a precursor to the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (S.V), which was later created by Max von Stephanitz, the originator of GSD breed.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1894 - </b>The Phylax Society (that was formed in 1891) was disbanded. Many members of the Phylax Society continued to exhibit the ideologies and concepts formulated by the society. One of those eminent members was "Captain Max von Stephanitz", the man who has been credited with the honor of being the father of German Shepherd Dog breed.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1895 - </b>Hektor Linkshrein - later renamed as Horand von Grafrath was born on January 1st</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1899 - </b>Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (S.V.) was initiated.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1899 -</b> On April 3rd in the same year of the formation of the Verein für deutsche Schäferhunde (SV) - <i><u>world's first All-Breed German Dog show was held</u></i> in Karleruube Rhineland. Captain Stephanitz, and his friend, Arthur Meyer were present in the show looking for a perfect dog to create a really superb herder. Captain Stephanitz fell in love with a dog called Hektor Linkshrein and purchased the dog right at the spot with <i><u>200 deutsche mark</u></i> and this turned out to be the major turning point in the History of German Shepherd Dog evolution.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1901 - </b>The world's first Schutzhund (also used to be known as IPO and presently know as IGP) trial was held in Germany in the year 1901. The dogs were for abilities in tracking, obedience and protection. The Schutzhund sport was developed in Germany as a suitability test for the GSD breed, but later included other breeds. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1906 -</b> First German Shepherd Dog that was believed to have set paws upon North America. The name of the dog was <u>Queen of Switzerland</u>. However, most of her progenies came up with defects due to wrong breeding. This impacted the breed's popularity adversely during the late 1920s in America.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1907 -</b> The first German Shepherd Dog ever exhibited in America.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1908 -</b> The first German Shepherd registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC).</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1908 -</b> German Shepherd Dog first arrived in Great Britain in the early part of the century during this phase of time.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1913 - </b>Benjamin Throop and Anne Tracy formed the German Shepherd Dog Club of America with 26 charter members.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1913 -</b> The first championships had been awarded to German Shepherd Dogs.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1914 - </b>Since this phase of time till the decline of WW I, the heroic German Shepherd Dogs served in World War I and had played a salient role in the war.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1915 - </b>The first specialty show of the German Shepherd Dog Club of America was held at Greenwich, Connecticut.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1917 - </b>When America entered World War I, all things related to Germany became tabu. The American Kennel Club (AKC) changed the name of the GSD breed to the "Shepherd Dog". thus the German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA) became the "Shepherd Dog Club of America". In England, the breed had been renamed to "Alsatian". Read out the history of German Shepherd name.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1918 -</b> Rin-Tin-Tin (Rin Tin Tin, Rinty) was born on September 10, as a Dark Grey male baby. He was sired by Fritz de la Chasse royale, who had been traced to the first Registered German Shepherd Dog, Horand. Rinty's mother was Betty des Flandreswho had also been traced to the first Registered German Shepherd Dog, Horand. Rinty was owned by Lee Duncan an american Serviceman.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1919 - </b>The English Kennel Club (UK Kennel Club) gave the GSD breed a separate register with 54 dogs being included. By 1926 the count had swelled to 8,058. Such was the exceptional success of the German Shepherd Dog.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1920's -</b> The "Alsatian League" and the "Alsatian Wolf Dog Club" united in the early 1920's under the name of the Alsatian League and Club of Great Britain and started bringing out some order to the GSD</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1921 - </b>"Strongheart" - the German Shepherd Dog became the first canine movie GSD star in silent movie, although there were a few canine stars (apart from GSD) had appeared before Strongheart. In 1921 strong acted in his first movie named "The Silent Call". Strongheart became the favorite star and had been well acclaimed by moviegoers of all ages. He used to travel by train from one part to the other of the country and huge mobs of people were on hand to see this marvellous animal at almost all stations.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1921 -</b> Adolf Hitler adopted a female German Shepherd Dog - named "Prinz", during his years of poverty. Hitler was forced to keep Prinz elsewhere, but she escaped and ran back to Hitler. Hitler liked the breed's loyalty and started developing very strong liking for GSD.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1922 - </b>Strongheart starred in the movie called "Brawn of the North". 1924 - Strongheart starred in the movie called "The Love Master".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1923 - </b>The Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde declared that the organization has a ground breaking number of <u>50,000 paid members in more than 500 branches in Germany alone</u>.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1923 - </b>German Shepherd Rin Tin Tin becomes a canine film star.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1923 -</b> Shepherd Dog Club of New England founded, publishing the Shepherd Dog Review.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1925 - </b>Strongheart starred in the movies called "White Fang" and "North Star".</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1925 -</b> The titles of Grand Victor and Grand Victrix are established as the titles for the winners of the GSDCA National.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1927 -</b> Strongheart starred in the movies called "The Return of Boston Blackie"</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1928 -</b> Buddy, a German Shepherd Dog, becomes the first Seeing Eye dog among other service dogs to follow in the GSD timeline.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1932 -</b> Rin Tin Tin (lovingly called "Rinty") died on August 10, at the age of 14 years in Los Angeles in the arms of the famous actress Jean Harlow. Rinty's owner had arranged to have Rinty's dead body returned to his birth land - Lorraine, France for his burial in the Cimetière des Chiens, the famous pet cemetery in the Parisian suburb of Asnières-sur-Seine. "Rin Tin Tin" was honored with a star on the "Hollywood Walk of Fame" at 1623 Vine St. in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California, USA, that serves as an entertainment museum.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1936 - </b>Max von Stephanitz, the founder of the German Shepherd Dog breed, died.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1937-38 - </b>The German Shepherd named Pfeffer von Bern (SGR 1937/8GV CH (US)) won as Grand Victor the 1937 American Kennel club dog show. This resulted as huge boost in the GSD breed's popularity in the USA, that was badly declined due to defective progenies (breeding defects) of <u>Queen of Switzerland</u> (the first dog to land in the US in 1906)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1941 -</b> Adolf Hitler was gifted the second girl German Shepherd by Martin Bormann (German Nazi Party official and head of the Nazi Party Chancellery). Hitler was very fond of Blondi and kept her even after he moved into the Führerbunker located underneath the Reich Chancellery garden.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1945 -</b> Adolf Hitler German Shepherd, Blondi died on April 30. Hitler wanted to check the potency of the cyanide capsules given by Heinrich Himmler. He tested on Blondi, as a result Blondi expired.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1967 - </b>On June 23, 1967, Air Force Headquarters directed that Nemo, the 85 pound, black and tan German Shepherd, was the first hero of his kind to return from the Vietnam War. He returned to the United States with honors, as the first sentry dog to be officially retired from active service.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1977 -</b> This year the British Kennel Club (being pressured by strong campaign by GSD enthusiasts) registered the breed back to it's name "German Shepherd Dog". But the breed was registered as the German shepherd Dog "Alsatian". The name "Alsatian" appeared within parenthesis till 2010.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Spanning back to the related history, after the WW I it was believed that because of the anti-German sentiment of the time, the word "German" being included in the breed's name might result the popularity of the breed to suffer a fall. Hence the breed was renamed as "Alsatian Wolf Dog" by the British Kennel Club. This name was kept after the border region area of “ALSACE -- LORRAINE”. However, it was again feared the presence of the appendage "wolf dog" could also impact the breed's popularity, as people might "wrongly" think that there's direct wolf's gene in this breed that would make the breed dangerously aggressive. Hence, the appendage "wolf dog" was eliminated and the breed was renamed as "Alsatian" and remained as Alsatian until the year 1977.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2007/10/varied-names-for-breed-german-shepherd.html" target="_blank"><b>History of the name and GSD breed</b></a></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>2010 -</b> This year was also a vital year in the history of this breed. The final renaming of the breed from (German Shepherd Dog "Alsatian") to just (German Shepherd Dog) was officially declared in 2010. This means as the full name, the word "Alsatian" within the parenthesis that used to be mentioned since 1977 after German shepherd Dog was finally removed the breed was renamed as German Shepherd Dog in 2010.</div><p></p><p></p>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-64212349830441585822022-01-15T02:30:00.005-08:002022-01-15T03:08:50.904-08:00How To Keep Your German Shepherd Thin, Fit and Healthy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh71fvC30XC5PV6Z8qIznPOaZuyqyr-N4-oIIm81Yh7WeoYk4ZPfs-ysIWLsQu6gC4-yc828yVnqec9FHfV7id7vSQn6waw0cwDFVWP_EO_5S1-uEnBMr7dw4Q9Yb4FIATjVeRbT_oL7UoT426t74hOm6Sgbsor-XkUkLWzA28BmtR58aCYFJMgSMSi=s560" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="german shepherd health tips" border="0" data-original-height="451" data-original-width="560" height="393" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh71fvC30XC5PV6Z8qIznPOaZuyqyr-N4-oIIm81Yh7WeoYk4ZPfs-ysIWLsQu6gC4-yc828yVnqec9FHfV7id7vSQn6waw0cwDFVWP_EO_5S1-uEnBMr7dw4Q9Yb4FIATjVeRbT_oL7UoT426t74hOm6Sgbsor-XkUkLWzA28BmtR58aCYFJMgSMSi=w487-h393" width="487" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
German Shepherd Dog Exercise Tips</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Is your German Shepherd Dog too thin or too fatty? In this context, GSD specialists usually point three categories - Ideal Condition, Too Thin, Obese, and you can understand which of these categories does your German Shepherd currently fall into. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>Ideal Condition</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Can you feel the ribs, but they are not pronouncedly visible? Can you see the waist when viewed from the top and the belly slightly tucked in when viewed from the side? If your answer s to both the quest is “YES”, then you are lucky, but you need to be very cautious so that you don’t end up enlisting you name in the two groups below. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>Under-nutrition - Too thin</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Are your dog’s ribs prominently visible? Can you see the vertebrae prominently? </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Keeping your dog thin, fit and healthy is important. Overly thin dog is not a healthy dog. There may be several reasons for your GSD to become too thin and seemingly underfed. While the commonest reason is malnutrition or under feeding, but there are other reasons as well when your German Shepherd may be getting thinner and thinner, despite feeding him an appropriate quantity of food. Even if you are feeding him adequate quantity, you may have to spare a thought over the quality of food. How much you are feeding your dog is important; What you are feeding him is equally important! Our German Shepherd Diet Management section will help you know more about the diet and nutrition management for your German Shepherd. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>Overly Fed – Over weight and Obese</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Can’t you see your dog’s waist when viewed from the top? Does his belly seem rounded and little bulged out when viewed sideways? If your dog is overweight you are not alone… rather you are among the huge mass of unfortunate pet owners who tend keep their eyes close to this issue. While feline holds the largest share of obesity graph with around 57.6 percent, according to 2013 pet obesity survey record 43.8 million dogs only in the US have been marked overweight or obese. Understanding the root of obesity in dogs is very important. German Shepherds, alike other breeds, gets exposed to the risk serious health conditions on becoming obese and overweight. Hence, it is primarily significant to keep your dog thin and fit - not underweight. Well-planned weight maintenance for your dog helps maintain a healthy blood pressure, perfect heart condition and desirable blood sugar, and promotes a longer, healthier life. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>How to Keep your German Shepherd Dog Thin, Fit and Healthy</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Proper exercise accompanied with balanced diet is the key to success story. Best strategies to fight obesity and keeping dog healthy and thin include a perfect blend of three things: </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">a) Controlling of portion - Keep control over food. Overfeeding is as dangerous as underfeeding. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">b) Balanced diets – A diet can be considered balanced if it contains correct proportion of Proteins, Fats, Carbohydrates, Vitamins (A, C D, E, K & B complex vitamins) and Minerals. However for any obese and/ or old dogs these components may not be the same as for dogs having ideal health and young. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">c) Correct type and amount of exercise – German Shepherd Dogs needs adequate exercise to be mentally content and physically fit. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>Type and Amount of Exercise for Your German Shepherd</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Remember the type and amount of exercise for all breed and age are not same. A multitude of factors have to be considered when it comes to exercising your GSD. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>Is your GSD already overweight? </b> If so, you just cannot afford to put him to extensive exercise session all on a sudden. Start off with light heeling, followed by slight trotting and then swimming. The time span for each exercise type may be set based on the health condition. Hydrotherapy is the great option to combat obesity in conjunction with vet's recommended diet chart. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>Is your GSD still young?</b> For GSD a mistaken concept that has been prevailing for years is that a young pup must be having <u>plenty of exercise</u>. GSD is a fast growing breed. Over exercise may end up with irreparable skeletal damage. Strains on joints and ligaments for a growing GSD can be desperately detrimental and will show several issues in the adulthood. A young (less than 12-18 months of age) GSD should not be give prolonged trotting or other form of extensive exercises. <b>The general grammar of exercising your young shepherd</b> is not plenty but adequate. For a young GSD puppy the exercise must be very limited and restricted only to heel to medium trot for limited span of time, and not brisk and prolonged exercise. "Natural Free Running At Its Sweet will (off leash) or Chasing a Ball" is a best form exercise you your young German Shepherd puppy. Once the puppy grows older than 12 months the briskness and time span may be increased gradually, followed by swimming. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>Is your GSD nearing 18 months or above? </b>Even after 12 months the exercise type and amount have to be moderated based on the health condition. If the joints are not yet completely matured you cannot afford to stress him out. You should still be slow and careful. Usually a young GSD of around 12 to 18 months of age should be matured enough to start off with a prolonged trotting. Balanced food and planned exercise will help a matured GSD to become absolutely able to trot long distances with consistency and stamina – not with speed. Remember, for a breed like German Shepherd Dog ‘stamina’ comes not only with balanced food and proper exercise, but the dog’s built or construction is another significant component that contributes to the prolonged trotting stamina. Correct angulation, size, and proportion are immensely important. Check out the <b>world GSD Standard</b> and <b>FCI GSD Standard</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Food (quantity and quality) has the most important roles to play here for a GSD to keep in great shape with adequate exercise. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <b>'Plenty' vs 'Adequate' For Feeding and Exercising Your GSD</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This holds equally good for both food and exercises. German Shepherd is a working breed and thrives well with right blend of food and exercise. Over feeding and over exercising is as detrimental as under feeding and under exercising your dog. Many novice owners thinks plenty of food and plenty of exercise can promote a good health. The fact is not this. Adequate food and exercise is what he needs and the moderation is important based on health, age and condition – be it a companion dog, show dog, trailing or agility dog! <b>Plenty is Myth – Adequate is Grammar, be it for feeding or exercising your German Shepherds</b></div><br /><p>
</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-48867422510469509432020-08-31T09:56:00.011-07:002022-05-17T08:58:13.359-07:00An Observation of How Top Line Types Have Evolved<div>The increasing global popularity of German Shepherd Dog has exposed the breed to varied risks and chances of variations and modifications. Today the world can see a huge deviation from Captain Stephanitz's core idea and vision about his breed. The differences in thoughts, vision and expectations for look etc. have contributed hugely to the variations in anatomic built.</div>
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<u>Ideally, there should not have been two distinctive types (Working Line and Show Line) developed, and that wasn't the vision. Distinctive line types - Working Lines and Show Lines wasn't in the plan then. Shows then only aimed at filtering the non-breedable stock out, in order to restore the purpose of the breed in thee breeding programs. Unflagging enthusiasm, accompanied by the change in the ways the new breeders started visualizing the breed and emphasizing fashion and look over the breed's original purpose gave rise to different types and lines.</u><br />
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Variation in thoughts and differences in visualizing a dog influenced the breeding programs hugely. Breeding experimentation based on look and styles consequently led to several types, and eventually different lines.<br />
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Apart from this there are a number of offshoots of the breed, all of which claim their respective recognition. Crossing between the lines and types have produced different odd colors and styles that resemble a GSD. As a matter of fact when it comes to true type GSD, there are no rare coloration and special style, and should come only with desirable characteristics and traits. Except the really rare pattern like Brindle gene, which is a pure gene, there’s no desirable color and types that can be concluded as special.<br />
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The breeders who claim to promote any special types or color of GSD are not breeding these animals keeping the GSD standard in the mind. For instance, breeders who breed Large, Big Boned or Over sized German Shepherd, and who throw out ads to promote their types are not learned breeders. Neither are they those who claim their breeding as correct and scientific for maintaining a overly compact specimens.<br />
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<b>An understanding of different types evolved in the evolutionary process of German Shepherd Dog breed.</b><br />
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Let us start from 1933 - the year Odin von Stolzenfels [(<i style="font-size: small;">Father: VA Curt von Herzog Hedan SchH )</i><span style="font-size: large;">x</span><i style="font-size: small;"> (Mother: V Bella vom Jagdschloß Platte</i>)] was made sieger.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNrdBbhEU1NODKhLd_ytRmIlNoeu1UPwFn_bwg1WIuV9B_QgE22C2vsxUgm56wbqVnh9LbwqfolKHATU43GRqRqIRVqFsL59Gs5fPJYBkeYiE82jGizIx2PEfQPWTzkkQYYJDwStbOQwU/s1600/1933-Sieger-Odin-von-Stolzenfels.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNrdBbhEU1NODKhLd_ytRmIlNoeu1UPwFn_bwg1WIuV9B_QgE22C2vsxUgm56wbqVnh9LbwqfolKHATU43GRqRqIRVqFsL59Gs5fPJYBkeYiE82jGizIx2PEfQPWTzkkQYYJDwStbOQwU/s1600/1933-Sieger-Odin-von-Stolzenfels.png" title="1933 Sieger Odin vom Stolzenfels (Born: 07 April 1930)" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1933 Sieger Odin vom Stolzenfels <br />Born: 07 April 1930</td></tr>
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Odin Stolzenfels was the last sieger made by Captain Stephanitz in his three decades of breed development career, and prior to his (Stephanitz's) death. Ever since he started the breed development project, captain had always laid his focus on few points, which he thought were most significant -<br />
(i) Improvement of proportion between withers and the back<br />
(ii) Improvement of the top line<br />
(iii) Angles of the bones.<br />
<br />
Odin's types can be best judged if we consider a comparative study between him and the 1900 Sieger, Hector von Schwaben [(Father: V Horand von Grafrath (Hektor Linksrhein)) X (Mother: Mores Plieningen)] - one of the most important foundation dog in captain's breed development program.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zjLkRZwcVxA/XpGPMjiV94I/AAAAAAAAFPI/IZACObHpZKgwjr7BZTIDAkxoxFTsCahnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Odin-vs-Hektor.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="322" data-original-width="642" height="250" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zjLkRZwcVxA/XpGPMjiV94I/AAAAAAAAFPI/IZACObHpZKgwjr7BZTIDAkxoxFTsCahnwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/Odin-vs-Hektor.png" width="500" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Left - Odin Stolzenfels & Right - Hektor Schwaben</td></tr>
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The type actually started with Odin vom Stolzenfels (1933 Sieger), as he exhibiting improved Top line compared to Hector von Schwaben (1900 Sieger)... A type of top line that captain visualized: smooth, beginning from the back of the neck and continuing in a straight line over a nicely developed wither with a tight, strong and muscular back. However, it still wasn't the perfect type that he visualized, but close to what he desired.<br />
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<b>Notice 1958 Sieger VA Condor vom Hohenstamm - </b>the dog that exhibited nice type - quite improved, and was definitely getting closer to the captain's dream.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bJHc-LJMRxi8_Z3cMnC1ets8lBhHbbfxgmmu3nvj7pJhH8tn0VB4_y4iEdN7YGOp5RTl7PG4VR5Kt3KxcbHWvuhEY2LmZ_T3pkqXcXUlyz5DXEfKM71ecVO6h56WdfmChbiIKeZyXPM/s1600/1958-sieger-Condor-vom-Hohenstamm.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="345" data-original-width="446" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8bJHc-LJMRxi8_Z3cMnC1ets8lBhHbbfxgmmu3nvj7pJhH8tn0VB4_y4iEdN7YGOp5RTl7PG4VR5Kt3KxcbHWvuhEY2LmZ_T3pkqXcXUlyz5DXEfKM71ecVO6h56WdfmChbiIKeZyXPM/s1600/1958-sieger-Condor-vom-Hohenstamm.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1958-sieger-Condor-vom-Hohenstamm<br />Born May 1st, 1954<br />
Breeder & Owner - E. Franke; Lunen (Westfalen)<br /></td></tr>
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Condor really exhibited an improved type, with good substantial built, nice angulation, nice depth and prominent chest, good shoulder angulation. Although the stifle angulation definitely still not there, but the overall harmony in the structure of this dog gives a clean indication that his locomotion would have been really nice and balanced.<br />
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<b>Notice 1962 Sieger, Mutz aus der Kuckstrasse - </b>the dog was even closer to the type Captain wanted see as far as the top line was concerned. <b> </b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOQFGmO6fSE/XpGWKbczsnI/AAAAAAAAFPU/_99is1BSVK01ClWvUoUnF6sSDlRpntJ9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/sieger-1962-Mutz-aus-der-Kuckstrasse.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="1962 Sieger, Mutz aus der Kuckstrasse"><img border="0" data-original-height="271" data-original-width="389" height="222" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pOQFGmO6fSE/XpGWKbczsnI/AAAAAAAAFPU/_99is1BSVK01ClWvUoUnF6sSDlRpntJ9gCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/sieger-1962-Mutz-aus-der-Kuckstrasse.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1962 Sieger, Mutz aus der Kuckstrasse<br />
Born: 19 April, 1958; Breeder - F. Hesse (Hannover); Owner - Erich Franke<br />
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After 29 years of Odin being declared Sieger, and 26 years after captain's death, Mutz aus der Kuckstrasse (<u>sired by Condor vom Hohenstamm</u>) was made Sieger in the year 1962. The top line was even improved and even closer to what probably Captain Stephanitz had been dreaming of. However, although he became the Sieger, Mutz exhibited less angulation of shoulder blade and stifle. I must say Mutz's father certainly had better shoulder positioning, but the stifle seems to be slightly better in the son (Mutz).<br />
<b><br /></b>
<u><i><b>My guess:</b> I think Max Stephanitiz would have loved to see Mutz's spine slightly more raised. It was very close to what Stephanitiz had standardized, but not there yet.</i></u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWDo48Wtbl8ybfwfafsY2iGmFz_oG1jV3Th_P0H8EANUkjp-LqAUYwiOMfhvl4cOSvVbY80qeTxI2gO3gIqZDMZke-NFbCZR9IJjzAMtLmcvArDt7N9RylYMsZTORxWJ5xv329BgZWygg/s1600/sieger-1962-Mutz-aus-der-Kuckstrasse-back-to-be-raised.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="271" data-original-width="389" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWDo48Wtbl8ybfwfafsY2iGmFz_oG1jV3Th_P0H8EANUkjp-LqAUYwiOMfhvl4cOSvVbY80qeTxI2gO3gIqZDMZke-NFbCZR9IJjzAMtLmcvArDt7N9RylYMsZTORxWJ5xv329BgZWygg/s1600/sieger-1962-Mutz-aus-der-Kuckstrasse-back-to-be-raised.png" /></a></div>
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<b><br /></b><b>Now with a big leap of 10 </b><b>long </b><b>years, we get Marko vom Cellerland as the 1972 Sieger - </b>A dog that exhibited very nice top line, almost exactly what Stephanitiz had visualized. Marko was titled VA4 two times - in 1971 for the first time and 1974, second time (the year for <b><u>Dick von Adeloga</u> </b>to be VA1, another dog that created a magnificent buzz).<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizb_qwfboL8Nx9v_5BLjEO5SBkLG8BGpxRoVgGhNqjGu4qioZdZFOtk2Q-D77AFH9QBpsPlDRpbaEhbxVRdMB33NY9bCJuJsXvatn2xGMOEOA4Bi716tXFVvUq0pRbpzRoYMqk3xGgckw/s1600/sieger-1972-Marko-vom-Cellerland.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="296" data-original-width="391" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizb_qwfboL8Nx9v_5BLjEO5SBkLG8BGpxRoVgGhNqjGu4qioZdZFOtk2Q-D77AFH9QBpsPlDRpbaEhbxVRdMB33NY9bCJuJsXvatn2xGMOEOA4Bi716tXFVvUq0pRbpzRoYMqk3xGgckw/s1600/sieger-1972-Marko-vom-Cellerland.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">1972 Sieger, Marko vom Cellerland<br />Born: 3 May, 1968</span></td><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"></td></tr>
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</tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">This slightly long-bodied beautiful dog, in this picture itself, giving a very strong indication of very good hips, the best top line among all the Siegers shown above, very good angulations. Marko, in this picture, has displayed a strong back and good whithers and top line, that gave him a balanced structure.</div>
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<div><div style="text-align: left;">With such an elegance in his built, I tried delving deeper into his Marko pedigree line, and found (5-5 linebreeding of <b><a href="http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/dog.html?id=247-hein-vom-richterbach" target="_blank">V2 Hein vom Richterbach</a></b>, a dog that had very similar back and top line. However, in terms of built and proportion, Marko seemed to be a quite superior dog than his father <a href="http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/dog.html?id=1218-kondor-vom-golmkauer-krug" target="_blank"><b>Kondor vom Golmkauer Krug</b></a> </div>
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However, just 2 years later we noticed another nice dog with great top line and back. </div>
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<b>Notice 1974 Sieger, Dick von Adeloga - </b>a dog bearing a close resemblance with 1972 Sieger <b>Marko vom Cellerland</b>, described above.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ongz8pzU4mI/XpbuiQEO1kI/AAAAAAAAFQI/N2KDC78WvZwg5xqfy8z-lEYLKY1WmeUOwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/VA1-Dick-von-Adeloga.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="600" height="289" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ongz8pzU4mI/XpbuiQEO1kI/AAAAAAAAFQI/N2KDC78WvZwg5xqfy8z-lEYLKY1WmeUOwCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/VA1-Dick-von-Adeloga.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">1973-74 Sieger, Dick von Adeloga (2x VA1)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Born: March 1, 1971</span></div></td></tr>
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<div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Dick Adeloga</b> in this picture, seems to have had the back slightly more raised than Marko, that delivered a very subtle, smooth slope towards the back, with very well formed croup, and a nice balance between the high whither and the back... much superior to his father <a href="http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/dog.html?id=77-quanto-von-der-wienerau" target="_blank"><b>VA2 Quanto von der Wienerau</b></a> - also a well known specimen. Dick had a nice and very firm built - very typical to what Max Stephanitz envisioned overall. However, <b>Dick Adeloga </b>sired many mind blowing progenitors, of which <b>VA1 Herzog von Adeloga </b>is worth mentioning.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YNSNwlguB4I/XyQnChsPReI/AAAAAAAAFS0/F0_4Q0TIs3YdC-0Jr5VsjxlVvYhipJ9HgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/VA1-Duke-of-Adeloga.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="451" height="307" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YNSNwlguB4I/XyQnChsPReI/AAAAAAAAFS0/F0_4Q0TIs3YdC-0Jr5VsjxlVvYhipJ9HgCLcBGAsYHQ/s400/VA1-Duke-of-Adeloga.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">1977 VA1 Herzog von Adeloga</span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><div style="text-align: center;">Born: December 1, 1973</div></span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">VA1 Herzog von Adeloga exhibited a very strong medium sized structure, with a good overall anatomic built. Herzog's stack gives a clear indication of a very strong and firm hind and back. Herzog bore a great resemblance with his father Dick von Adeloga, except the croup region which is slight little more sloped towards the back compared to dad Dick. At that point of time the sloping croup was not in the Standard.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">For me, however, VA1 Dick von Adeloga still exhibited a better anatomic built than his son VA1 Herzog von Adeloga</div>
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<span style="background-color: #444444; color: white;"><span><span>However, it is important at this phase of the article to state something very interesting! The year 1976 marked a significant change in the GSD SV Standard. The standard was slightly, yet significantly altered to bring in a very specific description and interrelation of the back and the withers. Until 1976 the reference of withers and the back in the standard was: "<u style="font-style: italic;">back straight, between withers and croup not too long</u>". Surprisingly, it was really as simple as this!</span></span></span> </blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: white;"><i style="background-color: #444444;">Please Note: The word "Straight" was NOT used to mean "Level", contrary to the popular belief - then and even now. Straight back was used and is still used to indicate a spine that doesn't give an egg shaped back that tend to </i></span><i style="background-color: #444444; color: white;">give a lowered hip position and </i><span style="background-color: #444444;"><span style="color: white;"><i>impacts the top line and its slope.</i></span></span></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: #444444;"><span style="color: white;">The back, withers and croup in the amended German Shepherd Standard of 1976 described as this: "<i>back including the loin straight and strongly developed, not too long between the withers and croup. The withers must be long and high enough to be well indicated against the back into which it must gently flow without disrupting the backline which should be slightly sloping front to rear.</i>" </span></span></blockquote>
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So, why I mentioned about the change in the Standard in the middle of this article, could now be better understood with the next dog that I would like to discuss about. </div>
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VA1 Canto von Arminius - the 1978 Sieger, a dog that marked a significant and noticeable evolutionary modification of the back. VA1 Canto Arminius (sired by V1 Canto von der Wienerau) exhibited a sharp deviation from the old description of straight back that was mentioned in the standard prior to 1976.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">1</span><span style="font-size: small;">978 Sieger, VA1 Canto von Arminius</span></div><span style="font-size: small;"><div style="text-align: center;">Born: August 18, 1972</div></span></td></tr>
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With a close resemblance with the description of the back and withers in amended Standard of 1976, <b>Canto Arminius</b> displayed a back that is not too long between the withers and croup. Canto's withers were high enough to be indicated against the back that flowed with no disruptions in the backline, that gently slopped front to rear. </div>
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However, for several years since 1978, there wasn't any significant changes noticed; therefore no dog is worth mentioning while describing the German Shepherd top line evolutionary process. I would still love to talk about a very stable and a balanced specimen - the <b>1983 Sieger - VA1 Dingo vom Haus Gero</b>. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtNb3AudutNiaNaJeyZbqBdAcBsg1s3juBNBqWFEjWdWZ7Ou1YJNMFkErM0t9-in19DxH6yocZWk7tQoZym8kazrh5cAgUcoc4hnnw76CT2rlhJ7byzGSWG6-ow_AvGT6WHQay5eXWc3E/s1600/va1-dingo-haus-gero.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="279" data-original-width="412" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtNb3AudutNiaNaJeyZbqBdAcBsg1s3juBNBqWFEjWdWZ7Ou1YJNMFkErM0t9-in19DxH6yocZWk7tQoZym8kazrh5cAgUcoc4hnnw76CT2rlhJ7byzGSWG6-ow_AvGT6WHQay5eXWc3E/s400/va1-dingo-haus-gero.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">1983 Sieger, </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">VA1 Dingo vom Haus Gero</span></div><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Born: September 16, 1978</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Breeder: R. Jansen; Berg. Gladbach</span></div></span></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">Dingo Haus Gero was a medium sized, strongly built and very typical to the kind of dog that Stephanitz probably dreamt of. Dingo's structure indicated high wither, with good top line, appropriate length - not too compact. good croup situation. Dingo's top line was much close to that of Canto von Arminius. Dingo was an exemplary specimen, close to the amended standard of 1976 that indicated a change, specifically in the description of back and its relationship with the withers and croup. The back nicely sloped between the front to the rear, till the croup. The very structure was so balanced that the locomotion of this dog had to be seamlessly effortless, rhythmic and with adequately good force.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">Dingo sired many progenies, of which I would like to mention two of his sons - VA1(I) V8 Natan vom Bergischen Tal (Born - March 3, 1982) and V Amor vom Kellerbug (Born - April 16, 1982). Both these dogs were medium in size, powerful and substantial, dry and firm. High withers, very nice top line, good location and length of the croup.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">What we are noticing in both these dogs (Amor and Natan) displayed nice top lines starting from the well defined withers over the back with a very subtle and slight slope towards the back, without any disruption in the backline. This marked a new top line type, keeping a good parity with the 1976 amendment of the standard of the GSD back. </div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-size: small;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></span><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0PjWPQNwm3VQa2q8VIIvDz1R7xzxLfXfaGkHJqPE6v2_agO4usZ0LoQVGLXRev1F7eQ6ijS7O2EUrYfGMQYg0r6OyYuI7_B4J0JAlJD0MdiLYwvSc1aLkctUuDgsGGEe-IAmPr6o_8Q/s395/1984-1985-VA1-Uran-vom-Wildsteiger-Land.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="395" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG0PjWPQNwm3VQa2q8VIIvDz1R7xzxLfXfaGkHJqPE6v2_agO4usZ0LoQVGLXRev1F7eQ6ijS7O2EUrYfGMQYg0r6OyYuI7_B4J0JAlJD0MdiLYwvSc1aLkctUuDgsGGEe-IAmPr6o_8Q/d/1984-1985-VA1-Uran-vom-Wildsteiger-Land.jpg" title="2X VA1 Uran vom Wildsteiger Land 1984 1985 Sieger" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;"> 2X VA1 Uran vom Wildsteiger Land</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">1984 + 1985 Sieger,</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Born: March 12, 1981</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Breeder: Martin Göbl and Maria Göbl</span></div><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Uran vom Wildsteiger Land is certainly another pillar of the modern German Shepherds. High at the withers, Uran exhibited a strongly developed back, flowing straight towards the croup, not too long between the withers and croup. The top line is a deviation from what we have been seeing so far till Dingo Haus Gero, but has a resemblance with Digo's son Natan vom Bergischen Tal. A very slight and mild rise of the thoracic vertebrae, slopping subtly towards the rear had become little more prominent with Uran compared to Natan vom Bergischen Tal. This wasn't there in any of the dog before Uran; although was too mild in Natan Bergischen Tal. </div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">Moving forward till 1992 we could notice almost similar top line.</div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>
<center><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E8lL9XIwQJ8/Xy6WpO1IuAI/AAAAAAAAFWg/oaJOnaTq1IYfQKaB7ygwaAYp3l0jRPz4QCLcBGAsYHQ/s328/1986-1987-VA1-Quando-von-Arminius.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; padding: 1em 0px;"><img alt="2X VA1 Quando von Arminius 1986 + 1987 Sieger" border="0" data-original-height="227" data-original-width="328" height="216" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-E8lL9XIwQJ8/Xy6WpO1IuAI/AAAAAAAAFWg/oaJOnaTq1IYfQKaB7ygwaAYp3l0jRPz4QCLcBGAsYHQ/w313-h216/1986-1987-VA1-Quando-von-Arminius.jpg" title="2X VA1 Quando von Arminius 1986 + 1987 Sieger" width="313" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span><span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;">2X VA1 Quando von Arminius</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">1986 + 1987 Sieger</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">Born: November 28, 1981</span></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilszgXwLQbQlgiwsTy9Jou5_zxVrdkh7wPBZ5wZE2TiXhon2jkdn1NodL8S3FR2dPzFRHFxkqD4KYpXYgTv6luoSKkO76c94oZ-rT_ZIOE3Qo83YrcJzL08VfirAdhVM8mUVTLV7-Lmhc/s288/1988-VA1-Eiko-vom-Kirschental.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="192" data-original-width="288" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilszgXwLQbQlgiwsTy9Jou5_zxVrdkh7wPBZ5wZE2TiXhon2jkdn1NodL8S3FR2dPzFRHFxkqD4KYpXYgTv6luoSKkO76c94oZ-rT_ZIOE3Qo83YrcJzL08VfirAdhVM8mUVTLV7-Lmhc/s0/1988-VA1-Eiko-vom-Kirschental.jpg" /></a></div><div><div><span style="font-size: small;">VA1 Eiko vom Kirschental</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">1988 Sieger</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">Born: December 26, 1983</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5r1Ez5ryEzQwJjgRulW-m_zhPukGpyMxnB1VIXGvjPKzRhK7R1S_ZcjN4g5IJ_PfIWnBt6GwOlEau4TJemAtzlWEF1BB4rTF0Oa97K1Pe5zANHTBKNTpzOBNBe-CtUI2rybHLHNAqXus/s297/1989-sieger-VA1-Iso-vom-Bergmannshof.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="201" data-original-width="297" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5r1Ez5ryEzQwJjgRulW-m_zhPukGpyMxnB1VIXGvjPKzRhK7R1S_ZcjN4g5IJ_PfIWnBt6GwOlEau4TJemAtzlWEF1BB4rTF0Oa97K1Pe5zANHTBKNTpzOBNBe-CtUI2rybHLHNAqXus/s0/1989-sieger-VA1-Iso-vom-Bergmannshof.jpg" /></a></div><div><div><span style="font-size: small;">VA1 Iso vom Bergmannshof</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">1989 Sieger</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">Born: February 23, 1985</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lWgUB6qtP0/Xy6hTxwj5JI/AAAAAAAAFXI/JG3t8sOD6eko0WMZrSz2TB9zG_XD_hXjwCLcBGAsYHQ/s297/1990-1991-VA1-Fanto-vom-Hirschel.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="206" data-original-width="297" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6lWgUB6qtP0/Xy6hTxwj5JI/AAAAAAAAFXI/JG3t8sOD6eko0WMZrSz2TB9zG_XD_hXjwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/1990-1991-VA1-Fanto-vom-Hirschel.jpg" /></a></div><div><div><span style="font-size: small;">2X VA1 Fanto vom Hirschel</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">1990 + 1991 Sieger</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">Born: March 13, 1986</span></div></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9J3BLA7A0I/Xy6lVfl34EI/AAAAAAAAFXU/-IXrutxjLH40KRoTsPhuICZjFG9nDs67ACLcBGAsYHQ/s291/1992-sieger-VA1-Zamb-von-der-Wienerau.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px;"><img border="0" data-original-height="194" data-original-width="291" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9J3BLA7A0I/Xy6lVfl34EI/AAAAAAAAFXU/-IXrutxjLH40KRoTsPhuICZjFG9nDs67ACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/1992-sieger-VA1-Zamb-von-der-Wienerau.jpg" /></a></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">VA1 Zamb von der Wienerau</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">1992 Sieger</span></div><div><span style="font-size: small;">Born: March 7, 1987</span></div></center>
<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The 1993 Sieger - VA1 Jeck vom Noricum comes in as a new rend setter of top line. However in the year 1991 the FCI breed standard once again underwent an amendment - related to the withers and it's correlation with the back of the dog. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: #444444; color: white;">1991 amendment stated: "the upper line runs without any visible break from the set on of the neck over the well defined withers and over the back very slightly sloping to the horizontal line into the gradually sloping croup"</span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">From the picture it seems like Jeck displayed a top line with a slightly deviation from 1991 amended standard of back.</div>
<center><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkVvPaUZVoM/Xy7Bh3GNghI/AAAAAAAAFXg/KPNPy_mCpr4NCbL1iWWr8X_e0xBlGwb-gCLcBGAsYHQ/s405/1993-sieger-VA1-Jeck-vom-Noricum.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding: 1em 0px;"><img alt="1993 Sieger, VA1 Jeck vom Noricum" border="0" data-original-height="289" data-original-width="405" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WkVvPaUZVoM/Xy7Bh3GNghI/AAAAAAAAFXg/KPNPy_mCpr4NCbL1iWWr8X_e0xBlGwb-gCLcBGAsYHQ/d/1993-sieger-VA1-Jeck-vom-Noricum.jpg" title="1993 Sieger, VA1 Jeck vom Noricum" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">VA1 Jeck vom Noricum<br />1993 Sieger<br />Born: August 4, 1987</span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcq618aJnmPRpvnI0w5aqRGwt7xDRPg6_K36dfM5-nyk3gn-27XVzerrcnexbDPU97UnFJrxo0xfSgx7i1q7_TR1f8bruLlIaH5d-jyUodK7gSTSdsDVODP_tf8T3-6HOv-xNswICLYo/s606/1993-sieger-VA1-Jeck-vom-Noricum-pic-2.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="606" data-original-width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZcq618aJnmPRpvnI0w5aqRGwt7xDRPg6_K36dfM5-nyk3gn-27XVzerrcnexbDPU97UnFJrxo0xfSgx7i1q7_TR1f8bruLlIaH5d-jyUodK7gSTSdsDVODP_tf8T3-6HOv-xNswICLYo/s0/1993-sieger-VA1-Jeck-vom-Noricum-pic-2.jpg" /></a></div><center><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;">The first picture of Jeck Noricum seems like the top line hugely deviated from 1991 standard that stated: "the upper line runs without any visible break from the set on of the neck over the well defined withers and over the back very slightly sloping to the horizontal line into the gradually sloping croup". The first pic show a prominent disruption in his in the thoracic vertebral region ( the region compose the middle segment of the vertebral column). There was an abrupt downward slope noticed in that picture and the croup too had an abrupt slope. <u><b>A Bad Photoshop Work ineed</b></u></center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: left;"> However, in one of the videos that I came across of Jeck, I realized that the disruption was still noticeable, but not as prominent and abrupt as the first picture. Although this disruption was not desirable at all, but the new top line type was very much noticeable, where the top line ran smoothly from the start of the neck over the dog's withers, flowing through the back with a very slight and subtle slope to the horizontal line, and gradually flowing through the subtly slopping croup. This was the top line type (as was described in 1991 amendment) that the serious breeders of that time, who were not intending to promote a special/specific type and who were breeding with the GSD standard in mind started focusing on the top line of this type. This type was very clearly seen with further improvisation than Jeck Noricum, in top dogs like, <u><b>VA1 Ulk von Arlett (1995 Sieger)</b></u>, <u><b>VA1 Ursus von Batu (2000 Sieger)</b></u>, <u><b>VA Larus von Batu (2004 - 2005 Seiger)</b></u> </center><center style="text-align: left;"><br /></center><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-r_ghkCg9hnXWZt58ns7cW1KcXGyOswBnuRGnZEsWu3AtiC46IygE2CLTro3ZPCPVP-i-KWLQZto5vFxXF7N1h3knerr49D7fFwfB7UNLUQS0NC1YTWeX3_ROlwVPht-tFs8YQwavSI/s526/ulk-ursus-larus.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="176" data-original-width="526" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij-r_ghkCg9hnXWZt58ns7cW1KcXGyOswBnuRGnZEsWu3AtiC46IygE2CLTro3ZPCPVP-i-KWLQZto5vFxXF7N1h3knerr49D7fFwfB7UNLUQS0NC1YTWeX3_ROlwVPht-tFs8YQwavSI/d/ulk-ursus-larus.jpg" /></a></div><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><br /></center><center><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">However, a very new and distinctive trend in the top line was noticed with introduction of a very nice dog in the scene... <b>Nero vom Hirschel (VA5 in the year 1994)</b>, who was line bred on VA2 Quanto von der Wienerau 5th generation (Sire) - 3rd + 5th generation (Dam). </span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DoHZeBkTINg/X0vRZEnZ9ZI/AAAAAAAAFZg/GjTCB7NQVmkX7uASWRaKFhxgGykr1mMtACLcBGAsYHQ/s384/VA5-Nero-vom-Hirschel.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nero vom Hirschel (VA5 1994)" border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="384" height="270" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DoHZeBkTINg/X0vRZEnZ9ZI/AAAAAAAAFZg/GjTCB7NQVmkX7uASWRaKFhxgGykr1mMtACLcBGAsYHQ/w384-h270/VA5-Nero-vom-Hirschel.jpg" title="1994 VA5 - Nero vom Hirschel" width="384" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />Nero vom Hirschel<br />1994 VA5<br />Born: September 20, 1990 </td></tr></tbody></table><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">So, regarding Nero Hirschel, I have mentioned "</span><u style="text-align: left;">a very new and distinctive trend in the top line</u><span style="text-align: left;">", because of the prominent rise of the spinal cord in the back's lumber area. This rise of the lumber region of the back gave the dog a very different anatomic changes - especially related to top line. Nero sired many progenies, and most of them exhibited same top line type. </span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><b><u>Nero's Sons Reflecting same Top line Type:</u></b></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">V Visum vom Nassauer Berg, Gero vom Finkenschlag, Wasko vom Mons Tabor, Arno de Montedeva, V Fax de bi Lagun, V Neros vom Hasenborn, V Vax vom Nassauer Berg, SG Utz von Arminius, SG Idefix zum Ida-See</span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><b style="text-align: left;"><u>Nero's Daughters Reflecting same Top line Type:</u></b></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><b style="text-align: left;"><br /></b></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">V Chanell von Adelplatz, Quisa von Haus Dexel, V Wasna von Mons Tabor, V Linda Hartis, Ydette von der Wienerau, VA2(USA) Carina von der Wienerau</span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">However, when it comes to Nero's son, it reminds me </span><b>Odin vom Hirschel (VA4 in the year 1998) - </b><span style="text-align: left;">A very nice and a strong specimen with high wither, firm back and good croup, exhibiting the same top line style as his father Nero vom Hirschel. Interestingly Odin vom Hirschel seems to have strongly contributed to his father's top line type and definitely set a trend of </span><span style="text-align: left;">rise of the spinal cord in the back's lumber area</span><span style="text-align: left;"> </span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><br /></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><center style="text-align: center;">1998 VA4 Odin von Hirschell </center><center style="text-align: center;"><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #424242;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">↓</span></b></span></center><center style="text-align: center;">2003 VA1 Bax von Luisenstrasse </center><center style="text-align: center;"><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #424242;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">↓</span></b></span></center><center style="text-align: center;">2007 VA1 Pakros d’Ulmental </center><center style="text-align: center;"><span face="" style="background-color: white; color: #424242;"><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">↓</span></b></span></center><center style="text-align: center;">2008 & 2009 VA1 Vegas du Haut Mansard</center></span></center><center style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmfXMlaSj8M/X0vfa_0pOuI/AAAAAAAAFZs/F3FPa5hRtEUSX9nq67HPsrE724u7hRdRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s360/1998-VA4-Odin-vom-Hirschel.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="261" data-original-width="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LmfXMlaSj8M/X0vfa_0pOuI/AAAAAAAAFZs/F3FPa5hRtEUSX9nq67HPsrE724u7hRdRwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/1998-VA4-Odin-vom-Hirschel.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />Odin von Hirschell<br />1998 VA4<br />Born: March 8, 1995<br /><br /><b style="color: #424242; font-family: "arial unicode ms", "lucida sans unicode", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">↓</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUKJrVNb53iKSrYWKTUa7XlLs0Cd_tkkNx82qW9w8Tn28QlVpT2Q2kTw4egcpoG6hzh1WKYk1pdzaWp9XYpiVpod3XLe94Tf28M_3-Y40OvEM1hpTHp0-3gfEqpRhKzSw4kncwjGNUKaI/s346/VA1-Bax-von-der-Luisenstra%25C3%259Fe.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="243" data-original-width="346" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUKJrVNb53iKSrYWKTUa7XlLs0Cd_tkkNx82qW9w8Tn28QlVpT2Q2kTw4egcpoG6hzh1WKYk1pdzaWp9XYpiVpod3XLe94Tf28M_3-Y40OvEM1hpTHp0-3gfEqpRhKzSw4kncwjGNUKaI/s0/VA1-Bax-von-der-Luisenstra%25C3%259Fe.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />VA1 Bax von Luisenstrasse<br />2003 Sieger<br />Born: April 19, 1999<br /><br /><b style="color: #424242; font-family: "arial unicode ms", "lucida sans unicode", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">↓</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVA7FWJ34bxsSMYJaW6tc7lBSW_FTwH5RBz9IGtBRQeFeUl90K6f378GDzNqmLM-6pocyPg3ubTrGbk8CqCL_FaJSrgmUp0BixV24_YYYD_PR5lXt4rMazJg7KWnhAPjulkTcpsRfv4Y8/s333/VA1-Pakros-d%2527Ulmental.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="333" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVA7FWJ34bxsSMYJaW6tc7lBSW_FTwH5RBz9IGtBRQeFeUl90K6f378GDzNqmLM-6pocyPg3ubTrGbk8CqCL_FaJSrgmUp0BixV24_YYYD_PR5lXt4rMazJg7KWnhAPjulkTcpsRfv4Y8/s0/VA1-Pakros-d%2527Ulmental.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />VA1 Pakros d'Ulmental<br />2007 Sieger<br />Born: April 4, 2002<br /><br /><b style="color: #424242; font-family: "arial unicode ms", "lucida sans unicode", sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">↓</span></b></td></tr></tbody></table></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ytBrcrzsyUnXtAwg-OoaR07ujlbOqtdnq6hnSFmFC1F-VpJdZRjpXTe_XNnvYBGyPvfTZ5oUlUIdLF1mB_VoQ539q68Wk7j1Z5Hm5nKNC2ValLsBsJOl-gjW1aSJLU-zGizNrU-iJTo/s351/VA1-Vgas-du-haut-mansard.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="266" data-original-width="351" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4ytBrcrzsyUnXtAwg-OoaR07ujlbOqtdnq6hnSFmFC1F-VpJdZRjpXTe_XNnvYBGyPvfTZ5oUlUIdLF1mB_VoQ539q68Wk7j1Z5Hm5nKNC2ValLsBsJOl-gjW1aSJLU-zGizNrU-iJTo/s0/VA1-Vgas-du-haut-mansard.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />2X VA1 Vegas du Haut Mansard<br />2008 + 2009 Sieger<br />Born: March 16, 2004</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">However, After VA1 Bax von Luisenstrasse (2003 Sieger), there came into the scene other fantastic specimens as Sieger that definitely showed entirely different top line type. And the worth mentioning was Xamp vom Thermodos. </span><span style="text-align: left;">I cannot help talking about the legendary VA1 Zamp Vom Thermodos (2006 Sieger), who exhibited a top line type, very different from what was shown by the </span><span style="text-align: left;">siegers who are continuous direct line sons of </span><span style="text-align: left;">Nero vom Hirschel. </span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzBPnwBbUO3JA6DdN41sb6J-YmDzrztZSR12RFlUoihBlKVxjV3at51hz8-HiNtv7S7JuyGE07mfRM6MgcgFjPqjx9lA2It2f7CCZSskMq2I149U9VO9u_3iRcVRBXz7HZwRB3AKPPDc/s387/2006-sieger-VA1-Zamp-vom-Thermodos.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="2006 Sieger, VA1 Zamp vom Thermodos" border="0" data-original-height="291" data-original-width="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLzBPnwBbUO3JA6DdN41sb6J-YmDzrztZSR12RFlUoihBlKVxjV3at51hz8-HiNtv7S7JuyGE07mfRM6MgcgFjPqjx9lA2It2f7CCZSskMq2I149U9VO9u_3iRcVRBXz7HZwRB3AKPPDc/d/2006-sieger-VA1-Zamp-vom-Thermodos.jpg" title="2006 Sieger, VA1 Zamp vom Thermodos" /></a></div><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center><span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">VA1 Zamp Vom Thermodos</span></center><center><span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">2006 Sieger</span></center><center><span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">Born: January 27, 2002</span></center><center><br /></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">For the first time since 1991, there came a dog with the back closest to the 1991 amendment of the GSD standard (amendment was made specifically regarding the back - described above). I would rather unhesitatingly say that Zamp Thermodos was little exaggeratedly angulated, yet the most influential dog of his time, and was a great mover. He was a great example of a specimen with high wither. </span><span style="text-align: left;">Zamp Thermodos probably was the first fine specimen to have hugely deviated from the 1976 amendment of the GSD standard related to the back. As the 1976 standard amendment of the back clearly stated: "strongly developed, not too long between the withers and croup. The withers must be long and high enough to be well indicated against the back...", Zamp was remarkably a long bodied specimen - long enough between the "high" withers and the "long" croup so as to give the dog a very different look overall, with high wither, top line very prominently (not slightly) sloping, yet very strong back, long croup and overly angulated hind compared to the other Siegers so far. </span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWj8E2bGTfc/X0DSuaqtJbI/AAAAAAAAFYs/Z_XlvMU0Vako2Ae7Mw-Rsbg1FdglX98XgCLcBGAsYHQ/s515/Zamp-v-Thermodos-Crufts-2008-Birmingham-England.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="515" height="330" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eWj8E2bGTfc/X0DSuaqtJbI/AAAAAAAAFYs/Z_XlvMU0Vako2Ae7Mw-Rsbg1FdglX98XgCLcBGAsYHQ/w412-h330/Zamp-v-Thermodos-Crufts-2008-Birmingham-England.jpg" width="412" /></a></div><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">Zamp vom Thermodos - presented at Crufts Show 2008 in Birmingham, England</span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;">Zamp probably genetically possessed these traits from his legendary dad - VA2 Quantum von Arminius. Zamp passed on this elongated built with exaggerated rear angulation to many of his progenies - the worth mentioning of which are:</span></center><center style="text-align: justify;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></center>
<a href="http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/dog.html?id=484030-alex-alexander-the-great" target="_blank"><u>V Alex Alexander the Great</u> </a></div><div><u><br /></u></div><div><a href="http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/dog.html?id=516648-arak-de-la-ferme-malgre-leau" target="_blank"><u>VA1 (Swiss 2009) VA (GSDCA-WDA 2011) ARAK de la Ferme Malgre L'eau</u> </a></div><div>(Arak did not have such an overly angulated hind as Alex Alexander) </div><div><u><br /></u></div><div><u><a href="http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/dog.html?id=555853-kratmosens-blake" target="_blank">VA2 (DK) Kratmosens Blake</a></u> </div><div><u><br /></u></div><div><u><a href="http://www.pedigreedatabase.com/german_shepherd_dog/dog.html?id=420904-chiara-vom-steffen-haus" target="_blank">VA 9 BSZS 2007 Chiara vom Steffen Haus</a></u> </div><div><br /></div><div>and so on...</div><div><br /></div><div>The top line type of <b>VA2 Quantum von Arminius</b> line is different from the top line type produced by <b style="text-align: justify;">Odin vom Hirschel </b><span style="text-align: justify;">line</span> </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><u><b>Top line Type of </b><b style="text-align: justify;">Odin vom Hirschel</b><b> Line</b></u></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: left;">A rise of the spinal cord in the back's lumber area is noticed</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4V3q9P5G6Bk/X0v0pEbs65I/AAAAAAAAFac/TPBczK3aGboGP7Mu1zVHIuQ7gqSwVwcDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s308/topline-type-by-odin-hirschel.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="200" data-original-width="308" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4V3q9P5G6Bk/X0v0pEbs65I/AAAAAAAAFac/TPBczK3aGboGP7Mu1zVHIuQ7gqSwVwcDwCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/topline-type-by-odin-hirschel.jpg" /></a></div><br /><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u>Top line Type of Quantum von Arminius Line</u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="text-align: left;">No rise of the spinal cord in the back's lumber area is noticed. </span>"The upper line runs without any visible break from the set on of the neck over the well defined withers and over the back very slightly sloping to the horizontal line into the gradually sloping croup"</div><div><span style="text-align: left;"><br /></span></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><u><br /></u></b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKAbgTTEnKSnxpKb5isX0k3Br_pe-uZuILuJa-hfTjCxfOYZH1g4WIbu_77OcTnw_Wf49yn8p1dpXcTFfFlVhjOYS8nHw6P-bYBgGFytW6C-59sFYLh23XFV4gaHmmfcpxgZCX_q3l-w/s262/topline-type-by-quantum-arminius.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="172" data-original-width="262" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKAbgTTEnKSnxpKb5isX0k3Br_pe-uZuILuJa-hfTjCxfOYZH1g4WIbu_77OcTnw_Wf49yn8p1dpXcTFfFlVhjOYS8nHw6P-bYBgGFytW6C-59sFYLh23XFV4gaHmmfcpxgZCX_q3l-w/w328-h215/topline-type-by-quantum-arminius.jpg" width="328" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><u>Important Note</u></div></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="background-color: #999999; color: white; font-size: medium;">Quantum Arminius >> Zamp Thermodos line, however, exaggerated sloping top line. Some of the Zamp Thermodos' progenies have shown over angulated hind - close to the ground, with metatarsus of hind legs, being placed nearly flat on the ground. This tend to compromise strides and reach. </span></span></p></div></blockquote></blockquote><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: #999999; color: white;"><br /></span></div></div><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><blockquote style="border: none; margin: 0px 0px 0px 40px; padding: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="color: white;"><span style="background-color: #999999; font-size: medium;">While on the other hand, the <b>Nero vom Hirschel >> Odin von Hirschell line </b>exhibited the rise in the lumber area but did not showed any exaggeration in slope of top line. Most dog of this line did not come up with overly angulated hinds and not close to the ground. Most dogs in this line exhibited better strides while trotting.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-size: medium;"> </span></span></p></div></blockquote></blockquote><p><br /></p><p><b><br /></b></p><p><b>According to the documentation of FCI standard [23.12.2010/EN (FCI-Standard N° 166)] of German Shepherd Dog</b></p><p><b><br /></b></p><b><span style="font-size: x-large;">"</span></b><div>The German Shepherd Dog is a trotter. <u>The limbs must be coordinated in length and angulations so that the dog can shift the hindquarters towards the trunk <i>without any essential change of the top line</i> and can reach just as far with the forelimbs.</u> Any tendency towards over-angulation of the hindquarters reduces the stability and the stamina, and thereby the working ability. </div><div><br /><div><span style="font-size: x-large;">"</span><p>The standard did not depict the exact requirement of the top line in that document. However has given a very clear indication that the top line should not be impacted while gaiting. We see many dogs in the rings of many prestigious shows, lacking balance as they tend to lift their fronts up rather than proceeding forward. There are, however, many specimens seen with nicely sloped top line and croup with balanced built. </p><p>Instead of following a trend it is important to understand the correlation between wither, top line, back and croup and plan the breeding program like wise.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p></div></div>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-41830023965082287742020-03-24T11:04:00.000-07:002020-03-24T11:07:16.802-07:00Mitochondrial Myopathy in German Shepherd Dogs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTIwMuDyvV871a028s7_1DPyxKPzVI-6E9BcIACTBVCCtfHlR0j9UfkhuEFiIx4BMlugtjcTjZ7FHKnA3mx590JUkCbfb0ffMYCd19t5uEnMKVzGBXyj06h38dI2xELs1HeNLVGlRyuw/s1600/mitochondrial-myopathy-in-gsd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="552" height="367" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaTIwMuDyvV871a028s7_1DPyxKPzVI-6E9BcIACTBVCCtfHlR0j9UfkhuEFiIx4BMlugtjcTjZ7FHKnA3mx590JUkCbfb0ffMYCd19t5uEnMKVzGBXyj06h38dI2xELs1HeNLVGlRyuw/s400/mitochondrial-myopathy-in-gsd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Before we directly drop down to Mitochondrial Myopathy in German Shepherd Dog, let us talk a bit about what is "Mitochondria" and what is "Myopathy" separably.<br />
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Mitochondria is the cellular structures in an organism in which energy is produced by oxidation of fuels such as glucose and fat in the form of heat and mechanism i.e. working. Researchers have discovered some of the biochemical defects in the mitochondria. Some of the known mitochondrial diseases in dogs and other organisms occurs due to abnormalities in the mitochondrial DNA.<br />
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Myopathy is a neuromuscular disorders which make the muscle fibers dysfunction due to one or more reasons. This consequently results in weakening of muscles, leading to cramping and stiffness of muscles and muscular spasms. Myopathy can be of different types like mitochondrial myopathies, congenital myopathies, muscular dystrophies etc.<br />
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Inherited disorders of carnitine metabolism in dogs are amongst the most important causes for mitochondrial myopathy in German Shepherd Dogs and other dog breeds. The mitochondrial disorders in German Shepherds occur due to gene mutations - either nuclear genomes or mutation in mitochondrial DNA. The mutations in mitochondrial DNA in dogs get transmitted by maternal inheritance. Putting this in simple, Mitochondrial myopathies in GSD and in any other canine breeds are caused by genetic mutations, which directly affects the functioning of the electron transport chain (ETC).<br />
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Although not in very large numbers, yet a few cases of Mitochondrial Myopathy have been found in canines. The histochemical and ultrastructural findings in case of mitochondrial myopathy in German Shepherd Dog breed have been reported quite infrequently by vets.<br />
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<b>Case History: Mitochondrial Myopathy in a German Shepherd Dog</b><br />
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A male German Shepherd Dog of around 36 weeks old had been referred to the Department of Veterinary Clinical Science – Surgery Section, University of Naples for a systematic evaluation of progressive exercise tolerance. The dog had a history of intolerance to exercise, reluctance to move, and spontaneous pain. The symptoms had started showing just a month before the dog was referred to the clinic. The condition had been progressively increasing, showing signs of systemic muscle atrophy, mainly in limb and truncal muscles, accompanied with muscular pain, stiffness in gait, thoracolumbar kyphosis (spinal deformity). The German Shepherd with such a clinical symptoms was exhibiting bunny hopping in hind legs while trying to move fast.<br />
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Since the orthopedic and neurologic examinations of the German Shepherd turned out to be unremarkable, his blood samples were collected for hematologic and serologic examination. The report of hematologic examination did not show any abnormalities, while on the other hand the biochemistry revealed an increase in the level of creatine kinase at 37 C (181 U/liter), lactate dehydrogenase (510 U/liter), and aspartate aminotransferase (123.6 U/liter). Moreover, radiographs of stifle region and coxofemoral had been taken. However, no abnormalities could be found in the rediograph report. Muscle biopsies were also taken from the femoral biceps muscle for histopathologic examination.<br />
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<b>Organs that get affected by Mitochondrial Myopathy in Dogs</b><br />
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In mitochondrial disorders in dogs, the worst affected organs are the ones that mainly depends on oxidative metabolism (chemical reactions involving oxygen). However, these organs includes brain, skeleton, and heart muscles, sensory organs and kidney. The existence of mildest degree of mitochondrial myopathy in GSD, like any other canine breed will cause mild weakness of muscles, which would be mostly noticed in the arms. There will also be exercise intolerance.<br />
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<b>Signs of Mitochondrial Myopathy in canine</b><br />
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German Shepherd Dog - like any other dogs affected with mitochondrial myopathies have severe exercise intolerance that can be consistently demonstrated with even mild exercise. They have stiff, stilted gait, bunny-hopping in the pelvic limbs, reluctance to move, and spontaneous pain. Laboratory tests reveal exercise-induced metabolic acidosis.<br />
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<b>Diagnosis of Canine Mitochondrial Myopathy</b><br />
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Diagnosis of mitochondrial myopathies in dog often involves a multifaceted approaches. It requires demonstration of post-exercise plasma lactate and pyruvate concentrations. Light and electron microscopic evaluation of mitochondria of the dog within muscle biopsy sections are also used to diagnose mitochondrial myopathies in canine breeds. Precise characterization is dependent on specialized biochemical tests and molecular studies.<br />
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<b>Treatments of Mitochondrial Myopathy in GSD or other canine breeds</b><br />
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Treatments of Mitochondrial Myopathy in GSD or other canine breeds range from treating the symptoms to very specific cause-targeting treatments. The common treatments include administration of antioxidants - especially vitamin E, alternative energy sources - creatine monohydrate, lactate reduction - dichloroacetate and most importantly - exercise training. Exposing the patients to correct type and level of exercise is a particularly very important modality in treating canine Mitochondrial Myopathy.Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-36078744089300989022020-01-20T03:09:00.001-08:002022-01-15T03:26:12.779-08:00Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) Standard for German Shepherd Dog<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoXrx3mFqqgM5yGtH4gaS4zC4R9nFxXBibtH6Ndo3A9btO2Bv4x7qcSxTAjZgu7pQT-K9WAVCGtEf7HP50pt-khII5wreBbgY3lkTQvQU0JAIAYWQehxy6tDGGX7pPnyroQkhbh3yolVBotx4gONflpoXLBSj3A9Exr6xsQeAmzXBIY2XOInOfhNU9=s787" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Perfect German Shepherd Dog as per FCI Standard" border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="787" height="290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgoXrx3mFqqgM5yGtH4gaS4zC4R9nFxXBibtH6Ndo3A9btO2Bv4x7qcSxTAjZgu7pQT-K9WAVCGtEf7HP50pt-khII5wreBbgY3lkTQvQU0JAIAYWQehxy6tDGGX7pPnyroQkhbh3yolVBotx4gONflpoXLBSj3A9Exr6xsQeAmzXBIY2XOInOfhNU9=w433-h290" width="433" /></a></div><br />WUSV German Shepherd Dog standard</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is an international federation of kennel clubs. The organization has its root in Thuin, Belgium. The English language translation of ”Fédération Cynologique Internationale", is "World Canine Organisation", though it has not been in use much. The major goals of FCI have been described in Article 2 of their regulations. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">They have always aimed at encouraging and promoting breeding and use of purebred dogs whose functional health and physical features meet the standard formulated for every single canine breed so that each breed should be effortlessly capable of doing what they have been bred for. The sole emphasize is laid down on maintaing the physical and metal configuration as well as their characteristics, colors, expressions and every other detail related to the respective canine breed. Here is what FCI - Fédération Cynologique Internationale has to say about the German Shepherd Dog Standard. For any German Shepherd Dog breeder or owner or trainer etc. it is of utmost necessity to keep the FCI GSD standard in mind. Development of the breed is our responsibility! </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>1) General Appearance</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The German Shepherd Dog is medium sized. With the hair pressed down, the height at the withers is measured by stick along the vertical as it follows the line of the elbow from the withers to the ground. The ideal height at the withers is 62.5 cm for males and 57.5 for females. An allowance of 2.5 cm over or under is permissible. Exceeding the maximum as well as not meeting the minimum diminishes the working and breeding value of the dog. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The German Shepherd is slightly long, strong and well-muscled. The bones are dry and the structure firm. The ratio of height to length and the placement and structure of the limbs (angulation) are so balanced that a far-reaching, effortless trot is guaranteed. He has a weather proof coat. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">A pleasing appearance is desired as long as the working ability of the dog is not called into question. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sex characteristics must be pronounced, e.g., the masculinity of the males and the femininity of the females must be unmistakable. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The German Shepherd that corresponds to the Standard offers the observer a picture of rugged strength, intelligence and agility, whose overall proportions are neither in excess or deficient in any way. The way he moves and behaves leaves no doubt that he is sound in mind and body and so possesses physical and mental traits that render possible an every-ready working dog with great stamina. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It is only possible for a practiced expert to ascertain the presence of requisite working dog traits in the German Shepherd. Therefore, only special judges should be called upon, as it is incumbent on them to judge the character of the dogs brought before them. This should include a test for gun soundness, as only German Shepherd Dogs that have achieved recognized working dog titles may receive the breed rating excellent. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With an effervescent temperament, the dog must also be cooperative, adapting to every situation, and take to work willingly and joyfully. He must show courage and hardness as the situation requires to defend his handler and his property. He must readily attack on his owner's command but otherwise be a fully attentive, obedient and pleasant household companion. He should be devoted to his familiar surroundings, above all to other animals and children, and composed in his contact with people. All in all, he gives a harmonious picture of natural nobility and self-confidence. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>2) Angulation and Movement</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The German Shepherd Dog is a trotter. His gait exhibits diagonal movement, i.e., the hind foot and the forefoot on opposite sides move simultaneously. The limbs, therefore, must be so similarly proportioned to one another, i.e. angulated, that the action of the rear as it carries through to the middle of the body and is matched by an equally far-reaching forehand causes no essential change in the topline. Every tendency toward over-angulation of the rear quarters diminishes soundness and endurance. The correct proportions of height to length and corresponding length of the leg bones results in a ground-eating gait that is low to the ground and imparts an impression of effortless progression. With his head thrust forward and a slightly raised tail, a balanced and even trotter will have a topline that falls in moderate curves from the tip of the ears over the neck and level back through the tip of the tail. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>3) Temperament, Character and Abilities</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Sound nerves, alertness, self-confidence, trainability, watchfulness, loyalty and incorruptibility, as well as courage, fighting drive and hardness, are the outstanding characteristics of a purebred German Shepherd Dog. They make him suitable to be a superior working dog in general, and in particular to be a guard, companion, protection and herding dog. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">His ample scenting abilities, added to his conformation as a trotter, make it possible for him to quietly and surely work out a track without bodily strain and with his nose close to the ground. This makes him highly useful as a multi-purpose track and search dog. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>4) Head</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The head should be in proportion to the body size (in length approximately 40% of the height at the withers) and not coarse, over refined or overstretched (snipey). In general appearance, it should be dry with moderate breadth between the ears. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The forehead when viewed from the front or side is only slightly arched. It should be without a centre furrow or with only a slightly defined furrow. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The cheeks form a gentle curve laterally without protrusion toward the front. When viewed from above, the skull (approximately 50% of the entire head length) tapers gradually and evenly from the ears to the tip of the nose, with a sloping rather than a sharply defined stop and into a long, dry wedge-shaped muzzle (the upper and lower jaws must be strongly developed.) </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The width of the skull should correspond approximately to the length of the skull. Also, a slight oversize in the case of males or undersize in the case of females is not objectionable. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The muzzle is strong; the lips are firm and dry and close tightly. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The bridge of the nose is straight and runs nearly parallel with the plane of the forehead. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>5) Dentition</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dentition must be healthy, strong and complete (42 teeth, 20 in the upper jaw and 22 in the lower jaw). The German Shepherd Dog has a scissors bite, e.g. the incisors must meet each other in a scissors like fashion, with the outer surface of the incisors of the lower jaw sliding next to the inner surface of the incisors of the upper jaw. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">An undershot or overshot bite if faulty, as are large gaps between the teeth. A level bite is faulty, as the incisors close on a straight line. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The jaws must be strongly developed so that the teeth may be deeply rooted. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>6) Ears</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The ears are of medium size, wide at the base and set high. They taper to a point and are carried facing forward and vertically (the tips not inclined toward each other). Tipped, cropped and hanging ears are rejected. Ears drawn toward each other greatly impair the general appearance. The ears of puppies and young dogs sometimes drop or pull toward each other during the teething period, which can last until six months of age and sometimes longer. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Many dogs draw their ears back during motion or at rest. This is not faulty. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>7) Eyes</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The eyes are of medium size, almond shaped, somewhat slanting and not protruding. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The color of the eyes should blend with the color of the coat. They should be as dark as possible. They should have a lively, intelligent and self-confident expression. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>8) Neck</b></div><br /><p>
The neck should be strong with well-developed muscles and without looseness of the throat skin (dewlaps). </p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The neck is carried at an angle of about 45 degrees to the horizontal. It is carried higher when excited and lower when trotting.</div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>9) Body</b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The body length should exceed the height at the withers. It should amount to about 110 to 117% of the height at the withers. Dogs with a short, square or tall build are undesirable. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The chest is deep (approximately 45 to 48% of the height at the withers) but not too wide. The under chest should be as long as possible and pronounced. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The ribs should be well formed and long, neither barrel shaped nor too flat. They should reach the sternum, which is at the same level as the elbows. A correctly formed rib cage allows the elbows freedom of movement when the dogs trots. A too round rib cage disrupts the motion of the elbows and causes them to turn out. A too flat rib cage draws the elbows in toward one another. The rib cage extends far back so that the loins are relatively short. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The abdomen is moderately tucked up. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The back, including the loins, is straight and strongly developed yet not too long between the withers and the croup. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The withers must be long and high, sloping slightly from front to rear, defined against the back into which it gently blends without breaking the topline. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The loins must be wide, strong and well-muscled. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The croup is long and slightly angled (approximately 23 degrees). The ileum and the sacrum are the foundation bones of the croup. Short, steep or flat croups are undesirable. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>10) Tail </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The tail is bushy and should reach at least to the hock joint but not beyond the middle of the hocks. Sometimes the tail forms a hook to one side at its end, though this is undesirable. At rest the tail is carried in a gentle downward curve, but when the dog is excited or in motion, it is curved more and carried higher. The tail should never be raised past the vertical. The tail, therefore, should not be carried straight or curled over the back. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Docked tails are inadmissible. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>11) Forequarters </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The shoulder blade should be long with an oblique placement (the angle at 45 degrees) and lying flat against the body. The upper arm joins the shoulder blade in an approximate right angle. The upper arm as well as the shoulder must be strong and well-muscled. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> The forearm must be straight when viewed from all sides. The bones of the upper arm and forearm are more oval than round. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The pasterns should be firm but neither too steep nor too down in pastern (Approximately 20 degrees). </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The elbows must be neither turned in nor turned out. The length of the leg bones should exceed the depth of the chest (approximately 55%). </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>12) Hindquarters </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The thigh is broad and well-muscled. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The upper thigh bone when viewed from the side joins the only slightly longer lower thigh bone at an angle of approximately 120 degrees. The angulation corresponds roughly to the forequarter angulation without being over-angulated. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The hock joint is strong and firm. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The hock is strong and forms a firm joint with the lower thigh. The entire hindquarters must be strong and well-muscled to be capable of carrying the body effortlessly forward during motion. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>13) Feet </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The feet are relatively round, short, tightly formed and arched. The pads are very hard, but not chapped. The nails are short, strong and of a dark color. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dewclaws sometime appear on the hind legs and should be removed within the first few days of birth. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>14) Color </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Color should be black with regular markings in brown, tan to light grey, also with a black saddle, dark sable (black cover on a grey or light brown case with corresponding lighter marks), black, uniform grey or with light or brown markings. Small white markings on the fore chest or a very light color on the insides of the legs are permissible though not desired. The nose must be black with all coat colors. (Dogs with little or no masks, yellow or strikingly light eyes, light markings on the chest and insides of the legs, white nails and a red tip of the tail or washed out weak colors are considered lacking in pigment.) The undercoat or base hair is always light grey, with the exception of that on black dogs. The final color of a puppy is only determined when the outer coat completely develops. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>15) Coat </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>a) The medium smooth coated German Shepherd Dog </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The outer coat should be as thick as possible. The individual hairs are straight, coarse and lying flat against the body. The coat is short on the head inclusive of the ears, the front of the legs, the feet and the toes but longer and thicker on the neck. The hair grows longer on the back of the fore- and hind legs as far down as the pastern and the hock joint, forming moderate breeching on the thighs. The length of the hair varies, and due to these differences in length, there are many intermediate forms. A too short or mole like coat is faulty. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>b) The long smooth coated German Shepherd Dog </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The individual hairs are longer, not always straight and above all not lying close to the body. The coat is considerably longer inside and behind the ears, on the back of the forearm and usually in the loin area. Now and then there will be tufts in the ears and feathering from elbow to pastern. The breeching along the thigh is long and thick. The tail is bushy with slight feathering underneath. The long-smooth-coat is not as weatherproof as the medium-smooth-coat and is therefore undesirable; however, provided there is sufficient undercoat, it may be passed for breeding, as long as the breed regulations of the country allow it. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">With the long smooth coated German Shepherd Dog, a narrow chest and narrow overstretched muzzle are frequently found. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>c) The long coated German Shepherd Dog </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The coat is considerably longer than that of the long-smooth-coat. It is generally very soft and forms a parting along the back. The undercoat will be found in the region of the loins or will not be present at all. A long coat is greatly diminished in weatherproofing and utility and therefore is undesirable. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Faults </b></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Faults include anything that impairs working versatility, endurance and working competency, especially lack of sex characteristics and temperament traits contrary to the German Shepherd Dog such as apathy, weak nerves or over excitability, shyness; lack of vitality or willingness to work; monorchids and cryptorchids and testicles too small; a soft or flabby constitution and a lack of substance; fading pigment; blues, albinos (with complete lack of pigmentation, e.g. pink nose, etc.) and whites (near to pure white with black nose); over and under size; stunted growth; high-legged dogs and those with an overloaded fore chest; a disproportionately short, too refined or coarse build; a soft back, too steep a placement of the limbs and anything depreciating the reach and endurance of gait; a muzzle that is too short, blunt, weak, pointed or narrow and lacks strength; an over-or undershot bite or any other faults of dentition, especially weak or worn teeth; a coat that is too soft, too short or too long; a lack of undercoat; hanging ears, a permanently faulty ear carriage or cropped ears; a ringed, curled or generally faulty tail set; a docked tail (stumpy) or a naturally short tail. </div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The above standard was approved and put into effect for the countries and clubs of the FCI. The name of the breed is the German Shepherd Dog. The country of origin is Germany. <a href="http://www.fci.be/Nomenclature/Standards/166g01-en.pdf" target="_blank">Download FCI Standard PDF Here</a></div><br /><p>
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">From SCHUTZHUND USA March/April 1989 "The German Shepherd Standard" by Morton Goldfarb, USA/SV/AKC Judge</div><br /><p>
</p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p></p>Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-5097309813685389832019-12-30T05:36:00.000-08:002019-12-30T05:45:13.401-08:00Understanding "Speed" in the GSD Show DogsGerman Shepherd is a trotting breed and has been bred with "Endurance" in the forefront of mind. So, obviously when we talk about speed, we mean trotting pace. Some dogs exhibit lengthy strides, while others comparatively short strides. During a trot a dog can increase its trotting pace in two ways:<br />
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1. Increases the number of strides in a given span of time. This means the frequency of strides is increased <br />
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2. Increases the length of the strides.<br />
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Almost all the good specimens in the world have been noticed to initially increase the stride length to increase the trotting pace. After reaching a certain level of pace, the dog fails to increase its stride length. This is the <u><b>Optimum Stride Length Point</b></u>, from where the dog tends to increase the number of steps in order to speed up its trot.<br />
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However, some dogs have tendency increase the frequency of the strides from the beginning itself instead of stretching the stride length. In such situations the dog's efficiency gets compromised, because it needs to takes more number of steps to cover the same amount of ground that is covered by the dog that use <u><b>Lengthy Stride</b></u>. Therefore the dogs that use increased Lengthy Strides are usually preferred over the other counterpart (the dogs that have tendency to increase stride frequency from the beginning) by a judge.<br />
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I have seen people (spectators) in many show grounds clapping and cheering dogs that exhibit speedy trots with high stride frequency from the beginning. We need to remember that German Shepherd is a trotting breed at the first place. Speed isn't the criteria of his beauty. The dog wasn't bred to run fast, but to trot miles consistently and steadily. His beauty lies in his ability of consistent, effortless and rhythmic trotting for a long span of time with firmness of back, covering maximum amount of ground as possible even longer stride. If dog increases the speed by increasing the stride frequency then he will suffer a shortage of energy after a short spell of time.<br />
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<span style="background-color: #9fc5e8;"><b>Related reads:</b></span></div>
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<b><a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/12/cross-steps-cross-over-gait-assessment.html" target="_blank">Cross Steps, Cross Over, Gait Assessment in German Shepherd Dog during Trotting</a> </b></div>
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<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/12/hindquarters-in-german-shepherds.html" target="_blank"><b>Understanding Hind Quarters in German Shepherd Do</b>g</a></div>
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Below embedded the video of the legendary Vegas du Haut Mansard, exhibiting his very rhythmic trot, <i>originally uploaded by fontedasbicas </i><br />
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Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-51959368090634910342019-12-12T07:51:00.001-08:002019-12-12T07:52:48.513-08:00Cross Steps, Cross Over, Gait Assessment in German Shepherd Dog during TrottingWhat does a judge see about steps while judging gait/locomotion of the GSD? A good judge will definitely try to assess the steps, alongside the overall gait, because how a GSD settles its steps during trotting says a lot about the dog’s overall gait.<br />
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This post should yield adequate idea about steps and gait to the owners who show their dogs. Even if you do not show your dog, it is important that you are aware of your dog’s structure/ built.<br />
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The two most important parameters to understand are “Cross Steps” and “Cross Overs”<br />
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During a trot the fore foot that is carried towards the front, touches the ground when the fore foot that is lagging behind is just lifted. The same stepping nature is demonstrated by the hind feet. The rear foot that is carried towards the front touches the ground when the rear foot that is stretched backward is just lifted.<br />
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The right front foot and the left hind foot is carried towards same direction, while the left front foot and the right hind foot is carried towards same direction, which is a typical diagonal stepping pattern. There’s nothing special about it, as this clearly demonstrates the typical mammalian gait.<br />
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Now, for a breed like GSD, (in which the structural built is the most important determinant of an efficient locomotion), what’s special and needs to be considered is the distance between the two fore feet and the distance between the two rear feet, when the dog is trotting.<br />
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<span style="color: #a64d79;">The distance between the two fore feet (one stretched towards the front and the other lagging backward) while trotting, is known as “Front Cross Step”. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #3d85c6;">The distance between the two rear feet (one carried towards the front and the other stretched out backward) while trotting, is known as “Rear Cross Step”. </span><br />
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The most ideal and desired locomotion type demands the equality between<span style="color: #a64d79;"> “Front Cross Step”</span> and <span style="color: #3d85c6;">“Rear Cross Step”</span>. However, it is well understood that it may not be possible that<span style="color: #a64d79;"> “Front Cross Step”</span> and <span style="color: #3d85c6;">“Rear Cross Step”</span> are exactly equal. But lesser the deviation, better!<br />
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The picture below gives a pictorial understanding of Front and Rear Cross Steps <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaS6PLA7AGliDx30DEghvha1Lib4qNJZzHHFWAzfbGvSHRWN2G-ZbfEbm883y6S8R_fwB3krGWybAoGSyWOn6la7WQiO6M6PTdLt1JP7YTcBA4ZSIbqdXR3wU9QIuySbY1r_3PtmH8rU/s1600/ddr-working-cross-steps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="468" data-original-width="580" height="322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYaS6PLA7AGliDx30DEghvha1Lib4qNJZzHHFWAzfbGvSHRWN2G-ZbfEbm883y6S8R_fwB3krGWybAoGSyWOn6la7WQiO6M6PTdLt1JP7YTcBA4ZSIbqdXR3wU9QIuySbY1r_3PtmH8rU/s400/ddr-working-cross-steps.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This uniformity in cross steps is usually missing in the show dogs that have more angulated hinds. The show line GSDs have more acute hind angulations, due to which the <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Rear Cross Step</span> gets slightly more stretched out and becomes longer compared to the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Front Cross Step</span>
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In the picture below the blue dots indicates the points of contact of the front paws and the ground, and the blue line indicates the <span style="color: #a64d79;">Front Cross Step</span>. The red dots indicates the points of contact of the rear paws and the ground, and the red line indicates the <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Rear Cross Step</span>. It is clearly noticed that the <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Rear Cross Step </span> is comparatively longer than the <span style="color: #3d85c6;"><span style="color: #a64d79;">Front Cross Step</span></span>. This is typically noticed in show specimens - especially in the dogs that have overly angulated hinds.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6bgH-qVvKE7nXf6o25ZBrbz9e_bxgb8_dFdrQarCSsBUwMNwyYEPK3_267dQuXHnfbJuFoWbaAis4HW2_YN-ei-Ypehp4uVj8YZSHyooymX3KjkFZJDqGaBbWahwuj-XV795Yr39Btk/s1600/remo-touches-hock-with-ground.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="433" data-original-width="606" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgH6bgH-qVvKE7nXf6o25ZBrbz9e_bxgb8_dFdrQarCSsBUwMNwyYEPK3_267dQuXHnfbJuFoWbaAis4HW2_YN-ei-Ypehp4uVj8YZSHyooymX3KjkFZJDqGaBbWahwuj-XV795Yr39Btk/s400/remo-touches-hock-with-ground.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Due to the the longer <span style="color: #3d85c6;">Rear Cross Step</span>, the rear foot that is carried forward and front foot that
is lagging backward <u>cross over each other</u>. This situation is known as <b>Rear and Front Feet Cross Over</b>. As a result of such Cross Over<b> </b>the pastern of the rear limb touches the ground, which is not desired. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbxSL5h8TT_t4Mh22-UvUbOiCCcfe_vPdOTnNOcpmC_6nAlV1J6nsTLZQKW4Jo1Co57Sjw-XWr1bYAGXLkYzUhSTfY8h_tIa0h-ODg3vDHIJV6BBWGF_kjMcN7JYOGIkNBFW1KxPZ0oTw/s1600/rear+pastern.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="432" data-original-width="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbxSL5h8TT_t4Mh22-UvUbOiCCcfe_vPdOTnNOcpmC_6nAlV1J6nsTLZQKW4Jo1Co57Sjw-XWr1bYAGXLkYzUhSTfY8h_tIa0h-ODg3vDHIJV6BBWGF_kjMcN7JYOGIkNBFW1KxPZ0oTw/s1600/rear+pastern.jpg" /></a></div>
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The deep angulation of the hinds that causes Rear Foot - Front Foot Cross Overs, and that leads to ground-pastern contact, seriously impairs the performance. The efficiency of the dog's movement and power of the strides are both compromised. The hind thrust that carries the dog forward is compromised, due to which the the Speed during a fast trot also gets compromised. </div>
Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-36457290025510730762019-12-10T04:50:00.000-08:002019-12-12T09:04:34.040-08:00Hindquarters in German Shepherds Before delving deep into details of hindquarters of German Shepherd Dog lets us have a brief talk about what the hindquarters of a dog is composed of – that’s important. The hindquarters are composed of pelvis, croup and the tail, each of which is has its own importance as far as the standard structure of the dog is concerned. Like in any other dog breed, the hindquarter of German Shepherd Dog is most important part of the body, as it provides the entire force that the dog requires during locomotion.
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German Shepherd is a trotting dog and requires a great deal of energy and force during trotting. The dog must be able to cover maximum amount of ground through long stretches with minimum effort. Hindquarter in GSD is the most important part of energy portion. The prerequisite of appropriate hindquarters in German Shepherds is correct anatomical structure (right angulation), combined with strong muscles and good bones. The hindquarter of German Shepherd dog is the major source of power of propulsion. Correct angulations (neither overly angulated, nor under-angulated) anatomy of hindquarter is desirable in German Shepherd Dogs. Any weakness in anatomical structure of the hindquarter in GSD breed will compromise the dog's overall gait, which is readily apparent. Without powerful hindquarters in GSD breed running gear in the rear cannot be powerful, which in turn compromises the ability of the dog to work for long hours efficiently and to cover maximum ground with minimum effort.
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Let us delve deeper into the German Shepherd Dog Hindquarters<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw27p4mLg5lyIW060t8e7J8OwH738IA1NufEDjaxE2SEIpHrMkw5Ab31BYFXKx52RPni98nTjMzOgO48HnkTut08gAWkTsfkw7BWKXQFDlGLj4fX5nyIy9tDPPz2JYd3BGo7cwWQfld0w/s1600/fig-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="229" data-original-width="343" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhw27p4mLg5lyIW060t8e7J8OwH738IA1NufEDjaxE2SEIpHrMkw5Ab31BYFXKx52RPni98nTjMzOgO48HnkTut08gAWkTsfkw7BWKXQFDlGLj4fX5nyIy9tDPPz2JYd3BGo7cwWQfld0w/s320/fig-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>German Shepherd Dog Pelvis
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Like in any other mammals, the pelvis of German Shepherd Dog is a complex arrangement of bones that absorb the jolts and take power or propulsion generated by the rear legs and channels it to over the Spinal cord. The pelvis of German Shepherd Dogs must be strong enough to tolerate the jolts during locomotion. Most importantly, GSD pelvis should be correctly angulated so that it can transmit the power through the hip joint, croup and direct it further forward through the joint between the sacrum and the seventh or the last, lumbar vertebra, and transmit it further straight through the spinal chord parallel to the ground. This mechanism is almost similar in all dogs – irrespective of breeds and types. Since German Shepherds are trotting dogs and effective & effortless trotting demand perfect pelvis angulations and good strength without which desired power of propulsion cannot be delivered. As a trotting and working breed the pelvis in GSD is considered as one of the most important parts of the GSD hindquarter.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7O2fDnOpyU/XaadgFlJIbI/AAAAAAAAFHk/Da9amH5ruKwux1JQVZ3mH0pGhKAM9wJHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/fig-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="233" data-original-width="325" height="229" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y7O2fDnOpyU/XaadgFlJIbI/AAAAAAAAFHk/Da9amH5ruKwux1JQVZ3mH0pGhKAM9wJHQCLcBGAsYHQ/s320/fig-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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At first the “pushing off” phase of the stride for any kind of gait makes the paw positioned almost below the hip joint, there from forcing of the leg backward when it becomes almost straight. This propulsion tends to generate a severe force almost straight upwards, and eventually gets transmitted through the croup and further forward through the spine of the dog. As soon as the stride comes to an end, the paw is slightly lifted up into and during the follow-through, the power comes up at an angle f around 45 degree to the ground, when the legs is stretched almost straightened.<br />
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<b>Pelvis Angulation </b><br />
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A correct angle of German Shepherd Dog pelvis is of utmost importance in order to ensure smooth transmission of energy and power generated during the strides over this part of the rear legs to the spine. The correct angulation of the pelvis in true type German Shepherd Dog normally standing on all four ranges between 30 to 35 degree to the horizontal axis, when the line is drawn through the top of the pelvis. However, another method of explaining the pelvis angulation in GSD breed is by drawing the line right through the middle of the the ilial crest and the ischial tuberosity. In this case the angulation of German Shepherd pelvis s reckoned between 20 and 25 degree to the horizontal axis. We consider the spine as the horizontal axis. Deviation of angulations of the German Shepherd Dog Pelvis is often noticed in domestic stock that have not been put to desired amount of physical stress for generations.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqdd-U5LIqb4w0TcyK-LMrpb1X9mTCLa0dAz1JU90yQK7gZLowBVL76JnC4uXz2HBPmYgDWTcQMvMe7wPo_f-c4hk-bjtM-DWsSVAGHCydBWTtvg9f6ViP9oQf64FJhdGECc2lfKo-KE/s1600/fig-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="230" data-original-width="442" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmqdd-U5LIqb4w0TcyK-LMrpb1X9mTCLa0dAz1JU90yQK7gZLowBVL76JnC4uXz2HBPmYgDWTcQMvMe7wPo_f-c4hk-bjtM-DWsSVAGHCydBWTtvg9f6ViP9oQf64FJhdGECc2lfKo-KE/s320/fig-3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Both these processes of drawing are measuring Pelvis angles are valid </i></div>
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<b>Pelvis Set</b><br />
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Neither too flat nor overly steep pelvis is acceptable for German Shepherds, because too flat pelvis will exert extra pressure to the top of the acetabulum and overly steep pelvis tends to misuse some energy by transmitting it upwards through the sacral joint instead of channeling it through the spine. Both these extremities tend to compromise the effective trotting.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dA_b5HOZuFevyC-zhYR2Mj8G25PN1eKBm3wyWlDnb0PCfdd5C4MMPr2IVzZMt4Y8DwYFAllghfL_BAUEbNcwmsIc2Fuq-w33UoypB9KFWenrsgFFOLiw_8gcxPW2nNbdXvoGLT9ACs8/s1600/fig-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="208" data-original-width="500" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4dA_b5HOZuFevyC-zhYR2Mj8G25PN1eKBm3wyWlDnb0PCfdd5C4MMPr2IVzZMt4Y8DwYFAllghfL_BAUEbNcwmsIc2Fuq-w33UoypB9KFWenrsgFFOLiw_8gcxPW2nNbdXvoGLT9ACs8/s320/fig-4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Both conditions are undesirable</i> </div>
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<b>Pelvis Width</b><br />
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Width of Pelvis in GSD is quite a lot important. The pelvis must be wide enough to give the heavy muscles of the loin and thighs enough area. In GSD females the pelvis should be wide enough to give good amount of space for well developed birth canal.<br />
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<b>Croup in German Shepherd Dog </b><br />
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The croup forms the roof of the pelvis and first few caudal vertebrae of the tail, and consists of sacral vertebrae. The number of caudal vertebrae of the tail included in the croup region depends solely on the length of the croup. The croup is slanted towards the back and the degree of slant depends of how the pelvis is set. Flat pelvis will result in flat croup while overly steep pelvis will result in what is conventionally called steep croup, both of which are undesirable. Often steep pelvis in German Shepherd Dogs show up flat and short croup due to the tail set very high. Again flat pelvis will result in flat croup which may show long or short depending on the tail set.<br />
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The length of croup hardly has any influence on the gait nor does it influence the length of strides. But the croup should be broad enough to give good room for the muscles over the region that helps in the distribution of power to the spine. A flat pelvis will show a flat croup, but it could be long or short depending upon the tail set. Even an ideally set pelvis can show a croup apparently overly long or short depending on the tail set. A very strong and high drive dog can show short croup due to its high tail carriage. Consistently high tail carriage and set can result in apparently shorter croup in German Shepherd Dogs. This is where the significance of tail set comes to play.<br />
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<b>The GSD Tail</b><br />
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There is actually no influence of the tail on the German Shepherd Dog hindquarters; nor does the tail carriage and tail set have any influence on the dog’s gait and propulsion power and length of strides. According to the German Shepherd dog Standard the tail should be bushy tail and long enough to fall well past the hock. The GSD tail should be gently curved at the end without any twists, sharp curls and kinks. Standard requires the tail should not set high or too low and should fall normally when at rest or not excited. The carriage of the tails determines the dog’s state of mind. Most dogs from the working lines have often high set tails. High set and a high carriage of tails are not always same in all dogs, although the correct tails set allows the dog to carry his tail at around 45 degrees to the horizontal axis, when excited. Very low tail carriage is again faulty. Tail that seems to sprout out from the croup called Rooty Tail is not desirable, because such a tail set exposes the perianal fistula to the risk of vulnerability.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5nO4qhohQqoQas0ucRSR1JHC2VwJgXnxjBB3oyeb_fnsFpbpH_SOrGPgErHaM35vvWAWZcv8YzVBhqZcKY7MkeJKauRFoFz9oDpgmMpT5aBHIiM7bUp-VKgSqk4f_bvXL-1ZTzJULzw/s1600/fig-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="191" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX5nO4qhohQqoQas0ucRSR1JHC2VwJgXnxjBB3oyeb_fnsFpbpH_SOrGPgErHaM35vvWAWZcv8YzVBhqZcKY7MkeJKauRFoFz9oDpgmMpT5aBHIiM7bUp-VKgSqk4f_bvXL-1ZTzJULzw/s1600/fig-5.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>High or too low set tail, stumpy tails are undesirable. Tail should fall normally, when not excited.</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuAbt5xdd0d3BGqqyuK6Dvd21bpZCbkc0AKBGBX5weFiYRReTJAfAJbg8wY-QDVtZ88OSVrIuknT9PF8dQ2kC8n8vfka0o_CdPrUfAitRhOsx6qLAURn_h5GN8rCygLsCtkEGb_qVQfIE/s1600/fig-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="191" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuAbt5xdd0d3BGqqyuK6Dvd21bpZCbkc0AKBGBX5weFiYRReTJAfAJbg8wY-QDVtZ88OSVrIuknT9PF8dQ2kC8n8vfka0o_CdPrUfAitRhOsx6qLAURn_h5GN8rCygLsCtkEGb_qVQfIE/s1600/fig-6.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Rooty Tail is not desirable </i></div>
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<b>Upper and Lower Thighs in German Shepherds</b><br />
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Another vital parts of the hindquarters in German Shepherd Dogs are the Upper and the Lower thighs and the stifle. The curve and the angulations of the stifle, which depends on the angulations at which the Upper and the Lower thighs are attached is again another very important factor that provides power to the action of propulsion during the movement. The stifle angulations should be almost equal to the angle created by the upper arm and scapula. This angulation of the stifle brings in an overall balance required for effortless and powerful strides. Powerful locomotion is aided by correct stifle angulations, which is measured with the dog standing on all four squares, that is to say, standing with the hind feet positioned under the hip joints. This means standing NOT in stacking position. A correctly angulated stifle in a German Shepherd Dog will have their hocks located on a vertical line drawn across the ischial tuberosity, when standing on four square. When the GSD is made to stand on all four square, the hock will not be vertical. The rear angulation is of utmost importance when the dog requires extreme, short distance speed during an attack or a brief chase while herding sheep. In a true type GSD the femur should be almost parallel to the scapula and the tibia/fibula should be almost parallel to humerus. The long bones of the hind legs are of same length and are almost as long as the humerus. The long bones of the hind legs in German Shepherds are the major source of power and speed, and hnce they must of proportionate length. Too long bones, for instance, may produce a great speed and good jumping ability, but at the same time they burn out good amount of energy as well. As they are equal in length (neither too long, nor too short), they help to generate powerful propulsion which helps in maximum ground coverage with minimum effort.<br />
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Like wolves, German Shepherd Dogs are long distance trotters. Long, effortless and effective trotting demands perfect stifle angulation and efficient running gear that would burn minimum energy while covering maximum ground while controlling a herd of sheep.<br />
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According to the German Shepherd standard the desirable angulation of the upper and lower thigh bones to the horizontal axis (consider ground here) should be 120 degrees, which should refer to the stifle angle when in the proper stack position. Most experienced handlers can make their dog stack in such a manner that the dog will look dog look better angulated than it actually is. Moreover, most GSDs that have been properly taught to stack correctly usually tend to settle down in the rear part, as a result of which the lower thigh tend to be placed more parallel to the ground than it normally is, which thereby, increases the hock angulation while on stack. This, in turn, breaks the parallel relationship between the lower and the upper thigh. It is hence, suggested to measure the angulations of upper and lower thighs to the horizontal axis by making the dog stand naturally (both the hind legs together), and not in stacked position. The real skeletal of the hind region in German Shepherds will be far easier to see.<br />
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<b>Related angulation</b><br />
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Excessive angulation is harmful. Overly angulated hind quarter results in a situation when the dog requires spending more energy while on the move. Overly acute angle between upper thigh and lower thigh, accompanied with the tibia/fibula being proportionately longer than femur will tend to set the hock close to the ground. This, in turn, increases the angle between the tibia/fibula and the dog’s metatarsus, which consequently creates an undesirable condition called sickle hocks.<br />
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Angulation should be proportionate and should not compromise the overall strength in the strides. Essential necessities are strong muscles, equally long bones, strong ligaments and perfect height-to-length ratio.<br />
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<b>German Shepherd Dog Hock </b><br />
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This is another very important part to discuss when it comes to hind quarters in German Shepherd Dogs. When the GSD is made to stack – like in the show ring – with the left leg pulled back, the hock should be vertical to the ground. While in the stacked position, an atomically sound GSD should have a hock almost parallel to the femur – (NOT perfectly parallel though), thereby making the hock angulation and stifle angulation almost same – around 95 degrees.<br />
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Hocks in a trotting breed in German Shepherds are of utmost importance. Any kind of deformities in hock is considered as fault as the propulsive power at the end of a stride on the trot is being transmitted though the joint of the hock. While galloping, both the hock joints generate great force together, which cannot be fulfilled by defective hocks. Similarly while jumping, even higher force is needed to propel the entire body, which cannot be possible with a defective hock.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5B4BYljjIJvUEcLoX0RrmUDNjd00QXMOf-poG4kMl96cT8_X-G3YJn6PLXRh58I1Oxj-reftvJpWTce2cnlmpnGDfeKV730k8PrwST-fUcOkiildIamLieUF_eNolAlQsfPKjZEzoTEc/s1600/fig-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="219" data-original-width="413" height="169" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5B4BYljjIJvUEcLoX0RrmUDNjd00QXMOf-poG4kMl96cT8_X-G3YJn6PLXRh58I1Oxj-reftvJpWTce2cnlmpnGDfeKV730k8PrwST-fUcOkiildIamLieUF_eNolAlQsfPKjZEzoTEc/s320/fig-7.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i>Different Faults in German Shepherd Hock</i> </div>
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<b><u>Straight hocks</u></b> degrade the quality of strides by shortening the strides to a great extent, thereby checking the speed and ability to jump.Straight hocks are faults in GSD breed.<br />
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<u><b>Sickle hocks</b></u>, are noticed in many show dogs that have more angulated hock – more acute angulation than the angle of femur. In case of extreme sickle hocks, the metatarsus tends lay almost flat to the ground, which is a serious fault.<br />
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<b><u>Cow hocks</u></b>, is again another serious fault in German Shepherds. Cow Hock is a condition where the hocks tend to turn towards each other. Cow hock can be a result of any of the two conditions…<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FS2MWW-AKkw/XaaeXn2DBTI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/Q9PghrEgcIUaD6bE4JhI4ikJgFwWDxCCwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/fig-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="215" data-original-width="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FS2MWW-AKkw/XaaeXn2DBTI/AAAAAAAAFIQ/Q9PghrEgcIUaD6bE4JhI4ikJgFwWDxCCwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/fig-8.jpg" /></a><br />
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<ol>
<li>Cow hock due to the entire leg turned out from the hip. In this case the dog tends to stand slightly wider on the rear lags, with the stifle and toes slightly extended outward. Such a condition is considered as normal if the bones in the related areas are straight in connection to each other. </li>
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<li>Cow hock due to twisting inward of the hock and the stifle joints. Such a condition affects the gait or locomotion of the dog, which in turn adversely influence the working ability of the dog. Cow hock due to due to twisting inward of the hock and the stifle joints can only happen if the bones are twisted, which cannot be considered normal. It is a serious fault. </li>
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<b>German Shepherd Dog Foot </b></div>
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German Shepherd Dog should have a strong and thickly padded arched shaped paws. This is very important, as GSD is a working dog and week paws can hardly tolerate the extensive stress that is being put while on work. The rear paws should be well boned and strong enough to deliver good amount of some propulsive power that can act as an additional force to help the hindquarters while on move. Desirable features are, however, strongly arched toes, powerful ligaments and tendons, well boned, well cushioned paws, which should not be too smooth. The hind paw is generally somewhat smaller than the fore paw. This reduces the contact area of the paws with the ground. This tends to concentrating power of the delivered force by the way of increasing the traction.<br />
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<b>Related Read: <a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/12/cross-steps-cross-over-gait-assessment.html" target="_blank">Cross Steps, Cross Over, Gait Assessment in German Shepherd Dog </a></b></div>
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<b>Note:</b> The images of German Shepherds have been reproduced from the original work of Late Linda J Shaw </div>
Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-66729239988643682092019-09-30T21:45:00.001-07:002019-09-30T21:45:17.943-07:00Hind Leg Weakness in German Shepherd Dogs<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Does Your GSD Suddenly Start Showing Signs of Hind Leg Weakness?</i></div>
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Rear Limb Weakness (RLW) or hind leg weakness is commonly seen in large breeds including GSD. A German Shepherd that used to run around without missing out even a single step may suddenly exhibit signs of Rear Limb Weakness (RLW) and pain in the hind leg(s). This condition of sudden and progressive weakening of your GSD's hind limbs may go worse day by day, and its sudden onset will put wrinkles on the owner's forehead. This post is aimed at helping you with detailed information about the probable reasons of the condition.<br />
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<b>Degenerative Myelopathy</b><br />
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Among the several neurological disorders that manifest themselves with RLW and hind part pain, degenerative myelopathy is commonly found in dogs - irrespective of breed type, size and genders. In worst cases DM in your dog may eventually lead to paresis - partial loss of voluntary movement of the hind limbs. DM starts with malfunctioning of the spinal cord, where the signals are not properly carried to the brain and the dog gradually loses strength and control of the hind legs.<br />
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<b>Spinal Cord Injury</b><br />
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Another major reason - quite common - for weakness in hind legs is spinal cord injury, caused by both traumatic and non-traumatic reasons. Any kind of bruise or inflammation in the spinal cord eventually lead to weakness in the rear legs. Severe injury to the spinal cord, and/or vertebral fractures leads to paralysis of rear limbs.<br />
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<b>Common traumatic causes of spinal cord injury in dogs:</b><br />
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• Animal abuse (hit by humans)<br />
• Automobile accidents<br />
• Accidental falls<br />
• Violence - mainly from Gunshot wounds - common in police and war dogs<br />
• Medical/ Surgical Complications<br />
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<b>Common non-traumatic causes of spinal cord injury in dogs:</b><br />
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While non-traumatic spinal cord injuries are not as frequently seen as traumatic spinal cord injury, but they are still prevalent.<br />
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• Osteoporosis<br />
• Spinal tumors and cancer<br />
• Multiple sclerosis (disabling disease of spinal cord and brain - the central nervous system(CNS))<br />
• Inflammation of the spinal cord<br />
• Arthritis<br />
• Spinal Stenosis<br />
• Blood Loss<br />
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<b>Cushing's Diseases</b><br />
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Cushing's Disease is quite common in dogs of 6 years or above. Cushing's disease<br />
(hyperadrenocorticism caused by an ACTH-secreting tumor of the pituitary gland) is the excess production of cortisol hormone by adrenal glands that are located near the kidneys. The hyper-secretion of Cortisol adversely affects the functioning of many organs and is often accompanied by hind leg weakness, excessive shedding and baldness, pot-bellied appearance, excessive thirst and hunger and general weakness.<br />
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<b>Diabetes Mellitus</b><br />
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If your dog has high blood sugar, he/she may exhibit signs of back leg weakness. Overweight canines that are kept on high sugar diets and diets containing grains are more prone develop Diabetes Mellitus. The most common complication that arises from high blood sugar in dogs is diabetic neuropathy, where a temporary or permanent damage of nerve tissues. Such nerve damage usually progresses as a neuropathic problem resulting in weakening of hind legs. This condition eventually progresses either to pain or numbness, and finally the dog will stop movement.<br />
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<b>Intervertebral disk disease (IVDD)</b><br />
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Non-Chondrodystrophic breeds like German Shepherd Dog, Doberman Pinscher and Labrador Retriever are prone to the risk of IVDD (Intervertebral disc degeneration). Also called Degenerative Disc Disease or disc rupture, the obese dogs are more exposed to the risk of this condition where the dog loses strength of hind legs, accompanied by mild pain. IVDD often leads to partial to total paralysis of back legs.<br />
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<b>Arthritis</b><br />
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Another reason for your GSD's back leg weakness may be arthritic pain. Older dogs may suffer arthritis, weak joints and hip joint pain, which may severely compromize the dog's normal mobility. Arthritis in dogs may also lead to change in attitude and behavior.<br />
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<b>Treatment</b><br />
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Treatment completely depends on the cause of RLW. There is no single treatment for all causes of the condition. Your veterinarian may want you to perform and x-ray for your dog to ascertain the cause of weakness and/or pain the back legs. More than that, the vet may also ask you to perform blood tests and urinalysis of your dog that can help him in proper diagnosis. Sometimes general weakness along with RWL may be triggered by the altered (rise or fall) level of minerals like sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, or phosphorous in the blood. Electrolytic imbalance can be treated easily.
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<b>Note:</b> Sometimes genetics are responsible for RLW. Unscientific breeding without keeping anatomy in focus cause puppies to grow with RLW. YOu will suddenly notice your adolescent pup or the adult GSD showing weakness in his hind, and losing motor function of his hind legs. Over time, the weakness grows into pain and may even get worsen. Proper breeding is hence highly desirable.<br />
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<b>Related Read: </b><a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2017/08/breeding-gsd-sv-rules-for-breeders.html" target="_blank" title="SV Rules for German Shepherd Breeding">Breeding GSD - SV Rules For The Breeders</a></div>
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<br />Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-25359761466081268702019-09-26T09:48:00.000-07:002019-09-26T09:48:39.719-07:00Playtime Hyper Excitement In German Shepherds<br />
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<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/09/playtime-hyper-excitement-in-german.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="play time over excitement in German Shepherd Dog" border="0" data-original-height="321" data-original-width="469" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtrt0MTgyTMsJV13Oj7ioF05OrzgbjUYPasEq5_fBM7Uagu9Qd25oUYKszQUCKTV0KWLGo7WQTU2-E9QDlFwCRtqJJ4fp82DWJ3dr0cWr29Md6dKmmyOd1QnW1qpQv79ti_1_wmafDqPA/s1600/play-time-hyper-excitement.jpg" /></a></div>
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Playtime Hyper Excitement has got nothing to do with aggression or any other behavioral problem.<br />
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Playtime excitement is quite common in the German Shepherd Dog breed. Hyper excitement during the playtime is also not very uncommon in these dogs. The roots to the creation of the GSD as a breed is directly from the sturdy working sheep dogs and hence the natural energy level is higher than most of the other dog breeds. GSDs are powerful dogs too. They require exercises a lot more than many other dogs to attain a content and balanced playtime.<br />
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For German Shepherds that exhibit hyper activeness or over excitement during the playtime needs to be handled in a little different ways during the time of exercise. Firstly, being the alpha member of the team (team composed of you, as the leader and your German Shepherd as your follower), you need to establish a set of rule and ceilings in order to prevent him from taking the advantages of the playtime. The ceiling here denotes a particular type of play that is correct and is desired and your German Shepherd should follow you as the pack leader. All you need to do is to show him how to fetch the ball or how to catch the frisbee. But how to?<br />
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Well, this is not a rocket science! And this is highly possible. Make sure that you will not skim the frisbee in the air or throw the ball until he comes to you and calms down to a comparatively cooler state and sits, waits for the throw. Throw the ball after he waits for it and gives you an eye contact, which is a sense of respect towards you – his leader. This way you can frame boundaries or rules of play. But prior to that there are certain steps to be taken, else you will not be able to set up the rules and put him into that.<br />
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There is nothing like playing frisbee or fetching a ball with your GSD in order to get his energy drained out. But before you start playing with your hyper active dog, it is recommended that you get a part of his energy exhausted to a little extent. This is important for the process of putting him into your established rule. A long walk accompanied by occasional trotting for few minutes in between the walks can be a great option of drive out some amount of his energy prior to the play. After the walk get into an fenced yard and allow him rest for a while. Then let him play with the ball by himself – rather not involving yourself into the play. Finally give a twist to this entire exercise regime by throwing the frisbee or the ball for him to fetch. Throw it as far away as possible and allow him to fetch.<br />
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Also allow him to play with the ball or the frisbee alone when at his room or in the garden. This will gradually degrade his sensitivity to the toys and make the toys less attractive to him eventually.<br />
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Most often this kind of overly excited playtime behavior – especially towards the toys are misrepresented as aggression. That's NOT aggression. Many dog owners confuse between <u>play-time over excitement</u> and <u>aggression</u>. This playtime hyper excitement is nothing to be worried about and there’s no reason for it to be associated aggression. It is just the extra level of excitement and energy that he exhibits through exhibiting hyper sensitivity towards certain toys or certain place (for example a large open lawn or many be your yard) during the playtime – especially the toys that he loves the most.<br />
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Remember this entire process is just a package and you need to repeat the whole process as explained over and over until your German Shepherd start behaving in a desensitized way during the play time. However, in such situations it is required to put him into good volume of exercises as explained above throughout the dog's life, until the time he can play well. Volume of exercise must be optimized based on his age and health.Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-54873531802471028592019-09-26T08:46:00.000-07:002019-09-26T08:46:10.684-07:00German Shepherd Puppy Training Tips<center>
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/09/german-shepherd-puppy-training-tips.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="321" data-original-width="469" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-03z-X8oU3VGyV1V59e_yODlYrFMUVR-6BxAFbuVWwgMjIcZfEh_6sA2I293ib4a1_uyKDoHGQN0KftSfe_idK5y-rBJHtJcL2F4rX_w9D7LKd9yu53nOw9qSZIeL5ce8ztvwu1rX_Bc/s1600/step-by-step-gsd-puppy-training.jpg" /></a></center>
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<i>Step-by-Step Training Tips For Your German Shepherd Puppy</i></div>
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<u>Shoulds and Should Nots</u><i> </i></div>
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So you are planning to bring your GSD puppy home! I assume you understand that dog ownership is a life-time commitment, which is not only a commitment of money and effort, but also a commitment of time and relationship too. The German Shepherd puppy is going to be a part of your family and will continue to grow with different requirements – nutritional, activities, space and socialization.<br />
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Training your GSD puppy involves building desirable habits that includes everything - starting from feeding and potty habit to desirable play behavior. German Shepherd puppies are very intelligent and grab new tricks quite faster. However, that's not always a fact though! With growth, the puppy will have a desperate need for daily exercise accompanied with ongoing training in order to check all kinds of negative puppy behavior. For a successful and effective training, the puppy should be put to right socializing process. To start off with, your puppy should be socialized with other animals from a very early age, for instance 4 months age.<br />
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<b>First time outdoor: </b>Take your puppy outdoor for the first time after the first set of vaccine shots are fully done. Keep him in the fenced area and let him explore the entire external world that he can see for the first time ever. Allow him to sniff out the leaves and grasses, and chase the butterflies, moths and birds. Let him run, play and experience the sounds of the falling leaves, chirping birds and other sounds. This kind of socialization is considered as the most significant part of the beginning of an effective dog training.<br />
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<b>Introduction to the training session:</b> Gradually! Your GSD puppy should be introduced to actual training session gradually and in a progressive manner. Start off with potty training your puppy. After each meal, lead him the way outdoor where you want him to defecate. Control him through the lead and don’t let him go else where until he is done. It requires a lot of time to potty train your puppy, because sometimes GSD puppies are typically headstrong.<br />
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<b>Crate training:</b> Crate training the puppy is important. Make sure that his create is just big enough for him to turn around and lie freely inside it. Note that while starting with the crate training your puppy will exhibit behavioral problems with continual whining. I suggest not letting him out until he stops whining. However, it is advisable to crate him in for smaller time span to begin with. As soon as you unlock his crate, make sure to chain him and lead him outdoor without any delay and take him to the place you want him to urinate and potty. It is suggested that you always follow the same and most feasible route to that place. Taking different routes will make training ineffective, as it will confuse the pup. <br />
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<b>Introduction to verbal command obedience training:</b> No age is too early or too late, and right time is to <i>start today and now </i>if he has crossed three months of age and properly vaccinated. Vaccination is very important because you may need to take take him outdoor if you think inside your house is not the right place for him to be trained. Moreover, training outdoor has its unique effectiveness provided you choose the right time when there will be no disturbing element that may deviate his attention. Early in the morning and during the night are the two suggested times. Better start off with the command “COME”. Let him play enough to be a little tired and will want to sit. Let him sit, while you move away to a distant. Be sited yourself and deliver the command “COME” while encouraging him, showing him a piece of cookie. If he denies, repeat the command, lovingly and encouragingly. Offer him his tidbits when he comes to you and praise him lavishly. The trick is to let him know which sound associates with which desirable action and if he makes you happy he will be getting his favorite tidbits. Firm voice and strictness won't work at this age.<br />
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Most Important Puppy Training Tips</span></b></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Your training will be successful if you make your puppy feel that training session is just a play session and a fun! </span></div>
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<b>Transition from one command to the other – “COME” to :</b> This is the most delicate point and chances are there that your puppy will get confused with commands and action. Consistency, repetition and patience are the key to the success story. The best command that should be chosen after “COME” is “SIT”. After he is well acquainted with the sound “COME”, stop offering him his cookies when he comes. Start with teaching him how to sit with the Command “SIT” now. Sit before and hold the cookie run your hand slowly over his nose and head and towards his loin and gently press the loin region and deliver the command softly yet firmly “SIT”. He will automatically sit while following the cookie in your hand. One he sits offer him his cookie and praise him. Repeat the whole process again and again starting from “COME” to “SIT”.<br />
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<b>What’s next:</b> The best lesson to teach him after “SIT” is the command “DOWN”. Once he is quite well with “SIT”, start with “DOWN”. <u><i>Teaching the “DOWN” command to your puppy requires additional patience</i></u>. More importantly, you need to first establish yourself as the ALPHA member (leader of the pack, where the pack mates are you and your puppy). Sometimes, teaching “DOWN” command is typically tough because the puppy will associate the action of lying down to the sense of submission, and he will try not to be submissive too easily. What is desirable to be achieved with the down command is to make your puppy cool and get down to the laying position, with the belly touching the floor, and his front legs extended in the front.<br />
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<b>Related Read:</b> <a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2019/09/effective-puppy-training-tips-advices.html" target="_blank">Technical Suggestions for Effective Dog Training</a>.</div>
Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-74927454720504265052019-09-26T04:57:00.002-07:002019-09-26T04:57:46.350-07:00Rehabilitating Shy & Unsocialized German Shepherd Puppies<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a alt="Rehabilitating Shy German Shepherd Pup" href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/09/rehabilitating-shy-unsocialized-german.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="321" data-original-width="469" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GegyJ97iyz0/XYynR6jF8UI/AAAAAAAAFFc/_FpZ9uLV0lkmtrH4p4hch-5fQK5G8dRDACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Rehabilitating-Shy-German-Shepherd-Puppies.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Socializing Your German shepherd Puppy</i></div>
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If your German Shepherd puppy is gradually getting aggressive towards other animals and strangers or strange situations or if he exhibits unpredictable behavior and shies away when your friend approaches him with a friendly gesture, then you should admit that you have not socialized your dog properly when he was young. It is your fault - not your dog's, although there are instances about shyness being genetically instilled into the progenitors from their parents.<br />
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There are many reasons why some German Shepherd puppies grow different and shy away and try to attack other animals and strangers. Many a times novice owners pick puppies from their dam or separated from the pack before they reach at least 2 months of age. It is a must to keep the pup with its damn and newly born pack members, because of four major reasons:<br />
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<b>a)</b> It gets the total nutritional benefits of the mother's milk <br />
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<b>b)</b> Keeping it with his pack members until at least 8-10 weeks of age will help each puppy to learn how to mingle and behave with other dogs <br />
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<b>c)</b> Keeping it with another adult dog (its mother), each puppy learns certain skills, gains confidence that make each of them naturally social by birth <br />
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<b>d)</b> Being with an adult dog (its mother) helps each puppy to get groomed up with special skill to resolve conflicts<br />
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<b>Shyness caused by Social Deprivation </b><br />
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A German Shepherd puppy that is separated from his pack before at least 2 months does not learn adequate skill and confidence to handle a strange situation which they face from time to time.<br />
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<u>Another reason why of dogs becoming fearful and unsocial even though they were picked after they reached two or two and a half months of age is Social Deprivation. Social deprivation during a puppy's grooming phase (early years) is commonest cause for the puppy (irrespective of breed, class and gender) growing into an unsocial adult.</u> If they are kept away from the external world - enclosed in a hall or kept in a backyard where they hardly get to encounter with various sounds, situations, incidences, animals and people. Consequently, when they are brought to the world outside their enclosed territories, they get nervous and tend to shy away when people or animals approach them or they face situations that is strange to them. They begin to consider every single stranger or strange situation and incidence as a threat. Treating shyness caused by social deprivation can be tough and a time consuming process, and in worst cases sometimes fixing the problem seems impossible and requires serious intervention of professional canine behaviourists.<br />
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You have an immense responsibility, if you want to handle things by yourself. First off, always keep in touch with a knowledgeable professional who can guide you in this process. Establishing yourself as an alpha member is of prime importance. Once you've done that successfully, things will become much easier and controllable. You need to control the way your dog interacts with other people who are stranger to him and Vice versa. As soon as a person, who is unknown to your dog, approaches him he will shy away due to his normal instinct. Ask the person to ignore him totally and not to proceed further and touch him. Also the stranger should not make any eye-to-eye contact with him... means nothing that can make him feel unsecured. "Ignoring" him is the way you can make your dog feel that people who approach him do not have any wrong notion, and should not be considered as threat. And your dog will relax from within his mind. This is a training process (Socialization) and is not as simple as it reads here, rather needs a rigorous daily practice. It may take a few months to even a year to get your dog socialized with strangers. The key to the success story is to adopt a non-treacherous, docile and very thoughtful method to make him understand that the world beyond his territory is not a threat to him. For sure you will be glad to see one fine morning he will start coming closer to people. Let him sniff a new person. Even now it's not the right time to touch him! Discourage a person to touch your dog, even if your dog is smelling the person and exhibiting a slight wagging. "Slight wagging" (wagging with slight breaks or not in full swing) indicates that your dog still have confusion and doubts in his mind about strangers. He is yet to open up for a better interaction. Be patient!<br />
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<b>Start Socializing Your Puppy at The Early Age</b> <br />
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Some German Shepherd puppies are stubborn by birth and this trait gets instilled into them genetically from their parents. Pushing them to do something will never be fruitful. Although characteristics that are genetically influenced cannot be easily manipulated, yet a certain level of repetitive practice of socialization will definitely help. For instance, if he shows stubbornness and signs of attacking or misbehaving with other dogs and strangers in the park, consider taking things more seriously. Talk to your friends who have dogs with balanced mental configuration. Tell them that your dog is in a training session and you need their help. All you need to do is to go for walk together and in the process do force your dog to befriend them instantly. Notice your dog and keep in under strict control, so that he doesn't exhibit any kind of wrong behavior to strangers and other dogs. Let him feel that everyone in the pack (including the human) is trustworthy and he will gradually realize that going out with them will be safe. Doing this almost everyday, if possible, will make things easier and bring your dog in the main stream faster.<br />
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<b>Socializing Your GSD Puppy With Sound</b> <br />
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Socializing with sound is another important thing. Sometimes honking car, thunderclaps, or other noise may scare him. He may consequently exhibit sudden fear-behavior, and will try to get into a safer place. Don't try to comfort him instantly. Ignore it, and continue moving forward. Being the leader of the pack, guide him towards focusing more on his confidence, and walk forward, without giving a halt. Addressing to his nervousness will help in nothing, but his nervousness will be encouraged.<br />
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"Rehabilitation" is a word used for dogs that have not been properly socialized. Putting your German Shepherd puppy to a session of socialization will stimulate the five most important senses in him that can make him a balanced dog. "Socializing" your German Shepherd puppy is getting him introduced, exposed and desensitized to the five distinctive situations that include smells, sight, sounds, touch and feelings that he may come across in his day-to-day life.<br />
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<b>Related Read:</b> <a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2017/05/puppy-socialization-checklist-for-dog.html" target="_blank">Puppy Socialization Checklist</a></div>
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<br />Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-64202295863167368362019-09-11T09:37:00.000-07:002020-03-24T09:39:52.164-07:00Schultzs Law - Law Enforced in the honor of the police German Shepherd Dog Schult<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Death of Gloucester police GSD, Schultz - the iconic crime fighter, leads to call for mandatory severe penal action</i></div>
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After the incidence of killing an on-duty Gloucester Township police German Shepherd Dog, named Schultz by the robbery suspect, Sen. Fred Madden and Assembly man Paul Moriarty (both D-Camden and Gloucester) have introduced legislation to punish such acts with a mandatory five-year jail term. Gloucester is a city, district and county town of Gloucestershire in the South West part of England.<br />
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Schultz was a 3.5-year-old German shepherd Dog owned by Gloucester's police force was part of a 100-officer manhunt for a robbery suspect on the night of Nov. 3, 2010. Schultz followed their odor to bushes near Route 42 and pounced on one of the criminals named Robinson, said the Gloucester County Police Chief Harry Earle. After the suspect had been tracked, Schultz latched onto the arm of the man, who deliberately and recklessly swung Schultz amidst the traffic on Route 42 in order to escape his grip, reported the police officers. According to the report Schultz was run over by a speeding car and expired within a while along the roadside.<br />
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On Tuesday, December 7, 2010 Madden said, "Schultz gave his life doing exactly what he was trained to do - hunt down criminals and help his human handlers arrest them so they could be brought to justice." He further said, "Schultz died a hero. Targeting and killing a police dog should be viewed no less harshly than directly assaulting a police officer." At a grim news conference on Wednesday, the Gloucester County Police Chief Harry Earle said, "Officer Schultz gave his life for Cpl. Pickard and all the other officers." According to Moriarty, "dogs that assist law enforcement are valuable allies in the fight against crime. This dog was doing nothing more than his job serving and protecting the public. They deserve legitimate protection against abuse, and those who abuse them need to face severe punishment."<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CNhqsI8_aj4/Xno2GjjlUQI/AAAAAAAAFOA/78c4eRRMIIM9K_e14QeXg3qTH8XLc5rtACLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Schultz%2Blaw.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="266" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CNhqsI8_aj4/Xno2GjjlUQI/AAAAAAAAFOA/78c4eRRMIIM9K_e14QeXg3qTH8XLc5rtACLcBGAsYHQ/s320/Schultz%2Blaw.jpg" width="249" /></a></div>
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<i>Gloucester Township patrolman Mark Pickard and his dog Schultz attend a </i></div>
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<i>K-9 Heroes Day program at Veterans Park in Gloucester Township, N.J., on June 5, 2010.</i></div>
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The bill (S-2541/A-3602) was passed under which the law called "Schultz's Law" was enforced in honor of the hero GSD named Schultz. According to the "Schultz's Law", the people found guilty of purposeful killing a police dog or a dog (irrespective of breed and type) engaged in a search and rescue operation would be sentenced to a mandatory minimum three to five years of imprisonment, with no eligibility for parole, and a fine of $15,000. According to the "Schultz's Law", Killing a police dog or search and rescue dog (regardless of breed) is currently considered as a third-degree crime, which results to the severe penal action mentioned above.<br />
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The lawmakers mentioned that Schultz - the iconic police GSD was highly renowned throughout Gloucester. Schultz - the iconic police German Shepherd used to lice with his handler, Cpl. Mark Pickard, and his family.<br />
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It was a time of mourning for police in Gloucester Township. The flag in front of the municipal building was at half-staff on Wednesday for the entire day. Pickard was put on administrative leave to grieve. Earle said that Pickard and his family would not be available for comment. He further said that donations were rolling in to honor the K-9 crime fighter, Schultz. He said they'd be used to pay for a memorial and perhaps a new police dog. Schultz's service was held at 2 p.m. at Gloucester Township Community Park, which included the unveiling of a K-9 memorial sign, as well as a bagpipe performance, a rifle salute and honor guards. A procession of all Gloucester Township police vehicles had escort Schultz's cremated remains to the Hickstown Road park. Schultz's cortege had departed at 1:40 p.m. from the Chews Landing Veterinary Hospital, 1179 Chews Landing Road.<br />
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Moriarty said, "<i>Schultz was more than a dog to his community. He was a friend, protector and an asset to all law-abiding citizens. This law will ensure he and his fellow K-9 officers have strong protections against those who shirk society's rules.</i>" Sen. Fred Madden said, "<i>Hopefully, passage of this law would be a lasting memorial to his service,</i>" Madden said.<br />
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Let Schulz's soul sleep in peace - Aringsburg</div>
Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-10677175223659902912019-08-27T04:01:00.002-07:002019-08-27T04:02:24.025-07:00Understanding German Shepherd Puppy With High Prey Drive<br />
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<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/understanding-high-prey-drive-gsd-puppy.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="321" data-original-width="469" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLC21h3LaB2t_9FVA5Ib1psuMf2BB1F3ZOJ_DbPuNN0TcAgFAdPHPub-Krr9Z2nwzpqotCuSy_quU_h33yCbTD-fMUgNw7yU2z8uCKMgHCLhD_rfBVtmYMqvHkd_646xVtQX-x5d_60Vg/s1600/high-prey-drive-pup.jpg" /></a></div>
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Understanding a hard German Shepherd puppy with very strong Prey Drive</div>
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<b><i>Hard puppies can be made easy with strategic handling and appropriate corrective measures</i></b><br />
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A lot many of our readers have emailed us seeking for advice on how
to raise a GSD puppy with very high prey drive. A high prey drive puppy
is often a hard puppy, and the owners usually face real challenge to
teach them the meanings of the commands. High Prey drive GSD pups have
often been returned back, as handlers consider them to be problem pups.
Fact is <b>Prey Drive in German Shepherd</b>
(also called Booty Instinct) is one of the most important in instincts
typical to this breed, and a need for the pup to grow up as perfect
working dog. Please understand that Prey Drive is highly desirable in
correct degree in German Shepherds; Excessively high level of Prey
Instincts makes the puppy hard to train.<br />
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<b>Understanding Prey Drive</b><br />
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It is important to know what actual Prey Drive or Booty Instinct
means. This is the drive that stimulates your German Shepherd puppy to
chase a moving object and bite. This is a genetically inherited
instinct, which is not too commonly found in all German Shepherd
puppies. It is a genetic instinct by which the dog tries to experience
the nature’s moving objects like a running squirrel, flying butterfly
and hopping grasshopper and seizes them. Higher Prey Drive stimulates
your puppy to chase the fly until he gets hold of it, and until he
seizes the moving object he cannot pay attention on other things going
around.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>What’s There in This High Prey Drive That Makes Your German Shepherd Puppy Hard</b><br />
<br />
Candidly speaking, raising and training a puppy with high prey drive
is not every one’s cup of tea. The reason is that not many of the dog
trainers possess adequate basic skill that he or she may require to
handle a strong prey drive puppy. Very high level of patience with a
calm and assertive energy, enough time and technical knowledge about
correct implementation of Positive Reinforcement Training approaches are
the basic needs that a trainer should have to handle a puppy with
Higher Prey Drive.<br />
<br />
An experienced trainer will want to strengthen the prey instinct and
at the same time train the puppy the desired skills. He will understand
that the temperament and behavior of the puppy is governed by his/her
drives that are:<br />
<br />
<b>i)</b> Naturally expressed through his instincts <br />
And <br />
<b>ii)</b> Stimulated by Positive Reinforcement Training methods<br />
<br />
High Prey Drive in a German Shepherd puppy can make it a hard
specimen. If not channelized correctly, in the right direction, the
puppy’s High Prey Drive may develop into undesirable behavior towards
his surroundings, making the puppy unmanageable.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>What is Most Challenging in a Puppy With Very Strong Prey Instinct</b><br />
<br />
A lot of people have not got opportunities to handle very High Prey
Drive GSD pups, because they are not very common. Do not get confused
with puppies having prey drive and puppies having very high prey drive.
While it’s too common for all working line German Shepherd to have
adequate and desirable degree of Prey Instinct; It’s not very common to
find a pup with this instinct in a very high degree. The challenge lies
in the fact that a puppy with very high degree of this instinct usually:<br />
<br />
<b>i) </b>Remain aloof to other happenings and even remain aloof to commands <br />
<b>ii) </b>Have very very short attention span<br />
And<br />
<b>iii)</b> Easily rebounces back to his own activities (that not desirable at a particular moment) even after corrections<br />
<br />
<br />
All these three factors merge together to make it a hard puppy that
gets corrected, but immediately turns back from corrections and get back
to his own unique form.<br />
<br />
Another most important thing that makes it really challenging to
handle a hard puppy is handler’s inability to understand whether really
his puppy has very high prey drive. If you think that you are raising a
high prey drive puppy because he is hard to train, you may not be
thinking right. Chances are there that your puppy is genetically
stubborn. Some puppies are born stubborn which makes them hard to train –
that does not mean that they have high prey drive. Stubbornness and
Prey instincts are not same.<br />
<br />
May be your puppy has high prey drive, but with correct handling and
Positive Reinforcement Training approaches he can be easily trained. Not
all hard puppies have very high prey drive, but most of the very high
prey drive puppies are hard.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Is there anything that is good about a puppy with higher degree of this drive?</b><br />
<br />
Yes… obviously every cloud has a silver lining! If you really have a
hard puppy (hard due to very high prey instinct) you should feel lucky.
Such puppies are usually not influenced by minor handling errors. Softer
puppies can be easily trained because they can be easily influenced and
better influenced compared to their harder counterparts. Minor handling
problems due to low handling skill set can lead a normal puppy in the
wrong direction, thereby developing problem points in the future.<br />
<br />
<b>What does it take to raise a Strong Prey Drive Puppy?</b><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Handling</b><br />
<br />
Strategic handling accompanied with Positive Reinforcement Training
approaches is the most important method of handling. As discussed above,
as a leader of the pack you need to be assertive, confident, patient,
understanding, compassionate, and at the same time you should have
zero-tolerance for all undesirable behaviors in your puppy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Treatment</b><br />
<br />
Treat him like your human child. If you are being asked to choose a
teacher for your child, what kind of a teacher will you choose? I am
sure you would want your child to be taught by someone who is patient,
understanding, and teaches at a speed that your child can easily follow.
I am sure you will not like the teacher to punish your child suddenly
for small mistakes. <b> </b><br />
<br />
<b> </b><br />
<br />
<b> <b>Consistency</b> </b><br />
<br />
<b> </b>Raising a hard puppy demands more dedication that
raising their softer or normal counterparts. While “consistency” is the
key to all types dog training, but for a hard puppy “consistency” should
be a way of life – not just an option. You need to be consistently firm
and strict as long as your puppy becomes a fully correct specimen.
Corrections Punishing a Strong Prey Drive Puppy doesn’t work much,
because he would instantly rebounce back from punishment mode and go
back to his natural form (as discussed above). <i><u>Corrections should not
be in a punishing mode. You need to be firm, calm and with a positive
attitude (Must). The moment you go impatient, the entire endeavor will
go waste. However, very strong and firm shakes and several shakes by the
neck’s nape may be necessary for a hard and Strong Prey Drive puppy to
bring him back to desirable mode. </u></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Myth</b><br />
<br />
If you are among those who consider <u>firmness in a handler's attitude</u> and <u>firmness with repetitive in the corrective shakes</u>
as abusive training approaches, then you are probably wrong (Myth). You
have to have a different temperament as an owner and take different
corrective actions to train a puppy with strong prey drive. Without firm
handling and strict corrective measures a hard puppy can grow into a
big menace very shortly. If you believe that being too strict in
handling a High Prey Drive puppy will destroy the working ability of the
dog, you are probably wrong again (Myth again). Strategic handling
comes to play here. Strategic handling involves <u>conditioning the “Drive’s redundancy”</u>
to gradually fade out the undesirable behavior that generates due to
the redundancy and at the same time developing the Drive/Instinct to use
it more productively.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Starting Age for Correction</b><br />
<br />
Starting off at a very early stage of around 8 to 9 weeks is appropriate.<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Exercise</b><br />
<br />
One very important factor in Prey Drive that plays in favor of the
handler is that , the effect of this instinct (excessive chewing,
excessive chasing etc.) eventually gets diminished as the puppy gets
tired. A correct amount of exercise (proportionate to the age) is a must
to diminish the effect. The motive is to letting the excess energy go
out.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: right;">
<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white;">Related Reads - Understanding German Shepherd Basic Instincts </span></span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;">
</h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;">
</h4>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/breeders-should-understand-german-shepherd-instincts.html" target="_blank">Basic Instincts of German Shepherd That all Breeders Need to Understand</a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/using-motivational-factors-in-dog.html" target="_blank">Using Motivational Factors in Dog Training Techniques For Your GSD</a> </div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Points of Confusion:</b><br />
<br />
<b>1.</b> Not all chasing behaviors are stimulated by Prey Instinct. Chasing driven by behavioral issues is not related to this drive.<br />
<b>2.</b> Strong Prey Drive puppies have biting tendencies. Not all puppies having biting tendencies necessarily have Strong Prey Drive. <br />
<b>3. </b>Abusive training approaches and too firm training
approaches are not same. Handler need to be very strict and firm to
correct a Strong Prey Drive puppyAringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-28016596634974811182019-08-27T00:08:00.000-07:002019-09-23T10:01:33.509-07:00Why is your German Shepherd Dog Overly Aggressive?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/why-is-your-german-shepherd-dog-overly-aggressive.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="321" data-original-width="469" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OLB2DbCgna8/XWTWNTtJoII/AAAAAAAAE-k/eg5KWE9LltASEo3s_h4Ew6_E_YBF1HZRgCLcBGAs/s1600/aggressive-gsd.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>Overly Aggressive German Shepherds is a big problem!</i></div>
<br />
If you are a German Shepherd lover, there are chances that you like to meet new German Shepherd owners and mingle with new dogs. I am sure that by doing so you have met shepherds with strange behavior. Overly aggressive German Shepherd Dogs are threats to not only the owners, but also other animals and friends of their owners. The fact is, it is due to the lack of knowledge of the owners that many shepherds become aggressive. Well, aggression is a genetic trait that stimulates the protective drive of the breed. Over aggression in German Shepherd Dogs is a psychological imbalance and a serious fault in the breed. Such behavior is a deviation from the standard of GSD behavior.<br />
<br />
This post includes tips and tricks to handle an overly aggressive German Shepherd Dog. You can get some important points that may help you make your German Shepherd Dog learn good habits. Teaching should start at the very young age, but since most dogs start displaying aggressive behavior in the later age you need to be well equipped with the technical know-how of teaching good things that can be applied at any point of time in the dog's life span. Remember GSD is a very intelligent breed and has an instinctual tendency to please his master - its important to understand this. Make your dog please you and show that you are pleased when he shows desirable behavior.<br />
<br />
Most GSD owners, I have come across, cannot understand how to get their overly aggressive shepherds to learn good habits. Dogs are not humans. They understand things in a very different way. So most often, when an untrained trainer is training your German Shepherd, he is actually contributing to the dog's behavioral problems, thereby making them worse! My first tip to solving this problem is to find the right trainer, who knows how to communicate with and train a GSD with scientific methods. German shepherds are different from other breeds. <u>A professionally trained trainer understands this well! Slashing, yelling and forcing him doesn't really work. A good trainer is a canine behaviorist first; he should be able to understand what your Shepherd actually need.</u><br />
<br />
An untrained German Shepherd Dog can be a nightmare. So, before you have to make a decision to have your monstrous shepherd put down, you should in for some effective training session. An overly aggressive German Shepherd Dog does not just show up its wildness one day suddenly. It might have displayed warning signals quite often in his life that he had never been a friendly pet. As a young pup he might have been a timid dog that has always disliked strangers or strange places or he could have showed aggression at people coming near him and his food and toys. As a responsible owner you should be able to observe your pup's subtle behavioral changes and identify what's wrong! <br />
<br />
<u>All dogs must be well socialized and should undergo a serious obedience training session</u> either at home or in classes, in order to make them almost no-problem dogs. Proper socialization mitigates dominance and over aggression. Your dog's handler should be knowledgeable enough. The handler's aggression towards your German Shepherd will never mitigate the dog's aggression. It will never work. The handler MUST have a thorough understanding on:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Temperament in dogs and its relation with dominance and aggression</li>
<li>How genetics play its role on the dog's behavior and contribute to aggression and dominance</li>
</ul>
<br />
<i>The control of all types of behavior in a dog is a very complex process, and is hugely influenced by genetics and environmental factors. </i><br />
<ul>
</ul>
<br />
1. <b>Most important problem area:</b> <u>Unscientific breeding</u> is the most common factor that contributes to aggression of a dog. This area needs serious attention. An overly aggressive German Shepherd Dog, all through his life, shows warning signs that it is not like the other friendly canine companions. Choosing the right breeder is very important. <u>Both the fear based aggression and dominant aggression are due to poor breeding, while territorial aggression and predatorial aggression in German Shepherds are normal and desirable to a certain degree.</u> A well-bred GSD has a stead nerve and stable psychological health. Over-aggression and attack behavior are very rare in a well-bred specimen. <u><br /></u><br />
<br />
2. <b>Training sessions:</b> Training process starts by boosting up the pup's the confidence level and making it feel secured. Overly aggressive German Shepherd Dogs usually have some kind of fear. They are often psychologically weak with low degree of hardness in their character. <u>A pup with lack of confidence and psychological resiliency to unpleasant and strange situations, cannot be corrected easily.</u> I suggest creating a perfect environment around the training zone. You can invite a few friends of yours whom your dog knows well. With the gradual passage of time you can invite a stranger along with your friends and go on for stroll in the park with them and your dog. Gradually increase the number of friends and strangers. This can be a very effective socialization technique and should be a slow process. By making haste in this process you may unknowingly contribute to your shepherd's behavioral problem, instead of solving it. A gradual and slow process in this socialization technique will keep pup's stress under control, and he will feel comfortable, and eventually get socialize to strangers and strange situations.<br />
<br />
3. <b>Mingling with other dogs:</b> Often times aggressive dogs cannot tolerate other animals within their vicinity, which makes the dogs show aggressive behavior towards them. This is not a desirable characteristics of a well-bred GSD. Such problems can be solved, although not a very easy task. Mingling session has to be started immediately Today is the right time! Keep your dog on the leash in a region having a few other more confident and calm dogs. Hold the leash tight and as soon as he shows signs of aggression, just give him a mild jolt with a sharp "NO". Repeat it whenever he shows signs of anger. Keep a constant eye on him and you can predict how he will be behaving on a specific situation a few seconds before he actually shows the aggression. As soon as you can predict his behavior, give him a jolt with a sharp "NO". It will take a lot of time to socialize your German Shepherd Dog with other dogs. You need to be patient and consistent and handle him correctly, and with firm hand.<br />
<br />
4. <b>Keep your dog away from other aggressive adult dogs:</b> Remember dogs are pack animals and they live a pack life. Their specific behaviors are usually the resultant products of staying together within the pack, which is very natural. If they do not consider their owner as the pack leader they will take it upon themselves to become the leader of the pack which turns out to be quite detrimental. If you have a new addition to your kennel, keep the new dog or puppy away from the other aggressive members of your kennel. Studies have shown that dogs and puppies that are in contact with the other aggressive pack mates usually become aggressive with time. Get the new dog surround with cool tempered, confident, well mannered, playful dogs with positive behavioral traits.<br />
<br />
5. <b>A battered German Shepherd loses trust and confidence: </b>A German Shepherd that is being tortured physically and/or mentally today, will become an overly aggressive monster tomorrow. An abused dog is prone to become frequent biter and usually turns out to be overly aggressive towards human. <u>Do not make your dog lose trust no you</u>. If you are the second owner of your GSD, who is highly aggressive. You (yourself) are the right person to reduce his aggression. Help him regain his trust and confidence on you. Take him to walk... long walk. Take him to swim and play frisbee. Serve him treats when he listens to your commands. Try to develop a bondage with your dog; make him understand that you are his pack member, BUT DO NOT FORGET TO ESTABLISH ALFA MEMBERSHIP IN THE PROCESS.<br />
<br />
6.<b> Establish Alfa Membership:</b> German Shepherds instinctively try to establish a rank within their pack. Dominant German Shepherds have been studied to have problems with their pack and rank within the pack. You need to be an established Alfa member of the pack. If you are an owner of a dominant German Shepherd Dog, you have to learn to become the alfa member of the pack, which most owners are not aware of or give this an afterthought. Establishing the leadership is a continuous and consistent process, which should be started since its puppy-hood. Crate training is of utmost importance here.<br />
<br />
7. <b>Lack of Exercise:</b> German Shepherds are working dog. Less work and less exercise makes the dog easily frustrated. Aggression may be a result of this too! Frustration and aggression are directly related in working breeds like German Shepherd Dogs. A tired dog is a contend dog. Put him to heavy exercise. Long walk, trot, swimming, playing fetch are best exercise you can give to your dog, backed with good food and sufficient rest.<br />
<br />
8.<b> Poor Nerves:</b> Dogs with poor nerves can be fierce biter. Indication of poor nerves are shrinking away from the strangers or fear of loud noises. Poor nerve is a breeding fault... this means such a behavior is wrongly controlled by genetics. It is hence important to look for the right breeder and his breeding programs.<br />
<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: right;">
<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white;">Related Reads - Aggression in German Shepherds </span></span></h4>
<h4 style="text-align: right;">
</h4>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2011/06/environmentally-engineered-aggression.html" target="_blank">Frustration-Elicited Aggression is Environmentally Engineered Behavior</a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2011/03/your-behavior-can-contribute-to.html" target="_blank">Your Own Behavior Can Contribute to Your Dog's Aggression</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="http://How to handle an Overly Aggressive German Shepherd Dog" target="_blank">How to handle an Overly Aggressive German Shepherd Dog</a></div>
<br />
<br />
<h4 style="text-align: right;">
<span style="background-color: black;"><span style="color: white;">More Related Reads From Welcome Dog Lovers</span></span></h4>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<a href="https://welcomedoglovers.blogspot.com/2008/12/dog-aggression-why-dog-becomes.html">Dog Aggression - Why Dog Becomes Aggressive</a> </div>
<br />
<br />
<span class="ILfuVd NA6bn"><span class="e24Kjd">Aggression is a seriously detrimental behavior that needs be adjusted with the help corrective training.</span></span><br />
<br />
To conclude, the first and the major step to dealing with an overly aggressive German Shepherd Dog is to understand why the dog acts the way he does, and then figuring out what strategic drives should be taken as corrective measures.Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-4597787873617237982019-08-23T10:11:00.003-07:002019-08-23T10:18:34.750-07:00Study on German Shepherd Dog Skull<b>German Shepherd Dog Skull - Morphometric Study<i></i></b><br />
<br />
<br />
A morphometric study has been carried out at Istanbul University, Veterinary Faculty, Department of Anatomy, Turkey on the skull of the German Shepherd Dog. Skulls of 33 GSD puppies between the age group of 45 days and 105 days had been researched on. Breeders who breed for look, often times tend to set a goal for large heads. It is one of the most important criterion in determining the specimens that are close to the standard. Understanding and evaluating the indices and ratios of the skulls are best way to define the structural types.<br />
<br />
Two groups had been formed in order to carry out the research work.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Group 1 included German Shepherd puppies between 45 days and 60 days. </li>
<li>Group 2 included German Shepherd puppies between 61 days and 105 days.
</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<b>Group 1 (GSD pups </b><b>between 45 days and 60 days) </b><br />
<br />
Research work had been carried out with detailed measurements of the skulls of German Shepherd puppies between 45 days and 60 days. The measurements obtained were as follows:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>a skull weight of 36.95 g </li>
<li>a skull length of 113.96 mm </li>
<li>a maximum zygomatic width of 66.52 mm </li>
<li>a cranial length of 71.31 mm </li>
<li>a maximum neurocranium width of 52.11 mm </li>
<li>a viscerocranial length of 50.28 mm </li>
<li>a skull index of 58.43 </li>
<li>a cranial index of 73.24 </li>
<li>a facial index of 133.13 </li>
<li>a cranial volume of 55.38 ml
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/study-on-german-shepherd-dog-skull.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="203" data-original-width="345" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Y_k2CfAw8g/XWALXTLmOSI/AAAAAAAAE8s/XW48g5UwKd0Htg8Pt_UenZAIcCewIAHLwCLcBGAs/s1600/GSD-SKULL-Ventral%2BSection.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>German shepherd Dog Skull - Ventral Section</u></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Group 2 </b><b><b>(GSD pups </b><b>between 61 days and 105 days) </b></b><br />
<br />
Research work had been carried out with detailed measurements of the skulls of German Shepherd puppies between 61 days and 105 days. The measurements obtained were as follows:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>a skull weight of 61.17 g </li>
<li>a skull length of 143.38 mm </li>
<li>a maximum zygomatic width of 73.54 mm </li>
<li>a cranial length of 83.38 mm </li>
<li>a maximum neurocranium width of 53.70 mm </li>
<li>a viscerocranial length of 68.64 mm </li>
<li>a skull index of 51.44 </li>
<li>a cranial index of 64.57 </li>
<li>a facial index of 107.96 </li>
<li>a cranial volume of 75.75 ml
</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/study-on-german-shepherd-dog-skull.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="221" data-original-width="350" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sPE-fBAbNCI/XWALeQp3udI/AAAAAAAAE8w/e0J5s3GLUTgbEkgpdYbBGm7ufRLXmkhuwCLcBGAs/s1600/GSD-SKULL-Lateral%2BSection.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>German shepherd Dog Skull - Lateral Section</u></div>
<br />
Researchers in charge of the project calculated the correlation coefficients in order to determine the likely relationship, that could have existed, between the indices and the other parameters. It was determined that all the measurements increased with the increase in age of the dogs. This was not the end of the research! Most interestingly, with the increase in age the indices decreased, and an insignificant positive correlation between cranial volume and skull weight had been discovered. The research carried out by the Veterinary Faculty of Istanbul University has been of high significance when it comes to considering the German Shepherd Dog types and for advanced study for breeders.<br />
<br />
Researchers suggested that for German shepherd dogs of <u><b>dolichocephalic</b></u> type (i.e. <u><i><b>a dog with a long narrow skull, and having a cephalic index of under 75</b></i></u>), it should be agreed that, with the increase in age of the puppy, the farther the values are from the mean value, the higher the chance of defect of a puppy will be. The outcome of the study is also very important for the vets to investigate the correlation between certain very significant health issues, for instance, nasal cancer risk and the skull shape.<br />
<br />
A true type GSD skull should be <u><b>mesocephalic</b></u> form (<u>medium proportionate structure</u>) which is in between <u><b>dolichocephalic</b></u> (<u>long skull - breadth less than 75% of length</u>) and <u><b>brachycephalic</b></u> (<u>very broad and short skull - breadth almost 80% of length</u>) types.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2019/08/study-on-german-shepherd-dog-skull.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="235" data-original-width="324" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uDJPJ21QUoA/XWAc0PiCxCI/AAAAAAAAE9A/oJH4wCxy2g8mxo7e3EGeoso24_Zs1hXlQCLcBGAs/s1600/mesocephalic-gsd-skull.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u>True type GSD skull should be mesocephalic form</u></div>
<br />
Further research work had been carried out in order to find the closeness of the German Shepherd Dog skull and that of the other hounds and wolf. The German Shepherd Dog breed has earned a great deal of a repute as a highly potent guard dog, with a fierce bite. Even then the muzzle and teeth of GSD breed had been found relatively weaker compared to the African hunting dog and the wolf.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Related information</b></div>
<br />
<u><i>Described below is the <b>desirable head type for German Shepherd </b>according to the <b>current SV/FCI breed standard No.166 23.12.2010/EN</b>:</i></u><br />
<br />
<br />
<i>The GSD head should be desirably<b> <u>wedge-shaped</u></b>, and <b><u>proportionate to the size of the body</u></b>.</i><i><span class="vmod"> A true type GSD head <b><u>should not be </u></b></span><b><u>too elongated</u></b> and <b><u>moderately broad between the ears</u></b>. </i><i><i>The head <b><u>should not be plumpy of r</u></b></i><i><span class="vmod"><b><u>oundish in shape</u></b>. T</span></i>he front and side profile of the <b><u>forehead should be very slightly arched</u></b>. The <b><u>middle furrow (if present ion the forehead) should be only very subtle and slight</u></b>. The <b><u>ratio from the cranial region to the facial region is 50 % to 50 %.</u></b> The <b><u>width of the cranial region should be more or less equal to the cranial length</u></b>. Seen from the top <b><u>the cranial region should tapers evenly towards the nasal bridge with gradually sloping, not sharply depicted stop in the wedge-shaped facial region</u></b> (foreface) of the head. The<b><u> jaws (both upper & lower) should be exhibit a powerful structure</u></b>. The <b><u>nasal dorsum is straight</u></b>. The nasal dorsum <b><u>should not have any dip or bulge</u></b>. The lips should be <b><u>well dark pigmented</u></b> and should be <b><u>taut and closed well</u></b>.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
<b>Result of the research:</b><br />
<br />
The mean values and Standard Deviations of the angle measurements of each group were
determined. The values of variability‐with‐age were noted. For a detailed understanding <b><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ar.a.10052" target="_blank">click here</a></b><br />
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Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-69654177662977689552019-08-11T06:42:00.000-07:002019-08-11T06:42:16.929-07:00Basic Instincts of German Shepherd That all Breeders Need to Understand<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Note: This post was published in this same blog on Feb 06, 2008. After a long 11 years I noticed that the health of this breed (both psychological and anatomical) have considerably worsen, while the health should have improved. Owing to this fact, this post has been reproduced again because this is the need of the hour.
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<b><i>GSD instincts as inseparable part of its behavior
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German Shepherd or Alsatian Dog is one of the most Versatility canine breeds in the world - this is beyond all controversies! A well bred German Shepherd Dog is his master's truest companion, although not all shepherds are equally versatile. If bred scientifically a German Shepherd puppy will grow up with all the desirable and mandatory instincts that would make it a true type royal dog and a perfect protective companion of his owner.
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While working on the development projects of make a true type working dog, Captain Max Von Stephanitz emphasized more on the working ability of the breed, rather than the look. Insofar its capability as a protective working dog is concerned it is mandatory to have the 5 basic instincts of a GSD. Here are the 5 Basic Instincts of well bred German Shepherd Dogs that are genetically inherited by a puppy from dam and sire. Idea of selective breeding comes to play its role here. Responsible breeders try to retain the basic instinct of the breed through planned and scientific breed programs. Breeding scientifically will result near-to-perfect progenitors. Remember no dog is a 100% perfect dog in this world.
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The 5 Basic Instincts of a "well bred" Alsatian dog have been broadly categorized into two categories, viz. Critical / vital Instincts and General Instincts. Both these types of instincts in Alsatian or German Shepherds are of utmost importance and aspiring breeders must keeping in forefront of their mind the importance of retaining them in progenitors while breeding German Shepherd Dogs.
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<b>Critical Instincts in German Shepherd Dogs </b><br />
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<b>1. Booty Instinct OR Prey Instinct:</b> This is one of the two Critical Instincts of a well bred Alsatian or German shepherd dog. This German Shepherd instinct triggers the dogs character trait to chase moving objects like flies, moths, butterflies, mosquitoes, etc. and seize them. This is one of the most vital GSD instincts for excellent Schutzhund protection work. The Booty or Prey Instinct plays most vital role in acting as one of the most critical motivator of striking with speed and power, which is a mandatory part of a German Shepherd Dog characteristics. This critical instinct starts to develop as the puppy reaches 6 months of age and eventually becomes prominent as it grows.<br />
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<b>2. Fighting Drive:</b> Another Critical instinct in a well bred German Shepherd Dog is his Fighting Drive. This GSD instinct is also referred to as "Active Aggression" or "Offensive Aggression", which is as important as the Booty Instinct, because it stimulates the dog's working ability as a protection dog. This GSD instinct helps the dog to deliver "rhythmic & explosive barks" during protection. Each of those regular deliveries of bark helps the dog to get positively stimulated, which in turn helps him to give high degree protection service. The Fighting Drive instinct of German Shepherd Dogs is highly desired for the Schutzhund protection work.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Photo courtesy: Kraftwerk K9</span></div>
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<b>3. Hunting Drive:</b> Hunt drive or Hunting drive is another critical instict of GSD breed that helps the dog to use and combine all other drives to find a prey. More intense the hunting drive is, better the dog is for detection work. Hunt drive is important for any GSD to be a perfect patrol dog. Intense hunting drive helps the dog to effectively find the criminals.<br />
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<b>General Instincts German Shepherd Dogs </b><br />
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<b>4. Self Preservation OR Defense Instinct:</b> The Self Preservation of Defense Instinct is also called "Reactive Aggression". This GSD instinct should not be confused up with Prey Instinct and Fighting Drive Instinct in German Shepherds. Reactive Aggression, as a typical Alsatian dog or German Shepherd Instinct, helps the animal in developing an inherent protective trait related to territoriality. This German Shepherd instinct denotes the degree of Sharpness of its behavior as a protective dog.<br />
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This is one of the most significant part of GSD character and behavior. Reactive Aggression Instinct in GSD or Alsatian dog acts as the catalyst for the two Critical Instincts, viz. Active/offensive aggression and prey instincts, as it heavily stimulates the booty instinct and active aggression. However the Reactive Aggression Instinct of well bred German Shepherds also stimulate the Social Aggression Instinct.
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<b>5. Pack Instinct: </b>This instinct is almost common for all pack animals including dogs, wolves, foxes, jackal etc. The Pack Instincts is not unique in German Shepherd Dog breed, but is commonly found in almost all the canine breeds in the world. In a well bred Alsatian dog the Pack Instinct is noticed quite prominently, compared many other other breeds. This is another most important German Shepherd Instinct that is highly significant for the Schutzhund trial, as it stimulates the inherent behavior of the dog to protect the pack members and act alike. Acting like all other pack members helps the dog to act in the way the handler or the owner wants him to act like. This in turn makes it easy for the owners/handlers/trainers to train the dog and teach him desired tricks. Remember... viewing from the dog's perspective, the dog considers his the owners/handlers/trainers as his pack members. Easy to train GSD (i.e the dog with desirable degree of Pack Instinct), backed by the correct blend of Territorial Instinct and Social Aggression makes the dog stay closer to his pack members. This stimulates the dog's protective behavior, which is one of the most important trait considered for Schutzhund.
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<b>6. Social Aggression:</b> Social Aggression is another desirable German Shepherd Instinct. Like the other instincts of Alsatian Dogs Social Aggression also increases the degree of trainability -- especially for the Schutzhund protection services. Social Aggression Instinct makes the dog deliver "deep grumbling bark" towards any threatening situations, thereby proving its territoriality and dominance. This typical male German Shepherd Dog instinct can be considered as a warning signal to the threats or the strangers. Each of such barks stimulates the dog by generating power within him, which in turn helps him express himself more dominantly. This is one of the most important and desirable determinants of a guard dog character. This particular GSD instinct called "Social Aggression" is exclusively a male instinct found in most canine breeds that have been recognized guard dog breed. Found prominently in well bred male German Shepherds this instinct usually remains un-exhibited until the dog is made to face a threatening situation. Social Aggression is profoundly backed by right degree of Territorial instinct in German Shepherd Dogs and in all other dog breeds used for guarding services.
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<b>A Few More words About German Shepherd dog Instincts
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It is probably due to some of these typical instincts that this majestic breed - the German Shepherd Dog has been stigmatized as one of the aggressive dog breeds. This has given a hard blow to the breed's popularity, although Alsatian Dogs is still one of the most popular dog breed in the world. It is to be kept in the forefront of the mind that these instincts are typical for the German Shepherd Dog breed and has to be genetically engineered to the heirs through proper breeding. Without the right degree of such aggression, a particular dog would be an incomplete German Shepherd. It is t be noted that German Shepherd Dog is quite friendly to the pack members including kids, but not so to the strangers, which is of utmost necessity for a perfect protection dog.Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1446301168001352832.post-73191155352478187422019-08-11T05:53:00.001-07:002022-06-07T08:30:03.595-07:00Breeding Goal For GSD<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Photo: </b>Qvido Vepeden <br /><b>Bred in:</b> CMKU (ČeskoMoravská Kynologická Unie - (CZECH REPUBLIC)) FCI<br />Date of birth: 11.03.2012 <br /><b>Height / Weight:</b> 65 cm / 43 kg</span><br />
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Dog breeding, alike breeding any other animal, is a dynamic process, and has to have a transparent, clean and meaningful goal. It is important for a breeder to stay focused on the science and art of breeding – especially when it comes to breeding working dogs like German Shepherds that was actually created to work with man and not to be kept with family as a token of status and pride. Successful breeders look back often times to check what are those things that were advised yesterday and are still important today, and what are those that should be filtered out.<br />
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With the increasing popularity of the breed – especially after the world war II, breeding GSD became a livelihood for many people around, and the practice is carried out even today. These days the people who do not even understand the breed properly are breeding these dogs to earn a living, which is a serious concern. The result is the rise in the number of backyard breeders who run after look, rather than working ability, still cannot come up with puppies with correct expression and proportion – the two major criterion for 'look'. The concept of breeding for working ability started to diminish at a faster rate; and today there are only a handful of breeders in the world who keep their focus set on the producing structure for actual working ability. <u><i>DDR Line - East Germany Working GSD Has Maintained Its True Heritage. However, it's less popular</i></u>.<br />
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Fact is that a few original breeders across the globe, who responsibly do it right, can't make money out of breeding German Shepherd Dogs.<br />
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<b>Breeding for look:</b><br />
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Breeding for look has only started during the mid 19th century. A trend has developed to breed for look. So-called breeders tend to breed head turner GSDs with rich tan marks, big bones and huge volume. These dogs are much different from what is actually demanded for the working ability. Unlike breeders, who are inclined to produce head turner show piece specimens, the breeders of DDR and Checz lines are way more focused in producing actual German Shepherds that are more effective while working with police, military and sentry etc. and are more able to work under stressful situations, in any environment and in different terrains.<br />
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Breeding just for look unfortunately gave rise to a number of problems – especially anatomic, physiological and psychological defects, some of which have gone to such a degree that they are transmitted to progenitors genetically, having balance problems, with back issues and hind quarter issues.<br />
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<b>Breeding for working ability: </b><br />
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The idea of breeding for working ability is gradually fading out with time. Up till the first phase of 1960s German shepherd breeders did not any choice but to breed according to the what was advised – breeding for working ability. But in the fag end of 60's lots of Creative things started to be taken into consideration to produce award winning specimens, that could be further bred with a goal to produce dogs with conformation for championship – rather than for actual workmanship.<br />
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Breeding German shepherds for working ability– doesn't necessarily mean that they would have to be bred to work only as shepherds for herding sheep. The goal should to producing dogs that are physically healthy, anatomically perfect and mentally stable to work as army dogs, sentry dogs, police dogs, sniffer or drug detection dogs, and not to be forgotten, as therapy dogs, companion dogs, seeing eye dogs... which means producing specimens to fit in all faucets of work. The breeding goal for original working line is aggressive eradication of dogs with slightest indications of dysplastic hips or elbows and weak temperament. Simultaneously the goal is to breed dogs with straight toplines, large and strong head, strong and bones, perfect agility. The working dogs are bred for innate strength, athleticism and ability to work under stress and in all weather... in one word – a perfect functional dog.<br />
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<b>A Note About DDR and Czech Lines German Shepherds </b><br />
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On the contrary, the DDR Line - Deutsches Demokratische Republik Dogs (German Democratic Republic) – East Germany in English and the Czech lines - German Shepherds in the Czechoslovakian Republic have always been the finest examples of working GSDs. Both there lines used to have a single motive – breeding original working dogs for police and soldiers, and they still carry their heritage with pride.<br />
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DDR - Deutsches Demokratische Republik German Shepherds are actually bred for working as border patrol dogs, war dogs, sentry and the likes. In the past most of their training used be carried out during the night for night maneuver exercise sessions. The Diensthundefuehrer ( Dog Team Leader ) used to be responsible for the overall maintenance, care and training of the DDR border patrol dogs. On the other hand in the Czechoslovakian Republic breeding GSDs had just one single goal, and that is breeding original working and service dogs. The breeding for Czech GSDs was carried out in a single highly organized kennel that was owned and maintained by the Czechoslovakian army, with approximately 30 staffs working in the kennel per day. Czech dogs were bred to trigger the ingrained protective instincts and were trained to protect their handlers (border patrol force) when attacked by any illegal intruder. Simultaneously these dogs were also responsible for stopping these offenders while they attempted to escape.<br />
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<b>Take away from this chapter </b><br />
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The breeding goal of German Shepherd Dogs or any working breed should be producing dogs with purpose. Breeding demands immense responsibility – <u>NOT TO EARN A LIVING OR TO WIN CHAMPIONSHIPS</u>. Compared to the yesteryears, today's breeders have loads of scopes to use technology and methods to determine the goods and filter out the bads. Breeding German Shepherds or any other breed <u><b>should have a well formulated program supported by science and NOT by emotion.</b></u><br />
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A couple of good reads here: <a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2008/02/5-basic-instincts-of-german-shepherd.html"><b>The 5 Basic Instincts of German Shepherd Dog that the modern breeders need to restore</b></a>. It's the need of the hour!<br />
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<b><a href="https://aringsburgkennel.blogspot.com/2009/03/schutzhund-breed-evaluation-test.html">Schutzhund – The Breed Evaluation Test: Developed For German Shepherd Dogs </a></b><br />
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<br />Aringsburghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06294967059097346197noreply@blogger.com0