Are White German Shepherds a Rare Breed

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Posted Oct 11, 2024

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German Shepherd Sitting on a Carpet in Black and White
Credit: pexels.com, German Shepherd Sitting on a Carpet in Black and White

White German Shepherds are not as rare as you might think. According to the American Kennel Club, the breed standard for German Shepherds does not specify a color, and the white coat is simply one of several recognized colors.

In fact, white German Shepherds are considered a variation of the standard breed. This means they meet all the same physical and temperamental requirements as the standard German Shepherd.

However, it's worth noting that the white coat can be a result of a genetic variation that affects the production of melanin, making it less common than other colors. This variation is not a result of breeding for a specific trait, but rather a natural occurrence.

The exact percentage of white German Shepherds is difficult to determine, but it's estimated that they make up around 5-10% of the breed.

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Temperament & Intelligence

White German Shepherds are intelligent and trainable, just like their colored cousins, the German Shepherds. They thrive on having a task or job to perform.

Credit: youtube.com, A Guide to White German Shepherds: A Video Journey | Cost, Personality, Rarity | World Of Dogz

If left alone for too long, White German Shepherds can become bored and depressed. This is why it's essential to provide them with plenty of attention and exercise.

They are a loyal and protective breed that will fearlessly defend their home and family members from any perceived threat. This means they need to be taught what is and what is not considered a threat.

German Shepherds, including their white counterparts, need plenty of attention and exercise. They're not for everyone, especially those who don't have time to devote to their needs.

With the right training and attention, White German Shepherds can be a wonderful companion. They just need a confident and strong-willed owner who can maintain a consistent approach.

Health and Conditions

White German Shepherds, like their German Shepherd counterparts, are prone to certain health issues.

One of the most common health concerns is hip and elbow dysplasia, which occurs when the bones don't develop properly or form in incorrect positions.

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Credit: youtube.com, The Stunning White German Shepherd

This can lead to discomfort, pain, and ultimately arthritis in the affected joint.

Allergies, ear problems, and eye problems are also common issues in White German Shepherds.

Here are some potential health issues to be aware of:

  • Allergies
  • Ear Problems
  • Eye Problems

Additionally, White German Shepherds may be susceptible to bloat, elbow dysplasia, and hip dysplasia, which can be serious health concerns.

It's essential to be aware of these potential health issues and work closely with a veterinarian to ensure your White German Shepherd stays healthy and happy.

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Interesting Facts

Interestingly, White German Shepherds are not as rare as you might think. They're actually a result of a genetic variation that can occur in the breed.

In fact, a small percentage of German Shepherds can have a genetic condition called leucism, which affects the production of melanin and causes white or pale coloring.

The German Shepherd breed standard doesn't specify a particular color, but it does mention that a small amount of white is acceptable.

White German Shepherds are often associated with the famous Rin Tin Tin, a famous movie star who was a German Shepherd.

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General Information

Credit: youtube.com, All You Need To Know About The White German Shepherd

The general information about white German Shepherds is quite interesting. They are a result of a recessive gene that causes a dilution of the coat color, making them appear white.

Their rarity is due to the fact that this gene is recessive, meaning a dog must inherit two copies of the gene (one from each parent) to express the white coat color.

White German Shepherds are not a separate breed, but rather a variation of the standard German Shepherd breed.

Breed Overview

The White Shepherd is a breed that's deeply rooted in German Shepherd heritage, which means you can expect similar traits from this dog.

They're known for being loving and loyal, which makes them wonderful companions for families and individuals alike.

Their protective nature can be a bit of a double-edged sword, as it means they'll defend their loved ones with their lives, but it also requires proper training and socialization to ensure they don't become overly aggressive.

They're highly intelligent and trainable, but they do require an authoritative figure during training, which means you'll need to establish clear boundaries and rules from the get-go.

With the right guidance, they can thrive and become an incredibly well-behaved and loyal companion.

For another approach, see: Welsh Corgi Training

Owning Essentials

Credit: youtube.com, Basic essentials you would need after buying a dog

Having the right tools and equipment can make a big difference in your home's functionality and safety. A fire extinguisher is a must-have, especially in the kitchen and garage areas.

Proper storage of flammable liquids is crucial to prevent fires. Keep them in well-ventilated areas, away from heat sources and ignition points.

Regular maintenance of your home's electrical system is essential to prevent electrical shocks and fires. Check your circuit breakers and fuses regularly to ensure they're functioning properly.

A first aid kit is a vital part of any home's emergency preparedness plan. Keep it stocked with basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

Are Dogs Good for Families?

Dogs can make excellent family pets, especially if you're willing to provide the necessary direction and training.

Some breeds, like German Shepherds, can be big and strong, but they can also be big softies at heart and love playing with children.

Protective instincts are common in many breeds, including German Shepherds, and may lead to aggressive behavior towards strangers if not properly socialized and trained.

Credit: youtube.com, 15 Dog Breeds | Dogs for Kids

A white German Shepherd's friendly appearance can sometimes make people feel more comfortable approaching, but this can also be problematic if the dog tends to act aggressively towards strangers.

Ultimately, whether a dog is good for a family depends on the individual dog's temperament and the family's ability to provide the necessary care and attention.

They

They are indeed rare, and it's not uncommon for breeders to claim they're worth more just because of their color.

White German Shepherds can be found in shelters, but it's essential to determine the reason the dog has been abandoned and ask the shelter about its temperament around people and other animals.

You'll need to specifically look for White Shepherd or Swiss White Shepherd breeders, as the breed isn't recognized by the AKC.

It's worth noting that white German Shepherds will often have siblings in their litter that are not white, and breeding two white dogs is the only way to guarantee a litter of white puppies.

Credit: youtube.com, A Guide to White German Shepherds: A Video Journey | Cost, Personality, Rarity | World Of Dogz

If you do adopt a white German Shepherd from a shelter, take your current dogs to meet the new pup and see how they react to one another, especially if you already have dogs at home.

To produce a white German Shepherd puppy, both parent dogs need to carry and pass on the recessive white gene, which makes it significantly more difficult to find and purchase one than a standard-colored pup.

You may need to wait longer for a white German Shepherd puppy to become available and be prepared to pay more than you would for a standard German Shepherd puppy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the rarest German Shepherd color?

The rarest German Shepherd color is Isabella, resulting from a unique combination of liver and blue genetics. This rare color makes Isabella German Shepherds highly sought after and valuable.

How much is an all-white German Shepherd worth?

The price of an all-white German Shepherd can range from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the breeder's reputation and the puppy's quality. Expect to pay more for a reputable breeder with high-quality puppies.

Is a white German Shepherd a real German Shepherd?

A white German Shepherd is not recognized as a traditional German Shepherd by the breed's native registry in Germany, but it is considered a distinct variety known as the White Shepherd. This breed originated in the United States and has its own breed standard.

Are white German shepherds recognized by AKC?

Yes, the AKC recognizes white German Shepherds, but they are registered under the standard breed name with a color code 199. However, they are not eligible for AKC Conformation competitions due to not meeting the breed's standard coat color requirement.

What causes a white German Shepherd?

A white German Shepherd's coat is caused by recessive white genes, which were introduced through selective breeding. This genetic trait was favored by early herdsmen for its visibility against darker European wolves.

Terry Williamson

Junior Writer

Terry Williamson is a rising star in the world of writing, bringing a fresh perspective to the topics she covers. With a passion for animal welfare and education, Terry has established herself as a go-to expert on canine companions. Her articles on the standard poodle and poodle breeds have been widely read and appreciated for their engaging style and informative content.