White German Shepherds with blue eyes are a rare and stunning variation of the breed.
They can be born with a range of coat colors, including white, black, and tan, but the blue eye color is a result of a genetic dilution of the pigment in their eyes.
White German Shepherds are not albinos, despite their white coats, as they still have pigment in their skin and eyes.
Blue eyes in dogs are caused by a lack of melanin, the pigment responsible for eye color.
Their unique appearance often makes them stand out, but it's essential to remember that their temperament and personality are no different from other German Shepherds.
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History and Origin
The German Shepherd breed has a rich history that spans over a century. It began in the early 19th century in northern Germany, where a German Cavalry Officer, Von Stephanitz, dreamt of creating a standard dog that was exemplary in his area of expertise.
Von Stephanitz bred the best canines from each district over four decades, engineering the German Shepherd that we know and love today. This breed has become the 4th most popular dog in America, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC).
The white German Shepherd, however, is a variation of the traditional breed and is genetically no different than a standard German Shepherd. It carries the recessive white furred gene, just like some humans carry the recessive blonde haired gene.
This variation first appeared in the late 19th century and was initially considered a rarity, often euthanized at birth. It wasn't until the 1960s that breeders began to value and selectively breed white German Shepherds.
Origins of the
The Origins of the German Shepherd breed date back to the early 19th century in northern Germany, where a German Cavalry Officer, Von Stephanitz, dreamt of creating a standard dog that was exemplary in his area of expertise.
Von Stephanitz spent four decades breeding the best canines from each district to engineer the German Shepherd that we know and love today.
The breed's popularity in America is not solely based on working dogs, but also on the many German Shepherds that make for great family pets.
The German Shepherd is currently ranked by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as the 4th most popular dog in America.
The first Blue German Shepherd is unknown, but it's believed that they are still purebred and should not be considered a fault by some breed purists.
The Blue German Shepherd's color is said to be a serious fault by the AKC, but there's controversy within the German Shepherd world about this.
The Blue German Shepherd carries a gene mutation that affects their coat color, which is a different gene from the one that controls the standard German Shepherd's coat colors.
Horand, the first breed standard for the German Shepherd breed, was adopted by Von Stephanitz and used to create the breed.
The first German Shepherds appeared in the United States in 1906 and were recognized by the AKC in 1908.
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Unfortunately, the white German Shepherd is not recognized by the AKC because it doesn't meet the breed standard, but it is recognized as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club.
The white German Shepherd's history dates back to Germanic areas of Europe, where powerful herding dogs were needed.
The white German Shepherd is a variation of the traditional black and brown German Shepherd, with a recessive gene that first appeared in the late 19th century.
Lobo, the first white German Shepherd, was registered in the breed's genealogical book in 1966.
The white German Shepherd is genetically no different than a standard German Shepherd, although it has a fluffy white coat due to a recessive gene.
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Three Little-Known Facts
Did you know that the earliest known evidence of chocolate production dates back to around 2500 BC in Mesoamerica? This is a fascinating fact that highlights the rich history of chocolate.
The Mayans and Aztecs revered cacao beans as a luxury item, using them to make a bitter drink that was considered a gift from the gods. They even used cacao beans as currency in some cases.
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Chocolate was first introduced to Europe by the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés in the 16th century. He brought back cacao beans from his travels to Mexico and shared them with the royal court.
Interestingly, the first chocolate bar was invented by Joseph Fry in 1847, who discovered that by adding melted cacao butter to ground cacao beans, he could create a smooth and creamy confection.
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Appearance
The White German Shepherd is a stunning breed, and their appearance is just as impressive as their personality. They have a large and robust size, with males reaching 60-65 cm in height and weighing between 30-40 kg.
Their wedge-shaped head, long snout, and erect and triangular ears give them a distinctive look. The muscular neck and furry, medium-length tail add to their athletic appearance.
One of the most striking features of the White German Shepherd is their completely white coat, which can have black spots on the skin, especially in sun-exposed areas. Their brown, amber, or blue eyes are just as striking, and can range in shade from light to dark.
Here are some key facts about the White German Shepherd's appearance:
As they grow, White German Shepherds can weigh anywhere between 50 to 85 pounds, with males typically weighing more than females. Their muscular and athletic build is a testament to their working capabilities, and they stand tall at 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder.
Health and Nutrition
The health and nutrition of a White German Shepherd with blue eyes are largely the same as their traditional-colored counterparts. They require ample physical and mental activity every day, making them excellent for sports, obedience, and work.
Their average lifespan is 9 to 13 years, but they are prone to hip dysplasia and other orthopedic issues. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help prevent or manage these conditions.
A balanced diet for a White German Shepherd should include between 1,300 to 2,100 calories a day, depending on their activity level. This should be divided into a mix of protein, fat, and fiber, with adults needing around 18% of their calories from protein and puppies needing approximately 22%.
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Here's a breakdown of the nutritional needs for White German Shepherds:
- Fat: Adults need around 5% of their calories from fat, while puppies need about 8-10%.
- Protein: Adults need around 18% of their calories from protein, while puppies need approximately 22%.
- Fiber: Adult shepherds need approximately 3% fiber, while puppies should have around 7%.
Health and Nutrition
The Blue German Shepherd has a lifespan of 7 to 10 years, which is the same as the normal black and tan variants.
Their health is exactly the same as a traditional colored German Shepherd, and unlike other breeds, the color blue is not indicative of health issues or problematic personality traits.
Elbow and hip dysplasia is an abnormal formation in the elbow and hip joints that can cause pain and crippling arthritis, so it's recommended that their parents be tested for this issue.
The Blue German Shepherd will eat between 3 to 4 cups of dry food a day, and to prevent bloat, it's advised to spread their food across several sittings during the day.
Here's a rough guide to their daily calorie needs:
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines and may vary depending on your dog's size and activity level.
Health and Care
The Blue German Shepherd is a relatively healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain health issues. Their lifespan is 7 to 10 years, which is similar to other German Shepherd colors.
Elbow and hip dysplasia are two common health problems that can affect German Shepherds, including the Blue variety. This is an abnormal formation in the elbow and hip joints that can cause pain and lead to arthritis.
To ensure your Blue German Shepherd stays healthy, it's essential to feed them a balanced diet. They typically eat between 3 to 4 cups of dry food per day, and it's recommended to spread their meals across several sittings to prevent bloating.
Regular exercise and mental stimulation are also crucial for maintaining your Blue German Shepherd's physical and mental health. They require moderate exercise and enjoy activities such as sports, obedience training, and work.
Here's a list of common health issues that can affect German Shepherds:
- Ear infections
- Eye infections
- Allergies
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Cancer
To keep your Blue German Shepherd healthy, it's essential to monitor their health regularly and take them to the vet for checkups.
Are Hypoallergenic?
Some breeds are better suited for people with allergies than others. For example, White German Shepherds are not recommended for people allergic to dogs because they produce the same amount of allergens as normal-colored ones.
If you have allergies, it's essential to research breeds that are known to be hypoallergenic. However, no dog is 100% hypoallergenic, and even breeds with low-shedding coats can still trigger allergies in some people.
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Exercise & Training
Exercise is crucial for a white German Shepherd with blue eyes, and they need at least 60 minutes of high-intensity exercise every day.
They require mental stimulation as well, which can be achieved through interactive games, agility courses, and training sessions. Consistency is key, and they should be exposed to a variety of situations and sounds from an early age.
You should also consider enrolling your puppy in puppy school while they're young to help with socialization. Positive reinforcement is the way to go, using verbal praise and yummy treats to show them they're doing a good job.
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Here are some great exercises for your white German Shepherd:
- Daily walks
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Fetch or frisbee
- Hiding treats for your dog to find
- Obedience training
Remember, they're working dogs at heart, so they'll need at least an hour of outdoor activity every day, as well as a good long walk or run. They'll also enjoy a walk or long play session every day or two.
It's essential to keep in mind that they can get destructive if they don't get enough exercise, so make sure to provide them with plenty of physical and mental stimulation.
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Care of
White German Shepherds with blue eyes require regular grooming to manage their thick double coat. They shed year-round, so brushing them at least two to three times a week is essential.
During peak shedding seasons, daily brushing is recommended to keep their coat manageable. It's also a good idea to use specialist shedding products to make the process easier.
Bathing your White German Shepherd should be done every 6 to 8 weeks to keep them clean and assist with shedding. However, they can get dirty quickly, so you may need to bathe them more frequently.
In addition to brushing and bathing, regular nail clipping is necessary to keep your dog's claws in good condition. This should be done every month or two.
Here's a summary of the grooming needs of White German Shepherds:
Their grooming needs are similar to those of other German Shepherds, regardless of coat length. However, long-haired White German Shepherds may require more frequent grooming than their short-haired counterparts.
Rarity and Cost
Blue German Shepherds are relatively rare, but not the rarest, with Lilac or Isabella German Shepherds holding that title. This rarity contributes to their unique appeal.
White German Shepherds, on the other hand, have a price range that's a bit more accessible, typically costing between $1000 to $2000 from a reputable breeder. You can also consider adopting a White German Shepherd from a shelter if the price is out of your budget.
The exact cost of a White German Shepherd can vary, ranging from $1000 to $2500 euros from specialized breeders, with prices increasing for champion bloodlines.
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How Rare Are?
The Blue German Shepherd is quite rare, but not the rarest. The Lilac or Isabella German Shepherd holds that title.
Blue German Shepherds are less common than standard colors, which adds to their appeal. They're an interesting breed to learn about.
Several other blue dog breeds exist, but the German Shepherd is a popular choice among those looking for a pup with this coloring.
Cost
If you're considering bringing a White German Shepherd into your family, you're probably wondering how much it'll cost. White Shepherds usually cost between $1000 to $2000.
The exact costs will vary depending on where you are and the size of the litter. You should expect to pay around $2,000 minimum for one of these stunning white-coated dogs.
Prices can range from 800 to 2500 euros from specialized breeders, with prices higher for champion bloodlines. Some factors influencing the price include the breeder's reputation and the health guarantees they offer.
Responsible breeders test the parents for hip dysplasia and provide a health guarantee. Rescue white German Shepherds typically cost between 100 and 400 euros, including vaccinations, sterilization, and other veterinary care.
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Temperament and Personality
White German Shepherds with blue eyes are known for their loyalty and protective nature. They are naturally wary of strangers and may bark at them, but this is just their way of trying to protect their family.
These dogs are extremely intelligent and easy to train, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners. They thrive on mental stimulation and need to be kept busy with activities that challenge their minds.
A White German Shepherd's temperament is characterized by their intelligence, fearlessness, and eagerness to please. They are natural working dogs and excel in roles such as law enforcement and search and rescue.
Their loyalty and protective nature also make them excellent family pets, but they do require consistent training and socialization to prevent aggression. With proper training and care, a White German Shepherd can form a strong and loving bond with their family.
Here are some key characteristics of the White German Shepherd temperament:
- Intelligent and easy to train
- Energetic, active, and agile
- Brave and self-confident
- Alert and observant
- Loyal and protective of its family
- Wary of strangers
- Well-balanced and steady-nerved
Temperament and Personality
White German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs and family pets. They are extremely loyal and love to be around people.
Their intelligence and fearless personality make them wonderful working dogs, often employed by law enforcement. With proper training and socialization, they can learn to distinguish between threats and harmless situations.
They have a determined personality, which can sometimes lead to jealousy and distrust of strangers if not properly trained. Socialization from a young age is crucial to prevent this.
White German Shepherds are highly energetic, active, and agile dogs that require plenty of attention and exercise. They need firm and consistent training to stay in line.
Their loyal and protective nature makes them wary of strangers, but with proper training, they can learn to trust new people. They are also excellent family pets, especially when socialized from a young age.
Here are some key characteristics of White German Shepherds:
- Intelligent and easy to train
- Energetic, active, and agile
- Brave and self-confident
- Alert and observant
- Loyal and protective of its family
- Wary of strangers
- Well-balanced and steady-nerved
Despite their protective nature, White German Shepherds are not aggressive by nature and usually do not display unjustified aggression when properly socialized and trained.
Curiosities About
The first registered white German Shepherd was named Lobo, born in 1966.
Their unique coat color can also come in miniature versions, such as the miniature white German Shepherd or the miniature white spitz.
One of the downsides of their white coat is that it makes them more prone to sunburn, deafness, and other eye problems.
You can spot a white German Shepherd in pop culture, like in movies like Tarantino's Django.
Polar Bear, the pet of former President Obama, is one of the most famous white German Shepherds.
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Puppies and Diet
White German Shepherd puppies need a diet rich in protein, with around 22% of their caloric intake coming from protein.
A balanced mix of fat and fiber is also essential, with puppies requiring about 8-10% of their calories from fat and around 7% from fiber.
To ensure your puppy gets the best nutrition, choose a premium-quality dry dog food specifically formulated for large breed puppies.
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A high percentage of meat protein is crucial, as it will help support your puppy's growth and development.
Here's a breakdown of the ideal nutritional percentages for White German Shepherd puppies:
By feeding your puppy a well-balanced diet, you'll be giving them the best possible start in life.
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, but also extremely hard to find.
Sources
- Blue German Shepherds: What Are They? (Color & ... (caninejournal.com)
- White German Shepherd - All The Facts About ... (animalcorner.org)
- White German Shepherd – Info, Pictures, Facts, And Care (worldanimalfoundation.org)
- White German Shepherd: Info, Pictures, Characteristics & ... (hepper.com)
- most popular accessories and products for German Shepherds on Amazon (amazon.com)
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