White Long Haired German Shepherd Dogs are a rare and unique variation of the breed, characterized by their distinctive white coat and long hair. They are often referred to as "White Shepherds" or "Leerhund" in Germany.
This rare variation is due to a genetic mutation that affects the production of melanin, resulting in a white coat. White Long Haired German Shepherds are not albinos, but rather a distinct color variation of the breed.
Their long hair requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling, which can be a challenge for some owners. Regular brushing and trimming are essential to keep their coat looking its best.
White Long Haired German Shepherds are just as intelligent and loyal as their standard counterparts, making them excellent family pets and working dogs.
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Temperament and Behavior
White German Shepherds are known for their loyal nature, making them excellent family dogs and companions. They are extremely protective of their family and can become aggressive around people they don't know if not socialized properly.
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Their protective nature is a result of their original purpose as working dogs, and they need to be mentally stimulated to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. White German Shepherds are active dogs that thrive on exercise and attention.
One of the key characteristics of White German Shepherds is their intelligence, which makes them highly trainable and responsive to commands. With proper training, they can excel in various roles, from police work to companionship.
Here are the four key characteristics of White German Shepherds:
- Loyalty: German shepherds are extremely loyal and build close bonds with their family unit.
- Intelligence: White German Shepherds are highly intelligent and enjoy being mentally stimulated.
- Protectiveness: The White Shepherd is highly protective of its family and surroundings.
- Hard Working: German Shepherd dogs are hard-working and perfect for jobs that require focus and dedication.
If you're considering bringing a White German Shepherd into your home, be aware that they can be shy and skittish if not socialized properly. Early socialization is crucial to help them become confident and friendly around strangers.
Characteristics
White German Shepherds are known for their loyalty, with a strong family bond that's hard to break. They're extremely loyal breed, making them a wonderful companion for families.
As highly intelligent dogs, White German Shepherds thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy activities that challenge their minds. German Shepherds are renowned for excelling at obedience training, so be prepared to engage your White Shepherd's brain.
Their protective nature is another key characteristic, making them excellent guard dogs. They'll bark and alert you whenever they sense a threat, so you can rest assured your family is safe.
In addition to their loyalty and intelligence, White German Shepherds are also hard-working dogs. This combination of traits makes them perfect for jobs that require focus and dedication.
Here are the four key characteristics of White German Shepherds:
- Loyalty: They're extremely loyal breed, making them a wonderful companion for families.
- Intelligence: They thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy activities that challenge their minds.
- Protectiveness: They're highly protective of their family and surroundings.
- Hard Working: They're perfect for jobs that require focus and dedication.
Temperament and Personality
The White German Shepherd is a loyal breed that builds close bonds with its family unit, making it an excellent family dog.
They are highly intelligent dogs that enjoy being mentally stimulated, which is why they excel at obedience training.
Their protective nature makes them excellent guard dogs, but it's essential to socialize them properly to prevent aggression towards strangers.
A White Shepherd is a natural people-pleaser and loves to be around their family, but they can be shy and reserved around others if not socialized correctly.
With proper training and socialization, they can become confident and courageous canines who will protect their families to the end.
Here are the four key characteristics of the White German Shepherd dog:
- Loyalty: They are extremely loyal to their family and build close bonds.
- Intelligence: They are highly intelligent and enjoy being mentally stimulated.
- Protectiveness: They are highly protective of their family and surroundings.
- Hard Working: They are hard-working and perfect for jobs that require focus and dedication.
If you're planning to crate train or train with a harness, make sure you have the appropriately sized harness for a German Shepherd and the right sized German Shepherd dog crate to make training easier.
Socialization is crucial for White German Shepherds, especially during their puppy stage, to prevent shyness and reclusiveness.
Health and Care
As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to know about the potential health issues that can affect your White Long Haired German Shepherd. They are generally a healthy breed, but like all large dogs, they can be prone to certain health problems.
Elbow and hip dysplasia are common issues in German Shepherds, including those with a white coat. This condition can lead to severe pain and crippling arthritis in older age.
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A healthy diet can play a significant role in alleviating some of these conditions. A diet rich in glucosamine and chondroitin can help with hip and elbow dysplasia, while a diet with novel and easily digestible proteins can help address allergies.
Here are some key health considerations for White Long Haired German Shepherds:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia
- Eye diseases
- Conditions of the spine
- Heart diseases
- Cancer
Lifespan
A White German Shepherd can live between 12 to 14 years, making them a relatively long-lived breed.
As a larger dog, their lifespan is actually shorter than some other breeds.
Interestingly, female White German Shepherds tend to live longer than males.
With proper care and attention, many White German Shepherds have been known to reach their maximum lifespan of 14 years.
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Health and Care
As a responsible dog owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health issues that can affect your White German Shepherd. One of the most common health problems is elbow and hip dysplasia, a condition that can cause severe pain and arthritis in older age.
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Elbow and hip dysplasia can be alleviated with a diet rich in glucosamine and chondroitin, so it's crucial to choose a high-quality dog food that meets your dog's nutritional needs.
Regular check-ups with your vet are also vital to monitor your dog's health and catch any potential issues early on. By doing so, you can ensure your White German Shepherd lives a long and healthy life.
Dietary changes can also help address other common health issues, such as allergies, heart diseases, and cancer. A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can reduce the risk of these conditions.
To keep your White German Shepherd healthy, make sure to lead an active lifestyle and provide plenty of physical, emotional, and mental stimulation. This can include regular exercise, training sessions, and playtime.
Here are some key considerations to keep in mind when it comes to the health and care of your White German Shepherd:
- Elbow and hip dysplasia are common health issues in German Shepherds, including white-coated breeds.
- A diet rich in glucosamine and chondroitin can help alleviate elbow and hip dysplasia.
- Regular check-ups with your vet are essential to monitor your dog's health.
- A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants can reduce the risk of heart diseases, spinal conditions, allergies, and cancer.
- Lead an active lifestyle and provide plenty of physical, emotional, and mental stimulation to keep your dog healthy.
By being aware of these potential health issues and taking proactive steps to address them, you can help your White German Shepherd live a happy and healthy life.
Daily Life and Needs
White long haired German Shepherd dogs are high maintenance, but they're worth it. They require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy.
To keep your White GSD active, you'll need to spend at least 60 minutes walking them twice a day every day. This is a must if you're not into playing and having fun with your dog.
Playing a game of fetch with a Frisbee or tennis ball is a great way to channel their tremendous energies. They'll love running along with you while you pedal on your bike or jog and run with them.
If you're not into vigorous playtime activities, walking is a good substitute, but it's not the most exciting option for your dog.
Daily Life
Daily Life with a German Shepherd is a big responsibility, but it's worth it!
They need a high-quality dog food that meets their nutritional needs, which is a significant expense.
Regular exercise is a must, with a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity per day, ideally split into two sessions.
Grooming is also a big task, as they shed heavily and need regular brushing to prevent matting.
You'll need to brush their coat at least 3-4 times a week, and daily during shedding season.
Their high energy levels mean they need plenty of mental stimulation, so be prepared to engage in activities like obedience training and playtime.
A German Shepherd's exercise needs don't stop at physical activity, they also require regular mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.
Their grooming needs are just as important as their exercise needs, so be sure to factor in regular brushing and nail trimming to their daily routine.
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Exercise
Exercise is a crucial part of daily life with a White German Shepherd. This high-energy breed needs at least 2 hours of exercise every day to stay happy and healthy.
Walking your WGS for a minimum of 60 minutes twice a day is a must if you're not into playing and having fun. Herding dogs like the White German Shepherd thrive on physical activity.
Playing fetch with a Frisbee or tennis ball is a great way to get your dog moving. Vigorous playtime activities can always be substituted for formal exercise routines.
Some great exercises for a German Shepherd include daily walks, hiking, swimming, and obedience training. Hiding treats for your dog to find is also a fun way to mentally stimulate them.
If you're not into exercising with your dog, be aware that they can become destructive if they don't get enough physical activity. This is not their fault, but rather a result of their owner's lack of effort.
Here are some specific exercise ideas for your White German Shepherd:
- Daily walks
- Hiking
- Swimming
- Fetch or frisbee
- Hiding treats for your dog to find
- Obedience training
Owning and Caring
Owning a White Long Haired German Shepherd is a big responsibility, and it's essential to understand their breed-specific needs before bringing one home. They require proper socialization from a young age to become wonderful family dogs.
One thing to keep in mind is that White German Shepherds, including the Long Haired variety, can suffer from the same health issues as regular German Shepherds, so regular veterinary check-ups are crucial. They may also have a higher prevalence of certain health problems specific to white breeds.
To ensure your White Long Haired German Shepherd lives a happy and healthy life, proper care and attention to potential health issues are essential.
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Cost
Purchasing a White German Shepherd can be a significant investment, with costs ranging from $1000 to $2000. This price is for buying from a reputable breeder.
You should expect to pay at least $2000 for one of these stunning white-coated dogs. However, prices can vary depending on your location and the size of the litter.
Always make sure to buy from a recognized breeder, not a puppy farm or through shelter adoption, as this will impact the price.
Family Dog Suitability
If you're considering getting a White German Shepherd as a family dog, it's essential to know that they thrive in active households with plenty of space to run around. They need a backyard where they can exercise and play, and a small apartment just won't cut it.
A White German Shepherd's high energy level makes them perfect for families who love the outdoors and enjoy activities like hiking or running. They'll be happy to join you on your adventures and provide companionship along the way.
However, it's crucial to remember that White German Shepherds have a naturally high prey drive, so introducing them to children for the first time requires care and attention. Socialization from a young age is key to ensuring they get along with kids and other pets.
Here are the key characteristics of White German Shepherds that make them great family dogs:
- Loyalty: They form close bonds with their family unit.
- Intelligence: They're highly intelligent and enjoy being mentally stimulated.
- Protectiveness: They're excellent guard dogs and will alert you to potential threats.
- Hard Working: They're perfect for jobs that require focus and dedication.
As they get older, White German Shepherds may become more stubborn, making it harder to introduce them to new things and people. But with patience and consistency, they can still learn and adapt.
Overall, White German Shepherds make wonderful family dogs if you're willing to provide the necessary care, attention, and training. With their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature, they'll become a beloved member of your family in no time.
Owning Essentials
Owning a dog is a big responsibility. Before bringing a White German Shepherd home, it's essential to understand that owning a dog requires a significant amount of time and effort.
You'll need to commit to regular exercise, such as daily walks and playtime, to keep your White German Shepherd happy and healthy. This can be as simple as a 30-minute walk around the block.
A White German Shepherd requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling of their fur. Brushing their coat daily can help prevent these issues.
Training is also crucial for a White German Shepherd. They are intelligent and responsive to commands, but consistent training is necessary to develop good behavior.
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Breed History and Facts
The white long-haired German Shepherd breed has a rich history that dates back to Germanic areas of Europe, where powerful herding dogs were needed to herd sheep.
In the 19th Century, the best herding dogs were bred to create the German Shepherd breed, and one of the first recorded German Shepherds, born in 1895, was called Horand von Grafrath, who had a white Thuringian Shepherd grandfather named Greif, from whom the white gene originates.
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White German Shepherds are recognized as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club, despite having no genetic differences from tan and black Shepherds, and they are great family companions, perfect for those who live in a spacious home with a yard.
The average height of White German Shepherds is 25 inches for males, making them a medium to large breed that requires at least two hours of exercise daily to stay happy and healthy.
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Breed History
The German Shepherd breed has a rich history that dates back to northern Germany as a herding dog.
The first recorded German Shepherd, born in 1895, was called Horand von Grafrath.
His grandfather, called Greif, was a white Thuringian Shepherd, and it is from Greif that the white gene originates.
White German Shepherds have appeared in litters sporadically, either via gene carriers or bred purposefully.
The white Shepherd dog became a registered breed in its own right in 1969.
The white and regular German Shepherds have no genetic differences, but the white Shepherd is regarded as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club.
White German shepherds are great family companions.
Genetics Explained
The white gene in German Shepherds is a recessive gene, meaning a white pup must inherit it from both parents. If both parents are white, the gene acts as an "on and off" switch, resulting in an entire litter of white dogs.
A common misconception is that white German Shepherds are albino, but they're not. Albino dogs have a genetic defect that causes colorless hair and pale features, whereas white German Shepherds have dark eyes and black features.
The white coloration of German Shepherds is not indicative of health issues. In fact, it's similar to the long coat German Shepherd, which is a different color variation.
If two non-white dogs produce a litter, they could have a small number of white pups, but only if they both carry the white gene.
How Rare Is?
White German Shepherds are rare. They can be found at breeders who specialize in this color of the breed.
You can increase the chances of getting a puppy with a white coat by getting it from a breeder who has both parents that are white coated. This is a key factor in determining the likelihood of a white-coated puppy.
Quick Facts
The White German Shepherd is a unique and fascinating breed. They can be as tall as 26 inches, but should never be shorter than 22 inches for females and 24 inches for males.
Their weight can range from 75 to 95 pounds. This breed comes in two coat types: short and long-haired. Long-haired White GSDs are generally more vulnerable to temperature extremes.
Short-haired White GSDs have a straight undercoat and dense outer coat. They are heavy shedders, especially the long-haired ones. This means they require regular grooming to prevent matting.
Here are some key height and weight stats for White German Shepherds:
Their temperament is often described as milder and nicer than their dark-colored counterparts. However, they still require proper socialization to prevent aggression towards strangers.
Size and Weight
When considering bringing a White German Shepherd into your family, it's essential to know their size and weight.
The average size of a White German Shepherd is 60-65cm for a male, and 55-60cm for a female.
They're generally classed as medium or large dog breeds.
A White Shepherd dog typically weighs around 35kg for females, and up to 40kg for males.
This breed needs plenty of exercise to stay healthy and muscular.
However, they should not be allowed to get fat due to joint problems that are common in this breed.
Coat and Grooming
The White Long Haired German Shepherd's coat is a beautiful sight to behold, but it requires regular grooming to prevent matting.
Their coat is a weather-resistant straight double coat that sheds heavily, especially during peak shedding season.
To keep their coat looking its best, brush them every other day, possibly daily, during this time.
What is a Dog's Coat Like?
A dog's coat is a remarkable feature that requires regular attention to stay healthy and looking great. The White Shepherd dog coat is a weather-resistant straight double coat that can be either short or long-haired, depending on its breeding.
Shepherds are shedding dogs that need a lot of grooming to prevent their coat from becoming matted. This becomes more necessary during the shedding season.
A White German Shepherd's coat color is, of course, white, which makes them stand out and a unique breed. The white coat recessive gene only impacts the fur color and does not have any effect on their skin or eye pigment.
Their coat needs regular brushing to remove dirt and prevent tangles and mats. Frequent brushing, especially with a deshedding tool, can also minimize loose hairs finding their way onto your furniture and carpets.
White German Shepherds can weigh anywhere between 50 to 85 pounds, with males weighing more than females. They stand tall at 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder, with females normally shorter than males.
Their coat type can vary, with some having short fur and others having long coats.
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Grooming
Grooming is a crucial aspect of caring for your White German Shepherd.
Their thick coat sheds all year round, so regular brushing is a must. Brush them at least two to three times a week to minimize shedding.
Bathing is not necessary often, but do it when they look dirty. However, bathing a White German Shepherd is always a good idea, but don't do it very frequently, lest you lose many of the natural oils on its skin. Once every 3 to 4 months is often enough; more often if it tends to get really dirty.
Your White German Shepherd's teeth are very important to prevent dental decay and gum disease. Brushing their teeth every day is ideal, although twice a week is enough.
Brushing their undercoat-missing coat can be a bit like combing or brushing your own hair. Frequent brushing, especially with a deshedding tool, can also minimize loose hairs finding their way onto your furniture and carpets.
Their nails should be clipped every 6 to 7 weeks, and their ears should be inspected every week for any sign of inflammation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are white German shepherds called?
White German Shepherds are recognized as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club and are called White Shepherds.
Can you get a pure White German Shepherd?
Yes, pure white German Shepherds exist, but their recognition as a standard color variation varies among kennel clubs. They can be found, although it's essential to verify their authenticity and breeding standards.
Sources
- White German Shepherd - All The Facts About ... (animalcorner.org)
- White German Shepherd: Breed Facts & Temperament (petside.com)
- About White German Shepherds (whiteshepherdpups.com)
- White German Shepherd – Info, Pictures, Facts, And Care (worldanimalfoundation.org)
- The United Kennel Club (ukcdogs.com)
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