Subject: rec.pets.dogs:  German Shepherd Dogs  Breed-FAQ
Supersedes: <dogs-faq/breeds/gsd_826335481@rtfm.mit.edu>
Date: 8 Apr 1996 18:16:54 GMT
X-Last-Updated: 1995/08/20

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German Shepherd Dogs

   
   
   Created: 2 Oct 1994
   
   Modified: 29 Jun 1995
   
   
   
   Acknowledgements
   
   This FAQ was developed by Holly Stowe
   (gsdfaq@airborne-swine-squadron.oit.iupui.edu) (hs) with the
   assistance of (alphabetical by last name):
     * Marianne Cowley (mcowley@cftnet.com) (mc)
     * Katharine Cummings (kcumming@bingsuns.cc.binghamton.edu) (kc)
     * Mary Cummings (also kc)
     * Gareth Davies (g.davies@latrobe.edu.au) (gd)
     * Victoria Janicki (janicki@gblaut.enet.dec.com) (vj)
     * Craig Mirate (mirate@dofm.berkeley.edu) (cm)
     * Jan Mountjoy (talisman@crl.com) (jm)
     * Lily Mummert (lily@dvorak.coda.cs.cmu.edu) (lm)
     * Robin Nuttall (robin@imed.missouri.edu) (rn)
     * Dori Painter (dori_p@primenet.com) (dp)
       
   The initials of contributors are included in each section, though the
   contributions may have undergone editing. They have my gratitude.
   
   Thanks also to Cindy Tittle Moore for her invaluable help.
   
   If you have a suggestion, submission or comment regarding this FAQ,
   please send e-mail to gsdfaq@airborne-swine-squadron.oit.iupui.edu (or
   ihls400@indyvax.iupui.edu if airborne is down).
   
   Standard Disclaimer: I have done the best and most complete job I
   could in this FAQ. I admit a bias to AKC and American standards since
   that's what I'm most familiar with. I do not profess to be
   all-knowledgeable wrt to GSDs (or anything else for that matter! :-).
   Your mileage may vary. No warranty is expressed or implied. -Holly
   
   Copyright (c) 1994, 1995 by Holly Lee Stowe
   
   Sections Copyright (c) 1995 by Robin Nuttall (see notice)
   
   This article may be freely distributed in its entirety provided that
   copyright notice is not removed with the exception of the section on
   OFA which is copyrighted by Robin Nuttall. It may not be sold for
   profit nor incorporated in whole or in part in any other document
   without the author's written permission.
   
   Explicit permission is hereby granted to all humane shelters, animal
   shelters, city pounds and rescue organizations placing animals to
   redistribute the material under the conditions above.
   
   Those sites wishing to reference this document through the web or
   other means via the internet must set references to point to the
   original copy at http://indyunix.iupui.edu/~ihls400/gsdfaq.html unless
   given explicit written permission by the author and copyright holder.
   
   
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  TABLE OF CONTENTS
  
   
   
     * Introduction
     * Questions
     * Finding Your New GSD
     * Your New GSD Puppy at Home
     * History of the German Shepherd Dog
     * German Pedigrees, Working Titles and Certifications
     * Schutzhund
     * Health Concerns
          + Brief Explanations of Various Disorders
          + More Detail on Common Disorders
               o Degenerative Myleopathy
               o Elbow Dysplasia
               o Epilepsy
               o Hip Dysplasia
               o Pannus
               o Panosteitis
               o Peripheral Vestibular Disease
               o Soft Ears
               o Von Willebrand's Disease
          + OFA Information and Statistics on GSD Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
            (rn*)
     * Color and Heredity
     * GSD Standards - AKC and British Comparisons
     * Resources
          + Bibliography
          + Addresses
               o German Shepherd Dog Club of America
               o United Schutzhund Clubs of America
               o Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde
          + GSD-L Mailing List
          + Rescue
               o AK
               o AZ
               o CA
               o IL
               o MA
               o ME
               o MN
               o MO
               o NC
               o NH
               o NJ
               o NV
               o NY
               o OH
               o PA
               o TX
               o VA
               o VT
          + Breeders (under construction)
          + Other Resources (under construction)
   
       
   
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  INTRODUCTION (MC)
  
   
   
     "The most striking features of the correctly bred German Shepherd
     are firmness of nerves, attentiveness, unshockability, tractability,
     watchfulness, reliability and incorruptibility together with
     courage, fighting tenacity and hardness."
     
     - Max von Stephanitz, Father of the German Shepherd Dog
     
   The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a versatile working-dog, capable of
   being trained to perform a wide variety of tasks. GSDs are family
   pets, police dogs, guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, bomb and drug
   detection dogs, sheep and cattle herders, hunting companions, guard
   dogs, obedience champions, avalanche dogs, assistance dogs, show dogs,
   and more.
   
   Regardless of their particular role, GSDs are excellent companions
   provided they receive the attention, training, and exercise they need
   and feel useful. On the other hand, a neglected GSD will use those
   same wonderful traits to devise ways to amuse himself, much to the
   chagrin of his owner.
   
   
   Go to Table of Contents
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  QUESTIONS (ALL)
  
   
   
   Do GSDs make good family pets?
   
     Yes! GSDs are naturally protective of their "pack". Young children
     should never be left unattended with a puppy, however, if the
     children learn to respect the puppy as a living being, the puppy
     will be a wonderful companion for the children as they all grow up
     together. Your dog's ranking in the "pack" should always be
     established as the bottom (Omega) member below humans.
     
   What traits are inherent in GSDs generally?
   
     GSDs are natural herding dogs. Your GSD will try to "herd" you and
     your family. Often they will "follow ahead", walking in front of you
     and looking back to make sure you're going where you should.
     Although the GSD is not used as frequently for herding in present
     time, there are many breed lines still known for their herding. The
     breed is naturally loyal, intelligent and protective (which makes it
     good for police work). The GSD has an excellent nose, making it good
     for tracking and search and rescue work. They are calm and have a
     steady temperament when well-bred which is why they have been used
     as "Seeing Eye" dogs. A GSD thrives on regular exercise, mental
     stimulation and a well-balanced diet.
     
     These traits make a GSD an absolute pleasure to own when
     well-trained, but in the hands of a novice, unconcerned, uncommitted
     owner, their intelligence and drive can become difficult to manage.
     
     Breeding plays an important role in the temperament of GSDs, so
     selecting a reputable breeder concerned with both physical health
     and the personality of their puppies is of utmost importance.
     Different bloodlines exhibit traits differently, so question
     breeders about the strong and weak traits of their bloodlines.
     
   What should I look for in a GSD puppy?
   
     Obviously, many factors affect the selection of the puppy, including
     the personality and lifestyle of the prospective owner. Avoid
     puppies that appear too shy or nervous. Puppies at an age where they
     can be sent home with their new owners should be inquisitive and
     curious. GSD pups generally lengthen along the back and loin rather
     than get shorter. Look for balance in angulation, especially in the
     hind quarters as an imbalanced pup may never grow into the correct
     angulation. Meet both sire and dam if possible since character is
     very important. The puppies' parents should be OFA certified
     (preferably "Good" or "Excellent") (US dogs), OVC certified
     (Canadian dogs) or certified "a-normal" (German dogs). Make sure you
     see the parents' certifications. Hip problems can be devastating.
     
     The OFA is the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. When potential
     breeding stock reaches the age of 2, the breeder should have a set
     of x-rays taken and submit them to the OFA for certification. OFA
     will return a certification (Excellent, Good, or Fair) along with a
     certification number for the dog. (Dysplastic dogs will not be given
     a certification number.) (German certification is done over 1 year
     of age.) For information on German certifications, see the section
     on German Pedigrees, Working Titles and Certifications. More
     information on OFA can be found in the health and medical FAQs in
     rec.pets.dogs.info. Statistics regarding the GSD and OFA information
     can be found in the section on OFA Information and Statistics. Watch
     as the puppies move about. If you are inexperienced with GSDs, do
     not pick the "bully" of the litter. Watch the puppies interact with
     each other in the litter as well as with you and your family
     members. Watch the puppies you are considering interact with you
     without the rest of the litter present. Look for a friendly puppy
     who is not afraid, but also allows you to handle it without a lot of
     struggle.
     
     Ask to look through the puppy's pedigree. Look for obedience titles,
     conformation titles, hip certifications and make sure that common
     ancestors are at least 3 generations back. If you don't understand
     something, ask the breeder! Most of all, select a puppy that feels
     comfortable with your family. Reputable breeders will also make
     suggestions to insure their puppies go to happy, well-chosen homes.
     
     You can also ask if the puppies have been temperament tested and
     look at the results. "The Art of Raising a Puppy" by the Monks of
     New Skete (see Bibliography) details temperament testing and puppy
     selection.
     
      Elbow certifications as well as hip certifications are becoming
     more common. As with hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia can only be
     diagnosed by radiograph.
     
   Can my breeder guarantee my puppy will not have hip problems?
   
     NO! Hip dysplasia is considered to be polygenic. That means that
     it's caused by a combination of genes that may not show up in any
     litter previously. No matter the certifications in the pedigree it
     is possible that your puppy could be predisposed to hip dysplasia.
     That's why preliminary hip x-rays after 6 months are a good idea.
     Treatments (both surgical and drug) can be done early to alleviate
     problems down the line. If in doubt, find an orthopedic specialist.
     Be wary of a breeder that says their puppies will definitely not
     have hip problems.
     
   Should I get a male or female?
   
     This is an age-old question and almost strictly a matter of
     preference. Some people will say that males are more "location"
     protective while females are more "pack" protective. Males are
     generally more territorial, so unless training steps are consistent,
     marking could be a problem. (Neutering may help alleviate this
     problem. Any dog not intended for a breeding program should be
     neutered or spayed. Besides eliminating the possibility of unwanted
     puppies and reducing some undesireable behaviors, it's considerably
     healthier for your dog since it eliminates or severely reduces the
     chance of testicular or mammary cancers. Breeding should *never* be
     taken lightly.)
     
   How old should my puppy be before I take it home?
   
     Puppies are weaned from their mothers by about 6 weeks of age, but
     the period following weaning is very important in terms of learning
     "pack" behavior. Although 8 weeks is old enough and a common age for
     leaving the litter, 10 weeks is probably optimum for a GSD. However,
     better to take the puppy at 8 weeks if the rest of the litter have
     already gone to their homes. Puppies up to 12 weeks old should pose
     no additional concerns. After 12 weeks old, make sure the breeder
     has taken special care to socialize the puppy (puppies) with other
     dogs and people.
     
     
     
   How big will my GSD be?
   
     The full adult size of your GSD will depend in large part on the
     genetic background of its parents. The AKC Standard states that
     adult males should range between 24-26" at the shoulder blade,
     females from 22-24". Males within the standard may weigh anywhere
     from 65-90 lbs. depending on their bloodlines. Females may weigh
     anywhere from 55-80 lbs. (Again, much depends on the genetics and
     bloodlines. The above are only a rough idea.) Although your pup will
     reach close to adult height by 10-18 months, s/he will continue to
     fill out until up to 3 years old.
     
   What is "socializing" and why is it so important?
   
     Socializing refers to exposing your puppy to a variety of
     experiences, including meeting lots of people of various ages,
     races, sizes and both sexes as well as teaching them how to
     acceptably interact with other dogs. Puppy kindergarten classes
     provide an excellent opportunity for socialization in a controlled
     environment.
     
     Socializing is important because it helps strengthen your dog's
     confidence and reduces the chance that your dog will become shy or
     fearful. Fearful dogs can become fear aggressive or fear biters.
     
   When will my GSD puppy's ears stand?
   
     Although some puppies' ears stand as early as 8-10 weeks, don't be
     concerned if your pup's ears don't stand until 6-7 months
     (especially pups with large ears) after teething. Some pups ears
     never stand. This is known as a "soft ear". Sometimes taping is
     successful. "Soft ears" are a genetic trait, and dogs with soft ears
     should not be bred even if taping is successful. It is a
     disqualification in showing. Some GSDs ears stand but wiggle at the
     tips when the dogs run. This is known as "friendly ears". Friendly
     ears are not a disqualification but are not a desirable trait.
     
   What precautions should I take with my GSD puppy?
   
     Other than the normal precautions of immunizations (see the new
     puppy FAQ), beware of a fast-growing puppy. There are studies that
     show a correlation between fast growth and hip dysplasia (if your
     pup is predisposed to HD). You may want to switch your puppy over to
     adult food if it seems to be growing very quickly (see also Your New
     GSD at Home).
     
     Don't pet your puppy's ears backwards before they stand. Although
     people often do this by nature, it can damage the cartilage in your
     pup's ears which can affect the ear carriage.
     
     When your puppy is about 6 months old, have preliminary x-rays done
     of your puppy's hips. If your pup shows signs of dysplasia, there
     are treatment alternatives available to younger dogs that are not
     available if the dog is older and has arthritic changes. If detected
     early, there are things you can do for your dog to give it a happy,
     healthy life even with dysplasia. If your pup shows mild signs,
     consider having another set of x-rays taken after your dog turns 2.
     Orthopedic changes (both positive and negative) can take place up to
     this time.
     
     Under NO circumstances should a dog with any sign of hip dysplasia
     be bred. Breeding stock should be certified with the Orthopedic
     Foundation for Animals before breeding. (OFA will certify dogs over
     2 years of age.)
     
     Do take your puppy to puppy kindergarten and obedience training
     classes and do your homework for these classes. Behaviors that are
     cute in a 15 pound puppy can be dangerous in a 75 pound adult.
     Socialize your puppy with people (especially children) and other
     dogs frequently (after your puppy has completed its immunization
     series sometime after 16 weeks old).
     
     Your puppy may go through a period known as "adolescent shyness"
     when it reaches 4-5 months of age. This period can last until the
     pup is 12-18 months old. Socializing your puppy from an early age
     will help minimize this shyness. Expose your puppy to a variety of
     experiences, but do so gently. You don't want to traumatize your
     puppy.
     
     Be careful of heavy physical exertion directly after eating,
     especially if your GSD is a "gulper". GSDs (and many other breeds)
     can suffer from bloat. If your dog's abdomen becomes distended and
     rigid and it can not seem to belch or pass gas, gastric torsion may
     be the problem. (The stomach twists.) This is an immediate health
     concern and you should contact your vet or an emergency clinic.
     
   When should I switch my puppy to adult food?
   
     Individual puppies and bloodlines will vary. You probably are best
     off discussing your puppy's growth and needs with both your vet and
     your breeder. Many breeders and dog food manufacturers advise
     switching to a high quality adult food at four to six months of age.
     
     Offhand, if your puppy is growing very quickly, you might want to
     ask your vet about switching to adult food even as early as 12
     weeks. Studies have shown that puppies growing quickly may
     exacerbate a prediliction to hip dysplasia. Otherwise, you can
     consider switching any time after 10-18 months depending on the dog.
     
     
     
   What about shedding?
   
     The GSD is a "double-coated" dog with an undercoat and guard hairs.
     The guard hairs will be shed all year. The undercoat is "blown"
     twice a year.
     
   What about long-coated GSDs?
   
     "The correct GSD coat is relatively short with an obvious undercoat.
     As such it is quite waterproof. Some dogs are born with long coats
     which usually, though not always, are devoid of undercoat. Such
     coats are less useful and more difficult to groom, but many pet
     owners seem to like the long-coated version. Thus there is not
     strong selection against it, though very few breeders would
     deliberately breed from long-coated stock. The normal coat is
     dominant to the long version, so there are three kinds of dog:
     normal, normal but carrying the long coat gene, and long. About 10%
     of the pups are born long-coated." (1)
     
     This being said, if you don't intend to show your dog in
     conformation, there's no reason to avoid the long-coated GSD.
     Long-coated GSDs can and do compete in obedience and other working
     disciplines. You should be aware, however, that the longer coat does
     require more attention when grooming.
     
   Are GSDs smart and easy to train?
   
     Yes and no to both. Most GSDs are eager and willing to learn and
     enjoy training sessions (don't overdo with a young pup - they just
     don't have the attention span). If you start young and teach your
     puppy its order in your "pack", problems with training will be
     minimized. However, GSDs tend to have more dominant personalities
     than some breeds and can be stubborn, so some care in training is
     recommended. Classes are extremely beneficial. A GSD that thinks
     it's the Alpha member of the pack can be a big handful.
     
   My adolescent GSD is limping! What should I do?
   
     Don't panic. You probably *do* want to take your pup into a vet
     certified in orthopedic problems and reading x-rays just to make
     sure you can eliminate hip and elbow dysplasia from the cause of the
     problem. (Of course, that's true of all GSD puppies since early
     diagnosis/treatment of dysplasia is important to your puppy's
     healthy life even if you don't plan on breeding.) But... most likely
     the vet will confirm that your pup has panosteitis, an inflammation
     of the long bones in the legs of adolescent pups. It's fairly common
     in GSDs. It's also known as "long bone disease", "shifting leg
     lameness" and "growing pains". "Pano" can be detected and diagnosed
     by x-ray.
     
     Onset can be from 5-12 months (occasionally later) and last until 18
     months or more. Though it is uncomfortable for the puppy, it almost
     always grows out of it. The lameness need not be limited to one leg.
     Pano is generally considered to be a polygenic trait with limited
     heretibility (1).
     
   What is a "gay tail"?
   
     A GSD that carries its tail naturally higher than its body is said
     to have a "gay tail". Many Northern breeds such as Samoyeds are bred
     to carry their tails high. It is a fault in GSDs.
     
   Why do GSDs have a reputation of being vicious?
   
     In the 1950s, GSDs became the most popular dog in the AKC registry.
     As a result, many breedings were made without regard to pedigree
     history and inbreeding caused many personality problems. Reputable
     breeders will usually not allow inbreeding at least 3 generations
     back in the puppy's pedigree.
     
     Inbreeding and linebreeding can be beneficial in a breeding program
     if a breeder practices them carefully. Desireable traits can be
     strengthened, but undesireable traits and faults may be brought
     forth as well. If you notice inbreeding or linebreeding in the
     pedigree, question the breeder as to why and what the perceived
     advantages were. Breeders practicing these breedings should be able
     to give reasonably educated answers as to why.
     
     
     
   Why is a white GSD disqualified from the show ring in many clubs?
   
     The GSD was bred and developed as a herding dog. A pure white coat
     is not readily visible on snowy hillsides and sheep seem to respond
     better to colored dogs. As a guard dog, white is too visible. Also,
     top breeders have bred against a white color for a lengthy amount of
     time, so the gene pool of white GSDs is very limited and inbreeding
     can be a problem.
     
   What is an average size litter?
   
     An average size litter for a GSD is seven to eight puppies.
     
   What is the difference between a GSD and an Alsation?
   
     There is no difference. After each of the World Wars, anything
     German fell out of popular favor. To avoid the use of the word
     German, "Alsatian" (from the Alsace-Lorraine area) was used. In some
     countries, GSDs are still known as Alsations. The name in Germany is
     Deustche Schaferhund which means "German Shepherd Dog". The word
     "Dog" is part of the name.
     
   What is Schutzhund?
   
     Schutzhund is German for "protection dog", but it also refers to a
     training discipline and dog sport involving 3 phases; obedience,
     tracking and protection. It is supposed to be a fun experience for
     both the dog and the handler. If it isn't for one or the other,
     don't consider it. Find another activity. Schutzhund is not the be
     all and end all of training. See the section on Schutzhund (often
     notated as SchH) for more information. (Also, as of this writing, a
     Schutzhund FAQ is being worked on by some of the subscribers to the
     GSD-L mailing list. See the Resources for information on GSD-L.)
     
   Is there a club for GSDs in the US or in my area?
   
     Yes. You can get a packet of information on GSDs, information about
     the United States national club and information on a local club (if
     applicable) can be had by writing to the German Shepherd Dog Club of
     America (address in Resources below). You may be able to find out
     if there's a club in your country from this organization as well.
     You can also contact the United Schutzhund Club of America (USA)
     (address in Resources below) to get information on GSDs in general,
     about Schutzhund, about conformation shows and Schutzhund trials,
     the Breed Registry and to find a Schutzhund club near you.
     
   Is there a mailing list for GSDs?
   
     Yes! See the Resources section below.
     
   If you have other questions you feel should be answered in this FAQ,
   please write to gsdfaq@airborn e-swine-squadron.oit.iupui.edu (or
   ihls400@indyvax.iupui.edu if airborne is down).
   
   
   Go to Table of Contents
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  FINDING YOUR NEW GSD (MC/HS)
  
   
   
   You should seek out a reputable breeder when looking for a GSD pup
   because of the health concerns noted above as well as problems in
   temperament brought out in ill-bred GSDs. Poorly-bred GSDs can also be
   aggressive, fearful, or shy-sharp (a fearful dog that becomes
   aggressive when frightened). It is for these reasons that a reputable
   breeder is more likely to have sound pups, guarantee their health,
   help you select the puppy most suited to your lifestyle and goals, and
   be able to guide you as the pup grows.
   
   There are numerous resources to finding a reputable breeder. You can
   contact the GSD Club of America (address in the Resources section),
   your local GSD Club, United Schutzhund Club of America, local
   obedience schools or even by attending dogs shows and talking to
   people. (Note: Wait until the dog and handler have competed to
   approach them. Nerves and focus may interfere with your impression of
   both the dog and breeder otherwise and distractions before competing
   are unfair to the handler.)
   
   Don't overlook the possibility that a GSD is waiting to be adopted
   from a local shelter or rescue organization. There may also be sound
   GSDs that need homes because of changing family circumstances. When
   adopting a GSD from one of these sources, find out as much as you can
   about the dog's habits and any commands he understands. Taking the
   time to learn about the dog up front greatly improve the chance of
   making a good match between owner and dog, and with a dog that has
   already been displaced, it's important to find a match that will last
   a lifetime. Remember, though, that a GSD that has already been part of
   a family may take up to a few months to adjust completely to his new
   family and bond to his new humans. In return, you may find a dog who
   is already housebroken and at least partly trained to help smooth the
   transition into your home. You can find if there is a rescue
   organization in your area by contacting the national rescue chair
   whose address is located in the Resources section of this FAQ.
   
   
   Go to Table of Contents
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  YOUR NEW GSD PUPPY AT HOME (HS)
  
   
   
   Commit yourself (and your family) to training your puppy. Use the
   resources of formal class training beginning from about 12 weeks of
   age with a puppy kindergarten class for socialization and early
   training. Move on to more formally structured classes when the pup is
   six months old. Do your homework. Being intelligent and motivated, an
   untrained or ill-trained GSD can prove to be an unacceptable family
   member. Work on subordination and relaxation exercises every day.
   
   Be wary of asking too much physically from a young GSD pup, such as
   jumping, long runs, etc. While your pup is growing, you can damage the
   growth plates or exacerbate a tendency to hip dysplasia. Your puppy
   should be 12-18 months old before any heavy physical demands are
   placed on it.
   
   By 10 weeks of age, your GSD puppy will weigh somewhere around 13-20
   pounds (depending on sex and bloodlines). A GSD will continue to fill
   out until 24-36 months old, but should reach close to full adult size
   by 12 months.
   
   Your new GSD puppy will require a great deal of attention and
   socialization. Between 4-12 months, GSDs can be prone to "adolescent
   shyness". If the dog is well-socialized during prior to this point,
   you can minimize many of the worries that are associated with a shy
   dog. Puppy Kindergarten and obedience classes are highly recommended
   for all dogs, but especially for larger breeds such as the GSD. Expose
   your puppy to as many different experiences as possible, but do not
   allow your puppy to be traumatized.
   
   Although it is very tempting to pet your GSD puppies ears backwards
   away from the nose, it is preferable to not do so until the
   musculature in the ear is fully developed and the ear standing erect.
   Be content with scratching the ear at the base where it meets the
   skull. Your puppy will probably find this very enjoyable anyway.
   
   
   Go to Table of Contents
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  HISTORY OF THE GSD (HS(2))
  
   
   
   The GSD is a fairly recent breed in the breeding history of dogs,
   having been developed almost entirely in the 1900s. In the late
   1880s-early 1890s the first GSD Club, called the Phylax Society, was
   formed in Germany. The club survived for only a short time. On April
   3, 1899, Max von Stephanitz and Artur Meyer attended one of the
   earliest dog shows for all breeds ever held in Germany. On that day,
   von Stephanitz purchased a herding dog he observed at the show, and he
   and Meyer decided to form the Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde, S.V.
   Von Stephanitz was named the organization's first president and
   remained so until his death in 1936. The dog he purchased that day,
   Horand von Grafrath (previously Hektor Linksrhein) was designated
   S.Z.1, the first GSD to be registered with the Verein. The Verein
   became a driving force in the canine world and the largest specialty
   club with 50,000 members and over 600 affiliated clubs.
   
   The Verein started to keep a stud book immediately (marked by an S.Z.
   number) and began to circulate a semi-monthly newsletter. It held
   annual "Sieger" shows at which one dog and bitch were selected as
   Sieger and Siegerin. The Verein and von Stephanitz held a tight rein
   on GSD breeding throughout Germany, holding jurisdiction on which dogs
   and bitches could be used for breeding, which could be bred to one
   another, the number of puppies that could be kept and raised from each
   litter and age limitations on breeding stock. The von Stephanitz motto
   "utility and intelligence" was key.
   
   Though herding was the GSDs original purpose, von Stephanitz
   recognized the importance of expanding the breed's usefulness in other
   directions and persuaded the government (amid some amusement) to use
   the GSD in police and military work. GSDs went on to become the first
   dogs used as Guide Dogs for the blind.
   
   The GSD lost popularity in the United States during each of the World
   Wars, but recovered directly after, mostly attributed to soldiers
   returning from Europe with GSDs. Rin Tin Tin was actually a dog that
   was brought to America after World War I by a soldier named Larry
   Baker. In Germany, the dog was used as a military dog during each of
   the wars.
   
   
   Go to Table of Contents
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  GERMAN PEDIGREES, WORKING DEGREES AND RATINGS (MC/CM/JM/DP)
  
   
   
   In Germany, there is much more emphasis on the working abilities of
   the GSD, in keeping with Max von Stephanitz's vision of developing a
   dog with "a highly developed sense of smell, enormous courage,
   intrepidness, agility and, despite its aggressiveness, great
   obedience."
   
   Before the turn of the century, there were many informal training
   contests in Europe. Max von Stephanitz formalized the competitions
   under the auspices of the SV - Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (GSD
   Club of Germany) and included tests of performance in tracking,
   obedience, and protection. These tests are what we know today as
   Schutzhund. (See the section on Schutzhund for more information.)
   
   Unlike the AKC which simply registers all dogs born of AKC registered
   parents, for a litter in Germany to be officially registered both its
   parents must have working titles and at least a "G" (Good)
   conformation rating. The SV will register litters from parents it
   doesn't consider "suitable for breeding" if the above requirements are
   met. For an adult dog to compete in conformation shows or be
   recommended for breeding, it must first have a working title (@).
   (Most have Schutzhund titles.) The exception to this is that an adult
   dog may compete once in a lifetime in the non-titled adult dog class.
   Adolescents and puppies do not need working titles to compete in
   conformation.
   
   (@) The work done to achieve the titles must include tracking,
   obedience and protection, and must be accepted by the VDH (Verein fur
   Deutsche Hundeswessen). These include SchH and IPO. PH, DH, DPO and
   German Narcotics and Bomb dogs are accepted, but the dog is a real
   working dog or must actually have done the work for a year. Tending
   style herding (for which the dogs were originally bred) is also
   accepted (HGH) is also included, though it does not have a tracking
   segment. It does have a protection segment. The dog must perform a
   courage test. No AKC titles are accepted as they do not include a
   courage test. The SV standard calls for the desire to protect. French
   Ring is not accepted by the VDH.
   
   For an adult GSD to compete in the annual Sieger show (the premier
   German show), the dog must be free of hip dysplasia (*) and have
   earned a Schutzhund I, II, or III title. The dogs are first judged in
   two categories: conformation and courage; those that pass move on to
   compete for the Sieger (dog) and Siegerin (bitch) titles. The dogs are
   judged by physical characteristics, temperament, and movement, and
   their pedigrees are examined.
   
   (*) Dogs are x-rayed at one year of age and are given certifications
   of "a-normal", "fast-normal" or "noch-zugelassen", designating
   "normal", "nearly normal" and "mild hip dysplasia, still permissable
   to breed". (This lowest certification is generally not seen in show
   and breeding dogs.) Although there are no verifiable statistics, it is
   generally accepted that "a-normal" dogs will OFA at "Good" or better,
   "fast-normal" will generally, but not always OFA, and
   "noch-zugelassen" dogs will OFA only occasionally.
   
   German pedigrees have an "a-stamp" (literally a stamp) in the lowest
   right corner of the pedigree and the actual hip rating for that
   individual is hand-written on that stamp, so it is easy to verify the
   actual hip rating of the dog whose pedigree you have in front of you.
   Unfortunately, all the other ancestors only have the anonymous
   designation of an "a" ZUERKANNT, which only indicates that the
   ancestor was x-rayed and falls within the SV standard of "acceptable
   for breeding". It does not, therefore, indicate what the specific hip
   rating of the ancestor is/was, either normal, fast-normal or
   noch-zugelassen. Unfortunately, many people seem to think the "a"
   ZUERKANNT designation implies a hip rating of normal when in truth, it
   may signify any of the levels.
   
      German Titles And Ratings
      
   (Note: These titles cover all breeds, not just GSDs. A ranking of 3 is
   the highest.)
   
   *
   Used farther back in pedigrees to save room and denotes kkl-l or
   kkl-II.
   Before a dog's name, indicates dog has been surveyed and approved for
   breeding
   
   a
   "a" stamp indicating the dog's hips have been evaluated and fall
   within limits
   considered acceptable for breeding
   
   A
   Ausreichend
   Sufficient show or performance rating
   
   AD
   Ausdauerpruefung
   Endurance title (test includes a 12-mile run & simple obedience test)
   
   Angekoert
   Recommended for breeding
   
   BH
   German Companion Dog
   Must precede SchH I
   
   BlH
   Blindenhund
   Blind guide dog
   
   BpDH I, II
   Bahnpolizei Diensthund
   Railroad police service dog
   
   DH
   Diensthund
   Service dog
   
   FH
   Fahrtenhund
   Most advanced tracking title awarded by the SV
   
   G
   Gut
   Good show or performance rating
   
   GRH
   Grenzenhund
   Border patrol dog
   
   HGH
   Herdengebrauchshund
   Herding dog
   
   IPO I, II, III
   Schutzhund III according to the international rules
   
   KKL I
   Koerklasse I
   Especially recommended for breeding
   
   KKL II
   Koerklasse II
   Suitable for breeding
   
   KrH
   Kriegshund
   War dog
   
   LawH
   Lawinenhund
   Avalanche dog
   
   Lbz
   Lebenszeit
   Breed surveyed for lifetime
   
   M
   Mangelhaft
   Faulty show or performance rating
   
   MH
   Meldehund
   Dispatch Army dog (messenger dog)
   
   PDH
   Polizei Dienst Hund
   Working Police dog
   
   PH
   Polizeihund
   Police-trained dog
   
   PSP
   Polizeischutzhundprufung
   Police protection dog
   
   SchH I, II, III
   Schutzhund
   Obedience, tracking, and protection titles
   
   SG
   Sehr Gut
   Very Good show or performance rating;
   highest rating obtainable by dogs under 2 years old or at USA SchH
   shows,
   the highest rating that can be obtained by an untitled dog
   
   SH
   Sanitatshund
   Red Cross dog
   
   SH
   Suchhund
   Tracking dog
   
   U
   Ungenugend
   Unsatisfactory show or performance rating
   
   V
   Vorzuglich
   Excellent show or performance rating
   
   VA
   Vorzuglich-Auslese
   Excellent Select show rating at Sieger show;
   highest award obtainable by a German show dog;
   typically awarded to 12-15 dogs and bitches each year
   
   VH
   Vorhanden
   Sufficient show or performance rating
   
   ZB
   Zuchtbewertung
   Conformation show rating
   
   ZH I, II
   Zollhund I, II
   Customs dog
   
   ZPr
   Zuchtpruefung
   Passed a breed survey, recommended for breeding
   
   CACIB
   European International Champion
   
   Bundesieger
   Working Dog Champion of the Year (Leistungssieger)
   
   Europameister
   World Champion SchH III dog
   
   Hutesiger
   Herding Dog Champion at German herding dog championship
   
   Leistungssieger
   Working Dog Champion of the Year (Bundesieger)
   
   Preishuten Sieger
   Sheepherding Champion of the Year
   
   Sieger
   Grand Victor title at the German Sieger show
   
   Siegerin
   Highest Sieger bitch title
   
   Dogs are also rated and must achieve an G (good), SG (very good), V
   (excellent), or VA (excellent select) rating to be breed, as well as
   hip certification and a working degree.
   
   
   Go to Table of Contents
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  SCHUTZHUND (CM)
  
   
   
   Schutzhund is a German dog sport. It translates into "protection dog".
   
   The purpose of Schutzhund training is to assess and mold the dog's
   natural abilities to track, protect, and teach the dog control through
   obedience. It has been considered by some to be a test for breeding in
   that during the training the degree to which the dog possesses these
   working abilities becomes apparent. There are three degrees of
   Schutzhund training: SchH1 or novice; SchH2 or intermediate; and SchH3
   or advanced.
   
   To be eligible to do Schutzhund training, it is essential that the dog
   have a sound temperament. It cannot be shy, sharp shy, vicious, or
   have poor nerves (that is easily rattled). A responsible trainer will
   never train a dog with poor temperament in Schutzhund. It is also
   important that the trainer know when to back down and when to admit
   ignorance in order to keep from ruining a dog.
   
   Good socialization during puppyhood is critical. Poorly socialized
   dogs will have problems getting started and will require more ground
   work.
   
   The tracking is very similar to the AKC TD and TDX, except the dog is
   penalized for quartering (that is sniffing from side to side down the
   track). This phase of training can be started when the dog is about
   five months old.
   
   The obedience portion is very similar to that of the AKC CDX work
   except it is done on a large field as opposed to a small ring. This is
   for SchH1. For SchH2 and 3 obedience, the dog has to scale a 6 foot
   tall slanted wall to retrieve a dumbell in addition to the SchH1
   exercises. The dog is expected to do the work with greater precision
   at the more advanced levels. This portion of the training is usually
   started in earnest at about 12 months of age. Basic puppy training is
   always a good idea.
   
   The protection phase consists of developing the dog's natural
   protective instincts, and teaches it control in full drive through
   obedience exercises. The protection phase is best started no earlier
   than 15 months of age. The dog needs to have developed emotionally as
   well as physically and mentally.
   
   Schutzhund training is very time consuming and requires a committment
   from the owner. The length of time it takes to attain a SchH1 title
   will depend upon the dog's abilities and the time committment made by
   the owner. This can range from three months under ideal conditions
   (two times tracking/wk; four times/wk of obedience; four times/wk of
   protection) to three years if the training is sporadic or of poor
   quality.
   
   There is a difference between Schutzhund Training and a Schutzhund
   Trial. When done properly the training is a good test of the dog. A
   strong dog doesn't always do well at trials because they can be a bit
   obstinate during the obedience phase. A dog that scores well may not
   be a good dog.
   
   In Germany, the two largest Schutzhund organizations are the SV (GSD
   Dog Club) and the DVG (German Alliance for Utility Dog Sports). In
   1975, the first Schutzhund organization in the US, United Schutzhund
   Club of America (USA), was formed. Soon after, an American branch of
   the DVG formed. The USA's address and phone numbers are in the
   Resources section. (Breeding requirements for the United Schutzhund
   Clubs of America include a minimum of an "a" stamp and BH (German
   Companion Dog).
   
   
   Go to Table of Contents
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  HEALTH CONCERNS (MC/HS/CM/LM/KC)
  
   
   
   Due to the breed's versatility, the GSD has become a very popular pet.
   This is a mixed blessing. While many people truly enjoy the pleasure a
   well-bred and well-trained GSD adds to their lives, others have been
   attracted to the breed primarily to make money. A well-bred GSD is a
   remarkable dog, but a GSD from a disreputable breeder, accidental
   breeding, or someone trying to recoup their initial investment, can be
   a nightmare. Without careful consideration of genetic, temperament,
   and physical characteristics, the resulting litter can be plagued with
   serious health and temperament problems.
   
   Health disorders (some genetic) seen in GSDs (some are explained in
   more detail below):
   
   Key:
   d = dominant
   r = recessive
   p = polygenic
   % = may not always be genetic
   ^ = suspected genetic
   ? = unknown
   
   achalasia (r)
   dilated esophagus; vomiting begins at weaning
   
   ankylosis (?)
   fusing of vertebrae in tail (or spine) reducing range of motion
   
   aubaortic stenosis (?)
   
   bilateral cataract (d)
   opague lens form in both eyes, usually after 2 years
   
   calcium gout (^)
   calcium gout, lumps in skin caused by calcium deposits
   (calcinosis circumscripta)
   
   cerebellar hypoplasia (^)
   abnormal gait and loss of control starting at 12 weeks
   
   chronic pancreatitis (^)
   lack of enzymes that digest fat and protein;
   chronic weight loss
   
   cleft lip and palate (%)
   nonclosure of bones of upper jaw and roof of mouth
   
   corneal dermoid cyst (^)
   congenital cyst on eye surface
   
   cryptorchidism (^)
   undescended testicle(s)
   
   cystinuria (r)
   high cystine in urine; prone to stone formation (males only)
   
   degenerative myelopathy (?)
   spinal degeneration in older dogs
   (Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyleopathy - CDRM)
   
   diabetes mellitus (r)
   onset of insulin deficiency at 2-6 months
   
   distichiasis (^)
   extra row of eyelashes irritate eye
   
   ectasia (r)
   optic nerve/retina abnormalities (aka "Collie eye")
   
   elbow dysplasia (d)
   progressive developmental deformity of elbow joints,
   symptomless to crippling
   (see ununited anchoneal process)
   may be polygenic
   
   eosinophilic colitis (^)
   chronic bouts of diarrhea
   
   eosinophilic myositis (?)
   acute, relapsing inflammation of the muscles
   
   epilepsy (r)
   recurrent seizures onset between 1-3 years old
   
   hemophelia a (r)
   (factor VIII deficiency) slowed blood clotting, hemorrhages
   
   hip dysplasia (p)
   progressive developmental deformity of hip joints,
   symptomless to crippling
   
   intervertebral disc disease (^)
   slipped disc, pain, weakness to paralysis of limbs
   
   malabsorption syndrome (^)
   inability to absorb digested food leads to starvation
   
   nictitating membrane eversion (r)
   third eyelid rolls back; treated surgically
   
   osteochondritis dessicans (^)
   growth disorder of shoulder cartilage; pain, lameness (OCD)
   
   pannus (^)
   vessels, skin and pigment migrate over eye surface, leading to
   blindness
   
   panosteitis (^)
   acute shifting lameness of growing dogs,
   deep bone pain,
   self-limiting
   
   patent ductus arteriosus (p)
   aortal development defect in fetus,
   loud heart murmur,
   exercise intolerant
   
   perianal fistuala (^)
   open draining tracts around anus
   
   peripheral vestibular disease (?)
   defect of the middle ear causing puppies to circle
   
   pituitary dwarfism (^)
   normally proportioned dwarf, mentally retarded, usually fatal
   
   renal cortical hypoplasia (^)
   degeneration of both kidneys, beginning at about 1 year
   
   retinal atrophy (^)
   (generalized) PRA
   retina degenerates causing first night blindness then total blindness
   
   right aortic arch (p)
   abnormal artery constricts esophagus, vomiting
   
   soft ears (r)
   weak ear musculature
   
   spondylosis deformans (^)
   spinal arthritis
   
   ununited anchoneal process (d)
   elbow dysplasia; pain and limp in front legs
   
   von Willebrand's disease (d)
   bleeding disorder
   
   Detail for some disorders mentioned above...
   
   Degenerative Myelopathy
   This condition is relatively common among GSDs. It can appear in a
   young dog, but generally appears from middle age. The degeneration
   occurs over time, beginning with hind limb weakness. Eventually other
   weakness can occur, including the lower portion of the esopheogus,
   which makes complete swallowing difficult and can lead to recurrent
   pneumonias. Although initial signs resemble hip dysplasia, in
   actuality, it is the degeneration of the spinal cord rather than hip
   joints.
   
   Elbow Dysplasia
   Elbow dysplasia is characterized by an onset of severe lameness at
   between 4 and 6 months of age. It almost always affects only one of
   the elbows but occasionally will affect both. There are three
   different types of elbow dysplasia: UAP (ununited anconeal process),
   FCP (fractured coronoid process), and OCD (osteochondrosis). OCD more
   resembles arthritis in the elbow that may or may not be brought on by
   trauma or looseness of ligamentation at the elbow. Final diagnosis can
   only be made by radiograph. OFA now certifies elbows as well as hips.
   (See OFA Information and Statistics)
   
   Epilepsy
   This may possibly be genetically transmitted. At the least, the
   tendency exists in a few lines. The disorder may not express itself
   until the dog is about three to four years old. There is no way of
   testing for the disease until the dog has a seizure. (cm)
   
   Hip Dysplasia
   The hip joint is not constructed properly, usually with a shallow
   acetabulum. Dysplastic dogs can vary from minor problems to severe
   dislocation of the hips. This condition is generally considered to be
   inherited. Breeding stock should be OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for
   Animals) certified (look for an OFA number) or given an "A"
   certificate if from Germany. (Canada OVC) Current statistics indicate
   that over 20% of x-rays sent in for OFA certification fail. (See OFA
   Information and Statistics.)
   
   
   Although HD is thought to have a genetic base, pedigree, diet,
   exercise and so forth can play a role in the extent that the dog
   exhibits a existing predisposition to HD. Even dogs from long lines of
   certified parents can still produce HD puppies. The inheritance factor
   of HD is not fully known. This is why it has so far been impossible to
   eradicate the condition and why even pups from long lines of certified
   parents can still have HD. However, pups from generations of certified
   dogs are less likely to have HD.
   
     There is recent information on HD from Cornell's Animal Health
     Newsletter that specifically discusses the latest HD info (as of
     March, 1994). Although I have chosen to not include it here (due to
     length), HD is a prevalent problem and big issue in GSD breeding.
     The more you read about HD, the better. -hs
     
   Pannus
   (Chronic Superficial Keratitis (inflammation)) Pannus is an eye
   condition in which blood vessels grow onto the cornea. It can lead to
   blindness if untreated. It is not curable, but is controllable with
   medication. Some studies suggest an autoimmune problem. (lm)
   
   Panosteitis
   (Commonly called "long bone disease," "wandering lameness," or simply
   "pano.") Generally seen between 5-12 months of age, it is caused by
   excessive bone production on the long bones. Dogs will generally grow
   out of the problem, but it is a painful condition. Pano is, for
   unknown reasons, common in GSDs. If the dog is x-rayed during a bout
   of pano, lesions on the growth plates will be visible. However, pano
   leaves no lasting ill affects on a dog. Diet is thought to play a
   role. High protein puppy diets may make the puppy grow too fast and
   increase the chance of the pup experiencing pano (sometimes described
   as "growing pains"). Pano is also called "Shifting Leg Lameness" as it
   can show up in any leg and may come and go without warning. Pups
   usually completely outgrow Pano by 18 months. Enforced rest is usually
   prescribed. Painkillers are contraindicated since the pup will play
   more without pain, and may exacerbate the condition.
   
   Peripheral Vestibular Disease
   A congenital defect of the middle ear. Puppies will generally circle
   in an unbalanced way, holding their head back or to one side. Dogs
   rarely recover, and as afflicted adults, there will still be some head
   tilt.
   
   Soft Ears
   Though all GSDs are born with floppy ears, normal ears will begin to
   stand erect in the 2nd or 3rd month. Some ears will never develop the
   musculature to stand erect. This is an inherited recessive trait.
   Though soft ears primarily affects a dog's showability (hanging ears
   are a disqualification), soft-eared GSDs are also more prone to ear
   infections.
   
   Von Willebrand's Disease
   A blood disease that can include mucosal bleeding. It is an inherited
   dominant condition. Requires clinical blood testing to distinguish it
   from other conditions. Results of breeding two VWD dogs are lethal.
   VWD is autosomal and not sex-linked.
   
     NOTE: Although these disorders are found in GSDs, they are not
     necessarily found only in GSDs, nor are they necessarily common.
     Though this list may seem a bit intimidating, a good look into any
     breed will reveal a substantial list of health problems that may be
     common to that breed. This list shouldn't scare you away from GSDs,
     rather, it should encourage you to find a reputable breeder who is
     aware of/knowledgeable about these conditions and does their best to
     keep their breeding program free of these problems.
     
   
   
   
     _________________________________________________________________
   
   
   
  OFA INFORMATION AND STATISTICS ON GSD HIP AND ELBOW DYSPLASIA (RN*)
  
   
   
     This section is Copyright (c) 1995 by Robin Nuttall and may not be
     posted, printed or reproduced in any medium without explicit written
     permission of the author. Robin may be reached at
     robin@imed.missouri.edu.
     
   Hip Dysplasia GSDs are listed as 23rd of 100 breeds having at least
   100 evaluations, tested between January 1974 and January 1995.
   

German Shepherd Dog:  46,089 tested
                        2.8% tested excellent
                       20.8% tested dysplastic

GSD whelped 1972-80:    2.5% tested excellent
                       20.7% tested dysplastic

GSD whelped 1991-92:    4.1% tested excellent
                       16.8% tested dysplastic

   GSDs reduced the frequency of HD by 10-20% between 1974 and 1995. Only
   4 breeds increased the frequency of HD: Afgan hound, Flat-coated
   Retriever, Kerry Blue Terrier and Komondor.
   
   OFA's Recommended Breeding Principals
    1. Breed normals to normals
    2. Breed normals with normal ancestry
    3. Breed normals from litters with a low incidence of HD
    4. Select a sire that produces a low incidence of HD
    5. Replace dogs with dogs that are better than the breed average
       
   OFA is especially interested/concerned in HD in littermates. Their
   contention is that a dog with excellent hips that has littermates with
   HD is a poorer breeding prospect than a dog with fair hips whose
   littermates have no HD.
   
   Elbow Dysplasia Sixteen breeds have had at least 75 individuals tested
   as of December 31, 1994. These are divided by sex, % dysplastic and %
   of each grade of dysplasia. Because different breeds have different
   numbers that have been tested, it is hard to assign a "most
   dysplastic" number to them. Note: In all breeds, more bitches have
   been tested than males, yet in almost every case, dogs have had a
   higher incidence of ED.
   

GSD:  Females:  2940 tested
               18.2% dysplastic...  68.7% Grade I
                                    22.0% Grade II
                                     9.3% Grade III
      Males:    2156 tested
               23.9% dysplastic...  67.2% Grade I
                                    20.9% Grade II
                                    11.8% Grade III

   Grade I: minimal bone change on the aconeal process
   Grade II: additional subchondral bone changes and/or osteophytes
   Grade III: well developed degenerative joint disease
   
   Categories for Dysplasia

      Normal (receive OFA certification numbers)
             Excellent
             Good
             Fair
      Borderline (recommend repeat study in 6-8 months)
      Dysplastic
             Mild
             Moderate
             Severe

   
   
   OFA Number Interpretation
   
   Numbers are interpreted as follows: BBBxxxPmmS-T
   
   BBB
          Breed code
          
   xxx
          Ascending numerical order of normal individuals assigned a
          breed registry number
          
   P
          Phenotypic evaluation
          
   mm
          Age in months when evaluation was done
          
   S
          Sex of individual
          
   T
          Tattooed
          
   
   
   Given the example number EPT100G24M-T, it would represent:

EPT - A Pointer
100 - The 100th Pointer to be evaluated
G   - Evaluated as Good
24  - 24 months old at the time of evaluation
M   - Male
T   - Tattooed

   
   
   Correction of Anecdotal Misinformation
   
    1. There are no environmental factors which cause HD.
    2. There is no evidence in the scientific literature that megadoses
       of vitamin C or any other supplement is beneficial in reducing the
       effects of HD. (Note from Robin: other OFA publications indicate
       these megadoses may be harmful.)
    3. High caloric intake resulting in rapid growth and increased weight
       gain may exacerbate changes in dysplastic hips but will not create
       hip dysplasia.
    4. Exercise, running, jumping up and down, and slick floors will not
       cause HD.
    5. Prior injuries to the femurs and/or pelvis may be detected
       radiographically and are taken into account when evaluating hip
       status.
       
       Suggestions
       
         1. DO YOUR HOMEWORK: Prospective buyers should check pedigrees
            for OFA numbers prior to purchasing a dog. If an OFA number
            cannot be verified assume the dog to be dysplastic until
            proven otherwise.
         2. PRELIMINARY EVALUATIONS: Can be performed as early as 4-5
            months of age and OFA evaluations are about 90% accurate when
            compared to follow-ups at 24 months of age.
         3. ANESTHEISA: Is not required by OFA but is recommended.
         4. HORMONAL EFFECT: Some female dogs show subluxation when
            radiographed around an estrus cycle which is not apparent
            when re-radiographed in anestrus. The OFA recommends
            radiographing 3-4 weeks before or after a heat period or 3-4
            weeks after weaning a litter of pups.
         5. FILM COPIES: Due to optical archiving the OFA can no longer
            supply copies of films. If a copy is necessary ask your
            veterinarian to insert 2 films in the cassette prior to
            making the exposure. This will require about a 15% increase
            in the kVp to make an exact duplicate of the radiograph sent
            to OFA.
   This latest information comes from the pamphlet "Hip Registry".
       
       
       Go to Table of Contents
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       
       
  COLOR AND HEREDITY (VJ/HS)
   
       
       When people think of GSDs, they think of the "saddleback"
       markings, however GSDs can be one solid color (all white is a
       conformation disqualification for showing) and sable. Sables are
       noted by multi-colored individual hairs, though they may be masked
       by dark or black guard hairs. Coloring patterns include: black &
       tan, black & red, black & cream, black, white (conformation
       disqualification), sable (various colorations), black & silver,
       liver (rare - conformation fault) and blue (rare - conformation
       fault). The liver color is the result of matched recessives in the
       black series. The blue color is the result of matched recessives
       in the dilution series. (hs)
       
       The following is a summary of color inheritance in the German
       Shepherd based on information from "The German Shepherd Dog: A
       Genetic History" by Malcom Willis, required reading for any
       serious German Shepherd fan, especially for breeders. (vj)
       
       Color is controlled by several series of genes. Each series is
       worked through in the following:
   (x^y designates ^y as a superscript)
       
       THE AGOUTI SERIES
       
        The basic body color is controlled by the genes. The order of
                dominance is:
                a^y ... golden sable
                a^w ... grey sable
                a^s ... saddle marked black and tan
                a^t ... bicolor* black and tan
                a ..... black
                
   *bicolor is where the dog only has tan on the legs and face, not on
       the body
       
       The black gene a is recessive to the other colors. Blacks bred to
       blacks will only produce blacks. The sable colors are dominant
       over the other colors.
       
       THE BLACK SERIES
       
        This gene controls the black pigment formation.
                BB ... Black pigment including nose, eyerims and pads
                Bb ... Carrier for liver color
                bb ... Liver color - brown black colors, brown nose, eye
                rims and pads.
                
   Most GSDs are BB.
       
       THE WHITE SERIES
       
        White is recessive to all other colors. In order get a white coat
                color, both parents must carry the white gene (either be
                white themselves or be carriers.)
                C ............. Melanin is produced. (Standard GSD's
                colors have this)
                C^ch .......... Partial albinism - chinchilla (not seen)
                C^d ........... White coat with dark eyes and nose (not
                albino)
                a^yC^chC^ch ... Yellowish coat collar (proposed)
                
   THE DILUTION SERIES
       
        Controls how intense the black pigment will be.
                D ... Dense pigment
                d ... blue dilution
                
   Bd ... Black pigment-blue dilution together begets a blue coat which
       looks as though it has a dusty or flour sheen.
       
       THE MASK SERIES
       
                E^m .... Produces a black mask on the face
                E ...... Dark coat with no mask
                e^br ... Brindle (rare, will be seen as striping on the
                legs)
                e ...... Clear tan
                
   The ee combination affects only the coat and not the nose. The black
       fades to tan. In these dogs, the tail tip will be red, not black.
       
       
       Go to Table of Contents
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       
       
  GSD STANDARDS - AKC (2/11/1978) (HS) AND BRITISH (CM) COMPARISONS
   
       
       
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       
       
       NOTE (95/08/08): AKC has decided to challenge the copyright over
       the breed standards. Until this silliness and childish "Mine!
       Mine!" on the part of the AKC is over, the AKC breed standard for
       the GSD will not be printed in either the text or webbed version
       of the FAQ. There are many GSD GSD Club of America. Don't bother
       buying the AKC's book with all the standards if all you want is
       the GSD standard. -HS
       
       
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       
       
       The British Standard was adopted from several translations of the
       1976 SV Standard. The version listed is the "Extended Version"
       which corresponds to the SV standard. The KC has since shortened
       it and has a copyright to their current version.
       
       GENERAL APPEARANCE
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                The immediate impression of the GSD is of a dog slightly
                long in comparison to its height, with a powerful and
                well muscled body. The relation between height and length
                and the position and symmetry of the limbs (angulation)
                is so interrelated as to enable a far reaching and
                enduring gait. The coat should be weather-proof. A
                beautiful appearance is desirable, but this is secondary
                to this usefulness as a working dog. Sexual
                characteristics must be well defined - i.e., the
                masculinity of the male and the femininity of the female
                must be unmistakable.
                
                True to type GSD gives an impression of innate strength,
                intelligence, and suppleness, with harmonious proportions
                and nothing either over done or lacking. His whole manner
                should make it perfectly clear that he is sound in mind
                and body, and has the physical and mental attributes to
                make him always ready for tireless action as a working
                dog. With an abundance of vitality he must be tractable
                enough to adapt himself to each situation and to carry
                out his work willingly and with enthusiasm. He must
                possess the courage and determination to defend himself,
                his master, or his master's possessions should the need
                arise. He must be observant, obedient, and a pleasant
                member of the household, quiet in his own environment,
                especially with children and other animals, and at ease
                with adults. Overall he should present a harmonious
                picture of innate nobility, alertness, and
                self-confidence.
                
   CHARACTER
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                The main characteristics of the GSD are: steadiness of
                nerves, attentiveness, loyalty, calm self-assurance,
                alertness and tractability, as well as courage with
                physical resilience and scenting ability. These
                characteristics are necessary for a versatile working
                dog. Nervousness, over-aggressiveness, and shyness are
                very serious faults.
                
   HEAD
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                The head should be proportional in size to the body
                without being coarse, too fine, or overlong. The overall
                appearance should be clean cut and fairly broad between
                the ears. Forehead should be only very slightly domed
                with little or no trace of center furrow. Cheeks should
                form a very softly rounded curve and should not protrude.
                Skull extends from the ears to the bridge of the nose
                tapering gradually and evenly, and blending without a too
                pronounced "stop" into a wedge shaped powerful muzzle. (
                The skull is approximately 50% of the whole length of the
                head.) Both top and bottom jaws should be strong and well
                developed. The width of the skull should correspond
                approximately to the length. In males the width could be
                slightly greater and in females slightly less than the
                length. Muzzle should be strong with the lips firm, clean
                and closing tightly without any flews. The top of the
                muzzle is straight and almost parallel to the forehead. A
                muzzle which is too short, blunt, weak, pointed, overlong
                or lacking in strength is undesirable.
                
   EARS
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                Of medium size, firm in texture, broad at the base, set
                high, they are carried erect (almost parallel and not
                pulled inward), they taper to a point and open toward the
                front. Tipped ears are faulty. Hanging ears are a very
                serious fault. During movement the ears may be folded
                back.
                
   EYES
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                The eyes are medium sized, almond-shaped and not
                protruding. Dark brown eyes are preferred, but eyes of a
                lighter shade are acceptable provided that the expression
                is good and the general harmony of the head not
                destroyed. The expression should be lively, intelligent,
                and self-assured.
                
   TEETH
       
        AKC
                
                
                
        1976 SV (MOUTH and TEETH)
                The jaws must be strongly developed and the teeth
                healthy, strong, and complete. There should be 42 teeth:
                20 in the upper jaw, 6 incisors, 2 canines, 8 premolars,
                4 molars; 22 in the lower jaw, 6 incisors, 2 canines, 8
                premolars, and 6 molars. The GSD has a scissor bite -
                i.e., the incisors in the lower jaw are set behind the
                incisors in the upper jaw, and thus meet in a scissor
                grip in which part of the surface of the upper teeth meet
                and engage part of the surface of the lower teeth. (Full
                and correct dentition is required for a "V" rating.
                Double p1's are acceptable for a "V" rating so long as
                everything else is correct. A missing p1 or incisor
                results in an "SG" rating. A missing p2 results in a "G"
                rating. Missing incisors are quite rare.)
                
   NECK
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                The neck should be fairly long, strong with
                well-developed muscles, free from throatiness (excessive
                folds of skin at the throat) and carried at a 45 degree
                angle to the horizontal; it is raised when excited and
                lowered at a fast trot.
                
   FOREQUARTERS
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                The shoulder blade should be long, set obliquely (45
                degrees) and laid flat to the body. The upper arm should
                be strong and well muscled and joined to the shoulder
                blade at a near right angle (90 degrees). The forelegs,
                from the pasterns to the elbows, should be straight
                viewed from any angle and the bones should be oval rather
                than round. The pasterns should be firm and supple and
                angulated at approximately 20-23 degrees (from the
                vertical). Elbows neither tucked in nor turned out.
                Length of the forelegs should exceed the depth of chest
                at a ratio of approximately 55% to 45%.
                
   FEET
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                Should be rounded, toes well closed and arched. Pads
                should be well cushioned and durable. Nails short,
                strong, and dark in color. Dew claw sometimes found on
                the hind legs should be removed 2-3 days after birth.
                
   PROPORTION
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV (HEIGHT)
                The ideal height (measured to the highest point of the
                wither) is 57.5 cm for females and 62.5 cm for males 2.5
                cm either above or below the norm is allowed. Any
                increase in this deviation detracts from the workability
                and breeding value of the animal.
                
   BODY
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                The length of the body should exceed the height at the
                wither, the correct proportions being at 10 to 9 or 8.5.
                The length is measured from the point of the breast bone
                to the rear edge of the pelvis.
                
                Over or undersized dogs, stunted growth, high-legged dogs
                and overloaded fronts, too short overall appearance, too
                light or too heavy in build, steep set limbs or any other
                failure which detracts from the reach or endurance of the
                gait are faulty.
                
   CHEST
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                Chest should be deep (45-48% of the height at the
                shoulder) but not too broad. The brisket is long and well
                developed.
                
   RIBS
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                Ribs should be well formed and long, neither
                barrel-shaped nor too flat; correct rib cage allows free
                movement of the elbows when the dog is trotting. A too
                rounded rib cage will interfere and cause the elbows to
                be turned out. A too flat rib cage will lead to the
                drawing in of the elbows. The desired long ribbing gives
                a proportionately (relatively) short loin.
                
   ABDOMEN
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                Belly is firm and only slightly drawn up. Loin broad,
                strong and well muscled.
                
   TOPLINE
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                Back is the area between the withers and the croup,
                straight, strongly developed and not too long. The
                overall length is not derived from a long back, but is
                achieved by the correct angle of a well laid shoulder,
                correct length of croup and hindquarters. The withers
                must be long, of good height and well defined. They
                should join the back in a smooth line without disrupting
                the flowing top line which should be slightly sloping
                from the front to the back. Weak, soft, and roached backs
                are undesirable. (A roach is a clearly defined elevation
                in the center of the back above a horizontal line drawn
                lengthwise at the base of the withers such that the spine
                arches.)
                
                Croup should be long and gently curving down to the tail
                (approximately 23 degrees) without disrupting the flowing
                topline. The illium and sacrum for the skeletal basis of
                the croup. Short, steep, or flat croups are undesirable.
                
   TAIL
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                Bushy haired, should reach at least to the hock joint,
                the ideal length being to the middle of the hock bones.
                The end is sometimes turned sideways with a slight hood;
                this is allowed but not desired. When at rest the tail
                should hang in a slight curve like a sabre. When moving
                it is raised and the curve increased, but ideally it
                should not be higher than the level of the back. A tail
                that is too short, rolled or curled, or generally carried
                badly or which is stumpy from birth is faulty.
                
   HINDQUARTERS
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                (the leg referenced is the forward hind leg in the
                stacked position) The thighs should be broad and well
                muscled. The upper thigh bone (femur), viewed from the
                side should slope to the slightly longer lower thigh
                bone. The angulations should correspond to the front
                angulations without being over-angulated. The hock bone
                is strong and together with the stifle bone should form a
                firm hock joint. The hindquarters must be strong and well
                muscled to enable the effortless forward propulsion of
                the whole body. Any tendency toward over-angulation of
                the hindquarters reduces firmness and endurance.
                
   GAIT
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                The GSD is a trotting dog. His sequence of step therefore
                follows a diagonal pattern in that he always moves the
                foreleg and the opposite hind leg forward at the same
                time. To achieve this, his limbs must be in such balance
                to one another so that he can thrust the hind foot well
                forward to the midpoint of the body and have an equally
                long reach with the fore foot without any noticeable
                change in the back line. The correct proportion of the
                height to length and corresponding length of limbs will
                produce a ground covering stride that travels flat over
                the ground, giving the impression of effortless movement.
                With his head thrust forward and a slightly raised tail,
                a balanced and even trotter displays a flowing line
                running from the tips of his ears over the neck and back
                down to the tip of the tail. The gait should be supple,
                smooth, and long reaching, carrying the body with the
                minimum of up and down movement, entirely free from
                stiltiness.
                
   TRANSMISSION
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                (No corresponding item.)
                
   COLOR
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                Black or black saddle with tan, or gold to light grey
                markings. All black, all grey, or grey with lighter or
                brown markings (Sables). Small white marks on the chest
                or very pale color on the inside of the legs are
                permitted but not desirable. The nose in all cases must
                be black. Light markings on the chest and inside legs, as
                well as whitish nails, red tipped nails or wishy-washy
                faded color are defined as lacking in pigmentation.
                Blues, livers, albinos, whites, are to be rejected. The
                undercoat is, except in all-black dogs, usually grey or
                fawn in color. The color of the GSD is in itself not
                important and has no effect on the character of the dog
                or on its fitness for work and should be a secondary
                consideration for that reason. The final color of a young
                dog can only be ascertained when the outer coat has
                developed.
                
   COAT
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV
                a) The normal (stock) coated GSD should carry a thick
                undercoat and the outer coat should be as dense as
                possible, made up of straight hard close lying hairs. The
                hair on the head and ears, front of the legs, paws and
                toes is short. On the neck it is longer and thicker, on
                some males forming a slight ruff. The hair grows longer
                on the back of the legs as far down as the pastern and
                the stifle, and forms fairly thick trousers on the
                hindquarters. There is no hard or fast rule for the
                length of the hair, but short mole-type coats are faulty.
                
                b) In the long-coated GSD (long stock coat) the hairs are
                longer, not always straight and definitely not lying
                close and flat to the body. They are distinctly longer
                inside and behind the ears, and on the back of the
                forelegs and usually at the loins, and form a moderate
                tufts in the ears and profuse feathering on the back of
                the legs. The trousers are long and thick. Tail is bushy
                with light feathering underneath. As this type of coat is
                not so weatherproof as the normal coat it is undesirable.
                
                c) In the long open-coated GSD the hair is appreciably
                longer the in the case of the type b and tends to form a
                parting along the back, the texture being somewhat silky.
                If present at all , undercoat is found only at the loins.
                Dogs with this type of coat are usually narrow chested,
                with narrow overlong muzzles. As the weather protection
                of the dog and his working ability are seriously
                diminished with this type of coat, it is undesirable.
                
   DISQUALIFICATIONS
       
        AKC
                
        1976 SV (FAULTS)
                Any departure from the foregoing points should be
                considered a fault and the seriousness with which the
                fault should be regarded should be in exact proportion to
                its degree.
                
        1976 SV (NOTES)
                All male dogs must have both testicles fully descended
                into the scrotum.
                
       Go to Table of Contents
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       
       
  RESOURCES (ALL)
   
       
       Bibliography
       
       * indicates highly recommended
       
       2)The Book of the German Shepherd Dog. Anna Katherine Nicholas.
       TFH Publications, Inc., Ltd., 1983. ISBN 0-87666-562-8.
       
       Dogwatching. Desmond Morris. Crown Publishers, 1987. ISBN
       0-51756-519-6.
       
       *The German Shepherd Dog: A Genetic History. Malcolm B. Willis
       Ph.D. Howell Book House, 1991. ISBN 0-87605-175-1.
       
     The Willis book is fabulous. It is quite technical, with a good deal
     of material on health problems particular to GSD's. Willis is
     opinionated, and pulls no punches when discussing how the breed has
     developed around the world. A very enjoyable book, and worth every
     penny. (lm)
   The German Shepherd Today. Winifred Strickland & James Moses. Howell
       Book House, 1988. ISBN 0-02-614990-7.
       
       *How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend. Monks of New Skete. Little,
       Brown and Co., 1978. ISBN 0-31660-491-7.
       
     The first of the Monks' two books on raising dogs. See note on "The
     Art of Raising a Puppy". (hs)
   (1) Pet Owner's Guide to the German Shepherd Dog. Dr. Malcom B.
       Willis, Howell Book House, 1993, ISBN 0-87605-978-7
       
       Schutzhund: Theory and Training Methods. Susan Barwig and Stewart
       Hilliard. Howell Book House, 1991. ISBN 0-87605-731-8
       
       *Schutzhund Obedience: Training in Drive with Gottfried Dildei.
       Sheila Booth. Podium Publications, 1992.
       
     (Available from Direct Book Services @ 1-800-776-2665 or from the
     publisher at Dept A, PO Box 171, Ridgefield, CT 06877.) This book is
     an excellent training guide using motivational methods and the dog's
     drives to teach basic obedience. (mc)
   The Total German Shepherd Dog. Fred L. Lanting. Alpine Publications,
       Inc. PO Box 7027, Loveland, CO. 1990. ISBN 0-931886-43-X. Tracking
       Dog, Theory and Methods. Glen Johnson.
       
       
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       Addresses
          +
            The German Shepherd Dog Club of America
            30 Far View Road
            Chalmont, PA 18914
            
          +
            United Schutzhund Clubs of America (USA)
            729 Lemay Ferry Rd.
            St. Louis, MO 63125-1427
            Phone: (314)-638-9686
            Fax: (314)-638-0609
            
     The USA follows the International Standard for the German Shepherd
     Dog, which is the acknowledged standard in almost every (if not
     every) major western country in the world except the United States
     and Canada. They are also a Breed Registry for German Shepherd Dogs,
     affiliated with the SV in Germany. Dogs registered through USA are
     given both a USA number and an SV number, and the pedigree issued is
     processed by the SV in Germany and looks the same as the German
     pedigree. USA has approximately 4000 members and about 164 clubs
     around the country, plus an additional 45 or more clubs which are in
     the process of meeting the requirements for full-fledged status.
     Usually this means they have yet to conduct a Schutzhund trial or
     hold a show. The country is divided into geographical regions, and
     each club is allocated to a given region, under a regional director.
          +
            Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde (SV)
            Steinerne Furt 71/71a
            D-86167 Augsburg
            Germany
   
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       GSD-L Mailing List
       
   
       Mailing list for GSDs
       To get on an email list for GSD fanciers, send mail to
       listserv@latrobe.edu.au with the body of the mail reading:
       
       
       subscribe GSD-L
       
       
       If you have questions regarding the mailing list, contact:
       Gareth Davies (G.Davies@latrobe.edu.au)
       
       
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       German Shepherd Dog Rescue
       
       
       German Shepherd Dog Club of America, Inc.
       Linda Kury, Rescue Committee National Chair
       369 Drake Court
       Santa Clara, CA 95051
       (408) 247-1272
       
       AK
       German Shepherd Dog Club of Alaska
       Bonnie Johnson and Christa Burg
       P.O. Box 670266
       Chugiak, AK 99567
       (907) 688-2352
       
       AZ
       Ron and Margaret Nunnally
       Phoenix, AZ area
       (602) 477-2216
       
       CA
       German Shepherd Rescue
       417 N. Moss St.
       Burbank, CA 91502
       (818) 558-7560...ask for Grace
       
       IL
       German Shepherd Rescue
       Diane Wright
       244 E. Stimmel St.
       West Chicago, IL 60184
       (708) 293-4167
       
       MA
       Debbie Hokkanen
       (508) 852-4473
       
       
       Laurie Cleveland
       Boston area
       (617) 585-9825
       
       
       Janice Ritter
       (referrals only)
       (617) 290-0710...days
       
       
       John Hire/Patty Lacroix
       Western MA
       (413) 967-8361
       
       ME
       Adroscoggins GSD Club of Maine
       Winnie and Norman York
       (207) 469-7628
       
       MN
       German Shepherd Dog Club of Minneapolis-St.Paul
       Marilyn Lindsey-Miller
       210 Kindross, P.O. Box 574
       Willenie, MN 55090
       (612) 426-3682
       
       MO
       German Shepherd Rescue
       Anne Mackey
       Kansas City, MO
       (816) 363-0121
       
       NC
       Debbie Rafalowski and Anita Holton
       German Shepherd Dog Rescue
       P.O. Box 36122
       Raleigh, NC 27606
       (919) 965-0784
       (919) 774-6384
       GSDRescue@aol.com
       
       NH
       German Shepherd Rescue (placement, evaluation, referrals)
       Stu and Karen Randall
       228 Gorham Pond Rd.
       Goffstown, NH 03045
       (603) 497-3472
       
       NJ
       Jodi Caizza
       (201) 928-9786
       
       
       Kim Dislonde
       (201) 667-0199
       (201) 935-7076 (wk)
       
       
       German Shepherd Rescue, Inc. of PA
       Southern NJ
       (609) 985-4725
       
       
       Iza Kabuska
       RD 2 Box 364
       Andover, NJ 07821
       (201) 398-1393
       
       
       Lacy's Shepherd Rescue
       Donna Petroisie
       Jackson, NJ
       (908) 370-3795
       
       
       Christy Shore
       Leesburg, NJ
       (609) 785-9728
       
       NV
       German Shepherd Dog Club of S. Nevada
       Betty Zapatka
       5409 Avendia Vaquero
       Las Vegas, NV 89108
       (702) 645-2721
       
       NY
       Ritter Hof Kennel
       Mary and Kitty Cummings
       810 E. Maine Rd.
       Johnson City, NY 13790
       (607) 729-2718
       
       
       German Shepherd Rescue
       Risa Stein
       Rocky Pt, NY
       (516) 744-3258
       
       OH
       German Shepherd Rescue
       Eaton, OH 45320
       (513) 456-5393
       
       PA
       German Shepherd Rescue, Inc. of PA
       Nancy Aiosa
       (717) 586-9064
       Diane Reppy
       (717) 943-2055
       Sue Bunnell
       (717) 388-6959
       Wendel Larson
       (215) 294-9216
       Charlotte Williams
       (717) 943-2624
       
       
       German Shepherd Rescue
       Wendall Larson
       RD1 Box 415
       Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972
       (610) 294-9216
       
       TX
       German Shepherd Dog Club of Dallas
       Connie Irwin
       (214) 530-1568...referrals
       EJ Murphy
       (817) 481-1753...referrals
       
       
       German Shepherd Dog Club of Fort Worth
       Lee Rugeri
       (817) 431-9163
       
       
       GSD Club of Houston Adoption Assistance
       Tom Landry
       (713) 251-0403
       
       
       Marci Linn
       (817) 847-1126
       
       VA
       Bonnie Copron
       Arlington, VA
       (802) 375-6047
       
       
       Gloria Shelton
       (703) 659-1400
       
       
       Larry Spivak
       (703) 451-9046
       
       VT
       Green Mountain German Shepherd Club
       Ellamea and Rex Jones
       (802) 775-1704
       
       
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       Breeders
       
       This section is currently under construction.
       
       
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       Other Resources
       
       This section is currently under construction.
       
       
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       gsdfaq@airborn e-swine-squadron.oit.iupui.edu (or
       ihls400@indyvax.iupui.edu if airborne-swine-squadron is down).
       
       Go to Table of Contents
       
       And...
       To see pictures of Winter (GSD) and Chloe (Chow-ador-atian), open
       http://indyunix.iupui.edu/~ihls400/public_html/dogpics.html.
       To go to Holly's home page, open http://indyunix.iupui
       .edu/~ihls400/public_html/home.html.
       To go to the GSD page in Australia, open
       http://www.latrobe.edu.au/GSD/
         _____________________________________________________________
       
       German Shepherd Dog FAQ
       Holly Stowe, gsdfaq@airborn e-swine-squadron.oit.iupui.edu
       Copyright  1994, 1995 Holly Lee Stowe
