When it comes to a dog adoption in San Diego, one of the most sought after dog breed is the German shepherd. This is because it is a well-mannered dog that fits into almost any lifestyle including as a work dog. But how much do you know about this dog breed? You have obviously gone through the basic information about the breed but there are a number of things that you don’t know. Here are some of the things you might not already know.
White German shepherds do exist
Don’t be surprised when you are presented with a white German shepherd in a puppy adoption in San Diego. These breeds do exist only that they are rare. The most common colors are the black and tan. You should also note that the white German shepherds are purposefully bred to be gentle and sensitive than the regular German shepherds. They will hence not be a good choice as working dogs but rather as a family pet.
They have a short lifespan
Because of their massive size, the German shepherds fall in the shorter side of canine lifespan. The average lifespan of this breed is between 10 and 12 years. Although there are rare cases online of German shepherds living up to their twenties, these cases have not yet been documented. This is because the claims don’t offer sufficient proof.
Horand von Grafrath is the father of German shepherds
Horand von Grafrath was born back in January 1st, 1895 and is recognized as the first German shepherd. He is the genetic origin of all German shepherds. The breed was, however, established by his grandsons, Beowolf, Pilot and Heinz von Starkenburg. As you go for a German shepherd puppy rescue, it is good to note that this is a very recent dog breed. It was not recognized by the AKC until 1908. The UK Kennel Club took an addition 11 years to recognize this breed.
Buddy was a German shepherd
The first Seeing Eye Dog was a German shepherd named Buddy. The breed has since been trained to guide blind people. The Seeing Eye Dog was later incorporated back in 1929 and has been offering assistance to blind people since then.
Strongheart was a German shepherd
You may have heard of Rin Tin Tin but he wasn’t the first German shepherd movie star. The first German shepherd movie star was the Strongheard; a German shepherd that received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame back in February 8th, 1960.
German shepherds are the 2nd most popular dogs in America
Last but not least, as you consider a dog rescue in San Diego, you should bear in mind that the German shepherd is the second most popular dog breed in the U.S. It comes second to the Labrador retriever.