To date, sheepdogs are among the most dedicated, intelligent and easily trained dogs. However, one should not think that representatives of this species are limited only to such well-known breeds as the German and Caucasian. In fact, there are a lot of them.
Types of Shepherds
Long since these dogs were used for guard, shepherd or search service. According to the exterior and origin, many types of sheep-dogs are similar to each other. Most often, they are different in height, fur coat or addition.
Not all dog lovers know what kinds of sheep dogs are there. At the moment, more than 40 breeds can be identified. It is noteworthy that many of them have nothing to do with the traditional idea of sheep dogs. The most famous species are: German, Central Asian, Caucasian, Belgian, Scottish, commander, collie. Representatives of the first breed occupy a leading place in popularity throughout the world. Most often German shepherds are used for service in law enforcement agencies. They have a well developed sense of smell and intuition, which helps well in the search activity.
For the general display, the German breed was exhibited in Hanover in 1892. During the First World War, these sheepdogs showed violent endurance, devotion and courage. Therefore, since the beginning of the 20th century, they have become in demand around the world. A few years later, well-known breeders from all over the world began actively crossing different types of breeds of sheep-dogs with "Germans", as a result of which by 2013 the line began to stand out of two dozen separate groups.
In Russia, these dogs were brought in 1904 for army needs.
A variety of German Shepherds
The most popular and famous breed is the classical one, the representatives of which belong to the high line. These kinds of German shepherds are distinguished by devotion and responsiveness. They are often used as guides and search dogs. The working lines of German shepherds are widely used in military service, as they are very amenable to training. Their disadvantage is an overly aggressive nature.
The eastern line was withdrawn from dogs that did not differ in speed and obedience. But the representatives of this species have an excellent physique and calm. A similar situation with the Czech line. These are purely working kinds of sheep-dogs, which can endure constant heavy loads. 
Separately from the rest is a new and old American line. These types of German shepherds began to be popular in the 1970s in Canada. Initially, the line was taken out for high-speed walking, which is why the dogs have an angular body shape and a slightly elongated muzzle. "Americans" are characterized by a mild character and good appetite.
Representatives of the English line look very powerful due to massive bones and a long body. Despite their moderate temper, these sheepdogs are withdrawn purely for military purposes. However, in everyday life, it is not uncommon to find guide dogs among the "English". They are similar in temperament and form to representatives of the British white line. It is noteworthy that purebred dogs of this species should have black pigmentation of the eyes, nose, lips, claws and most of the skin.
One of the most interesting subspecies of German shepherds are panda and shiloh. The first line was obtained due to an unexpected mutation in the crossing of American rocks. As a result, the dogs began to appear peculiar black spots, like a panda. Such sheep dogs cost a lot of money. As for the shiloh, it is a mixture of the Sharplan line with the Alaska Malamute. Representatives of this species have up to 50 cm in their shoulders, due to which they can withstand enormous loads for animals.
Of long-haired German shepherds, one can distinguish royal and Sarlouz Wulfhound. The latter were excreted in Holland and contain the wolf gene.
Belgian Shepherd Dog
The homeland of dogs of this breed is considered to be England. In the 8th century, British breeders crossed a dirhound with a mastiff, hence such an extraordinary coloring. The breed was registered in Brussels in the late 19th century, so the corresponding name is the Belgian Shepherd. At that time, the main admirer of the new brood was local professor Reil. It was he who identified the types of Belgian sheepdogs, which are limited to 4 lines: Grunnendal, Malinois, Lakenen and Tervenur. Each of these types is similar to each other. 
have a strong character and patience. Head long, slightly wide. The forehead is moderately pronounced, straight. Eyes are medium in size, mostly black. Ears are triangular in shape, set high. By complexion "Belgians" are very massive and impressive.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Many hereditary breeders are sure that dogs of this breed descended from Tibetan danes, the first mention of which appeared about 3 thousand years ago. Currently, all kinds of Caucasian shepherds can be combined in one line.
Representatives of this breed in growth can reach up to 75 cm. The adult male weighs about 70 kg. Caucasian Shepherds are considered one of the largest dogs on the planet. Their wool is about 7 cm long, dense. Thanks to her, "Caucasians" can easily endure severe frosts. Color can be different: white, brown, gray and even red. 
The ears of such sheep-dogs are subject to docking. Character - persevering, resolute.
Central asian shepherd dog
Representatives of this breed are still called Alabai. widely distributed in Siberia. Ancestor of the Alabai is the Tibetan mastiff.
The dogs are large and well-built. Wide head, strong large jaws. In height, adults reach 71 cm (at a weight of 50 kg). On the neck is a characteristic fold of fat, sticking out like a collar. Like the representatives of the Caucasian breed, the Alabai need a cupping of the ears and tail. The eyes and nose of such sheepdogs are dark. Wool - relatively short, but thick, so dogs are able to withstand up to 40 degrees below zero. Color in Central Asian sheep dogs can be anything. 
By the nature of the Alabai are very bold and unpretentious, always devoted to the master. Special kinds of training of Central Asian sheep dogs are not required, as they are mostly able to develop independently. Puppies Alabai differ ingenuity and restraint.
Education (team)
The main instrument of influence on sheep-dogs is the voice of the master. From the first days of life in the new house, the puppy begins to discern a reproachful and caressing tone. To stimulate dogs to perform certain actions, you should use various goodies. For obedience puppy can get a piece of cheese, meat or biscuits, depending on his preferences.
All kinds of shepherds from an early age react instantly to their nicknames, so it is recommended to use them before each team. Example: "Jack! To me!"
From the first days of upbringing one should accustom the pupil to cleanliness and decency. To explain what can not be done, it is necessary with the addition of the command "Fu". 
To accustom the sheepdog to be near by it is better by means of its bowl. After luring the dog to his food, you need to slowly leave it and repeat the command "To me."
The puppy must know his place from the first days of stay in the house. In fact, the corresponding team does not need to be explained to the pet. If he is satisfied with his place, he will gladly return to it.
Proper feeding
All kinds of sheep-dogs prefer meat to the most. However, it is important to regularly change the diet of the pet, so that his body receives all the necessary trace elements.
So, the daily norm for an adult dog must necessarily include: 80 g of meat, 120 g of oat or wheat cereal, 50 g of potatoes or other vegetables, 20 g of animal fat, 10 g of table salt and 5 g of fishmeal. In addition, broths and vitamin supplements are allowed.
German Shepherd is a service breed of dogs of universal use. At present, there are many varieties of breed, which breeders sometimes interbreed with each other to give certain subspecies certain qualities.
History of the origin of the breed
The German Shepherd is a distant relative of the northern and Indian wolves, whose characteristic appearance she inherited. However, the final formation of the breed occurred by crossing and selection of various shepherd dogs in Germany.
There was shown a male of a dirty white color named Greif. He became the first official representative of the German Shepherd and was the first to be entered in the pedigree book of this breed.
General characteristics of the breed
Representatives of this breed are usually energetic, mobile, extraordinarily intelligent, distrustful to outsiders and have an increased ability to learn and train. Despite the fact that there are different types of German shepherds, these working qualities are inherent in each of its species. And, nevertheless, every single individual of the German shepherd has individual characteristics of character.
West German (main tribal) species
Dogs of this species are the closest to the international standards for German Shepherds. Its best representatives have a beautiful exterior and working qualities, allowing them to work as shepherds, conductors of people with poor eyesight and hearing, companion dogs. The most popular exhibition in Germany is a classic look.
Standard basic color: black-tipped with red tans and black. According to the standard, the back should look like a smooth falling out arc from the withers to the base of the tail.
This physiological feature makes the impression that the dog seems to creep along the ground when it runs.
Species of the German Shepherd
Approaching the question of what kind of German Shepherds there are, the following are the most common main subspecies with good working characteristics: East German, East European, German shepherd of Belgian and Danish lines, and long-haired German Shepherd.
East German subspecies
This species has a strong backbone, a large head and a proportionate beautiful physique. Dogs of the East German type have a serious temper and good working characteristics. But individuals can be overly aggressive.
East European Shepherd
A subspecies of Soviet breeders in the postwar period, as a domestic analogue of the German shepherd. For their breeding, the largest and most powerful individuals of German shepherds were used. They reach 70 cm at the withers, sometimes even higher. By nature - they are calm and self-confident dogs. Successfully used in the army and other law enforcement agencies.
Belgian and Danish subspecies
This subspecies has increased aggression, strength and perfect addition. Successfully used in the police, military units. Excellent cope with the detection of explosives and drugs.
Long-haired German Shepherd Dog
These dogs differ only in the presence of an elongated coat and possess all the qualities of a German shepherd.
They are better than other species for protecting country houses, as they tolerate bad weather more tolerantly.
Choosing a German shepherd for certain purposes, you should take into account the characteristics of each subspecies in order to acquire an excellent worker or just a pet.
The German Shepherd is one of the most popular, universal and cleverest breeds of dogs, which is successfully used by various services, thanks to high service and professional qualities. Sheepdogs work as shepherds, serve as guides, take prizes in various sports. In addition, the Germans are infinitely loyal to their master, all without exception, members of their families, are excellent companions, courageous defenders and friends.
Lines of German Shepherds
Representatives of this breed are widely represented around the world in several lines:
the Germans are a full-blooded line of West Germany;
german shepherd working line;
the Germans of the East German line;
germans of the Czech / Slovak line;
the Germans of the American line;
Old-American line;
English line;
Swiss line (White Shepherd Dog).
In addition to the above subtypes / lines, there are also: German shepherds without a mask, shiloh-sheep-dogs, old-type Germans, a royal sheepdog, a kumling-sheep dog, Czechoslovak wolf, Sarlouz Wulfhound, Utonogan, American Tundra Sheepdog.
Line of purebred German shepherds
The Germans of a clean German line are among the most popular breed class. Representatives of this subtype are widely used in breeding work for breeding purebreds. Dogs are mostly capricorn (red with black), black coat color, show a smooth step along the ground. The disadvantage is a weakly expressed pigmentation, a faint, faded color, a thin coat, an unbalanced psyche, excessive emotionality, uneven back, loose constitution.
German Shepherd Working Line
To this variety, in addition to the Germans, also include the shepherd dogs of the Belgian and Danish lines. Dogs were bred for sports, official work. Dogs are widely used in the military border guard service, security sphere, for detection of explosive substances, convoying. The working Germans possess high intelligence, are perfectly trained, they are happy to carry out the tasks assigned to them. If you really want to have a loyal, manageable, obedient friend and companion, you want your pet to take part in sports competitions - it's worth paying attention to representatives of this type. Perhaps, in appearance, the exterior of the working Germans is inferior, for example, to their long-haired brethren or representatives of a clean German line, but they have no equal in terms of working qualities, strength, purposefulness and endurance.
In addition, dogs have a more aggressive temperament and temperament, they are quite energetic. Given this peculiarity of character, such individuals are rarely used as guide dogs. The working Germans have a proportional physique, well developed skeleton, musculature. Typical colors of wool cover: black, cap, sable, tricolor.
German shepherds of the eastern German line
Representatives of this subtype were withdrawn by crossing the dogs left in the Eastern part of Germany after the Second World War. East Germans were more massive, with a large body, a tall, large head.
Dogs have a strong character, serious disposition, endurance, strength, good work qualities inherent in nature. Well trained, amenable to training. They can show stubbornness and aggression, so they are suitable for experienced breeders. Despite the fact that many breeders make every effort to preserve subspecies, quite often Germans of this line are crossed by other breed types.
Czech / Slovak Line
Germans of this line were bred in the territory of the Communist Czech Republic for official dog breeding. In many respects, representatives of this type can be compared with Eastern Shepherds. Dogs are hardy, energetic, have strong-willed, strong character and temper.
Czechoslovak Wolves
The Germans of this subtype are officially recognized by the International Cynological Federation. The breed is the result of crossing Germans with European wolves. As a result, incredibly hardy, energetic dogs were able to quickly adapt to any habitat conditions. In color, temperament Czech Wolves in many ways resemble wild wolves, differ strong, strong-willed, independent character, bright temperament. Aggressive temper, fighting qualities limit the use of wolfs for official work. But for sports, these dogs have no equal.
American line of German shepherds
Representatives of this subtype until the end of 1970 prevailed in North America. Great attention was paid to the breeding of American shepherds in the Canadian, American clubs of dog breeders. As a result of painstaking selection, several strong lines of this subtype of the Germans were withdrawn. The dogs were taken out for fast walking, which postponed the imprint on the shape of the body, which acquired a certain angularity, an unreasonable body length. They differ from other subtypes by higher growth.
Dogs have a gentle character, calm temper, are well trained. In some states, they are used in search services, police. The shortcomings of American-American dogs include variable activity, high emotionality, a weak type of nervous system, and health. Germans of American lines are faithful companions, they rarely enter into conflicts, they show aggression.
German Shepherds English line
The ancestors of this subtype of sheep dogs are old-type Germans, old-line dogs imported from the British Isles, as well as post-war Germans. Representatives of this line have a massive skeleton, a long physique, a massive withers, a wide shoulder girdle. They have a balanced temper, calm temperament, soft character. At one time the Germans of the English line were actively used in the police service, the search service, as guides. Unfortunately, the sheepdogs of this subtype were replaced by exhibition and working Germans.
Swiss line (white shepherds)
The Germans of the Swiss line can be referred to quite unusual, beautiful dogs. In this case, white color is the dominant hidden gene, which in most countries of the world is disqualification. Lovers of white-colored Germans for a long time fought for the official recognition of white shepherds. As a result, the Germans with white wool were bred into a separate breed type, the line of Swiss Shepherds. At the same time in North America, white Germans are recognized on a par with classical representatives of the Germans.
Swiss Germans, in comparison with their congeners of other lines, have a higher growth, a beautiful complexion, a massive backbone. They are excellent at teaching, enjoy working at the services, participate in sports, they are often used as guide dogs due to balanced mentality, calm disposition, mild temperament. Dogs are absolutely not aggressive, non-conflict, get along well with any pets, tolerate children. Swiss Shepherds have good health. White coat color is not a sign of albinism.
Sarlouz Wolfhound
This subtype was obtained by crossing wolves with thoroughbred Germans. The line is officially confirmed by the organization FCI. Dogs have a stress-resistant psyche, a strong nervous system, independent temperament, temperament. Dogs are hardy, energetic, endowed with fighting qualities, which makes them unsuitable for official work. The breed is popular in North and East America.
Shiloh Shepherd
The beginning of the development of the line was laid in America, as a result of the rapidly increasing popularity of sheep-dogs with exhibition breeds. Breeders sought to recreate the best breed qualities of typical Germans. To increase the size, the line was removed by crossing Alaskan Malamute with dogs of the Sarplaninac breed. representatives of this subtype are not recognized by the ACS, but are officially recognized by the Shilloh Shepherd Registration System. For a given breed type, any color, length of the coat is recognized. Dogs can differ temperament, character, emotionality, level of activity. They have good working and service qualities, they are suitable for working on services, as companions, guide dogs.
Long-haired German Shepherds
German shepherds with a long coat were singled out in a separate subtype. The long wool gene is recessive, present in all species of the breed. Often, long-haired puppies are born in litters of short-haired Germans. At the same time, Germans can appear in the light both with a moderate long wool, and heavily shaggy dogs. For a long time, the long-haired sheep-dogs were not recognized by the International Dog Training Organization, they were exhibited on individual rings, where attention was mainly paid to their working parameters. Since 2011, long-haired Germans are not considered as culling, admit to breeding work and exhibitions.
Dogs have a beautiful, thick wool coat with a mildly expressed undercoat of medium length, have beautiful stripes on the tail, ears. the inside of the forelimb, on the chest. Long-haired German Shepherds absolutely do not differ from their relatives of other lines, they are excellent in training, they are perfectly trained, they are hardy, they are not aggressive, they have a balanced temperament and calm disposition. Long-haired representatives of the breed are successfully used in service, used in shepherd's work, military affairs, guards, as guide dogs.
Kunming Shepherd Dog
Dogs were bred in the territory of Communist China in the late 1950s when crossed Peking wolfhounds and local breeds with typical German shepherds brought into the country from Germany. In appearance, the exterior is reminiscent of standard Germans, but with more square proportions, dry long limbs. In this line do not exclude the crossing of Germans with mongrel dogs. For sheep-dogs of this subtype, any kind of coat color, including mottled, is acceptable.
Kunming shepherd is used for various official jobs, police, military search, border, shepherd's service. They have a stable, balanced psyche, are moderately aggressive, differ in temperament, are perfectly trained, are easy to train.
As for the dwarf Germans - they are not a separate subtype. Miniature Germans are a genetic defect (mucous short stature). Low-bred German shepherds can be born in any litter. Dogs have poor health. are subject to genetic diseases, require constant monitoring from the side of veterinary specialists. The growth of the smallest German Shepherd was 20-30 feet.
Sheepdogs are a huge group of dog breeds. Mostly they serve in guard, shepherd and search services. Long ago these animals protected sheep, lived in mountains and plains, suffered hot heat and cold winters, slept in open space, ran in dense grass and on slippery ice. Not all species of breeds of sheep-dogs have retained their original appearance, but absolutely all of them remained real sheep-dogs.
Virtually all varieties of sheep dogs are divided into specific species that group dogs according to certain standards and types. We are accustomed to associate the sheepdog with a large black and brown specimen, which we call German. But today there are more than forty varieties of sheep dogs. Today we will talk about the frequently encountered breeds.
Species of German Shepherds
There are many subspecies of German shepherds: American, English, Czech, Eastern German, royal. They were all derived by crossing different breeds for use in various activities. The most popular breed is.
Sheepdogs are big, smart, strong animals that have been called by a person to guard homes, look for missing people or lost items. They are easily trained dogs, devoted friends, and in the family they have proven themselves to be kind and sympathetic pets.
Sheepdogs are dogs, usually shepherd's descent. In ancient times they were used to protect cattle. Today there are many varieties of this breed, not all of which have preserved the "sheep" root.
Scottish Shepherd (Collie, Scotch Collie)
Another popular name for this service dog is the Collie. Although she is Scottish, she was brought to the country from Iceland more than 400 years ago. The formation of the breed was influenced by the Borzois and Irish Setters. The name came from the kind of sheep this dog guarded.
A collie is a peaceful, kind person. She is devoted to her master, but the rest can ignore or dislike. She does not need special physical activity. Care of the dog is not difficult. The main thing - regular combing. Training can be easily, differs intelligence and obedience.
Central Asian Shepherd Dog (Alabai)
Its other name is the Turkmen Alabai. The breed is distributed on the territory between Siberia and Ukraine, as well as in Central Asia. Dogs are an outstanding watchman. Due to high endurance, guarding the herd, they do not need shelter.
Appearance: large head, broad forehead, strong jaws. Ears and tail - short-cropped. Height - up to 71 cm, and weight - up to 50 kg. The coat is short, but with a thick undercoat. Color any, but the most common - white, gray, black, brindle.
Belgian Shepherd is an intelligent, unpretentious animal
There are 4 types of this dog:
- Grünendal with long-haired straight smooth and coal-black hair.
- Malinois - short-haired subspecies with a red or yellow-brown color. It is considered to be the most athletic and hardy of all 4 types.
- Tervuren. It's the same as Grunendahl. The main difference is bright red or deer color.
- Lakenen. A hard-haired dog, characterized by its smooth and calm character.
Types of German Shepherds
It was originally derived for use in a wide range of activities: for the protection of livestock, property and family protection, search and rescue activities, etc. This breed is divided into several subspecies:
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It is close to the standards. Samples of this family serve as companions and guides in various sports, participate in exhibitions. As a rule, they are red or black. The main disadvantages of the type are: weak character, uneven back, disappearance of pigmentation. |
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This dog was taken out for a quick walk in North America in the 1970s. Therefore, the family is characterized by angular forms, poor health (especially the nervous system) and excessive length of the body. |
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The species is known for its heavy massive bones, beautiful shoulders, long body, unstable temperament and mild character. They were used as guides and dog policemen. Unfortunately, they were replaced by exhibition and working German lines. |
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i. The family was brought to Czechoslovakia in the last century as a working line. Practically it does not differ from the Eastern German Shepherd, from which it actually starts. |
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The breed was created on the basis of dogs left in East Germany after World War II. They differ in heavy bones, increased aggressiveness, large head, serious temperament. Breeders often cross them with other families. |
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Appeared before 1970. Since it did not differ in its special results, it practically disappeared after the withdrawal of the new line. |
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This dog is the result of crossing Akita, Malamute and several other species. As a result, a family with a massive physique and a thick long coat was obtained. Because of the size is suitable only for the role of a pet. |
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They withdrew in China in the 1950s with the purpose of military service in the Yannan province (the capital is Kuming). It has long legs and ungainly body proportions. Used as SAR-service, military and police dogs. Features: mental stability and high learning ability. |
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The result of the crossing of the German breed and the European wolf. At the output, an aggressive fighting dog with increased stress resistance was obtained. |
Types of Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The growth of the Caucasian Shepherd can
reach 75 cm at the withers
In Transcaucasia it is customary to single out several types of this breed:
- Georgian. In fact, the standard of the Caucasian Sheepdog. They differ in massive skeleton, homogeneity of color (gray color), long hair, large growth.
- Azerbaijani. In turn, it is divided into two types:
- Steppe. Characterized by dark fawn and red color
- Mountain.
- Armenian. Less large than Georgian, there is no solidity in the backbone.
The main types of German Shepherd are listed above. Depending on the characteristics of the habitat, these largest families also begin to break up. It is important to remember that this breed is not a domestic pet, it is, above all, a laborer. Protection and protection are her vocation.
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