One of the great characteristics of the German Shepherd breed is how many and different variations of the line, color, markings and type of hair it presents. There is really something different for every owner. The long-haired German Shepherd is one of those extraordinary forms of the German Shepherd dog and here we explain everything you need to know about them, so read on!
The long-haired German shepherd in a specimen of the rare species, was initially considered a genetic fault, but the General Assembly, the SV and the FCI, as of January 1 of this year 2011 recognized the German Shepherd Dog of Long hair with double coat like a variety of the German Shepherd. Even two short-haired German Shepherds can produce long-haired offspring if the gene is present in their DNA.
While these rare long-haired dogs could be the result of genetic manipulation, something they are becoming increasingly popular with dog owners. Its long and abundant coat of long hair can appear in any of the different colors that the breed presents.
Index
Physical appearance of the long-haired German shepherd
While their long hair makes them look somewhat different compared to the standard short-haired German Shepherd, underneath all that hair they are actually similar. The two lines of the breed have the same facial characteristics and body type . Male long-haired German Shepherds grow to the height of 60 to 65 cm and can weigh between 30 and 40 kilos. While female long-haired German shepherds are smaller in size when compared to males and have an average height between 55 and 60 cm and usually weigh between 23 to 733 kilos.
The visible difference is still the length and texture of the hair. Since the long-haired German shepherd does not have a longer top coat than the standard German shepherd, which makes the look of the hair appear brighter. While this is an aesthetic quality highly prized by many dog owners, it actually results in less protection from weather conditions . Due to its lack of protection against inclement weather, the long-haired German shepherd is not a good example of a working dog for livestock and hunting.
The temperament of the long-haired German shepherd
If you finally opt for a long-haired German shepherd, you will be impressed by their eagerness and obedience. It is well known that the long-haired German shepherd has a better temperament compared to the standard German shepherd . Although the standard of this breed does not have a bad temperament, the long-haired specimens are distinguished by having it even better.
Another notable difference is that the long-haired German shepherd loves to be in constant contact with his family. Therefore, these dogs are excellent dogs for those who live in the city, in a flat or have little space. However we must not forget that like all German shepherds they also need to exercise regularly.
Long-haired specimens are very playful and enjoy playing with toys and family members. They are also extremely loyal to their family and show courage when faced with situations that require protection. Their playful and protective nature makes them excellent playmates for children and excellent protectors for the little ones in the family.
However, the best indicator of what type of temperament to expect from your German Shepherd (and this is true for any dog) is to look at the line of its parents and ancestors
For example, East German work lines and Czech work lines, in particular, were bred not as family dogs, but in part to work with the police and defense forces, requiring a more aggressive temperament and I laughed. This does not mean, however, that these lines cannot provide very suitable specimens for the family environment, it depends on several factors such as socialization, obedience, environments, etc.
Health problems
The long-haired German shepherd suffers from the same health problems as the standard German shepherd . The most common diseases are hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, eczema, and digestive problems. Although hip and elbow dysplasia is often a genetic problem, the other issues can be caused by careless breeding practices that can make the specimens produced prone to a variety of inherited diseases.
The life expectancy of the long-haired German shepherd is usually in a range of 9 to 13 years.
Daily exercise also for long-haired German shepherds
It’s no secret that long-haired German Shepherds need daily exercise.
Owners of a long-haired German Shepherd or who are thinking of welcoming one into their home will be impressed with the boundless energy that never “runs out of batteries”.
Although they are excellent indoor dogs, they have to be balanced and need daily outings to burn off their energy. This is easily done by playing in the air, going for a walk, a run or a jog.
Owners of these types of dogs will find that the long-haired German shepherd can easily keep up with any exercise pace and that they adapt to the owner’s pace, as long as their daily dose of exercise is provided.
Life conditions
Having an almost constant emotional attachment to their owners, they are not suitable dogs to always live outdoors . This is good news for apartment dwellers as you can enjoy the best of both worlds, having an indoor companion and guard dog, as well as an exercise buddy. Keeping a long-haired German Shepherd indoors is the best bet, as their long hair does not protect them against the weather conditions against what it may appear.
The ideal is to create a safe place inside for your German long-haired shepherd to feel like his own. This will require a bed, toys, and possibly a small door that fits the space and can keep the dog in a specific room or space.
You can also choose to purchase or build a crate that is large enough for an adult dog to allow your long-haired German Shepherd to get up, stretch, and roll over in a comfortable manner.
Remember: the base of the long-haired German shepherd should be indoors
Grooming and caring for a long-haired German shepherd
Owners of these dogs may be surprised by the amount of hair they shed. The long-haired German Shepherd sheds hair consistently so owners should be prepared to vacuum frequently and have lint brushes available in every clothing closet.
The hair of this breed of dog tends to get matted and sticky if it is not cared for and brushed correctly. Brushing twice a week with a metal brush is necessary to keep the coat healthy and tangle-free.
On the other hand, the bath should only take place when it is really necessary.
In case of bathing, it is advisable to brush it out little by little before bathing. Be careful as the fur of long-haired German Shepherds does not contain enough natural oils to be bathed frequently.
Ears require precise cleaning as wax can stick to hair near the ear opening.
Nail care is essential and should be done on a regular basis. In addition to nail trimming, it is advisable to take the dog for a run or walk on hard surfaces as it will help the natural wear of the nails.
Long Haired German Shepherd Acceptance
Since long hair provides them with a unique appearance that varies from standard German Shepherds , advocates of the long-haired German Shepherd have had to fight for acceptance of this breed variety.
Groups of fans and advocates of this long-haired peculiarity are trying to get the long-haired German shepherd to participate in competitions.
The long-haired German Shepherd is loyal, intelligent, has a strong working ability, and they make great search and rescue dogs as well as police dogs. While the fight for acceptance continues the hope is that one day the breed will be accepted.
Suitability
Now that you know more about the long-haired German shepherd, you may wonder if this dog is suitable for you and your family.
First of all, you will have to keep in mind that this dog needs a lot of human contact and attention from his owner and his family. If you are a very busy person living alone who are hardly ever at home, or if you have a busy family that is always rushing to attend activities, this may not be the most suitable dog for your lifestyle.
However, if you are a single person who needs a loving and friendly companion, who enjoys going for a run or a regular walk, the long-haired German shepherd will be your best companion!
In addition to having a great companion to pass the time, you will also be protected while walking, running, hiking or any other outdoor activity.
Also if your family usually spends a lot of time at home, outdoors or in the park, it will be easy to introduce a long-haired German shepherd into your life. The secret is to make the dog a part of your family and involve him in family activities.
While those unfamiliar with German Shepherds often believe the myths you hear about the breed, German Shepherds are generally not aggressive. A well-socialized and trained long-haired German shepherd is generally a family dog or companion dog that is very good with children. Although there have been cases of biting or intimidation around the world, it is generally due to a lack of training on the part of the owner or in relation to a German Shepherd protecting their loved ones from what they pose is potential harm or danger to them.
Long-haired German Shepherds are wonderful companions and familiar pets that will provide their owners with many years of protection and happiness.
I love the animals. Reading and writing about them, their customs, their peculiarities or the attention they require is exciting, and I also believe that it makes us better people. I share articles that solve the questions that dog caregivers face on a daily basis.