The German Shepherds are one of the most popular dog breeds in America. The medium to large dog breed is often used for a working dog in many different areas, due to its positive qualities, dedication, and loyalty.
Typically a black and tan colored dog, however, a white-haired breed began to emerge in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the recessive white-haired trait was bred in a line of German Shepherds.
The breed is very similar to the traditional black and tan German Shepherd in size and build and capabilities, however there are some slight differences in the general disposition and behavior of the white coat .
You may have seen these beautiful dogs and are familiar with them, but here are ten things you didn’t know about white fur, German Shepherd.
See also:
10 Unbelievable Things About The White Swiss German Shepherd Dog
1. Seen as a defect in genetics
Many people believe that this breed of German Shepherd is a defect in the dog’s genetic line, however this is not the case. Coloring is an intentional breeding process that was done in an attempt to get an all-white German Shepherd.
People mistakenly believe that the White Swiss German Shepherd Dog is going to have different genetic health-related problems, when in reality, this breed line is only susceptible to the same health problems and risks that the traditional German Shepherd can develop.
2. He is not an albino
When most people see an animal that is white in color that is typically another color, they think it means that it is an albino. The White Swiss German Shepherd Dog is not a product of albinism and does not have a genetic makeup for albinism.
A true albino organism will show signs of a lack of pigmentation, which will include pink eyes, pale skin, and a lack of hair color. A White Swiss German Shepherd dog has brown or gold eyes, pink or black fur, and a dark nose.
3. Has longer hair
While traditional German Shepherds will have a medium-length coat, the White Swiss German Shepherd dog will typically have a slightly longer coat.
Traditional German Shepherds are known to be great shepherds due to their thick undercoat, however although White German Shepherds do shed, they do not usually have as thick an undercoat and are less likely to be as large as their relatives.
For those who want a German Shepherd but don’t want to have to deal with a lot of shedding, this can be an advantage.
4. A slightly different temperament
The White Swiss German Shepherd is very similar to the traditional German Shepherd in most respects, including temperament, however there may be some slight variations in the two breeds.
German White Shepherds were intentionally bred to have a softer and more sensitive personality compared to the traditional German Shepherd.
It is generally not that aggressive in its instincts, which means it can make a great family pet. But consistent socialization and training is still warranted to instill proper behavior in the dog
5. Different types of watchdog
Where one of the greatest qualities of a German Shepherd is acting as a good watchdog, the White Swiss German Shepherd is not exactly the same watchdog.
Yes, a White Swiss German Shepherd dog will act as a watchdog, however, typically the degree of vigilance it will administer to you, alerts you when someone is approaching.
It is not known to be aggressive or to act beyond alerting its owner, however much will depend on the training and socialization that it has been given.
6. May be nervous or shy
Most German Shepherds are outgoing, have strong personalities, and can be dominant. A White Swiss German Shepherd dog , however, is not typically of the same nature.
In fact, White German Shepherds can be almost fearful or shy around strangers, almost actually. With proper socialization, they can become more self-confident and confident.
7. It can be destructive
White German Shepherds are medium to large sized dogs and they need a lot of exercise to keep them busy and happy both physically and mentally.
They require more than just a walk every day and if they don’t get it, or are left alone in the house for long periods of time, they can become destructive.
White German Shepherds need a lot to do; mental and physical tasks and games. Owners who are not prepared to spend quality time with their dog will have a lot of pent-up energy to deal with on their pet, and it may not do well on their property.
8. Boisterous puppies
White German Shepherds have a lot of courage as puppies. Until they are well trained in their behavior and gain a bit of maturity, they can be quite disruptive.
Because this is a larger breed, being a puppy means bigger puppies, and the size of the dog, along with its ability to be boisterous, can be a concern for a household with young children or older people.
These two groups of people in the household are known to fall on their feet, so this should be a concern for anyone of these ages of people in the household. As they get older and out of their youth and adolescence, they will calm down and be more relaxed, if they can get through the early stages of life.
9. Barking
This breed is known to be a barking breed. If you’re not ready to hear some barking, you may not want to invest in a White Swiss German Shepherd dog . They love to share their voice, and for someone who likes quieter dogs, or who lives near neighbors that it can irritate, a White German Shepherd can cause some problems. They can be trained, in some way, to keep the tone of their barking, but, they are dogs, after all.
10. Size of a Swiss White German Shepherd Dog
White German Shepherds grow to the size of a typical German Shepherd, which is around 30-40kg for an adult male. A White Swiss German Shepherd dog will double its weight in the first week of its life, and will weigh approximately 7 to 8.5 kg at the time of receiving its puppy, if adopted at the average age of 8 weeks to 2 months of age.
Photos of the Swiss White German Shepherd Dog
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.