The German Shepherd
Country of Origin: Germany
This dog breed is also known as the Alsatian and Deutscher Schaferhund.
Group: Herding. UKC/AKC
Image Credit: Wiki
History: The German Shepherd breed are descended from herding dogs.This fairly new breed was developed in the early part of the 20th century specifically for herding and police-military use.The German Shepherd has been used  as guide dogs as well as search and rescue and is one of the most popular breeds in the world.
Description: Apart from being so intelligent and loyal, this breed is a large ,muscular dog .With a long, strong neck, the back slopes to the tail.Tail is low and curves up ever so slightly.Hair is longer by the neck and thighs.Carrying a most beautiful coat, the German Shepherd comes in black and tan,black and red, solid black, and sables of varying shades,
White Shepherds have been bred from the beginning, the white Shepherd is not accepted in the show ring by many registries.
Height: 22-26 inches
Weight:60-90 pounds
Temperament: This breed is one of the most dedicated, sensitive and intelligent breeds around.Although protective of family and home,the Shepherd thrives on attention,training and play.Great with children , however may be difficult with smaller dogs.This breed needs training, exercise, mental stimulation and affection.
Activity Level: High
Special Needs: Lots of exercise, plenty of positive training from the puppy stage onwards, healthy diet with plenty of “live greens” and proteins- fish, poultry, meats- brown rice, quinoa.
The German Shepherd suffers from bloat and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency.
Also other common ailments-hip and elbow dysplasia, panostetis, epilepsy.
Copyright ©  2012  Claudia Bensimoun
A German Shepherd would be my favourite breed if I could choose, but here we give shelter to whatever dog just happens to come wandering by looking for a place to stay.
Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year,
Pit
German shepherds are sign of strong and courageous among dogs, proper training can be very useful for specialized application apart from the personal protection.