Group : Working Dogs
Height:
Male: 60 – 65 cm
Female: 55 – 60 cm
Weight:
Male: 30 – 40 kg
Female: 22 – 32 kg
Energy Level: Moderate to high
Original Function: Herding, guarding, policing
Lifespan: 10 – 12 yrs
Recommended for: Active people & families, dedicated handlers.
Note: This breed is not recognised by the Australian National Kennel Club (ANKC).
The White German Shepherd has had a very long history. The white coat was not always considered a fault; in fact, it was one of the original colours of the German shepherd dog.
It was (and is still) a very taboo thing for a white to be born, and many breeders still do hide the fact that their lines have produced white.
There is no such breed existing or recognised in Australia as the White Shepherd. Only imports with Export Pedigrees carrying the stamp of the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) are to be referred to as White Swiss Shepherd Dogs (translation: Berger Blanc Suisse).
The ANKC have ruled that whites bred in Australia from Australian stock are NOT a separate breed to the German Shepherd Dog, nor are to be called White Swiss Shepherd Dogs.
Appearance: Large sized, slightly elongated, powerful and well muscled long body and the overall structure firm. Dark almond shaped eyes. Ears are erect. Tail long and bushy.
Temperament: Well balanced temperament, steady of nerve, self assured, absolutely free and easy, and (unless provoked) completely good natured, as well as alert and tractable.
Characteristics: Courage, combative instinct and hardness.
Colour: White.
Coat: Straight dense & harsh. Soft undercoat.
Grooming: Grooming should also be regularly, with a vigorous brushing to remove any dead or loose hairs. No trimming is required and bathing should only be done as needed. This is a shedding dog but the more you groom it, the less it will shed.
Exercise: A working dog and like to be active, regular walks and runs are needed. The young pup should be exercised carefully to avoid long-term damage to still soft and forming joints. As the dog ages, it will require longer walks but must first have the solid bone structure established.
Health: