Liesje
Posted : 12/27/2007 4:02:45 PM
German Shepherds
1. Great working structure - can run all day (at least should be able to), medium sized dogs designed for running, agility, scaling walls....anything
2. Appropriate coat for working - double coated "stock" coat pretty easy to maintain and very hardy for any working conditions, no need to protect the dog from the elements with doggy clothes
3. Variety within in the breed - Czech, DDR, west German show, American/Canadian show, west German working lines, various differences in coat style, color pattern, structure, and temperament (levels of drive, being sociable, etc)
5. Velcro dogs obsessed with working in conjunction with their handler - pretty self-explanatory, they live to work AND please
6. Size - medium to large dogs, generally very lean but well toned, perfect size for me
7. Unflappable temperament - German style shows include long periods of gaiting, close inspection, very cramped in the ring, guns firing over heard, protection work, etc. A dog that has any issues as far as weak nerves, any form of aggression, fear of other dogs and people, startling, etc is not a true representative of the breed's sound character
8. Breeders - For every amazing breeder there are probable a hundred BYBs and puppy mills, but the people I've found who truly have devoted their entire lives (and often multiple generations) to the development of this breed have all left their mark
9. Longevity - Most GSDs I've known live to be at least 10, more like 12-14. Kenya's mother obtain nearly a dozen titles all after 9 years of age. Eagle von Eichenluft is 9.5 years old and is SchHIII 25 times over and was competing in 2007 as far as I know.
10. Superficial reasons - I love *** ears, black muzzles/faces, dark brown eyes, shorter coats, and tails