White German Shepherd Dogs, American - Canadian Breed

The White German Shepherd is friendly, watchful and loyal. It is very protective of its family in appropriate situations. Can be standoffish or even somewhat suspicious of strangers, but should never be aggressive. They are eager to work and like to be close to their handler. Very intelligent, these dogs are easy to train and learn quickly. American-Canadian White Shepherds can be sensitive almost to the point of timidity.

White German Shepherds are usually quite obedient and harsh training methods should not be necessary, nor should they be used with this breed. In this regard, White German Shepherds are very different from many lines of GSD, especially the imports. It is very important that the young dog is socialized well and has lots of positive encounters with many different animals, people, things and situations to help it grow up to be a well-balanced animal. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. White German Shepherd dogs generally get along well with other dogs and children. They only bark when it is necessary. They will get along with cats if they are socialized with them as a puppy.

White German Shepherd dogs are very vocal. Some dogs are known to hold "conversations" with the dog next door. These dogs make a wide range of sounds and like to use their voices. To be successful pets, White German Shepherd dogs should be trained and socialized from an early age with a firm and loving hand. Coercive or angry training does not succeed well with these dogs. To be truly happy, the White German Shepherd needs a task in life.

Height: 24-26 inches (60-65cm.)
Bitches 22-24 inches (55-60cm.)
Weight: 77-85 pounds (35-40kg.)

Dog Health:

Some of the diseases that have been found in this breed are hip and elbow dysplasia (be sure both parents have their hips certified as OFA good); malabsorbtion syndrome; degenerative joint disease (including osteochondritis); megaesophagus; pannus and other forms of eye disease (not commonly seen); bloat; allergies (food, fleas or airborne); other skin or coat problems and missing teeth. Some lines of Whites are having problems with illnesses such as Lupus and/or other forms of autoimmune diseases. At this point in time, autoimmune problems are fairly rare in the breed.

Dog Habitat:

White Shepherds will do okay in an apartment if sufficiently exercised. They are relatively inactive indoors and do best with at least a large yard.