If you’ve encountered a German Shepherd with a luxuriously flowing coat, you might wonder if it’s a different breed altogether. The truth is, long-haired German Shepherds are purebred German Shepherds. However, their distinctive coats often lead to curiosity about what they’re called and how they fit into the breed standard. Let’s explore the world of long-haired German Shepherds and uncover the answers to your questions.
Are Long-Haired German Shepherds a Separate Breed?
No, long-haired German Shepherds are not a separate breed. They are simply a variant of the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) with a longer coat. The long hair is a result of a recessive gene. This means that both parents must carry the gene for it to be expressed in their offspring.
Official Names and Designations
The official name for this variant remains “German Shepherd Dog.” However, their designation can vary depending on the kennel club or organization.
- FCI (Fédération Cynologique Internationale): The FCI recognizes the long-haired German Shepherd as variety “b,” while the short-haired is variety “a”.
- German and UK Kennel Clubs: These clubs accept long-haired German Shepherds but don’t allow them to compete against standard-coated dogs.
- American Kennel Club (AKC): The AKC considers the long-haired coat a fault, though they can still be registered. They are not allowed to participate in shows.
The History of Long-Haired German Shepherds
The German Shepherd breed was developed in the 1800s by Captain Max von Stephanitz. He aimed to create the perfect working dog. While the standard coat became the norm, long-haired versions always existed due to the recessive gene. At one point, there was a concern that the long-haired trait would be bred out entirely because it did not fit the breed standard.
Breed Characteristics and Temperament
Long-haired German Shepherds share the same intelligence, loyalty, and working ability as their standard-coated counterparts. They are versatile dogs capable of various tasks, from herding and guarding to assisting in search and rescue missions.
Appearance
The most obvious difference is the length of the coat. Long-haired German Shepherds have fur that is longer than the standard double coat. They sometimes do not have an undercoat, whereas short-coated GSDs always do. The coat can come in various colors, including black, tan, red, sable, and combinations thereof.
Size
German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches tall, while females are 22 to 24 inches.
Grooming and Care
Long-haired German Shepherds require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangles. Regular brushing, ideally several times a week, is essential to keep their coat in good condition.
Are Long-Haired German Shepherds Purebred?
Yes, long-haired German Shepherds are purebred. They possess all the traits and characteristics of the German Shepherd breed, with the primary difference being the length of their coat.
Beyond the Breed: Similar Breeds and Hybrids
If you admire the long-haired look but are open to other breeds, consider these options:
- King Shepherd: A larger hybrid of German Shepherds and Shiloh Shepherds, known for their impressive size and long coat.
- Shiloh Shepherd: A breed developed in the 1970s, known for its gentle temperament and long, plush coat.
- Belgian Sheepdog: A long-haired herding breed from Belgium, known for its intelligence and work ethic.
Conclusion
Long-haired German Shepherds are beautiful and unique dogs that embody all the wonderful qualities of the German Shepherd breed. While they may not always be recognized in the show ring, their stunning coats and loyal personalities make them wonderful companions. Whether you call them long-haired German Shepherds or simply admire them from afar, these dogs are a testament to the genetic diversity and enduring appeal of the German Shepherd Dog.