If you’re a German Shepherd (GSD) enthusiast, you’ve likely noticed something unique about their posture: their back legs often appear more bent than those of other breeds. This characteristic can spark curiosity and even concern. Are their legs supposed to look like that? Is it a sign of a problem? Let’s dive into the world of German Shepherd conformation and address the question, “Why do German Shepherd back legs look weird?”
The Sloping Hindquarters: A Breed Standard
German Shepherds have low back legs due to the breed’s genetic characteristics. Their sloping hindquarters are a result of selective breeding for agility and speed. The “weird” look is primarily due to their sloping hindquarters, also known as “back angulation”. This is a defining trait, purposefully bred into the dogs to enhance their agility and facilitate quick changes in direction. This angulation allows for powerful hind leg movement, which is beneficial for herding and agility competitions.
However, this design can also make them more susceptible to certain back leg problems. The slope of their back can sometimes lead to increased strain on the hind legs, which may result in conditions like arthritis over time.
Understanding Breed Standards
Breed standards dictate that the rear legs (upper and lower thighs) should ideally meet at close to a 90-degree angle. Along these same lines, a sloping back causes hindquarters to become more angulate and, thus, prone to lower back pain.
Selective breeding may have unintentionally increased the prevalence of certain structural issues. Some argue that the breed has been pushed to a point where exaggerated angulation can compromise the dog’s overall health and mobility.
Potential Health Issues
While the GSD’s distinctive hindquarters are a breed trait, extreme angulation and a heavily dipped body can be associated with health problems.
Here’s a list of common conditions that can affect the back legs of German Shepherds:
- Hip Dysplasia: A genetic malformation of the hip joint, leading to pain and mobility issues.
- Degenerative Myelopathy: A progressive disease affecting the spinal cord, causing weakness and paralysis in the hind legs.
- Arthritis: Inflammation of the joints, which can be exacerbated by the strain on the hind legs due to their angulation.
- Cruciate Ligament Tears: Injuries to the ligaments in the knee, common in active dogs and those with structural imbalances.
- Spondylosis: The formation of bony spurs along the spine, which can cause stiffness and discomfort in the back and hindquarters.
If you observe any changes in your dog’s gait, reluctance to climb stairs, or signs of discomfort, consult with a veterinarian. Early detection and intervention can significantly improve your dog’s quality of life.
What To Do
To mitigate the risks associated with the breed’s conformation and ensure your German Shepherd’s well-being, consider the following:
- Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on the joints, exacerbating existing conditions.
- Exercise Regularly: Regular, controlled exercise helps maintain muscle mass and supports joint health.
- Consult with a Veterinarian: Regular check-ups are crucial for early detection and management of potential back leg issues.
- Consider Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion, particularly for dogs with arthritis or other joint problems.
- Responsible Breeding: Prioritize breeders who focus on health and temperament rather than extreme physical traits.
Temperament and Working Ability
Historically, the German Shepherd was bred as a working dog, known for its courage, intelligence, and versatility. The breed standard, as envisioned by Max von Stephanitz, emphasized temperament and working ability over purely aesthetic considerations.
Von Stephanitz noted that the most striking features of a well-bred German Shepherd should include firmness of nerves, attentiveness, tractability, watchfulness, reliability, and incorruptibility, alongside courage, fighting tenacity, and hardness.
Unfortunately, some breeding practices have favored appearance over temperament and working ability. It’s important to remember that the German Shepherd is, above all, a service dog, and should be judged as such. Suitability for work should be prioritized over beauty.
Finding a Reputable Breeder
If you’re considering purchasing a German Shepherd puppy, it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and working ability. Look for breeders who conduct health screenings on their breeding dogs and who can provide documentation of those results. A good breeder will also be knowledgeable about the breed standard and committed to producing dogs that meet those standards in terms of both conformation and temperament.
The Ideal German Shepherd
The ideal German Shepherd should possess a harmonious blend of physical attributes, temperament, and working ability. While the sloping hindquarters are a defining characteristic of the breed, they should not be so exaggerated as to compromise the dog’s health and mobility. A well-bred German Shepherd should be able to perform the tasks for which it was originally intended, whether that’s herding sheep, protecting property, or serving as a loyal companion.
Final Thoughts
The “weird” look of a German Shepherd’s back legs is largely due to selective breeding for specific physical traits. While the sloping hindquarters contribute to their agility, it’s essential to be aware of potential health issues associated with this conformation. By prioritizing responsible breeding practices, maintaining a healthy lifestyle for your dog, and working closely with your veterinarian, you can help ensure that your German Shepherd lives a long, healthy, and happy life.