Have you ever wondered if those majestic, snow-white dogs you’ve seen are actually German Shepherds? The answer is a resounding yes! White German Shepherds are not just a myth; they’re a beautiful and fascinating part of the German Shepherd lineage.
The Origins of the White German Shepherd
To understand the White German Shepherd, we need to go back to the roots of the German Shepherd breed itself. In the late 19th century, Captain Max von Stephanitz set out to create the perfect herding dog. By selectively breeding various herding dogs from different regions of Germany, he developed a breed known for its intelligence, versatility, and working ability.
Greif: The White Forefather
Interestingly, one of the foundational dogs in von Stephanitz’s breeding program was a white-coated herding dog named Greif von Sparwasser, born in 1879. Greif played a significant role in the breed’s development, passing on his genes, including the recessive gene for a white coat.
The White Coat Gene
The white coat color in German Shepherds is the result of a recessive gene. This means that both parents must carry the gene for their offspring to have a white coat. While the white coat was initially accepted, it later became a point of contention within the German Shepherd community.
The Rise and Fall (and Rise Again) of White German Shepherds
In the early 20th century, White German Shepherds were relatively common. Many herdsmen even preferred them because their white coats made it easier to distinguish them from darker European wolves. However, as the German Shepherd breed evolved, opinions about the white coat began to change.
The “Albino” Controversy
In the early part of the 20th century, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA) and the German Shepherd Association decided to disqualify white dogs, claiming that the white coat was a sign of albinism and that breeding with white dogs would lead to a “paling of the coat and loss of the black saddle”. Despite opposition, the new standard was accepted, and White German Shepherds were effectively excluded from the breed.
A New Beginning
Despite the ban, White German Shepherd enthusiasts in North America and other parts of the world continued to breed and promote these dogs. In 1969, White German Shepherd fanciers in the United States formed the White German Shepherd Dog Club of America (WGSDCA) to preserve and protect the breed. Today, White German Shepherds are recognized as a separate breed by many kennel clubs, including the United Kennel Club (UKC).
What Makes White German Shepherds Special?
White German Shepherds share many of the same characteristics as their colored counterparts. They are intelligent, loyal, and highly trainable, making them excellent companions and working dogs.
Temperament
White German Shepherds are known for their gentle and friendly nature. They are often good with children and other animals, making them great family pets. However, like all German Shepherds, they need early socialization and training to ensure they develop into well-adjusted adults.
Appearance
The most obvious difference between White German Shepherds and other German Shepherds is their coat color. White German Shepherds have a pure white or cream-colored coat. They have a double coat, which consists of a dense undercoat and a longer, coarser outer coat.
Activity Level
White German Shepherds are active and playful dogs. They need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, runs, or play sessions in the yard are essential. They also enjoy activities like hiking, swimming, and playing fetch.
Are White German Shepherds Right for You?
If you’re looking for an intelligent, loyal, and beautiful companion, a White German Shepherd may be the perfect dog for you. However, it’s important to remember that these dogs require a significant commitment of time and energy.
Things to Consider
- Training: German Shepherds are intelligent but also independent, so they need consistent training from a young age.
- Exercise: White German Shepherds need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy.
- Grooming: Their double coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and shedding.
- Health: Like all breeds, White German Shepherds are prone to certain health problems, such as hip and elbow dysplasia.
Debunking the Myths
There are many misconceptions about White German Shepherds. Let’s set the record straight:
- White German Shepherds are NOT albinos. Albinism is a genetic condition that affects pigmentation in the eyes, skin, and hair. White German Shepherds have normal pigmentation in their eyes and skin.
- White German Shepherds are NOT less healthy than other German Shepherds. While they are prone to the same health problems as other German Shepherds, there is no evidence to suggest that they are inherently less healthy.
- White German Shepherds are NOT a separate breed. While some kennel clubs recognize them as a separate breed, they are still genetically German Shepherds.
Finding a White German Shepherd
If you’re interested in getting a White German Shepherd, it’s important to find a reputable breeder or rescue organization. A good breeder will health test their dogs and be knowledgeable about the breed. You can also find White German Shepherds through breed-specific rescue organizations.
Conclusion
So, is there such a thing as a White German Shepherd? Absolutely! These beautiful dogs are a testament to the diversity and adaptability of the German Shepherd breed. While they may have faced challenges in the past, they have persevered and are now recognized and loved by many. If you’re looking for a loyal, intelligent, and stunning companion, a White German Shepherd may be the perfect fit for you.