If you’re a dog lover, you’ve probably heard of both German Shepherds and Alsatians. At first glance, they seem quite similar, and you might wonder if they are two distinct breeds or just different names for the same dog. Let’s solve this canine conundrum and dive into the captivating story behind these names!
Are They Different Breeds? The Short Answer
Here’s the truth: German Shepherds and Alsatians are the same breed. The different names arose due to historical events, not breed distinctions. So, if someone tries to tell you they own a rare “Alsatian,” you can gently inform them that they simply have a German Shepherd by another name.
A Brief Look at the German Shepherd
The German Shepherd Dog (GSD) is a breed that originated in Germany and is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. These dogs are strong and excel as police dogs, guard dogs, and beloved family pets. They are medium-to-large-sized dogs, typically standing over 20 inches tall and weighing between 75 and 95 pounds. German Shepherds generally live for 10 to 14 years and need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy.
The “Alsatian” Unveiled
The name “Alsatian” is primarily used in the United Kingdom and some other countries as an alternative name for the German Shepherd. To understand why, we need to take a trip back in time to the World War I era.
The World War I Connection
During World War I, strong anti-German sentiment swept across the UK and the US. Anything associated with Germany faced prejudice and negativity. To protect this incredible breed from the fallout of wartime feelings, the UK decided to change the name “German Shepherd” to “Alsatian”. The new name came from the Alsace region, a French-German border area. This rebranding strategy was successful in maintaining the breed’s popularity during a difficult period.
In 1977, a decision was made to go back to the original name, German Shepherd, to honor the breed’s heritage. Today, both names can be used, but “German Shepherd” is more common worldwide.
What They Have in Common
Whether you call them German Shepherds or Alsatians, these dogs share the same:
- Physical Characteristics: They have a distinctive appearance with a domed forehead, a long, square-ish muzzle, and large, erect ears. Their coats come in various colors, but the most recognizable is black and tan with a black “saddle” across the back.
- Temperament: German Shepherds are intelligent, courageous, loyal, and eager to learn.
- Health Concerns: Because they are the same breed, German Shepherds and Alsatians are prone to the same health issues.
A Little History
The German Shepherd is a relatively young breed, with its origins tracing back to 1899. In the late 19th century, Germany aimed to standardize its dog breeds. Max Von Stephanitz, considered the creator of the breed, founded the Society for the German Shepherd Dog. He acquired a dog named Horand, who became the first German Shepherd and the foundation of the breed. German Shepherds were initially bred to herd sheep, and their German name, Deutscher Schäferhund, translates directly to “German Shepherd Dog”. Their intelligence, strength, and loyalty quickly made them popular with the police and military. They were first introduced to Britain in 1908.
Coat Colors
German Shepherds boast a variety of coat colors. While the classic black and tan is well-known, they can also be all black, all white, blue, sable, or liver. However, certain colors are preferred over others. According to The Kennel Club, sable and all-black coats are acceptable, while blue and liver are considered serious faults, and all-white is grounds for disqualification. The reasoning behind this is that a white coat is more visible, which is not ideal for a guard dog or a herding dog in snowy conditions.
Choosing the Right Name
Ultimately, whether you call your dog a German Shepherd or an Alsatian is a matter of personal preference. Just remember that you’re referring to the same wonderful breed!
Why Dog Insurance is Essential
Regardless of what you call your German Shepherd/Alsatian, remember that dog insurance is important. It helps cover unexpected veterinary costs due to illness or injury, so you can focus on providing the best care for your furry companion.