Behavior Problems
Destructive Behavior
Digging
Self-mutilation
Fear of People or Noises

GSD Diseases
Degenerative Myelopathy
Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Pannus
Nodular Dermatofibrosis

German Shepherd Dog Structure

The German Shepherd is a trotting dog and his structure has been developed to best meet the requirements of his work in herding. A long, effortless trot which shall cover the maximum amount of ground with the minimum number of steps. The proper body proportions, firmness of back and muscles and the proper angulation of the fore and hindquarters serve this end. This enables the dog to propel himself forward by a long step of the hindquarter and to compensate for this stride by a long step of the forequarter. The high withers, the firm back, the strong loin, the properly formed croup, even the tail as balance and rudder, all contribute to this same end.

In America, show German Shepherds tend to have so much rear angulation that it has become a great source of concern regarding the dog's ability to perfom the tasks for which it has been bred.

The Evolution of the German Shepherd Dog