Can German Shepherds have straight backs?

If you’ve been in the market for a German Shepherd, you may have noticed that there are two somewhat distinct variants of this breed: those with straight backs and those with sloped backs. While this difference may seem mostly aesthetic, it does affect the health of the dog.

Are straight back German Shepherds rare?

However, they’re not exactly rare either. The German Shepherd with a sloped back wasn’t bred alongside the original type with a straight back. On the contrary, it was bred after the original breed type was established in the early 1900s. What is this?

What is the best bloodline for German Shepherds?

Probably an American line or West German line would be best for you. If you’re wanting a working dog for police work, Schutzhund, security, or personal protection, you’ll definitely need to purchase from a working line. If you want a stable temperament, the German and/or Czech working line is your best bet.

How long do straight back German Shepherds live?

German Shepherds have a life expectancy of about 7-13 years which is a bit shorter than the average lifespan of 10-13 years for all dogs. How long they will actually live depends on many factors like breeding, health, exercise, care, upbringing, and the environment.

What does DDR mean in German Shepherd?

The Deutsches Demokratische Republik (DDR) German Shepherd, also referred to as the East German Shepherd, is a bloodline of loyal and brave guard dogs bred in Germany following World War II.

What is a DDR line German Shepherd?

DDR bloodline refers to German Shepherds bred in the DDR without bloodlines from outside of East Germany. DDR stands for Deutsche Demokratische Republik (German Democratic Republic), which is now the eastern region of Germany. They are mainly bred for their work ethic and lower risk of disease.

Why do German Shepherds walk weird?

German shepherds’ hind legs appear more bent as compared to a typical dog. In fact, German Shepherds are intentionally bred to have a steeper angulation to the hind legs. The AKC breed standards for the breed, require German Shepherds to have as close to 90 degree bend as possible in their hind leg.

What is a blanket back German Shepherd?

Black and Tan German Shepherd The pattern of black can range from a saddleback to a blanket back. A Saddleback is just what it sounds like: the black color looks like a saddle over the dogs’ back and sides. A blanket back is darker in color, and the black covers more of the dog’s back and sides.