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American White Shepherd |
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He is not recognized by the F.C.I. |
Origin |
Canada, U.S.A. | |
Translation |
Francis Vandersteen | |
This breed is also known as |
White Shepherd
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A brief presentation of the American White Shepherd |
| The White Shepherd is very similar to its cousin the German Shepherd. They are intelligent, courageous, fearless and obedient. The White Shepherd is an excellent family companion and loves to spend time with all family members. Their protective instincts make them ideal guard dogs. They are naturally wary of strangers, but rarely bark unless warned. He's eager to learn, and training should be a breeze. The White Shepherd needs interaction with people and will become depressed, even destructive, if left alone for too long. Be prepared to spend more time with your White Shepherd if you work outside the home all day. |
History of the American White Shepherd |
| The White Shepherd began life as a German Shepherd dog. The white color comes from a gene that all German Shepherd dogs carry. The German Shepherd was not crossed with any other breed to produce the White Shepherd. For years, however, white coloring was considered a major fault, and these dogs were eliminated from breeding programs and sterilized. It wasn't until breeders in the USA and Canada found the white color attractive. German Shepherd Dog color became an important factor. In the 1930s, any white coloring was deemed unacceptable and no white dog could be registered as a German Shepherd Dog. Then, in the 1980s, breeders began deliberately breeding pure white German Shepherd Dogs. With solid white Shepherds excluded from conformation events and most breeding programs, the White Shepherd quickly evolved into a distinct type and breed. Although the White Shepherd is indistinguishable from its ancestor, except for color, it attracts a great deal of attention from breed lovers and foes alike. The German Shepherd Club of America refused to recognize solid White Shepherds, so the American White Shepherd Association was formed. Although the White Shepherd is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, it has a strong fan base and is capable of performing all the tasks that the German Shepherd can. In 1999, the United Kennel Club recognized the White Shepherd as its own breed, and it was allowed to compete in all UKC-sanctioned trials. |
Appearance of the American White Shepherd |
| The White Shepherd is a muscular, medium-sized dog with a body slightly longer than the leg. Its coat is pure white, although a creamy color is also acceptable. They have large, erect, triangular ears. Its ear leather is firm and able to support the heaviness of the ear. The tail is slightly curved, set low and reaches to the hock. In the White Shepherd, the differences between the sexes are obvious, as the female is less muscular and lighter than the male. The nose is black, although a lighter nose is acceptable but not desired. His eyes are medium-sized, almond-shaped and slightly slanted. Dark brown eyes are permitted; lighter eyes are not acceptable. His expression should be intense and slightly lively. Eyes and lips should be dark, preferably black. The White Shepherd has a weather-resistant coat that is also a double coat. The topcoat is straight, dense and hard to the touch. The undercoat is thick, short and fine to the touch. |
Temperament of the American White Shepherd |
| The White Shepherd is a highly intelligent, courageous and fearless dog. Fiercely devoted to his family, he quickly forms bonds, especially with the person who trains him. He needs to be socialized from an early age to ensure he doesn't become fearful or aggressive towards strangers. He is naturally wary of strangers and can become aggressive if he fears for his safety or that of his family. Lack of training and socialization are the main reasons why White Shepherds become aggressive and unmanageable. White Shepherds benefit greatly from training courses starting at an early age. In general, he likes children and other pets, although he commands respect. Children or pets who don't respect his boundaries may not be able to bear the consequences of his annoyance. He's extremely easy to train, but requires daily interaction such as long walks or playtime in the yard. When you can't be with him, he'll need a fenced-in yard to play in. |
Needs and activities of the American White Shepherd |
| The American White Shepherd thrives on human interaction and is highly trainable. Expect to spend at least 30 minutes a day playing games or going for brisk walks to keep him happy. He can also learn to run on the treadmill quite easily on days when the weather isn't conducive to outdoor activities. The White Shepherd would excel at dog sports such as obedience, agility, fly-flying or even protection training. Being a social dog, he'll enjoy spending time on doggy dates or visits to the dog park. When you're training, it's a fun and exciting time for both of you to bond and have fun. |
Maintenance of the American White Shepherd |
| The White Shepherd is not hypoallergenic and has a seasonal coat that sheds heavily. Expect to find hair floating in the air or collecting on your floors or furniture throughout the year. To minimize shedding, it should be brushed once a week with a fine brush, metal comb and detangler. During the season, expect to brush him every day to keep the top of the hair loose and coming out. Bathe your White Shepherd only when necessary, usually at the start of heavy shedding, to help loosen the undercoat. When bathing, use a mild shampoo specially formulated for white dogs. Clean his ears weekly and check for irritation or bad odors that could indicate the onset of infection. His nails should be trimmed every few weeks, depending on how fast they grow. Establish a routine dental care regimen including weekly brushing followed by an annual professional cleaning to prevent gum disease. |
English (United Kingdom) 
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