It's a common misconception that German Shepherds are overly friendly because they're 'silly.' In reality, their amiable nature stems from a naturally gentle disposition. A purebred German Shepherd is characterized by a well-proportioned, wedge-shaped head, a slightly arched back, and a tail that resembles a saber.
German Shepherds typically exhibit a very gentle temperament, showing no aggression to anyone who isn't displaying hostility. They are remarkably loyal, eagerly obeying their owners' commands, and possess excellent alertness, ensuring your home's safety at night. This combination of loyalty and watchfulness makes them excellent companions.
Identifying a Purebred German Shepherd
1. Proportional Head:
A purebred German Shepherd has a head that appears wedge-shaped from the side, with a rounded forehead when viewed from the front. The head's overall proportion is balanced, neither too large nor too small. Male German Shepherds tend to have larger heads, while females have slightly smaller, more refined heads.
2. Slightly Arched Back:
When running, a purebred German Shepherd's back will naturally exhibit a slight upward arch. When resting, their back may subtly curve downwards, creating a bow-like appearance. A back that is too straight suggests a lack of breed purity, as does a back that arches too dramatically.
3. Saber-like Tail:
The tail of a purebred German Shepherd has a slight curve when at rest, resembling a saber. When the dog is moving its tail, the curve will increase and the tip may curl upwards, but it should not be carried too far over the back. If your German Shepherd's tail does not display these traits, it may not be a purebred.