The white German Shepherd is a very special-looking dog. It is one of the solid colors of German Shepherd. This German Shepherd is a variety of German Shepherd bred in the United States. It has a unique stunning fog with a luscious, gorgeous, and luxurious coat of white fur. As beautiful as this breed of German Shepherd is, it has a lot of controversies surrounding it.
This article will entail some interesting controversies and frequently asked questions about the white German Shepherd, including their:
- Cost
- Health and lifespan
- Temperament
- Food and diet
- Grooming
And so much more.
Characteristics of White German Shepherds
The white German Shepherds were just a naturally occurring color variation. However, in some circles, it is now considered a separate breed in its own right. This German Shepherd is no different from other breeds of the German Shepherd, even though it has a fluffy white coat. This feature is so because of the white fur recessive gene the white German Shepherd carries. Here, I will share the exciting characteristics of this breed.
• Cost
The white German Shepherd costs around $1500-$2000. Some dog breeders will charge you more if you want your puppy to have AKC full breeding rights.
• Color
The white-coated body of this breed is what makes it unique compared to other German shepherd breeds. The white coat recessive gene affects nothing else other than the fur color, not even the skin color and eye pigmentation.
• Coat
This German Shepherd has two layers of coat: the undercoat is fine in texture and dense, and the outermost is thick and straight. It also has two types– a short one and a long one. If the white GSD has a long coat, it is bound to be longer than that of a regular German shepherd dog.
The double coat helps keep it warm and well-protected from other elements. As puppies, they have fluffy furs, which get coarse as they grow, but the first on the ear retains its fluffiness.
• Appearance
White German Shepherds are adorable and look like a ball of fluff. They have a very long tail, large and erect ears, and eyes that are either dark or brown. They are powerful and imposing in appearance. This breed also appears longer than they are tall.
• Weight and Height
The white German Shepherds grow fast. They generally reach 50% of their adult size at four months, and by one year, they should be at their adult height.
The male white German Shepherd will weigh between 65-90 pounds and measure 24-26 inches in height, while the female will weigh between 50-70 pounds and measure 22-24 inches in height. According to the breed standards, it can’t deviate more than 2 inches on either side.
• Temperament
The German Shepherd generally can be trained to do anything the owner wants. White German Shepherds are known to be loyal and strong-willed. They are confident and courageous and will protect their owners till the end. They need to socialize. Otherwise, they become aggressive around people they don’t know. It is an active dog and needs to be mentally stimulated as it doesn’t like to be left alone or cooped up, as it can become bored and destructive.
• Food and Diet
This German Shepherd is enormous and requires a significant diet. A diet specially formulated for large dog breeds is recommended. It should cover all the necessary nutrients that a dog this size needs, such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. They should consume about 1500 calories daily. Puppies should be fed three times daily, and adults can be fed twice daily.
• Exercise
The German Shepherd is known to be very active. This breed needs high exercise alongside mental and physical stimulation.
Ensure to exercise white German Shepherds for at least 60-90 minutes daily. These activities can include walks, running, and mental games.
• Training
White German Shepherds are known to be brilliant dogs, and this trait makes it very easy to train. They should be trained very young, and positive reinforcement should be used. Refrain from scolding them and allow them to exercise before you begin training.
• Grooming
This German Shepherd is known to shed its fur all year round, and this is because its coat is thick. To minimize shedding, brush them at least 2 or 3 times a week. Bathing should only be done when they look dirty; brushing teeth is very important to prevent tooth decay and gum diseases.
Grooming should be done early so it does not become a traumatic experience for them.
• Health
Unfortunately, the white German Shepherd is also prime to the same health problems as other German Shepherd breeds. The most common health problem for the German Shepherd is elbow and hip dysplasia.
Dysplasia is said to be a condition with a malformation of the joints, which is common in large dogs. The joints can become very painful and cause lameness.
You’re advised to regularly take your dog for an appointment at the veterinarian to check for these issues before they become life-threatening.
• Lifespan
The life expectancy of white German Shepherds is relatively long. It can live for as long as 12-14 years.
Controversies Surrounding The White German Shepherds
Because of its rarity, a few controversial questions have been asked regarding the white German Shepherds, especially their color. A few of these mind-boggling questions have been listed and answered below:
Is the white German Shepherd a separate breed from the standard German Shepherd?
Technically, no. But, it is classified under a different breed.
Can a white German Shepherd produce standard-colored offspring?
YES! The only way to get a perfectly white German Shepherd is to breed two white German Shepherds. If a white German Shepherd is bred with a colored German Shepherd with the white recessive gene, the chances are 50-50. But if the colored German Shepherd does not carry the recessive white gene, then all the pups will be colored.
Does the white German Shepherd have genetic disorders?
No, it does not. And it is also quite different from albinism. An easily noticeable characteristic of albinism is the absence of pigmentation, which is entirely different from white German Shepherds. This breed has the features of a regular dog, such as its black nose, black paw pads, and visible dark pigment around its mouth nails. The white German Shepherds also have brown eyes. Genetically, there is no difference between the tan/colored German Shepherd and the white German Shepherds.
Despite the controversies around the white German Shepherds, they are very loyal and friendly. If properly trained, they would make a great family companion. Read more about the other types of German shepherds if you are curious to know if there are other amazing types.