The Blue German Shepherd is a rare variant of the traditional German Shepherd breed. This majestic canine boasts impressive physical attributes along with its striking blue-gray hue. This breed has earned recognition for its loyalty, intelligence, and fierce protectiveness – making it an ideal choice for guardians seeking a devoted companion.
WHAT IS A BLUE GERMAN SHEPHERD?
A blue German Shepherd Dog has a double recessive D(dilute) gene, which leads to the dog having a diluted black color giving it a visible blue color.
HISTORY OF THE BLUE GERMAN SHEPHERD
The blue German Shepherd is not a separate breed from the standard German Shepherd. And if they are not a different breed, they have the same history as the German Shepherd.
German shepherds are said to have originated in the 19th century in Germany. Although they were initially bred to be herding dogs, they have since evolved into wonderful working dogs. They have taken up roles such as guard dogs, military dogs, watchdogs, and even companions. The German Shepherd has several variations in color, and the color blue is one of the rarest, making it hard to know when they first started.
CHARACTERISTICS OF THE BLUE GERMAN SHEPHERD
• Color: It should not come as a shock that the color of the blue German Shepherd is blue. Although, the appearance of their coat makes them look more gray and black than true blue.
• Coat: The blue German Shepherd Dog has a double coat with a denser layer and a softer undercoat, and this help to keep them warm during harsh weather. This double coat can either be medium or long. They are also known to be heavy shedders and will need to be groomed regularly.
• Appearance: The blue German Shepherd has a domed head shape with a long, square muzzle. They also have erect ears and long necks with bushy tails. The blue German Shepherd is a solid and agile dog breed and shares many similarities with the standard German Shepherd, except for their coloration.
• Weight and Height: The males are usually bigger than their female counterparts. The male will measure not more than 26 inches in height and weigh between 66-88 pounds. On the other hand, the females will measure not more than 24 inches in height and weigh between 49 and 71 pounds.
• Temperament: The blue German Shepherd Dog is exceptionally loyal. They are fearless and working dogs, and they are also protective. They are alert, intelligent, and independent and must be mentally stimulated. They dislike being left alone as they may become bored and exhibit destructive tendencies. They are very active dogs and should be given adequate physical exercises.
• Food and diet: The blue German Shepherd is a huge dog and, as such, must be fed adequately. Experts have recommended that the blue German Shepherd Dog eats at least 20 calories per lb of body weight per day which will sum up to about 1500 calories. Three cups of meals should provide this needed amount of calories. Try not to overfeed, as it leads to bloating, which may be fatal.
Their meal should contain all the necessary nutrients for a dog their size. It should contain protein, fat, and carbohydrates in the proper proportions.
• Exercise: Given their history as working dogs, the blue German Shepherd needs a lot of physical and mental exercise. Therefore, you should give your blue German Shepherd at least 60-90 minutes of exercise daily. These exercises can include running, walking, and playing mental games too. As puppies, try not to over-exercise them as this can affect their skeletal build.
• Training and socializing: The blue German Shepherd is known for its intelligence which makes it highly trainable. They can sometimes be stubborn, but try not to hit, punish or scold them as this can adversely affect their training. Use the positive reinforcement method instead that is, praises and treats. Socializing is very important for your German Shepherd as it helps them to be calm and learn that there is no reason to be afraid.
• Grooming: The blue German Shepherd, as you very well know, sheds heavily, and brushing their coats will help reduce their shedding. Ensure to trim your dog’s nails and brush their teeth to prevent tooth decay and gum diseases. Bathing the German Shepherd should not be done every day as it strips stops the oil from their coat and fries out their coat. Bathing should be done every three to four months or when needed.
• Health: The blue German Shepherd is prone to the health issues that affect German Shepherds in general, and these are elbow and hip dysplasia (malformation of the joints), degenerative myelopathy (a slow degradation of the spinal cord), heart issues such as aortic stenosis, pulmonic stenosis, and patent ductus arteriosus.
• Lifespan: The average life expectancy of a healthy blue German Shepherd Dog is between 9 and 13 years.
• Cost: The blue German Shepherd costs more than the average German Shepherd Dogs, and this is because of its rarity. The blue German Shepherd costs between $1200-$1500.
Does the blue color influence their behavior?
The honest answer is no. In other dog breeds, a blue color may indicate health traits and issues, but it is not so with the German Shepherd. The blue color does not have temperamental or behavioral complications in the dog.
The blue German is as normal as every other German Shepherd. They are great companions, mad working dogs too. They are also loyal and loving dogs, and although they may require high grooming and exercise, they would be a great addition to your home.
If you think this Blue German shepherd is beautiful, then you should look at the White German shepherd before making your final decision.