german shepherd essay in english

German Shepherd: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

History, Care Tips, and Helpful Information for Pet Owners

Dr. Bartley Harrison is a veterinarian with more than 15 years of professional veterinary experience treating dogs, cats, rabbits, ferrets, birds, and small mammals, with a specific focus on Emergency Medicine. Dr. Harrison is part of The Spruce Pets’ veterinary review board.

The Spruce / Kevin Norris 

• Characteristics
• Breed History
• Training and Care
• Health Problems

Diet and Nutrition

• Where to Adopt or Buy

Breed Overview

• Further Research

German shepherd dogs are one of the most popular breeds in the world, treasured for their intelligence, loyalty, and athleticism. They're large brown-and-black dogs with a streamlined build that makes them both strong and agile.

Though they're excellent herding dogs, German shepherds are also very well suited to work as service animals , such as guide dogs for the visually impaired. They also serve as police officers, members of the military, guard dogs, and even movie stars.

They're undoubtedly versatile dogs, but they need owners who can give them enough ways to expend their energy and smarts. If you think you can keep up, read on to learn more about the German shepherd dog.

Group:  Herding

Height: 22 to 26 inches

Weight: 60 to 100 pounds

Coat: Coarse, medium-length double coat

Coat Color: Black and tan, black and cream, black and red, black and silver, solid black, gray, sable. Note that blue, liver or white are unfavorable based on breed standards.

Temperament: Intelligent, courageous, alert, bold, loyal, protective

Hypoallergenic: No

Origin: Germany

Characteristics of the German Shepherd

German shepherds are protective, loyal companions. Bred with a strong work ethic, they are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States— No. 4 in 2022 —thanks in large part to their ability to be great family dogs. They love "their people" but can be cautious around strangers or newcomers and thrive on the care and attention of their family.

This isn't the right breed for you if you are rarely home, live in a very small home without access to a yard, or simply don't have a lot of time to devote to your pet. The German shepherd needs a lot of companionship and attention to thrive and to help ward off destructive or annoying behaviors that can rise out of anxiety or boredom .

While most German shepherds are family pets, many of these dogs are hard-working canines in various jobs that serve humans, including search-and-rescue , police , drug- or bomb-sniffing, service , and entertainment work.

History of the German Shepherd

The ancestors of German shepherd dogs acted as both servants and companions to humans for hundreds of years. Developed from old shepherd and farm dogs, the German shepherd dogs we know today were first introduced in Germany in 1899. That's when Capt. Max von Stephanitz founded the breed.

Worldwide interest in the breed began rising in the early 1900s and the German shepherd was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1908. During World Wars I and II, the word "German" was dropped and the breed was referred to as the shepherd dog or the Alsatian (a name that is still often used in Europe).

The breed's popularity has led to cross-breeding, including the development of king shepherds , a mix between German shepherds and Shiloh shepherds.

German Shepherd Care

German shepherd dogs require frequent care, training, and attention but they will reward you with many years of loyalty and love. They are well suited to families, though they're best acquired as pets when they're young so they have ample time to adjust to life with their humans and undergo training.

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Plenty of regular exercise  is essential for German shepherds because they have so much energy. A daily walk is not enough. If you're a jogger, a German shepherd can be a good running companion . Your dog needs to run, play, and explore to prevent frustration, boredom, and pent-up energy. A bored dog may resort to barking, digging , and chewing .

Even if they aren't bored, these dogs like to chew and have powerful jaws, so keep durable chew toys available.

German shepherds are better off in a home with a fenced yard for play rather than an apartment . However, it's even more important that your dog receives plenty of attention and isn't left alone most of the day.

German shepherds have coarse, sometimes wiry, medium-length hair with thick undercoats. Their coats should be brushed every few days to combat their relatively high shedding rate, which can be lessened by routine grooming . Still, you should be prepared to have dog hair on your clothing and furniture—you'll need to vacuum frequently. Luckily, a German shepherd's coat also resists dirt and debris, so you won't need to bathe your dog more than once a month. In fact, too-frequent bathing will strip out the oils that keep their coats healthy.

Remember to keep your dog's nails trimmed to help them walk around comfortably. You should also help your dog maintain good dental hygiene by brushing their teeth a couple times a week.

German shepherds can be very gentle companions and family protectors with proper training and socialization. They're an ideal breed for active households, and the intelligence and protective demeanor of this breed can make it a good choice for  families with children  as long as the dog is properly trained.

German shepherds can sometimes become anxious or even aggressive if not properly trained and handled. These dogs will ideally be trained to perform a duty they'll take pride in—such as canine sports . The breed's intelligence and desire to work should make training fairly easy. Socialization will make sure your German shepherd does not become stressed or scared when meeting new people or animals and seeing new environments.

Additionally, German shepherds may have a tendency to chase cats and other small pets, so they may not be a good fit for a multi-pet household unless raised together. They also may not get along with strange dogs, especially of the same sex, which may be a problem when you visit a dog park .

Common Health Problems

Responsible breeders strive to maintain the highest breed standards as established by kennel clubs like the American Kennel Club. German shepherd dogs bred by these standards are less likely to inherit health conditions, however, some hereditary health problems can occur in the breed. The following are some conditions to be aware of:

• Hip dysplasia : This genetic orthopedic disorder affects the hip joints of many large-breed dogs. It causes pain, limping , and degeneration of the joint.
• Elbow dysplasia : This is another orthopedic problem that is similar to hip dysplasia but affects the dog's front legs.
• Elbow hygroma : This alarming, but non-cancerous growth swells over the dog's elbow. Filled with fluid, it's usually caused by minor trauma, and although unsightly, it normally does not cause the dog pain unless the hygroma becomes infected.
• Gastric dilatation-volvulus : Also called bloat, this is a very serious condition that occurs when a dog's stomach expands with gas or food and then flips within the abdominal cavity, cutting off the exits from the dog's stomach. Bloat can be fatal without prompt treatment.
• Degenerative myelopathy : This progressive neurological condition affects a dog's spinal cord. It starts with weakness in the hind legs and ultimately progresses to paralysis.

The Spruce / Emilie Dunphy

Your adult German shepherd will need two meals a day of up to 2 cups of dry dog food, but this will depend on the dog's size, activity level, age, and health. You may also want to mix canned dog food into the kibble for extra flavor and interest. German shepherds are prone to bloating and possible stomach torsion, so you'll want to avoid giving one large meal a day and having the dog gulp it down. Be sure your dog has constant access to clean, fresh water. Monitor your dog's weight and address any overweight issues early, as obesity will shorten your dog's lifespan. You can also discuss nutritional needs with your veterinarian to get recommendations for feeding schedules and dog food types throughout your dog's life.

Where to Adopt or Buy a German Shepherd

If you think you'd like to adopt a German shepherd, start by contacting one of the following organizations:

• German Shepherd Dog Club of America
• German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions

These groups will be able to provide guidance and next steps for adoption as well as direct you to reputable breeders if you choose to go that route. The AKC also boasts a marketplace where you can inquire about AKC-registered litters that have been cared for and raised according to breed standards. While prices vary, you can generally expect to pay $2,000 or more for a German shepherd puppy, depending on sex, appearance, demand, and bloodline.

German shepherds, especially German shepherd mixes, are very common at animal rescues, so if you aren't concerned about your dog being purebred, or you simply prefer to rescue a pet rather than purchase one, it's always a good idea to start your search with local animal rescue organizations.

German Shepherd Overview

German shepherds are perennially popular dogs and will continue to be desirable, loving companions for decades to come. Provided you can meet their requirements for training, exercise and companionship, they are sure to be a great addition to your home and family.

• Loyal, loving
• Smart, trainable
• Effective guard dog
• Needs a yard and plenty of exercise
• Sheds frequently
• Can be aggressive without training
• May not get along with other pets

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

As with any breed, if you think the German shepherd dog is right for you, be sure to do plenty of research before you get one. Talk to other owners, reputable breeders, and rescue groups to learn more.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, look into these breeds to compare the pros and cons.

• Belgian Malinois
• Doberman pinscher

There's a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!

You should leave your German shepherd along for no more than several hours. If you do have to disappear for longer, make sure you leave your dog with plenty of toys for chewing and playing.

No, German shepherds are not low maintenance. They require plenty of training when you first bring them home, and then you'll have to spend plenty of time making sure they get enough exercise and attending to their grooming needs—aka plenty of fur brushing.

You can expect a German shepherd to live around 10 years, according to the American Kennel Club.

German Shepherd Dog ; American Kennel Club

The History of the German Shepherd Dog ; German Shepherd Dog Club of America

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Home > Dog Breed Reviews > German Shepherd Dog

German Shepherds: What's Good About 'Em, What's Bad About 'Em

German Shepherd temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton , Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books

Jump directly to:

• Temperament
• Pros and Cons
• With strangers
• With children
• With other pets
• Similar breeds

German Shepherds were my very first breed. This noble-looking male has a beautiful rugged head, intelligent expression, and rich coloration.

My experience with German Shepherd temperament

Temperament and behavior stem from what the breed was designed for.

To understand a breed's temperament and behavior, ask, "What was he developed to do?" Whichever traits help him accomplish his intended work have likely been "hard-wired" into his genes – not perfectly, but generally.

The German Shepherd was developed from various sheepherding dogs. So you would expect sheepherding traits such as athleticism, a compulsion to chase things that move, and swift responsiveness to their human shepherd/master.

German Shepherds were also developed as military messenger and sentry dogs, and as personal protection and police dogs. So expect traits such as aloofness toward strangers and protective/territorial instincts.

The breed also excels at search and rescue, bomb and drug detection, and guiding the blind. Certainly you would expect high intelligence, high self-confidence, trainability, and an ability to focus.

All of those traits are what you get in an ideal German Shepherd. One of the most capable and trainable breeds in all of dogdom, an ideal German Shepherd, when properly raised by a confident owner, can be a magnificent companion. There's a good reason my first dogs were German Shepherds!

Unfortunately, it can be difficult today to find a German Shepherd with an ideal temperament. Or at least an ideal temperament to be a good family companion.

Different lines have different temperaments

Today, the temperament of a German Shepherd often depends largely upon what kind of line   he comes from.

Some breeders, you see, produce working lines   of German Shepherds with high-drive   temperaments – vigorous and intense. These dogs are ideal for competitive protection-dog sports. But not so much for the average family companion – unless you looked carefully for an individual pup in one of those litters who didn't inherit that high-drive temperament.

Other breeders produce show lines   that match a detailed standard of conformation for the show ring. These dogs are softer-tempered than those from working lines. That sounds nice and yet....

I've worked with far too many   German Shepherds from show lines who were hyperactive, skittish, spooky, or downright dopey. This happens when breeders focus on appearance more than temperament and trainability.

My recommendation for a good family dog

If you're looking for an easygoing family companion, I would avoid both strict show lines and strict working lines.

Instead, you might look for more of a generalist breeder who focuses on calmness and high trainability. These breeders might prove their dogs' trainability by participating in non-protection dog sports such as obedience, rally, or agility.

Or, if you want a truly mellow Shepherd, you might consider a longhaired or perhaps a solid white German Shepherd. These dogs are seldom bred for aggressive dog sports, so they tend to have a milder temperament that fits well into many families.

Just be careful with the whites. A good number of them are too   soft, which can result in timidity or skittishness.

I hope you can see....

....that with German Shepherds more than most other breeds, you must know what you want before you start calling breeders or looking at litters.

Because if you don't know what you want, and what you don't want, and if you don't ask the right questions, you're likely to end up with a German Shepherd that isn't at all what you were looking for – and possibly one who is too much for you to handle.

Such an intelligent expression – confident and inquiring.

Pros and cons of German Shepherds

• Handsome, natural-looking, athletic
• Thrives on challenging activities and exercise
• Loyal to his own family
• Looks imposing and has a reputation that bad guys don't want to fool with, so makes an effective deterrent
• Highly intelligent and versatile – can learn almost anything
• Can be hard to find one with a family-oriented temperament and a decent chance of staying healthy
• Needs plenty of exercise and interesting things to do
• Needs careful socialization
• Destructiveness when bored or not exercised enough
• Potential aggression toward other animals
• Constant shedding – 365 days a year
• Legal liabilities (insurance issues, increased chance of lawsuits)
• High risk of serious health problems

Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament   is less predictable than the inheritance of physical   traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training.

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• You can avoid some negative traits by choosing an ADULT dog from an animal shelter or rescue group . With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult German Shepherds have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics.
• If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy .

How big are German Shepherds?

Males stand about 24-26 inches at the shoulder and weigh 75-110 pounds.

Females stand about 22-24 inches and weigh 65-90 pounds.

Some German Shepherds are considerably larger than that, but shouldn't be. This breed is supposed to be athletic and agile, not giant-sized and ponderous. Larger dogs can have more joint problems and a shorter lifespan.

Are there different "types" of German Shepherds?

Officially there's only the one breed. But I explained in the Temperament section that there are different lines of German Shepherds with different temperaments. Those lines can also LOOK very different from each other.

Those of us who admired the strong, noble look of German Shepherds from decades ago are saddened at what has been done to the appearance of modern show dogs.

If you go to a German Shepherd specialty show in the United States or Canada, you'll see tall narrow bodies, long narrow heads, and such excessive curvature of the rear legs that the dog's back slopes downward from shoulders to tail. You could roll a ball down that back.

In my opinion, these are misshapen caricatures of a German Shepherd. To make matters worse, show lines produce more than their share of spooky and low-intelligence dogs, which is what happens when you over-focus on appearance rather than temperament and trainability.

In contrast, the West German show line has a more normal shape. Best of all, German Shepherds in West Germany cannot win show ring ribbons or be bred without passing a temperament/trainability test.

There are many West German bloodlines in the United States. So if you're interested, you can look for show breeders who emphasize West German lines instead of American/Canadian.

Just be aware that these dogs aren't couch potatoes: they do have plenty of energy and some working drives that will need to be exercised .

Solid black German Shepherds are less common, but when combined with a rugged build, makes for a very handsome dog.

Working/protection lines

I love these lines because the dogs look and behave more like German Shepherds.

It's true that working lines are often too strong-tempered and intense for the average family. But if you're an experienced owner who knows how to be in charge and if you provide firm rules and plenty of physical and mental exercise, working lines can make great companions.

Knowledgeable working dog breeders can point you toward the pups in their litters who are calmer and have less working drive.

In the United States, working lines stem predominantly from West Germany or East Germany.

I don't recommend East German (often called DDR) lines. DDR stands for Deutsches Demokratische Republik , the name by which East Germany was known while the Berlin Wall was up. These dogs were used by the military and border patrol, so they're tough, not recommended for the average family.

You might be thinking, "Must I choose show line or working line? Isn't there another choice, like a line specifically bred to be a good pet?"

Some breeders blend show and working lines, trying to produce a more moderate build and temperament.

Some breeders emphasize high trainability, competing with their intelligent dogs in non-protection sports such as obedience or agility.

Other breeders emphasize "old style" German Shepherds with a more rugged build. But avoid breeders who boast about their "giant" German Shepherds. Packing more weight onto the frame and joints of a breed that's supposed to be medium to large is a huge (pun intended) mistake.

German Shepherd with long hair. This particular dog has a minimalist long coat – just some ear tufts and a body coat that's slightly longer than normal.

Shorthaired or longhaired

When you're thinking about the different types of German Shepherds, you should also consider the two types of COAT:

The normal coat is short hair. But German Shepherds also come in a longer coat. Both coats are the same breed.

Unfortunately, in the United States, long coats are frowned upon by the official clubs and show-dog breeders. Long-coated dogs can be registered, bred, and shown in certain activities such as obedience and agility. But they're not welcome in the conformation ring, where judging is based on appearance.

Some long-coated Shepherds have essentially a short body coat with only minor feathering around their ears, on the backs of their legs, and on their bum and tail. Other long-coated German Shepherds have long hair across most of their body.

Do long haired German Shepherds have a different build or temperament? Yes, often they do. Because they're not welcome in the conformation ring, their structure hasn't been deformed like that of their shorthaired brothers.

And because they're seldom seen in protection dog sports, their temperament tends to be softer and milder, which fits well into many families.

German Shepherds are active dogs, but should not be hyperactive. Fetch games are a great way to exercise this breed.

How much exercise do German Shepherds need?

German Shepherd puppies and adolescents (up to 18 months old) should have moderate exercise only – multiple walks, fetch games, or (if there is a compatible playmate) playing with another dog.

But the growing bones and ligaments in a young dog can be irreparably damaged by too much exercise or the wrong kind of exercise. At this age, there should be no forced running (beside a jogger or bicyclist). Restrict jumping as much as possible.

Once the dog is mature, the amount of exercise needed will vary according to the dog's energy level. But all German Shepherds, to maintain fitness, need brisk walking every day and all-out running in a safe, enclosed area as often as possible.

Dogs from working lines typically want a lot more exercise.

Mental exercise is even more important for German Shepherds. Mental exercise means the dog gets to participate in interesting activities that keep his intelligent mind stimulated.

This might be a dog sport such as agility, rally obedience, musical freestyle, tracking, flyball, herding, or schutzhund. It might be interactive dog toys, or a homemade obstacle course, or learning tricks, or playing games such as Hide 'n Seek.

Some of these activities are included in my free online training book, Teach Your Dog 100 English Words .

Handsome black German Shepherd, attentively awaiting your next words.

Are German Shepherds easy to train?

Some are easy to train, while others are more moderate.

As we've seen, different lines have different temperaments. German Shepherds from working lines are typically more assertive and stronger-willed. A "tougher" German Shepherd will be more challenging to train unless you pay closer attention to building the right Leader-Follower relationship with the dog.

That doesn't mean "softer" German Shepherds are automatically easy to train. Some dogs with soft temperaments are skittish or shy, making them just as challenging as a strong-tempered dog.

In general, though, a sound-tempered German Shepherd who is a good fit for family life should be easy to train. Just establish the right Leader-Follower relationship and the dog will be happy to work with you.

This is taught in my free puppy training book, Respect Training For Puppies (30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy).

How sociable are German Shepherds?

Are they friendly with strangers.

Most German Shepherds are reserved with strangers. As the breed's national club says, a good German Shepherd has:

"a certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships. The dog must be approachable, quietly standing its ground and showing confidence and willingness to meet overtures without itself making them."

As you might imagine, this can be a fine line to walk. Without proper guidance from the owner, a German Shepherd's natural aloofness can morph over the line to suspiciousness, distrust, and even aggression or fearfulness.

When you own an aloof breed, you need to socialize the dog thoroughly. This means a careful program of teaching him to pay attention to you and mind you in the presence of other people and other dogs. He doesn't have to like   them, but he must accept them.

One thing I should mention: many German Shepherds who bark and lunge at strangers or other dogs aren't being either protective or aggressive. Rather, this kind of reactivity can be the dog's attempt to hide his own insecurities behind a blustering facade.

At the other end of the spectrum are German Shepherds who tuck their tail between their legs, and try to hide behind you or run away whenever a stranger or another dog approaches. Sometimes this is just inexperience with the world, but sometimes it's an inherited   form of shyness. German Shepherds who are genetically shy can be helped by socialization – but not "cured." Yet another reason to be very careful when acquiring this breed.

There are also legal liabilities to consider when you acquire a German Shepherd. For example, your homeowner insurance policy might be cancelled or the rates hiked, because people are often quicker to sue if a "guard dog breed" does anything even remotely questionable.

Are German Shepherds good with children?

If the dog was raised with childen and if the children are well-behaved, most German Shepherds with a normal temperament are fine with them.

But if you have young children, you need to be especially careful about bringing an adult German Shepherd with an unknown background into your home. That dog should have a stellar temperament vouched for by experienced rescue personnel.

Also I wouldn't be comfortable with some high-drive German Shepherds around toddlers. These vigorous, intense dogs could send a toddler flying without even meaning to.

Are German Shepherds good with other pets?

Most German Shepherds are fine with other dogs and cats in their own family, if introduced to them when the dog is young. I've had multiple German Shepherds living harmoniously with my Chihuahuas and cats.

However, some German Shepherds show strong predatory/chasing behavior toward cats and other animals that run.

And some German Shepherds are dominant, or aggressive, toward other dogs of the same sex. My dog Luke, for example, would never dream of harming a female dog – but he would have loved to engage any strange male. Only a firm Respect Training program kept his behavior under control.

Long-coated German Shepherd. Keep their feathering combed out to avoid painful mats and tangles.

Grooming: Do German Shepherds shed a lot? Are they easy to groom?

About shedding.....

I have good news and bad news.

The good news is that German Shepherds have only one shedding period a year.

The bad news is.... their shedding period lasts for 365 days. In other words, German Shepherds shed constantly.

How is this different from most breeds?

Most breeds shed a few hairs here and there throughout the year. But the vast bulk of their shedding occurs only twice a year – for three weeks in the spring as their thicker winter coat switches over to a cooler summer coat, and for three weeks in the fall as the summer coat switches over to a winter coat.

Not German Shepherds. They shed a TON during those spring and fall coat-switching seasons. Plus they shed moderately the rest of the year.

So year-round, you'll find hair on your clothing, on your carpets, and under your refrigerator. Frequent vaccuming will become a way of life.

You might be wondering, "How can a shorthaired dog shed so much?" The answer is that German Shepherds have a double coat. They have a short outer coat (harsh to the touch), plus a woolly undercoat (for insulation). Breeds with a double coat always shed more than breeds who simply have an outer coat but no undercoat.

German Shepherds come in a long coat, as well as a short coat. Both coats shed heavily.

Now, about grooming....

How much   grooming is required depends on whether a German Shepherd is shorthaired or longhaired.

We've already talked about the temperament (usually good) of longhaired German Shepherds. As far as grooming goes, they obviously need regular brushing and combing to prevent mats and tangles. The longer the coat, the more work it will be.

But even if your Shepherd has a short coat, you're not off the hook when it comes to brushing. With a constant shedder, you should brush as often as possible to pull out the shed hairs before they end up on your floor and furnishings.

Ironically, longhaired German Shepherds often seem to shed less than the shorthaired. That's because some shed hair gets caught in the long coat instead of falling out. The trade-off is that you need to brush out that accumulated hair regularly or it will tangle and fuse into a matted mess.

Longhaired dogs need trimming

Along with brushing and combing, longhaired German Shepherds need trimming every few months.

Focus on the longish hair around the dog's private parts. Otherwise whenever he goes to the bathroom, the result is going to be unsanitary, both for the dog and for your house. Remember, anything that sticks to long hair eventually ends up on your floor or furnishings. So keep your dog's private parts trimmed short.

Gray sable pattern

How long do German Shepherds live? Are they a healthy breed?

German Shepherds typically live 10-12 years. Some do live to 13 or 14, but usually with chronic health issues such as arthritis.

And sadly, many don't even make it to age 10.

As a long-time German Shepherd owner, I know first-hand how many health problems this breed suffers from. Crippling joint diseases, autoimmune diseases, digestive diseases, skin diseases, heart and eye diseases.... truly a breed with serious health problems.

Here is a complete list of health problems in German Shepherds.

Or see my advice on → keeping your dog healthy (feeding, vaccinations, neutering, veterinarians, and more).

The most common color in German Shepherds – black and tan, in the saddleback pattern

What colors do German Shepherds come in?

The most common colors are black and tan, black and red, black and cream, or black and silver. These colors cover the dog in one of these three patterns:

• Saddleback – the black overlays the dog's back and sides (like a saddle). The rest of the dog is tan, red, cream, or silver. Usually there's some black on the face, as well.
• Blanketback – the black extends further down the shoulders and hips.
• Bicolor – like a Doberman or Rottweiler, which is mostly black with small tan/red/cream markings specifically confined to the head, chest, and legs. Honestly I don't know why this pattern is called bicolor , which simply means two colors. As we've just seen, the other two patterns also have just two colors.

Another common color is sable , which is an overall shade of gray, golden, or red, with black-tipped hairs that create a "dusted with black" effect.

A less common, but perfectly acceptable, color is solid black.

"Faulty" colors

Then there are two controversial colors: blue and liver :

• Blue German Shepherds have inherited a color-modifying gene that changes their black pigment to smoky gray. Many blue dogs look as though they've been dusted with flour.
• Liver German Shepherds have inherited a color-modifying gene that changes their black pigment to brown (any shade from light to dark).

If a dog has inherited either of these color-modifying genes, all of his black pigment is changed to blue/gray or brown, including his nose and the pads of his feet. For example, if a German Shepherd would have been a black and tan saddleback – except that he inherited a modifying gene – he becomes a blue and tan saddleback, or a liver and tan saddleback.

Blue and liver are considered serious faults by the official German Shepherd clubs and breeders who show their dogs in the conformation ring. But you can still register these dogs and compete with them in activities such as obedience and agility.

Controversial color: solid white

As with blue and liver, you can register a white German Shepherd and show him in competitive activities such as obedience and agility. But you can't show him in the conformation ring.

Why? Well, the Powers-That-Be say white is an unacceptable color because German Shepherds were developed to be herding and guard dogs. White dogs, they say, are too visible to make effective guard dogs. On the other hand, white dogs blend in too much with the sheep or snow instead of being clearly visible to the human shepherd.

If you love the white color, you might be pleased to hear that White Shepherd enthusiasts have formed their own club, which holds its own conformation shows.

Do German Shepherd ears stand up on their own, or do they have to be cut or taped to make them stand up?

Ah, you're thinking about cropping , a surgical procedure to make the ears stand up. That's done with Doberman Pinschers, but not with German Shepherds. A Shepherd puppy's ears prick up naturally – they're never cropped.

German Shepherd puppy with perfectly normal ears at this age. If the pup inherited normal genes, the other ear should come up shortly.

But German Shepherd puppies aren't born with pricked ears. In some pups, the ears start to prick up at 6 or 8 weeks old, while others don't start until 12 or 14 weeks old.

Often the ears don't go up smoothly. In other words, they don't suddenly pop straight up. Typically one ear will go up halfway, and stay like that for a few days. Then the other ear may start to prick while the first ear straightens all the way up. A few days later, just as the second ear straightens up, the first one suddenly flops back down.

This can be a trying time for new owners who worry that their pup's ears will never stand properly. Rest assured, it's normal for German Shepherd puppy ears to go up and down for a month or two, especially during the teething period.

Unfortunately, some puppies do inherit poor genes for ear strength and often those ears will never come all the way up. They're called "soft ears." Sometimes taping a weak ear can help it stand erect, but often not.

I had a German Shepherd with one soft ear. It flopped sideways on top of his head, while the other ear stood up beautifully. Of course I loved him dearly anyway!

Most German Shepherd puppies start out with floppy ears and dark coloration.

German Shepherd Puppies

If you already have a german shepherd puppy.....

Congratulations! I'll be happy to show you how to raise and train your new family member.

• Follow my free puppy training book, Respect Training for Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy.
• Also see my advice on German Shepherd health care , including feeding and vaccinations

If you don't have a German Shepherd puppy, but you want one....

I can help you with that, too.

German Shepherds are extremely common in the United States, the 2nd most common of all breeds.

So they're very easy to find. The problem is finding one with the best chances of developing a stable temperament and the best chances of staying healthy through the years.

THAT is harder to do.

First, you need to think about the different types of German Shepherds we talked about earlier. The different temperament types and the different build and coat types .

You'll remember... show lines, working lines, old-style lines, longhaired lines, solid white lines.... one German Shepherd can be very different from another.

Or you can just hop onto Craigslist and buy a puppy from someone who "just breeds pets" or "just had one litter." But should you?

Not unless the seller has done the proper health certifications on the puppy's parents . One huge difference between a responsible breeder and an irresponsible "puppy producer" is – health certifications.

Both parents of a German Shepherd puppy should have OFA certificates for hips, elbows, and heart. One parent should have a certificate showing them to be clear of degenerative myelopathy. This is the fastest way to rule out all the bad breeders. No certificates equals irresponsible breeding.

BOTH PARENTS of a German Shepherd puppy should have:

• a certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) or PennHip certifying the dog to have normal hips
• a certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) certifying the dog to have normal elbows
• a certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of America (OFA) or a report from a veterinary cardiologist – dated within the past year – certifying that the dog has had an Advanced Cardiac Exam and has a normal heart

Also, at least ONE PARENT of a German Shepherd puppy should have:

• a DNA test proving they are Normal/Clear of a severe neurological disease called degenerative myelopathy . Many years ago, I had a dear German Shepherd with this devastating disease. Believe me, you do not want to go through that.

If a seller can't show you those certificates, the puppies are higher risk for health problems. You might choose to accept that risk. But then you need to be willing (and able) to pay a couple thousand bucks for future surgeries and lifelong meds if your German Shepherd ends up crippled, paralyzed, or stricken with heart disease.

See my advice on → finding  a good dog

How do I adopt a German Shepherd?

Because of their popularity, and because so many owners acquire one without doing diligent research, German Shepherds are often available from dog rescue groups .

German Shepherd crosses and mixes are frequently found in animal shelters .

However, shelter personnel can be over-zealous in labeling every medium- to large dog with a vaguely shepherd-ish look as a "German Shepherd cross." Be aware that a dog can look like a German Shepherd without having any Shepherd genes at all.

What breeds are similar to German Shepherds?

The Shiloh Shepherd looks like a large German Shepherd, which is not surprising since the Shiloh was developed 50 years ago by crossing German Shepherds with larger breeds. Compared to German Shepherds, Shiloh Shepherds tend to have a calmer, more easygoing personality.

Compared to German Shepherds, most White Shepherds have a softer, more sensitive personality. White Shepherds are fine watchdogs, but seldom aggressive. In fact, if a White Shepherd is going to have any temperament fault, it's more likely to be timidity or skittishness.

The Belgian Shepherd is recommended only for experienced owners. Compared to the German Shepherd, a Belgian is more agile, graceful, and elegant. Belgian Shepherds are highly intelligent, but also easily bored and prone to obsessive behaviors. This is a demanding breed that needs ongoing supervision and structured activities.

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Dog Breed Guide: The German Shepherd

Updated March 19, 2024

When America first fell in love with German Shepherd movie star Rin Tin Tin in 1922, 1 the breed was only three decades old in the eyes of the American Kennel Club. 2 Today, this brave, intelligent, and loyal dog is one of the world’s most recognizable dog breeds and the AKC’s second-most popular.

The German Shepherd is also a reliable police and military dog. In fact, a German Shepherd is currently serving as the U.S.’s “First Dog”—Major, the Bidens’ youngest dog, can often be seen playing on the grounds of the White House.

It’s easy to see why these friendly giants are so lovable. If you’re hoping to adopt a German Shepherd, this guide covers everything you need to know.

A Brief History of the German Shepherd Breed

Credit for the standardization of the German Shepherd dog breed goes to Max Emil Friedrich von Stephanitz. 3 In 1899, while he was an officer in the German cavalry, the Dresden native began breeding a variety of herding dog types in his quest to develop a breed with the character, endurance, and mental stability to serve humans.

In 1907, the German Shepherd was introduced to America at an open class dog show in Newcastle, Pennsylvania. By 1913, the mighty canine won its first championship, and that same year, the German Shepherd Dog Club of America was founded. Two years later, the club held its first specialty show in Greenwich, Connecticut.

Formerly Known As…

When the United States entered World War I in 1917, anything associated with Germany became unpopular. For this reason, the AKC altered the name of the breed to Shepherd Dog and the German Shepherd Dog Club dropped the “German” from its title. In Europe, the name of this large breed was changed to Alsatian. In 1930, the AKC restored the breed’s original designation.

All About the German Shepherd Breed

Lauded as “dogkind’s finest all-purpose worker” by the AKC, the breed is defined by its gracefully curved outline and easy natural gait. As smart or smarter than virtually any other breed, this steadfast guardian can learn numerous commands and carry them out without flinching.

This working dog breed grows up pretty quickly. 18 months is usually when German Shepherds stop growing , but they’re quite large even as puppies. Per the AKC, the typical adult German Shepherd reaches 22-26 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between 65 and 90 pounds. Males are taller and heavier than females.

With medium-length fur, the coarse, double-coat of the German Shepherd comes in several standard colors and color combinations:

• Black & Cream
• Black & Red
• Black & Silver
• Black & Tan

Most coat colors are acceptable in AKC conformation rings, but liver is considered less desirable and white is disqualifying. It’s also worth noting that competition dogs must have black noses to qualify for AKC competition.

German Shepherds do shed, so before adopting one, be sure you have the time and means to invest in regular grooming (and don’t forget to stock up on lint rollers). Aside from taking care of their coat, you should also take care of their skin. Common German Shepherd skin issues include yeast dermatitis, moist dermatitis, and allergy dermatitis. Fortunately, using the right hair care products can help prevent skin issues in dogs—check out Vetericyn ’s hair care products ideal for dog fur.

Temperament

Fiercely loyal, the German Shepherd will give its all to defend his or her owner. As such, these gentle giants make affectionate yet protective family pets. Plus, with the right dog training, they’re capable of performing more serious jobs, such as working with the military or police.

In fact, as members of the herding group, German Shepherds love to use their brains and are best fulfilled when they have a job to do.

While they’re highly trainable, they’re also known for their loud bark, so be mindful of your proximity to your neighbors and their tolerance for noise.

German Shepherds also need ample daily exercise—more than just a daily walk. In fact, many need upwards of two hours per day. 4 For this reason, their ideal home is one with a yard where they can run freely throughout the day.

German Shepherds on the Job

Agile, intelligent, and brave, the German Shepherd dog breed is well known for its propensity for hard work. Although training and temperament matter more than breed, German Shepherds are often selected to perform specific tasks, such as:

• Airscenting
• Cadaver dogs
• Disaster response
• Mobility assistance
• Psychiatric service
• Search and rescue (SAR)
• Water recovery

Even if your German Shepherd’s primary job is “family pet” or “guard dog,” there are ways to keep them mentally stimulated. For instance, you can try enrolling your German Shepherd in a canine sport or hobby. Some of the best ones for German Shepherds include 5 :

• Obedience/Rally
• Schutzhund (performing tasks they might have to as a military or police dog)

Participating in a sport will not only be fulfilling for your dog—it will also help keep them physically and mentally active.

Care and Feeding of the German Shepherd

As mentioned, German Shepherds need a lot of exercise. It’s essential for them to get the “zoomies” out each day, ideally through a combination of walks, sports, play sessions, and running freely in the yard. With all of this activity, it’s also important that they maintain a healthy and nutritious diet.

To best support your German Shepherd, let’s explore their exercise and diet requirements below.

Exercise Requirements

German Shepherds are highly energetic animals that require more than just walks to remain healthy and happy. Mental stimulation is necessary, as well. Bored, under-stimulated dogs are prone to develop behavioral problems, including digging, chewing, and excessive barking. 6

Fortunately, there are a number of activities and games you can share with your Shepherd that combine physical and mental stimulation.

• Try to log a long walk (45 minutes to an hour) at least a few times a week
• Consider taking your dog along on longer hikes or runs (or even having them run alongside you while you bike)
• Implement training for a sport like agility or herding. This serves as both physical and mental exercise (as does training for obedience school)

Can German Shepherds Swim?

Unlike the Labrador Retriever and Golden Retriever, 7 the German Shepherd don’t have webbed feet, and they’re not naturally inclined to jump in the water and swim. Nonetheless, you may train your Shepherd to enjoy aquatic sports, especially if you start in still water when your dog is young.

What to Feed Your German Shepherd

Adult Shepherds should never eat puppy chow, as it can lead to obesity—even in highly active dogs. Cheap kibble is not a wise choice either, especially when it comes to quality. German Shepherds are athletic animals who do best when provided high-quality foods, adequate exercise, and plenty of fresh drinking water.

How much food you should feed your Shepherd each day depends on their size, age, and activity level, but it should generally be divided into two or three meals daily. Consult your vet about your pet’s individual calorie needs to determine the right amount of dog food for them (you can also use an online calculator to get a rough estimate in the meantime). 8

Additionally, always watch your dog, not their food bowl, to determine if they’re eating the right amount of dog food. If you notice your pet becoming overweight, limit high-calorie treats and table scraps (which should only make up about 10% of their daily calories). 9

Health Issues Common to the German Shepherd Breed

When it comes to German Shepherds’ common health issues , the less inbreeding, the better. As long as they remain healthy, the average German Shepherd lifespan can reach 10 to 12 years. The top health issues suffered by this large breed are joint problems and hip dysplasia (when the hip joints are not a perfect fit, eventually causing arthritis).

Per the People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), other German Shepherd health issues include:

• Elbow dysplasia
• Canine Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), which progressively weakens and eventually paralyzes the back legs
• Anal furunculosis (ulcers)
• Inherited eye diseases, like cataracts and retinal dysplasia
• Pituitary dwarfism (a hormone deficiency causing growth issues that can limit the lifespan)
• Hemophilia A and B (stops blood from clotting)

Be sure to take your pet to the vet for their regular physical to screen for these common German Shepherd health issues. They can also benefit from doing exercises for dogs with arthritis .

Whether intended to be a service dog or companion animal, it’s important to obtain your German Shepherd from a reputable breeder. Provided adequate exercise, high-quality food, regular vet visits, and plenty of love, the German Shepherd Dog can be the best friend you ever had.

Keep Your German Shepherd Thriving with ALL-IN

Once you’ve adopted your new best friend, you’ll stop at nothing to keep them happy and healthy. Luckily, you can rest easy knowing you’re giving your German Shepherd’s overall wellness a daily boost with Vetericyn’s ALL-IN multifunctional supplement.

ALL-IN is like the ultimate multivitamin for dogs—its all-natural ingredients include digestive enzymes, beetroot powder, collagen, biotin, a 5-mushroom blend, and more. No matter what you’re looking for, there’s something to support every aspect of your pup’s health.

Stock up today to see for yourself.

Scott has been with Innovacyn for the past 11 years and has been working within the Burlingame portfolio of companies for the past 23 years. Scott brings a diverse background to Innovacyn. With an upbringing as the 5th generation on his families cattle ranch, Scott has a passion for animal health and the continuous improvement surrounding agricultural practices. Scott earned marketing and business management degrees from the University of Idaho and holds an Executive MBA from Pepperdine University.

• Rin Tin Tin . https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0863833/
• American Kennel Club. German Shepherd Dog. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/german-shepherd-dog/?_ga=2.119829896.1410953510.1708963949-1799325991.1708543933
• German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA). Breed History. https://www.gsdca.org/breed-history/
• People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA). German Shepherd. https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/large-dogs/german-shepherd
• American Kennel Club (AKC). The Best Sports to Do With Your German Shepherd Dog. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/the-best-sports-to-do-with-your-german-shepherd-dog/
• American Kennel Club (AKC). Bored Dogs: How to Recognize and Solve Doggy Boredom. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/bored-dogs-how-to-recognize-doggy-boredom-and-help/
• University of Idaho. Labrador Retrievers. https://www.lib.uidaho.edu/digital/objects/guidedreading/guidedread049.pdf
• The Ohio State University, Veterinary Medical Center. Best Calorie Calculator for Dogs and Cats. https://vet.osu.edu/vmc/companion/our-services/nutrition-support-service/basic-calorie-calculator
• Tufts University. How much should I feed my dog or cat? https://vetnutrition.tufts.edu/2016/02/how-much-should-i-feed-my-dog-or-cat/

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Essay on Dog for Students and Children

500+ words essay on dog.

The dog is a pet animal. A dog has sharp teeth so that it can eat flesh very easily, it has four legs, two ears, two eyes, a tail, a mouth, and a nose. It is a very clever animal and is very useful in catching thieves. It runs very fast, barks loudly and attacks the strangers. A dog saves the life of the master from danger. One can find dogs everywhere in the world. Dogs are a very faithful animal. It has a sharp mind and a strong sense of hearing smelling the things. It also has many qualities like swimming in the water, jumping from anywhere, good smelling sense.

Importance of Dog

A dog has a strong power of smell . They are more liked by people because of their faithfulness. They are intelligent, they are watchfulness. The dogs have many colors such as grey, white, black, brown and red. They are of many kinds such as bloodhound, greyhound, german shepherd, Labrador, Rottweiler, bulldog poodle, etc.

Usually, the dog eats fish, meat, milk, rice, bread, etc. Dogs are sometimes called canines. Dogs are sometimes referred to as man’s best friend because they are kept as domestic pets and are usually loyal and like being around humans. They are also helpful in reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness and even improve your cardiovascular health. A dog also provides valuable companionship for older adults.

The dogs are so loyal to his master that nothing can induce him to leave his master. His master might be a poor man or even a beggar but still, the dog will not leave his master from far off. Dogs see their master coming home from work they rush to them and jump on them to show their love. Dogs are honest friends who are always ready to die to save a friend. It can bite a thief or stranger when they ignore its barking and try to mischief. Dogs always give security to the owner day and night.

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Life Span 0f a Dog

The lifespan of a dog is very small however it can live around 12-15 years long which depend on their size such as smaller dogs lives a longer life. A female dog gives birth to a baby and feed milk that’s why dogs under the mammal category. The dog baby is called a puppy or pup and dog home is called kennel. Dogs are categorized according to their service to people such as guard dogs, herding dogs, hunting dogs, police dogs, guide dogs, sniffer dogs, etc. It has a strong power of smell with the assistance of police can arrest murderers, thieves, and dacoits. The Military trains the dogs to track and detect bombs.

Need for Dogs

Detection dogs can be employed at airports, police stations, borders, and schools. Tracking and Hunting dogs, hounds, terriers, and dachshund are the most popular types of hunting and tracking dogs. These dogs are trained to be the eyes, ears, and retrievers for their human companions.

Dogs are a very excellent swimmer. They are really a very helpful pet animal. He respects his owner from the heart and can easily guess his/ her presence through their smell. We should take good care of it and keep them in good condition.

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Menendez’s In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story Essay

Introduction, author’s unconscious desires and anxieties, reconstructing meaning, moving to cuba.

Anna Menendez’s story talks about the complexities of being a Cuban American with a strong desire to reconnect with their own country. Immigrants face significant challenges in trying to maintain the identity of the country they came from. Hermeneutics as a theoretical approach helps in focusing on the processes in which meaning is constructed and reconstructed (Meretoja 274). This approach will be used to understand the way characters in the story understand different aspects and what influences their knowledge. Psychoanalysis, on the other hand, argues that literary texts contain the unconscious desires and anxieties of the author. The theory will be used to explain how thoughts, past traumas, and conflicts enhance the meaning of the story. The two approaches will be used to enhance meaning and provide insight into different aspects. Menendez seeks to recapture a feeling of belonging by going back to Cuba as a way of reconstructing meaning through memories.

Psychoanalysis seeks to assess aspects such as unresolved emotions, psychological conflicts and guilts within a literary work. Freud was of the view that childhood trauma, family life, sexual conflicts, and fixations can have an impact on the behavior of an individual (The Dissection 2-11). In the story, the author depicts a conflict between the narrator and her husband that eventually results in a divorce. In representing the antagonism between the two, the author also creates an indication that the problem between the two is complex. The basis of using psychoanalysis is it allows literary analysis to focus on the repressed meaning. In this case, the author uses the conflict to show that Lisette was struggling with reconciling the past with the present. Menendez notes that ‘the past wasn’t something you could play again like an old song’ (209). This quote shows the difficulties experienced by the narrator when reminiscing.

The conflict between Lisette and her husband also presents the realization that the narrator had an intention of rediscovering Cuba. The inability to remember her past yet it was their identity as Cuban Americans, was another motivating factor towards going back to Cuba. Most Cuban immigrants experience an awareness that there is another place where they feel at home, even though it is only through imagination (Rivero 114). As the conflict develops, the narrator also introduces divorce as a new aspect of the relationship between Lisette and Erminio. The divorce impacted the behavior of Lisette’s mother due to the assertion that their families were not failures. The author likens being divorced to failing in life, which can help explain the importance of the family among Cuban Americans. The mother was also apprehensive about Lisette going to Cuba. Therefore, through the author’s narration, it becomes clear that there was a strong desire to visit Cuba, and the lack of support from her mother made her anxious.

One of the reasons Lisette desires to go to Cuba is to reconstruct her ideas and knowledge of Cuba and her family’s background. To do so, Lisette relies on the memory of her mother to trace back her roots. The narration also depicts that Lisette had developed a negative attitude toward her country of birth. This is represented when the author notes that ‘the people had been kind. The police had not followed’ (Menendez 212). The author does not explicitly show a negative attitude and instead alludes through words. This is essential as it also shows the author’s thought process and provides insight into the reasons Lisette went to Cuba. Lisette relied on memories of her mother to identify the location of their former house. This shows that when creating new meaning, one has to have a basis for consideration. The narrator based her recreation on some of her mother’s memories and this led her to the house.

The need to reconstruct her understanding and possibly other people’s knowledge of Cuba is the central factor in tracing her roots. Freud notes that parents exact their super-ego on their children, which leads to them developing and adopting similar traditions from generation to generation (The Dissection 14-15). Lisette’s mother had wanted her daughter to be successful and raise a family as part of the tradition. However, the divorce resulted in her mother likening the divorce to failure. This shows that her mother favored the continuation of their generation while disregarding the plight of Lisette. The decision to go back to Cuba was a way to rediscover the true meaning of being Cuban. Menendez notes that ‘she had thought that they had something here that her parent’s generation had lost in exile’ (212). This quote shows the author’s acknowledgment of the differences she encountered during her first days in Cuba.

Moving to Cuba is symbolic of the quest to rediscover the feeling of belonging that had been awakened by Lisette’s experiences in Miami. The trauma of witnessing the war results in Lisette’s mother developing a negative attitude towards Lisette’s intention to return to Cuba. At the start of the narration, the author depicts the situation in Cuba during the war that forced them to move and immigrate to America. Her mother’s action of dropping to the floor when telling her about Cuba is essential as they create an expanded understanding of the experience. The stories told by her mother are crucial as they enhance her ability to remember her memories of the same situation. The information provided by Lisette’s mother illustrates the negative view of Cuba. This also helps explain why Lisette was surprised after finding Cuba a nation with loving people.

Psychoanalysis criticism seeks to understand the repressed ideas that the author did not provide explicitly. In this case, the author does not openly indicate that Cuba is a poor nation. However, the narrator provides information that readers can use to deduce the attitude of the character towards an object (Ricoeur 8). The mother tries to prevent Lisette from going to Cuba, which confirms that her attitude toward Cuba is negative. The behavior of the mother is representative of how immigrants who adopt new behaviors lose a part of their psyche (López and Rivero 16). Moving back to Cuba was to rediscover what made a person Cuban and to understand the way people lived after the end of the war. This is symbolic of how people are driven by unconscious elements toward discovering new abilities or meanings.

In summary, Menendez’s story depicts the life of Lisette, who seeks to recapture feelings of belonging by going back to Cuba as a way of recreating meaning through memories. The author presents her desires and anxieties that motivate her to visit her country of birth. The tone in the way different characters view Cuba shows how past trauma can affect the way people conceptualize meaning.

Freud, Sigmund. “On Beginning the Treatment.” The Standard Edition of the Complete Psychological Works of Sigmund Freud . Translated by James Strachey, vol. 12, Vintage, 2001, pp. 121-144

López, Iraida H., and Eliana S. Rivero, eds. Let’s Hear Their Voices: Cuban American Writers of the Second Generation . State University of New York Press, 2019.

Menendez, Ana. ‘ In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd’ . 2001.

Meretoja, Hanna. “Life and narrative: The Routledge Companion to Narrative Theory.” Routledge , 2023, pp. 273-285.

Ricoeur, Paul. Hermeneutics and the Human Sciences . Edited by John B. Thompson. Thompson, Cambridge University Press, 2016.

Rivero, Eliana. “Writing in Cuban, Living as Other: Cuban American Women Writers Getting It Right.” Cuban-American Literature and Art: Negotiating Identities , 2009, pp. 109-125.

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IvyPanda. (2024, February 17). Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story. https://ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/

"Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story." IvyPanda , 17 Feb. 2024, ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/.

IvyPanda . (2024) 'Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story'. 17 February.

IvyPanda . 2024. "Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story." February 17, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/.

1. IvyPanda . "Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story." February 17, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Menendez's In Cuba I Was a German Shepherd Story." February 17, 2024. https://ivypanda.com/essays/menendezs-in-cuba-i-was-a-german-shepherd-story/.