10 Facts About black german shepherd You didn’t know

Black German Shepherd Overview

The German Shepherd breed is known for its versatility and color variations, with the black German Shepherd standing out due to its unique color and physical traits. These dogs are as intelligent and devoted as their differently colored German Shepherds, sharing a similar temperament and health profiles.

Potential owners should know that these purebred beauties require lots of time for exercise and training, echoing the commitment needed for any family favorites among the most popular dog breeds. The American Kennel Club recognizes their hard-working nature, making them perfect for experienced dog owners who are committed to investing in socialization and training. This color variation does not affect their ability to work or be part of a family, making them a focus for those looking for devoted and hard-working companions.

If You are interested in this breed, You have come the right place. Here are 10 Facts about the Black German Shepherd that you must know

1. The Black German Shepherd is the same breed as the German Shepherd

Many people think that the Black German Shepherd is a different breed from the traditional German Shepherd. However, this isn’t true. The Black German Shepherd belongs to the same family but is referred to specifically for its entirely black coat. This unique coloring doesn’t change their loyal and protective nature, which I’ve personally observed in the black-coated companions I’ve had the privilege of training. Their striking appearance often catches the eye, but at heart, they’re just as loving and intelligent as their more commonly colored counterparts.

2. The Black German Shepherd and the standard variety have some different physical differences

What’s the same?

• They have a large, muscular build
• They have a fluffy tail
• Their ears are erect
• They have a double coat
• They are heavy shedders

What’s different?

• They have a solid black color
• They have a large size
• They often have a straighter back
• Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane (around the rear of the neck), skirting (on either side of the body between the front and back legs) and feathering (long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail)

3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black

Many are surprised to learn that Black German Shepherd puppies are indeed born black. From personal experience, I’ve seen that as they grow, their coat might change color, but this is not always the case. By 8 weeks of age, you can be pretty sure what their true coat color will be. While some puppies may start with hints of gray or white, the ones that stay black into adulthood reveal a solid, stunning shade. It’s fascinating to see how each puppy can get such a rich hue, making each one uniquely beautiful in their own right.

4. A German Shepherd that is not black can produce Black German Shepherd puppies

Did you know that a German Shepherd that isn’t solid black can still produce Black German Shepherd puppies? This fascinating fact hinges on the recessive solid black gene. If both parents carry this gene, even if they’re black and tan, there’s a chance solid black pups might appear in their litter. I once met a puppy at 8 weeks of age and was surprised to learn it came from a non-solid black parent. It just goes to show, genetics can really happen in unexpected ways. Another interesting point is the second way to ensure a solid black litter is through mating two solid blacks. This mix will only result in solid black offspring.

5. The black color has NO negative effect on the dog

Contrary to popular belief, the striking black color of a Black German Shepherd does not come with any negative stigma or fear. In fact, their temperament remains as loyal, alert, active, and intelligent as any other standard variety of the breed. These dogs are not more predisposed to aggression or being aloof. Instead, they form a strong bond with their companions, enriching your life as a wonderful trainable friend. Their capabilities extend to roles such as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs, showcasing their adaptability and intelligence.

6. They can be pricey

Black German Shepherds are indeed a rare sight, which is a big reason why they cost more, especially those with a long, luxurious coat. The price ranges I’ve mentioned above really put things into perspective. For a standard German Shepherd puppy, you might expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $900. However, for a Black German Shepherd puppy, the price can soar between $700 and $2000. Owning one of these majestic animals myself, I can vouch for the unique bond and presence they bring into a home, justifying every penny spent.

7. Black German Shepherd Dogs Are Intelligent and Loyal

Black German Shepherd Dogs are known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them a top choice among working breeds. These dogs excel in various roles, including police work, military work, and public service assistance, thanks to their devoted and affectionate traits. However, they can be prone to anxiety, stress, and depression if their needs are not adequately met, leading to behavioral issues like chewing, digging, and fear-based aggression.

To keep a black German Shepherd happy, it’s crucial to provide them with enough mental and physical stimulation. Regular routine exercise and giving them jobs around the house, such as helping to sort laundry or clean up toys, can make them feel like a valued member of the family unit. Despite being capable of living as an outside dog, they thrive best when integrated into the human family, showing a strong people-oriented nature.

8. The Black German Shepherd Is A Heavy Shedder

The black German Shepherd is renowned not just for its striking colored coat but also for being a double-coated dog breed that takes shedding to a serious level. As an owner, you should be prepared for year-round shedding, with the intensity peaking during the shedding season in spring and fall. Their longer coats mean more grooming and maintenance are necessary to keep matting, tangles, and skin issues at bay.

Without regular care, you might find your home covered in dog fur, and the risk of patchy fur or doggy odor becomes higher. From personal experience, keeping a good grooming routine significantly helps in managing the hair, ensuring your black German Shepherd remains as majestic as ever while keeping those shedding woes in check.

9. The Black German Shepherd Is Rare

Walking through the neighborhood, spotting a black German Shepherd is a rare fact to behold. It’s estimated that only about 6.8% of German Shepherds are born black, and it’s not guaranteed that a puppy from a non-black mother will stay that way. In my hands-on experience, finding such a puppy requires time, research, and patience.

Experts often suggest that if you want a black German Shepherd puppy, it’s best to consult a breeder who specializes in this color of the breed. The good news is, dogs that produce puppies of this shade are likely to get you a black German Shepherd. However, if a breeder breeds black and tan colored German Shepherds, remember that black German Shepherds are born black and don’t change color with age.

10. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems

Like all German Shepherds, black German Shepherds are not strangers to health issues. My years with these loyal companions have shown me that preventing hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia is crucial. These conditions, stemming from a malformed ball and socket joint, can lead to arthritis or lameness if not managed properly. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight can be a big help.

Apart from these, they may face:

• Heart disease
• Spinal disease
• Eye diseases
• Digestive problems
• Allergies
• Cancer

Every pet owner should be aware of these potential health issues to provide the best care for their furry friend.

Conclusion

In conclusion, owning a beautiful, solid black color German Shepherd offers a unique experience distinct from the standard variety. These Black Shepherds, with their straighter back and longer hair, not only present a more luxurious appearance but also display a remarkable variety of qualities. They are incredibly energetic, loyal, and trainable, making every day with them an adventure. It’s important to ensure that your puppy comes from a reputable breeder to reduce the risk of health problems they might be prone to, securing a healthy and long life. While they can be pricier due to their unique coat, the investment is worth it for their companionship and the added joy they bring into your life.

FAQs

How rare is a black German Shepherd?

The Black German Shepherd is a unique type due to a less common gene, making it quite scarce and valuable. This large breed shares its roots with all German Shepherds, yet it’s a rare sight with only about 6.8% of the breed sporting the black coat. While they belong to the same family as the standard German Shepherds, there are some distinct differences between the two.

Are black German Shepherds intelligent?

The black German shepherd stands out as incredibly intelligent, rivaling even the border collie and poodle in brains. Research shows that these dogs can understand more than 200 words and have an impressive 85% success rate for their good behavior and response to training

What is a fun fact about German Shepherds?

German Shepherds are known for shedding their fur throughout the year, which humorously earns them the nickname “German Shedder.” These dogs were the pioneers as guide dogs, starting their training in Switzerland in the 1920s. They also played a significant role in search-and-rescue operations at the World Trade Center following the events of 9/11.

Are black German Shepherds pure?

Indeed, all-black German Shepherds exist and are quite uncommon, similar to other unique color forms of this breed. Their striking black coat comes from a less common gene, not from mixing with different dog breeds.