My understandings of the origins of the German Shepherd Dog is that there was not a lot of uniformity in size, color, pattern or even shape of the foundation stock of what became known as the German Shepherd. The important qualities that were chosen were their herding and guarding skills. As time progressed and certain shapes and forms became prefered over others the now familiar shape and general conformation of the GSD developed. By the 1940's and '50's the 'champion' GSD's were large, blocky, straight backed, broad shouldered with big heads and erect ears. (This is what we at Rosehall Kennel refer to as the 'Old Fashioned' style GSD.)
As time passed, the conformation judges' preferences changed little by little so that in present times the 'champions' have a much different look. They are smaller with significant angulation of the back. There are all kinds of health related arguments for or against either style and this isn't the forum to debate those. Today I merely point out that the breed standards change over time and that in any given season there will be people who prefer the current standards and then there are others who better appreciate the form and size of the 'champions' of another era. No one need be 'RIGHT' or 'WRONG' on this issue. We breed what we breed because we are partial to them. We are careful in our breeding program and strive to produce healthy, well formed, strong animals.
Look for a dog that appeals to you . . . size, color, coat, temperament . . . but search well for a dog that is carefully bred so that it is healthy and sound, no matter the other traits.
Until next time . . . Eliot
take a look at our upcoming litter plans at: http://www.rosehallkennel.com/PuppyDreamPage.htm
Thanks Eliot. this is a really confusing issue & you hear so many different thoughts about it. Your thoughts bring clarity to the issue.
ReplyDeleteYou have great Shepherds - We have three!!!