Nevada Haus - The German Shepherd Breed

History of the German Shepherd

The particular qualifications that set the German Shepherd apart from all breeds are evident from the first moment in the history of the dog.

The first domesticated German Shepherd were utilized for practical and essential purposes such as guarding and control of livestock. From the crude animals that helped early shepherds with their flocks evolved the German Shepherd.

In 1891 a group of German admirers of this rugged, unrefined German Shepherd formed the Phylax Society named after the Greek word Phylaxis which means "to watch over or guard

The purpose of this organization of German Shepherd Breeders was to standardize the varied collection of sheep herding dogs into a breed of native German Shepherds with a fixed appearance and character

The Phylax Society lasted until 1894 but it's purpose and vision were continued in the person of one man Max Emil Friedrich von Stephanitz, considered by many to be the the single greatest force in the establishment.

German Shepherd

The originator of the breed was discovered by von Stephanitz on April 3 1899 while attending an exhibition of these herding dog.

His orignial name Hektor von Linksrhein was changed to Horand von Grafrath and he was registered as German Shepherd Dog S.Z.1 the first entry in von Stephanitz's new organization Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde. This was the beginning of the national German Shepherd dog club known as the S.V. the largest individual breed club in the world

Horand proved to be an able stud and the traits that von Stephanitz prized were used by German Shepherd Breeders to be passed on to succeeding German Shepherds.

THE GERMAN SHEPHERD , NO BETTER PARTNER

The breed is a noble, beautiful and talented natural athlete. The head is chiseled and strong. The body is bred to be functional and aesthetically pleasing to the eye. The breed embodies the qualities that most people are attracted to in humans: loyalty, bravery, independence, intelligence, and a sense of humor. Yet, the breeds most important attributes are its character and temperament. The dog is a poised , confident, and faithful companion to man. The intelligence and aptitude for training of this breed are well known and this amazing versatility makes this breed suitable for many specialized services. The dogs natural protective instincts make the dog a guardian of home, property, or livestock. The dog is indifferent to strangers and does not give affection lightly but when its devotion is given, it is given for life. This breed delights in serving as a companion, as a friend for children, as a partner of police and narcotics officers, and as a canine team member of our men and women in the armed services.