The White German Shepherd is a stunning variety of the traditional German Shepherd, known for its striking white coat and robust physique. Originally bred in the United States, this breed inherits the same remarkable traits that make German Shepherds beloved worldwide, such as intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Their elegant appearance alongside a gentle disposition makes them not just breathtaking to look at, but also wonderful family companions.
When considering adding a White German Shepherd to your family, there are several important factors to keep in mind. Here are some downsides and considerations you should be aware of before making a purchase:
Coat Maintenance: White German Shepherds have a dense, double coat that requires regular grooming to prevent matting and to manage shedding. This means you will need to commit to a grooming schedule to keep their coat healthy and clean.
Shedding: Like all German Shepherds, the White variety sheds, particularly during seasonal changes. Be prepared for white hair around your home and invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner.
Energy Levels: This breed is known for its high energy and needs plenty of exercise. A daily routine that includes physical activities such as long walks, running, or playtime is essential to keep them healthy and prevent behavioral issues due to pent-up energy.
The White German Shepherd is a variation of the German Shepherd breed, distinguished primarily by its striking white coat. Known in Europe as far back as 1882, the breed was officially recognised in the United States where interest in the white-coated dogs blossomed. However, in 1933, the German breed standard was updated to exclude white dogs from registration, limiting their presence in Germany. In contrast, North America embraced the unique phenotype, leading to the establishment of the White Shepherd breed club in 1969. The White German Shepherd is now recognised by the United Kennel Club as a separate breed and is cherished for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility, much like its traditional counterpart.
The White German Shepherd typically stands at a height of about 58 to 66 cm (approximately 23 to 26 inches) at the shoulder. Males are usually larger than females, with males achieving heights towards the upper end of this scale.
Adult male White German Shepherds generally weigh between 30 to 40 kg (66 to 88 lbs), while females are slightly lighter, averaging between 25 to 35 kg (55 to 77 lbs).
The most distinguishing feature of the White German Shepherd is its coat, which is ideally pure white. Some variations may include light cream or a slight tan shade.
White German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs. They will alert their owners to any suspicious activity and are likely to stand their ground when they sense a threat. Their strong build and intelligence also contribute to their effectiveness in protective roles.
White German Shepherds have a moderate barking tendency. They may bark to alert their owners but are not known for excessive barking without reason.
These dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please, which typically makes them easy to train. They thrive on positive reinforcement methods and benefit from consistent and early training.
White German Shepherds are playful and active by nature. They enjoy engaging with their families, whether through games or physical activities.
White German Shepherds typically have a lifespan of around 9 to 13 years, similar to their standard German Shepherd counterparts.
White German Shepherds are highly intelligent and energetic, requiring substantial exercise daily. It is recommended to provide at least 1 to 2 hours of vigorous exercise, including walks, playtime, and mental stimulation.
White German Shepherds can be prone to several health issues, including:
Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Degenerative myelopathy
Osteoarthritis
Allergies, including skin and food allergies
Bloat (gastric torsion)
Eye conditions such as cataracts
Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help mitigate some of these risks and promote overall health.
Ideally, they should receive at least 1 to 2 hours of exercise each day, which can include walks, runs, playtime, and mental stimulation through training and interactive toys.
White German Shepherds have a dense double coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition and to manage shedding. It is advisable to brush them at least once a week, but during shedding seasons (spring and autumn), grooming may need to increase to several times a week. Regular grooming helps remove dead hair and prevents matting, while also promoting healthy skin and coat.
As a rough guide in pricing:
Cost to buy: roughly £600-£1,500 for a well-bred White German Shepherd puppy.
Other costs (Vet, Food, etc): average around £90-£130 per month.
You can read our general buying guide here, with the most important thing being going to view your White German Shepherd puppy, seeing it with its mother, and checking the quality of the breeder.
