German Shepherd
A German Shepherd
Other names	Deutscher Schäferhund Schäferhund Alsatian Berger Allemand GSD
Country of origin	Germany
Traits
Classification & standards FCI Group 1 Section 1 #166 standard AKC Herding standard ANKC Group 5 (Working Dogs) standard CKC Group 7 - Herding Dogs standard KC (UK) Pastoral standard NZKC Working standard UKC Herding Dog standard

The German Shepherd Dog (GSD), is a breed of dog originally bred for herding sheep. There are various other names for this dog such as Alsatian (which originated out of Anti-German sentiment during WWI) and simply German Shepherd. Today, based on 2006 Kennel Club figures, German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds in the UK, with 12,857 registrations^[1] and also one of the most popular breeds in the United States with 43,575 registrations^[2]. They can be found working as guide dogs for the blind or disabled, police work, guarding, search and rescue, therapy and in the military. Despite their suitability for such work, German Shepherds can also make loyal and loving pets inside the home. They enjoy being around people and other animals, although socialization is critical for young puppies in order to prevent aggressive and dangerous behavior as an adult. German Shepherds are well-suited to obedience, with advanced and prestigious titles available to test both the handler and dog in various Schutzhund trials.