White German Shepherd Dog Breed Information
Americans are very familiar with German Shepherd Dogs (GSDs). They’re the second most popular AKC dog breed nationwide. When Americans think of German Shepherd Dogs, they picture sable, black-and-silver, solid black, black-and-red, and black-and-tan color varieties. However, there’s a controversial white coat color rarely discussed called the White German Shepherd Dog.
History of White German Shepherd Dogs
German Shepherd Dogs originated from Germany where they’re called Deutsche Schäferhunde. In 1889, Captain Max von Stephanitz created a breed standard for GSDs, which included white varieties in the show ring and whelping box. Many years later, the white variety was extinguished from the original GSD breed standard. We don’t know exactly when and who started removing white GSDs from the gene pool, but history points toward the Nazis.
White dog coats are usually caused by a recessive gene.
This carries:
- Deafness
- Blindness
- Diluted skin pigments (pink skin)
- Light eyes
- Complicated skin issues
- Other serious health concerns
Basically, a recessive white dog coat is called an albino dog. So it makes perfect sense why ethical breeders would remove this problematic gene from their breeding programs.
Are White German Shepherd Dogs Albinos?
No, White German Shepherd Dogs aren’t albinos. Interestingly, the White German Shepherd Dog recessive gene doesn’t cause albinism. White GSDs have dark mouth pigment, dark-colored eyes and normal health issues associated within the German Shepherd Dog breed.
Even though White German Shepherd Dogs continue to pop up within a litter, responsible dog breeders remove them from their breeding population by placing them in pet homes that will spay and neuter them. It’s understandable that breeders aren’t willing to take the chance, so white GSDs are disqualified from the show ring.
However, things have changed a bit, and it seems an entire breed club was created entirely for White German Shepherd Dogs. After researching several of these white GSD breed clubs, I’ve discovered that their by-laws are very loose—buyer beware.
Are White GSDs Different?
No. In a nutshell, this white breed variety requires the same dog training, health and grooming needs as any German Shepherd. They’re a medium to large dog that needs daily exercise, mental stimulation and grooming just like any other GSDs.
Remember, white is just a coat color variety and not a different breed. White German Shepherds are the same as German Shepherd Dogs except they’re a white version. 🙂
This color variety is strikingly beautiful with a gleaming white coat, black lips and mouth, and a total GSD appearance. Expect lots of stares and questions from strangers! 🙂
Beware of False Promises
This is where it gets tricky. In an effort to market white GSDs, some breeders promise friendlier temperaments compared to “traditional” German Shepard Dogs, but that’s impossible to guarantee and promise. All dogs are different, and each puppy in a litter will have his or her own individual personality. Saying a specific coat color will be friendlier than his littermates or other GSDs is just not true. Plus, it’s completely unethical to charge more money for a white puppy than his typical colored littermates.
Where to Find White German Shepherd Dogs
Purchase
Honestly, there’s no real reputable White German Shepherd Club or organization that follows very strict dog breeding practices. Strict breeding practices ensures all dogs used for breeding must be health tested. If they don’t pass, they’ll never be bred. Additionally, dogs must be over 2 years old before being bred.
Many white GSD clubs don’t include these vital rules in their by-laws. If you’re interested in purchasing a white GSD, it’s best to contact reputable German Shepherd Dog breeders and request a white-colored coat puppy.
Rescue
Even better is to check out local rescue groups. They have plenty of white German Shepherd Dogs looking for forever homes. Plus, you’re saving a life.