Even though there are parts of the world where the white German Shepherd is not recognized as being a legitimate member of the breed, those who own these dogs would beg to differ. Other than their distinctive white coats, these dogs share nearly every other important trait with other German Shepherds: personality, size and shape.
White German Shepherds were first bred in Europe with the intention of enhancing the gene pool of the breed and developing healthier, more desirable dogs. This strain of the German Shepherd breed ended up with a recessive gene for white fur which started to show up as breeding continued. For this reason, the German branch of the German Shepherd club barred white Shepherds from consideration as “true” German Shepherds, something which was imitated in other nations as well.
This has led to white German Shepherd dogs being disallowed from competition in the breed in American Kennel Club-sponsored dog shows and other shows sponsored by German Shepherd organizations elsewhere in the world. Despite this slight, white shepherds are allowed to enter shows for agility competitions and obedience competitions. In order to bring awareness of the breed, white German Shepherd owners have begun their own organization to promote the breed and to encourage more responsible breeding practices for this line of dogs.
However, as previously stated, white shepherds are essentially the same as other German Shepherds. They are every bit as loving, loyal and protective as others of their breed – and equally intelligent and trainable as well. Just like their colored counterparts, white shepherds make excellent pets as well as working dogs. Some owners also state that white shepherds have a calmer temperament.
White German Shepherds have long bodies and are, as you would expect, strong, muscular and large dogs. Their size and strength means that they should not be left alone with infants and young children, though they are generally an excellent choice as a pet and are fiercely protective of their human family members.
Like other German Shepherds, a white Shepherd needs plenty of exercise and play, being physically active dogs by nature. They need to have long daily walks and runs, but other than this, they only need the care that you would give any other dog: regular grooming and a healthy diet. One thing that owners should be aware of is that these dogs do tend to be vocal and will bark, whine and grumble; it is also the case that white German Shepherds that have been bred poorly can have behavioral issues, so prospective owners should seek out responsible breeders when looking for these dogs.
A white German shepherd is prone to the same health issues as are any other German Shepherds, including elbow and hip dysplasia, though this is treatable and largely preventable. Epilepsy, keratitis and dwarfism are also possible health problems, though they are far more rare.
