German Shepherd Classification

German Shepherd Classification and Breeds

So, you’re thinking of getting a German Shepherd pup, huh? Good for you! But, before proceeding, please be aware that there are German Shepherd breeders’ classifications that make this dog a bit more distinct from the rest. As mentioned before, there are four classes; alpha, beta, terrier, and poodle. Each of these German Shepherd breeds has its own traits and characteristics unique to it.

So, why do German Shepherd breeders classify their dogs in such a way? Well, the reason is simple; each of these four classes represents its own physical appearance. White German Shepherd pups have white fur and blue eyes as an example. The terrier or “Albino” German Shepherd, on the other hand, has the same color markings as a normal German Shepherd, except for the white fur and blue eyes. The third and smallest breed of the German Shepherd family, the poodle or “Blenheim” German Shepherd, is the only dog in this entire classification with a gray coat – a trait shared by other non-Albino German Shepherds.

So, what is this difference that leads to the different coloration and patterning of the four types of German Shepherds?

It’s actually all based on genetics. While all four German shepherd breeds share a common ancestor who was likely a poodle (which had white fur and blue eyes), how the genes are expressed gives each breed its own unique look. Because of this, purebred German Shepherds of different coloration can be found anywhere, even with just a short pedigree history.

There are four main coat colors in German shepherd terriers: black red, silver, and brown. In addition to these basic colors, German shepherd dogs can also have additional colors, including combinations of any of the basic colors of black and tan, black and silver, and black and tortoiseshell. There is also a German shepherd pom-pom or pink pom-pom, German shepherd ribbon, German shepherd plaid, and German shepherd tartan. Some German Shepherd owners are crazy enough to color their poodles black and blue! The pom-pom and ribbon combination is especially popular for puppy parties and other occasions.

German Shepherd pom-pom and ribbon are among the most popular among American Kennel Club show winners, so it’s no surprise that they are some of the most common colors within the German Shepherd breed. They have sleek, velvety coats that are easily brushed. Black shepherds can vary significantly in color, often being black, chocolate, silver, or cream. Chocolate is the most popular shade among American Kennel Club show champions; however, it is somewhat uncommon to find chocolate with tan.

The pom-pom is the most distinctive among German shepherd breeds, being a solid, white fur band that encircles the widest part of the dog.

This area is known as a ‘scoop’ or ‘mantle’. The pom-pom and mantle are often referred to as the ‘feather row’ because of their similarity to the feathered emblem of the American Red Cross. These coats are hypoallergenic, allowing people with hair allergies to groom them. Pom-poms are naturally solid white but can be trimmed and dyed to achieve varying degrees of coloration.

The short-haired and wire-haired German shepherd is another variety recognized by the AKC and belongs to the category of hunting dogs. Their coats tend to be brindle, mottled, or mixed colors with white markings on the chest and black or blue eyes. A purebred white German shepherd is likely to have white fur all over, but the head may be cream-colored. In the wintertime, these dogs shed their white coat to develop new, fawn colors. All registered German Shepherds should have a white collar with a leather ring, and they should be given a proper name. They should always wear identification tags that state which family they belong to.

German shepherds are known for their ability to groom, as well as their loyalty to their owners. These dogs will stay by their owner’s side through thick and thin. The short-haired breeds are known for being extremely affectionate, while the long-haired ones are known for being extremely devoted. Many long-haired German shepherds may even be house trained to be family pets. Whatever the breed, all of the beautiful coats and wonderful looks make this a great option for a family pet.