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American Dog Owners Association
United Schutzhund Clubs of America
American Working Dog Federation
American Kennel Club
American German Shepherd of america
Youtube Von Varghaus Kennel
The German Shepherd that corresponds to the standard, offers the observer a picture of rugged strength, intelligence and agility, whose overall proportions are neither in excess or deficient in any way. The way he moves leaves no doubt that he is of sound mind and body and so possesses physical and mental traits that render possible an ever-ready working dog with great stamina. With an effervescent temperament, the dog must also be cooperative, adapting to every situation and take to work willingly and joyfully. He must show courage and hardness as the situation requires to defend his handler and his property. He must readily attack on his owner's command but otherwise be a fully attentive, obedient and pleasant household companion. He should be devoted to his familiar surroundings, above all to other animals and children and composed in his contact with people. All in all, he gives a harmonious picture of natural nobility and self-confidence." There is no doubt that the essential credit for the development of this marvelous breed, must go to Max von Stephanitz. It was his vision that welded a wide variety of sheep herding dogs into one breed. He envisioned a dog of incorruptible character, great working ability, loyal and highly trainable. He used as his watchword, "Do right and fear no one," and it was he who laid down the guideline of the breed, "Utility is the true criterion of beauty".
Throughout the late 19th century, von Stephanitz was breeding dogs, experimenting and learning. He relied on many of the ideas being used in England at that time. In 1899, von Stephanitz attended a dog show and it was there that he purchased Horand von Grafrath. It was at this time the Verein was established and Horand became the first entry in the newly founded stud book, becoming the first registered German Shepherd. It was Horand's shepherd qualities that impressed von Stephanitz the most. He was a medium sized dog with beautiful lines, he was active and had a zest for living. He was obedient, bold, protective and energetic. But most of all it was his mental soundness that was emphasized.
It was in this mental soundness and in the actual qualities transmitted by Horand, that saved the breed's popularity and has promoted the German Shepherd to such wide acceptance. Today we have a dog that is used throughout the world as a police dog, armed service dog, guide for the blind, schutzhund sport dog and search and rescue dog. We have a demand for German Shepherds as family companions, obedience dogs, show dogs and even still as herding dogs. Thousands of people across the country derive great pleasure from the German Shepherd Dog through showing and breeding. It is the extraordinary character and sound temperament, an incredible sense of smell and efficient working physical structure and size that makes this the most versatile dog today
