Frequently Asked Questions

 

Are White Swiss Shepherd Dogs the same as White German Shepherd Dogs?

 

They are two distinct breeds with the FCI (World Kennel Club) with separate and differing Breed Standards.

 

In order to be accepted as a White Swiss Shepherd Dog, the dog must have a pedigree containing 3 generations of all white breeding.

 

White German Shepherd Dogs are dogs who are registered as such, in countries such as the USA, Canada and the United Kingdom.

 

Genetically, there are no differences between the two breeds at all, but sometimes as in most breeds, there are differences in structure and looks between the White German Shepherds in the USA, Canada and the UK, and even more differences in structure and looks with those particular dogs when comparing them to FCI White Swiss Shepherd Dogs.

 

Are they albinos?

 

No, they have white fur and most have dark eyes and skin pigmentation. Therefore, there is no risk of skin cancer or any problems associated with deafness or blindness.

 

Defining Characteristics

 

White German Shepherd Dogs are the same type of Shepherd as the old-style German Shepherd Dog of yesteryear, with a straight back. There are short-coated and long-coated varieties.

 

Colour

 

White or slight deer colour (light yellow or fawn shading) on eartips, back and upperside of tail is relatively common.

 

Temperament

 

White German Shepherds are one of the smartest and most trainable breeds anyone can have. Very loyal to its family - should not be shy or aggressive, but some may be slightly aloof towards strangers. They are very alert and watchful, very keen to work and spend time with their handlers. 

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White German Shepherds are very intelligent, obedient, and easy to train.

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With this highly skilled working dog comes a drive to have a job and a task in life and a consistent pack leader to show it guidance. They need somewhere to channel their mental and physical energy. This is not a breed that will be happy simply lying around your living room or locked out in the backyard. The breed is so intelligent and learns so readily that it has been used as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service and in the military.

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The White Shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including schutzhund, tracking, obedience, agility, flyball and ring sport. His fine nose can sniff out drugs and intruders, and can alert handlers to the presence of underground mines in time to avoid detonation, or gas leaks in a pipes buried 15 feet underground. 

 

General Health Issues

 

Hip and elbow dysplasia is a genetic disease common in large breeds of dog.  The breeding dogs within our club's breeding program are backed by several generations of excellent hips and elbows, which has been achieved by careful and selective breeding.

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Care

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They shed their hair heavily all year around, so regular coat maintenance is required. Regular clipping of nails is also required.

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Exercise

 

Daily exercise and mental stimluation is important for this breed. Because of the breed's inherent intelligence, play needs to be stimulating, fun and varied.

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Life Expectancy

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12 - 15 years