What is the difference in German Shepherds and American German Shepherds?

Answer 1

There are some very notable differences between an American line German Shepherd and a European line German Shepherd (GSD). These dogs are bred under different ideals, standards, and environments, and therefore it's very understandable that differences do arise in American type and European type bloodlines.

In Europe, GSDs fall under two main categories: German show dog lines and working lines (this is an oversimplification as there are many lines, but these lines explain things nicely). Show line dogs are bred to have a certain look as well as certain working qualities, as is required by the breeding association over there. In general, these dogs are of thick, medium build or are stockier in stature, with a shorter nose and usually come with a black and red color coat. A distinguishing feature is that these dogs' backs curve downward towards their hind feet. This is called a roach back or banana back, which is said to give the dogs greater rear leg drive. This is controversial though as working dogs do not have this trait (explained below). These dogs are intelligent and courageous, but can be harder in temperament and/or be more aggressive.

Conversely, working lines in Europe are bred for working ability only, thus, their look is of less importance and can vary greatly. These dogs are of medium build, moderate nose and ear length, and have straight backs. Colors and other features vary. They tend to have higher drive (they are more intense and/or more energetic) and 'doing a job' is bred into them. These are the military and police dogs you see out there, and they are extremely intelligent and athletic. As working ability is of top importance, they tend to be healthier than other blood lines (they have straight backs, healthy hips, etc). Again, their temperaments can be very hard and not suitable for certain families as companions.

In America, most dogs are used as companion dogs, and GSDs here are breed towards that purpose more often than in Europe. That means lower drive and working ability; this is a plus to most families, but a negative for military work, for example. That can also mean they are less intelligent and/or less courageous - or they could just be 'big softies' and great dogs - it really depends. In America, there is no central breeding organization and any two GSDs can be bread together, and as long as they have their papers, their pups will be considered pure bred; without oversight, however, the quality of dogs can suffer and be afflicted by more health problems as a whole. These dogs tend to be longer, taller, narrower in chest and fine boned, with longer noses and ears. They have a classic black and tan coat. A distinct characteristic is their backs: they slope at a straight angle towards the hind feet. This is said to create a more pleasing and efficient 'flying trot' (the name for how a GSD looks while running to herd animals). This characteristic is similar to a banana back in that it is controversial and not found in working lines.

The questions "which is better" isn't really a questions, since each bloodline is better at some things, worse than others. Additionally, there is a huge variation in each bloodline and there are many more bloodlines out there. There are plenty of American dogs that break this mold and work in police work; there are tons of European dogs that are great family pets. Essentially, the most important thing is buying for a reputable breeder. Ideally, they will be breeding for the betterment of the breed with health as one of their main concerns. As long as you find that, and that the breeder produces dogs that match you and your lifestyle, you will be just fine.

Answer 2

German German Shepherds and American German Shepherds have a few distinct differences. The German German Shepherds are mostly black with a tiny bit of dark brown and the American German Shepherds are mostly brown with some black. Purebred (or German) German Shepherds are also a little taller, and larger than the American ones.

Answer 3

There is no difference schnauzers came from Germany and then they came to the USA they are the same there than they are here

Answer 4

The difference between an American Shepherd and the German Shepherd is that the American Shepherd is generally softer,heavier and larger than the German Shepherd.