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Revision as of 20:56, 12 November 2002 by Remlaps (talk | contribs)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)The German Shepherd Dog is a very intelligent breed. Because they are eager to please, they are easily trained in obedience and protection, German Shepherd Dogs are often used as search and rescue (SAR), military, police or guard dogs, and occasionally for service dogs or guide dogs, although not so often as labradors.
German Shepherd Dog's are sometimes referred to as GSD's. In allied countries during and after World War II, they have been called Alsatians in order to reduce the association of the breed with Germany and the Nazi party.
The breed is commonly held to have been originated by Captain Max Von Stephanitz in the late 1800's and early 1900's. His original goal was to breed a better herding dog for sheep herding.
GSD's have powerful jaws and strong teeth, and will attack and release on command if they have been trained to do so. In some areas GSD's have a bad reputation as being very aggressive and inbred.
GSD's often compete and excel in obedience and in schutzhund competitions.