GERMAN SHEPHERD

German shepherd (Alsatian). also called Alsatian, breed of working dog developed in Germany from traditional herding and farm dogs. A strongly built, relatively long-bodied dog, the German shepherd stands 58 to 64 cm (23 to 25 inches) and weighs 34 to 43 kg (75 to 95 pounds). Its coat is of coarse, medium-long outer hair and shorter, dense inner hair and ranges from white or pale gray to black and is often gray and black or black and tan. Noted for intelligence, alertness, and loyalty, it is used as a guide for the blind and as a watchdog and also serves in police and military work. See the Table of Selected Breeds of Herding Dogs for further information.