German Shepherd

German Shepherds''' are the second most popular breed in the United States and the 4th most popular in the United Kngdom. It is also known by Police Dog, Alsatian, Alsatian Wolf-Dog, German Sheepdog, Berger Allemand, Deutscher Schäferhund, Schäferhund, and Sheepdog.'''

Appearance
The German Shepherd comes in a small variety of colors, but is most common in its tan and black mixed colors. It will also come in a solid black color, but they always have a black mask on their face. Very rare color variations include solid white, bluish, and liver. Their eyes are medium-sized and brown, that have a very gentle look. Germans have rather large ears for dogs their size. Their soft coat is double, while the outer sheds all year long. They are typically 24-26 inches in height, and 75-95 lbs.

Behavior
German shepherds are loyal and affectionate companions. German shepherds are highly active dogs that require exercise daily. They are courageous, loyal, keen, cautious, and very gentle. Due to their easiness to train, they are often used as working dogs for policemen. They can sniff out drugs, land mines, gas leaks, and intruders. If trained in the correct way by police, they will immediately attack a hostile opponent. They will always risk their lives for their human owners if the time comes. They love the company of their owners, but will make great guard dogs due to their wariness of strangers. Germans are also very quiet and only bark when necessary. Aggression only ever occurs due to poor training or handling. All-in-all, they make a great companion. They are highly favored in shows and are notorious for their great agility.

History
They were originally bred in Germany by various other shepherding dogs. Their main purpose was for herding and protecting livestock (primarily sheep). They are favored in present days as a family pet.

In popular media

 * A German shepherd was the main star in the TV series and movie in The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin.
 * Rin Tin Tin was a real German Shepherd rescued from World War 1.
 * A German shepherd was Strongheart, an old canine film star.
 * In the Batman comics, Ace the Bat-dog was a German shepherd that appeared in 1955-1964.