Our mission

The German Shepherd Dog Club of San Diego County  is an AKC sanctioned non-profit breed specific dog club that promotes, ethical training and treatment of German Shepherd Dogs, participation in AKC sanctioned and other dog organization dog sports such as, obedience, rally obedience, tracking, barn hunt, agility, herding, conformation, herding, trail and locate, lost items, and various other dog sports and disciplines.

Meet the breed

The American Kennel Club describes the German Shepherd Dog in its Meet the Breed statement below. 

The Breed Standard is definitive description of the breed as recognized by the AKC.

Meet the Breed

The German Shepherd Dog is renowned as the world’s leading police, guard, and military dog. However, this dependable breed is much more than just its working roles. Consistently among the most popular breeds in the United States, according to AKC registration statistics, the German Shepherd Dog is also a loving family companion, a skilled herder, and a competitive show dog. Known for its approachable, direct, and fearless nature, the breed boasts a strong, muscular build. The German Shepherd is most commonly recognized by its saddled black and tan or black and red markings but is also found in sable, black sable, red sable, pure black, and various less common coat colors.

Originating in 1899 in Karlsruhe, Germany, thanks to the efforts of Capt. Max von Stephanitz and others, the German Shepherd Dog was first exhibited in America in 1907. The breed’s popularity surged with the fame of Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart, two iconic German Shepherds featured in movies that celebrated the boy-and-his-dog theme. Energetic and fun-loving, the breed forms strong bonds with children once a relationship is established. As a loyal family pet and effective guard dog, it is an ideal choice for many families, requiring regular exercise and grooming.

The Breed Standard

General Appearance

A good German Shepherd Dog should first and foremost give the impression of a strong, agile, well-muscled animal that is alert and full of life. It should be well-balanced, with harmonious development of both the forequarters and hindquarters. The dog is longer than tall, deep-bodied, and presents a profile of smooth curves rather than angles. It should appear substantial and not spindly, conveying an impression of muscular fitness and agility without clumsiness or signs of neglect. The ideal German Shepherd Dog exhibits a look of quality and nobility—difficult to define but unmistakable when present. Secondary sex characteristics should be strongly marked, and every dog should convey a clear sense of masculinity or femininity, according to its sex.

Temperament

The German Shepherd Dog has a distinct personality characterized by a direct and fearless demeanor, though it is not hostile. It should exhibit self-confidence and a certain aloofness that doesn’t lend itself to immediate or indiscriminate friendliness. The dog must be approachable, standing its ground quietly while showing confidence and willingness to respond to overtures without initiating them. It should be poised yet eager and alert when the situation requires, capable of serving as a companion, watchdog, guide, herding dog, or guardian as needed. The breed must not be timid or shrink behind its handler; it should not display nervousness, such as tucking its tail or showing anxiety towards unfamiliar sounds or sights. A lack of confidence in any setting is not typical of good character. Deficiencies that indicate shyness are considered serious faults and any dog showing pronounced signs of these must be excused from the ring. The judge must be able to observe the dog’s teeth and verify that both testicles are descended. Any dog that attempts to bite the judge must be disqualified. The ideal German Shepherd Dog is a working animal with an incorruptible character, complemented by a body and gait suitable for its demanding primary functions.

Our vision

The German Shepherd Dog Club of San Diego County vision is to enhance and maintain the positive public image of the German Shepherd Dog breed. We advocate for ethical and responsible breeding practices while encouraging our members to actively participate in and support the various dog sports in which German Shepherd Dogs excel.