Is the White German Shepherd different from the German Shepherd? The White GSD has a striking white coat. They might seem different from their GSD counterparts because of that. Some kennel clubs seem to think that, so what are the differences?
The White German Shepherd is genetically the same as the German Shepherd Dog. The main difference is the white coat. Some other slight differences do exist. For example, their temperament may be somewhat more balanced and playful.
We explore what is different and the same between White GSDs and GSDs. Even though the main difference is just coat color, many interesting variations exist. The history of White GSDs and the GSD we know today may also surprise you. Read on to learn more about the White German Shepherd dog.
More on the White German Shepherd
The White German Shepherd – the Ancestor of All GSDs
The White German Shepherd: 10 Facts You Didn’t Know
How Much Does A White German Shepherd Cost?
Are White German Shepherds Aggressive?
Characteristics of the White German Shepherds
The White German Shepherd does have some unique characteristics. The White GSD tends to be smaller in size. They typically have bushier tails that are very long on them. Long coats are more common on the White German Shepherd.
The temperament is also similar, but some differences on average. The White GSD has all the capabilities of other German Shepherds. They are very active and have a strong work ethic. The White GSD is usually more playful and sometimes unresponsive to strangers. These slight differences are general, and each dog has a unique personality!
See this video for all you need to know about The White German Shepherd:
Are White German Shepherds and German Shepherds the same breed?
White German Shepherds and German Shepherds are, in fact, the same breed. However, kennel club associations differ on this. The United Kennel Club separates the White German Shepherd into a separate breed category. The American Kennel Club does not recognize it as a distinct breed.
Genetically the White German Shepherd and GSD are the same. The kennel club recognition is for dog pedigree and registration purposes. German Shepherds have many different colorings within the breed. Some of those include
- Black
- Black and tan
- Black and red
- Sable
- Grey
- White
What is the temperament of the White German Shepherds?
White German Shepherds have a wonderful temperament. They are very loyal dogs that love to be around people! White GSDs are a unique combination of being a great family pet and also a working breed. They can be a good guard, watchdogs, and be good with a family.
Physical activity requirements for White German Shepherds
White German Shepherds are a high-energy breed that will need a lot of activity. Exercise needs can vary between dogs, but around 2 hours of activity a day is the general rule of thumb. Exercise can be fun for everyone with walks, playing, and even training activities. Proper exercise keeps your dog happy and healthy.
What are the breed variations of White German Shepherds?
White German Shepherds have different recognized breed standards. There is the AKC Standard German Shepherd, AKC White German Shepherd, UKC White Shepherd, and White Swiss Shepherd. Differences between the variations include the origin and different coat colors.
| Breed Variations | Origination | Coat Color |
| White Swiss Shepherd | Switzerland | Pure White |
| UKC White Shepherd | Canada and United States | Pure white, light cream to light tan |
| AKC White German Shepherd | Germany | White or cream |
| AKC Standard German Shepherd | Germany | Sable, Black, Black and tan, and many other variations |
Is the White German Shepherd an albino?
The White German Shepherd does not have albinism. An albino animal is defined by a lack of pigmentation, which can result in pink eyes, pale skin, and white hair. White GSDs have white fur due to a recessive gene and not a lack of pigmentation. Similar to White GSDs, albinism is rare.
Albino dogs face many risks. They have a sensitivity to sunlight, affecting their skin and eyes. Albino dogs are more prone to other genetic defects, increased rates of cancer, and incurable eye problems.
History of the White German Shepherd
Interestingly enough, all German Shepherds are ancestors of a White German Shepherd.
The first recorded breeding of the White German Shepherd in the United States was recorded in 1917. At that time, White German Shepherds were bred and kept by respected kennels.
Starting around the 1930s, the White German Shepherd began falling out of favor.
In Germany, the white coat was an undesirable trait. And they were banned in Germany. Soon after, the United States and Canada also began blaming the white GSDs for problems caused mainly by inbreeding.
Around 1960, they were being bred again in the United States and Canada. Eventually, they were brought to Switzerland in the 1970s and recognized as a prestigious variation – the White Swiss Shepherd.
Check out this video to learn more about the White Swiss Shepherd:
White German Shepherd vs German Shepherd: What’s the Difference?
Even though the German Shepherd Dog and The White German Shepherd are the same breed, they do have some slight differences. Aside from the coat coloring, these differences may not be true for every dog. White German Shepherd dogs usually have slightly different temperaments.
| The White German Shepherd | The German Shepherd Dog | |
| Coat | Pure white coat | Various coat colors |
| Temperament | Balanced Loyal Playful | Outgoing Brave Confident |
| AKC Recognized? | Yes | Yes |
| Puppy Price | $1500 – $5000 | $1500 – $3000 |
| Size | Male 24” – 26” Female 22” – 24” | Male 22.8” – 25.9” Female 20.8” – 24” |
| Weight | Male 65 – 90lb. Female 50 – 70lb. | Male 66 – 88lb. Female 55 – 77lb. |
Are White German Shepherds prone to certain diseases?
White German Shepherds get their white coats from a recessive gene. The gene responsible for the white coat is not linked to any unique health risks. The White German Shepherd is equally prone to the same health risks as other German Shepherds.
German Shepherds are known to be prone to certain medical conditions. Some of those are hip dysplasia and arthritis. While there are certain conditions to watch for, GSDs are pretty healthy dogs, and White GSDs do not have any extra health concerns.
What are White German Shepherds best for?
A White German Shepherd dog can do anything the regular GSD can. Generally, they have more balanced temperaments, which can lend better to certain situations. The White GSD makes an excellent guard dog and a great family dog. They can also be good in a working line.
The White German Shepherds excel at herding and protecting. Ideal if you have a farm or livestock that needs protection. Even though their temperament is generally calmer, they are still great dogs for several reasons.
Are White German Shepherds aggressive?
The White German Shepherd dog is not known to be aggressive. A White GSD is more likely to be timid instead of aggressive. Training and confidence building is important for any German Shepherd. The White GSD is easily trained with a consistent schedule, and they are fast learners!
Final thought: Should you own a White German Shepherd?
The White German Shepherd has many special traits that make them a great dog. They are very affectionate with their owners and families. They can be found constantly by your side, as they are fiercely loyal dogs. The White GSD is also known to be great around kids, another reason they make a wonderful family addition.
Further Questions
Are White Germans Shepherds good family dogs?
The White German Shepherd makes a great family pet. They are loyal, affectionate, and very playful dogs!
Is the White German Shepherds rare?
The White German Shepherd is a somewhat rare dog. They are not common, but also not impossible to find.
Are White German Shepherds expensive?
A White German Shepherd can be expensive, ranging from $1500 – $5000. Pricing varies a lot, but typically speaking, they will be more than a standard German Shepherd.
