German Shepherd Dog.

German Shepherd Dog. German Shepherd Dog, breed of herding dog, which originated in northern Europe several centuries ago. The dogs were originally used to protect flocks of sheep and are still used for this purpose. More recently they have been trained to aid police forces in capturing criminals and to guide the blind--hence the designations "police dog" and "Seeing Eye dog." German shepherds are also used as guard dogs by the military. The dog is more than medium size, standing 61 to 66 cm (24 to 26 in) high at the shoulder. It has a long, muscular body and gives an impression of power and ruggedness. The dog has a long head; a wedge-shaped muzzle; dark-brown eyes of medium size placed somewhat obliquely; medium-sized ears, set high; short, compact feet with hard pads and dark nails; and a bushy tail. The dog has a double coat, consisting of an outer coat with straight hairs of medium length and a thick woolly undercoat. The color may be any of many varieties between light gray and jet black; the main colors are brindle, black and tan, tan, brown, and black. The German shepherd is noted for loyalty, intelligence, and courage. Microsoft ® Encarta ® 2009. © 1993-2008 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.