5 Body Characteristics of Long Haired German Shepherd – The Ultimate Breed Guide & What To Know About The Breed

Long haired German shepherd siting at the back yard panting
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A version of the original German Shepherd is the Long Haired German Shepherd. The coat of a Long Haired German Shepherd differs from that of a regular German Shepherd. A recessive gene causes the long-coat variant. In reality, if both parents contain the recessive trait, a litter of Long Haired German Shepherd puppies can be produced. Long-Haired German Shepherds account for only 10-15% of all German Shepherds, according to some estimates.

A Long Haired German Shepherd’s fur is considered a fault by the American Kennel Club (AKC). This indicates that the dogs cannot be shown and should not be bred. As a result, the recessive trait that promotes long hair in German Shepherds is uncommon.

Long haired German shepherd walking around
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The American Kennel Club recognizes the short-haired German Shepherd, but not the long-haired variant. Although the long hair is considered a flaw, the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom and the FCI recognize these dogs. It is a widespread misconception that the Long Haired German Shepherd lacks an undercoat, but this is not the case.

Although they are a double-coated breed, their undercoat is not as thick or lengthy as their topcoat. Due to their lack of an overcoat, these dogs are unable to herd or tolerate cold temperatures. The length of a German Shepherd’s fur is the only distinction between a long and short-haired German Shepherd. The double coat on both kinds loses a little.

Long Haired German Shepherd Body Characteristics

  • Long Haired German Shepherd have a pointed nose and upright ears and are taller than they are long.
  • Their tail is large, straight, and thick.
  • They have abnormally huge feet and ears as puppies, but they grow into them as they mature.
  • The Long Haired German Shepherd can grow to be up to 26″ in height and 90 pounds in weight (or more).
  • Their hair is at least two inches long on all sides.
Long haired German shepherd having hip dysplasia
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The buttocks, belly, tail, backs of the legs, and ears are all longer. Male Long-Haired German Shepherds stand between 24 and 26 inches tall and weigh 65 to 90 pounds. Long Haired German Shepherds are females who stand 22-24″ in height and weigh 50 to 70 pounds. The fluffy coat of the Long Haired GSD comes in a range of colors, including:

  • Bi-color
  • Sable
  • White
  • Liver
  • Tan and black
  • Gray
  • Blue

Long Haired German Shepherd Behavior

The Long Haired German Shepherd has a personality that is slightly different from the typical GSD. German Shepherds are noted for their imposing, courageous demeanor as well as their protective yet sometimes frightening temperament.

In disposition and intelligence, the Long Haired German Shepherd is identical to its Short Haired counterpart. In comparison, the Long Haired GSD is thought to be a touch more laid-back and easygoing.

They are just as intelligent as the Short Haired GSD and are equally protective of their owners, although they aren’t as aggressive during in protection mode. They are also less fearful of strangers, calmer, and less active than the Short Haired GSD.

Their great energy makes them ideal playmates, and children will most likely form a strong attachment with their German Shepherd. These dogs prefer to run all day, but they also enjoy snuggles and pets at the end of the day.

Long Haired German Shepherd Training

Positive, reward-based training that is consistent and tough yet gentle will work effectively with the Long Haired German Shepherd. A well-adjusted and happy dog is the result of consistent training and a loving relationship with his family. You should also socialize these dogs from a young age, as they can become aloof with strangers or other dogs if they are not socialized early.

Long haired German shepherd dog breed
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Long Haired German Shepherd Caring

Long-haired German Shepherds enjoy participating in any type of physical activity. They are a very energetic breed that needs a lot of exercise throughout the day in order to stay content and happy. Long walks, runs, or other playful exercises are required for these dogs for at least 60 minutes per day.

The grooming requirements of the Long Haired German Shepherd are slightly higher than those of the Short Haired German Shepherd. They shed a little less than the Short Haired GSD because their undercoat isn’t as thick, but they still need to be brushed on a regular basis. This Long Haired type sheds throughout the year. This shedding is especially intense at the start of the fall and spring seasons.

Long Haired German Shepherd Health

The most common problems with this breed are hip and elbow dysplasia. Epilepsy, blood cell cancer, bone inflammation, Von Willebrand’s disease, spinal cord illness, and heart disease are all possibilities for these canines. The lifespan of a long-haired German Shepherd is 9-13 years.

 

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Kehinde Ezekiel is a freelance writer who has covered many topics, including home improvement, gardening, pets, tech, and parenting.