Long-haired German Shepherds are a unique and striking variation of the breed, characterized by their longer, silky coats. While this trait is considered a breed fault by some standards, many find these dogs exceptionally good-looking.
Genetics of Long-Haired German Shepherds
The long hair gene in German Shepherds is recessive, meaning it can appear unexpectedly in litters from parents who both carry the gene. Breeding two carriers can result in long-haired puppies, even if the parents themselves have normal coats. To avoid this, breeders often try to eliminate the gene from their bloodlines.
Coat Characteristics
German Shepherds typically have two coats: an outer coat and an undercoat. True long-haired Shepherds lack the undercoat, giving them a silky, smooth outer coat. Puppies often look fluffy at 8 to 10 weeks, but as they shed their puppy coats around 14 to 16 weeks, their adult coat type becomes apparent. Puppies with tufts of hair in their ears or between their toes after shedding are likely to be long-haired.
Impact on Working Ability
There is no correlation between coat length and working ability in German Shepherds. In Europe, many long-haired Shepherds serve as police dogs because they are often sold for less money, despite their excellent working capabilities.
Breeding Considerations
It's been years since I’ve had a long-haired puppy in any litters, but the possibility remains when introducing new animals into the breeding program. While long-haired German Shepherds may not be common, they are a beautiful and capable variation of the breed.
This guide provides insights into the unique traits and considerations of long-haired German Shepherds, highlighting their genetic background, coat characteristics, and suitability as working dogs.
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