American White Shepherd Information, Care Guide, and Traits

The American White Shepherd may be one of the most beautiful dogs to have ever existed. Dog lovers consider it a beautiful pup, a wonderful companion, a lover, and a protector in the home.

The German Shepherd is very similar to this dog. The German Shepherd is also a crossbreed between various European breeds, including those that carry the white gene. The Germans, however, considered the white coloring a serious fault and removed it from their breeding program. They also neutered and spayed the existing white dogs in order to prevent their spread.

Breed Overview

Compatible with:

Families Active

Temperament:

Intelligent, alert, and easy to train. Protective, loving, loyal, and protective.

To preserve the gene, breeders deliberately began breeding pure white German Shepherds in spite of the German Shepherd Club’s exclusion from its registry and breeding program. American White Shepherds developed as a distinct breed as a result. The United Kennel Club also recognized them as their own breed.

The only thing that makes them different from German Shepherds is their thick white coat. The wolf-like look of this dog is stunning.

This breed is a friendly, alert, cheerful dog that can also be a formidable guard and watchdog. This breed is not just about joy. Continue reading to learn more.

American White Shepherd Characteristics

Energy:

Low-energy dogs need minimal physical activity, whereas high-energy dogs are in need of a lot of mental and physical stimulation. When choosing a puppy, it’s crucial to ensure that their energy level matches your lifestyle.

Trainability:

Dogs that are easy to train learn prompts and actions more quickly, with less training. Dogs who are more difficult to train require a little bit of patience and practice.

Health:

Some breeds of dogs are more susceptible to genetic problems than others. It doesn’t necessarily mean that all dogs will suffer from these problems, but some are more susceptible than others.

Lifespan:

Some breeds have shorter life expectancies than others, either because of their size or genetic issues. The lifespan of your dog is also affected by proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene.

Sociability:

Some dog breeds have a more social disposition, towards both humans and dogs. Social dogs are more likely to approach strangers and ask for a pet or a scratch, whereas less social dogs tend to be more reserved and cautious. It’s important that you socialize with your dog, regardless of the breed.

White Shepherd Dogs are very popular among dog lovers, despite being considered by some kennel clubs as a flaw. This dog will also need obedience training. Depending on the type of work, you may need to spend more on advanced training. You’ll need to buy the best dog food, as well as a dog bed and crate. Also, your American White Shepherd will require vaccinations, vet checks, and a veterinary checkup.

You should read the American White Shepherd care guide to learn what kind of food, exercise, and grooming your puppy needs in order to grow up healthy and happy. These dogs aren’t a good choice for those with allergies or who don’t have the time to take their dog out regularly for long training sessions.

Image Credit: Anton Zabielskyi, Shutterstock

Temperament and Intelligence of the American White Shepherd

American White Shepherds have a loyal nature and are always there for their owners and family. They have a balanced temperament, which has made them popular as family pets, guard dogs, guide dogs, search-and-rescue dogs, and herding and guiding dogs.

The American White Shepherd is a happy, calm, loyal dog. They can be serious at times, but they are not aggressive. American White Shepherds are wary and cautious of strangers. They will react quickly if the situation calls for their protection.

What breeds are good for families?

These dogs are recommended by long-time dog owners for families who need a loyal, devoted pet that will protect them in any situation.

The dogs love the children of their family and would not mind if they were roughed up by them. White Shepherds can be heavy and dangerous for young children.

The White German Shepherd is a loyal companion and is eager to learn. These pups can adapt to a variety of social situations, events, and circumstances. They will be able to live anywhere and won’t mind the conditions. These pups must be socialized, as they may show aggression or attack people if not properly socialized and trained.

White Shepherds love to be with people, so you shouldn’t leave them alone for long periods.

As long as it is done with family, they are just as playful and interested in showing their love of fun by playing fetch, flying ball, running, and other activities.

You don’t want your dog to take on the role of pack leader. These dogs are pack creatures and you need to be their pack leader. You need to be firm, but gentle and consistent to help your dog become a happy family pet.

Can this breed get along with other pets?

The American White Shepherd has many positive traits. It is beautiful, it protects its owner, and is great with children. These characteristics are enough to make any family happy, right?

White Shepherds that are well-socialized, well-trained, and stable with other dogs or animals will be, in general, good. Breeders rarely breed these pups to engage in aggressive dog activities. As a result, they are usually softer and more mellow than their German cousins.

They are milder in temperament and can be a good fit for multi-pet homes, especially if they were raised with other pets. They can, however, be aggressive toward other dogs of the same gender. Socialize your dogs from the time they are puppies to ensure that they can coexist.

What to know before buying an American white shepherd

Food & Diet Requirements

The health of an American White Shepherd depends on proper nutrition, including a diet rich in minerals and vitamins.

The majority of dog owners opt for artificial feeding. This is acceptable and will ensure you are providing your dog with premium food. You can make your own dog food.

Dogs and humans have evolved together, so they eat what humans do. But it doesn’t have to be table scraps. Offer your White Shepherd fresh, low-fat meats like lamb, chicken, turkey, and fish.

Include dairy products, clean and cool drinking water, vegetables, and fruits on the menu. Dogs are not vegetarians so you should only allow a small amount.

Be sure that the commercial dog food you buy contains nutrients that are good for your dog. Avoid any dog food that is packed with cereal grains and rice. The brands should also be designed for large breeds of dogs.

These dogs can be prone to bloating so it is best to feed them smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. For their development and growth, puppies need a high-quality diet that is highly nutritious. It’s best to feed puppy food three or four times per day until they are old enough to eat adult food.

Exercise

White Shepherd owners are always happy to tell you why they love their dogs so much. The owners can’t resist a beautiful and robust pup who can protect you, as well as be your workout partner.

You may also want to consider the fact that this dog breed needs a lot of exercise. If you want to keep your dog indoors, or the weather outside isn’t conducive, then you can teach him how to run.

You should spend at least 30 minutes a day playing and running with your dog. This dog will not be content to sit in the house and watch movies all day.

This is not the dog for you if your family or yourself are inactive. If you ignore a White Shepherd pup’s energy level, it will become restless, frustrated, and bored.

Training

White Shepherds can be used for a variety of purposes, including obedience, protection, herding, and guide dogs. They are also good guard dogs, medical alert dogs, and therapy. Owners should begin obedience training their puppies at a young age.

White Shepherds can become timid and fearful, and prone to biting or guarding. This is because of inadequate exercise and training. These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable. You can expect your dog to learn commands from the very first session.

You might want to be sure that you have authority. They will listen to you if you are not as strong-minded as their human guardians.

You should learn the dog’s instincts, and then treat it with natural authority. This pup will not respond to harsh training. Therefore, you should conduct it with respect, justice, and reward.

Grooming

White Shepherds also fall into this category. German Shepherds are known for being heavy shedders. White Shepherds shed heavily during the seasons. The White Shepherd sheds moderately all year, but when the weather is warm they shed more.

You need to brush the coat daily, otherwise, you’ll have hair all over your home. Bathe your dog only when necessary. Frequent baths can dry out the skin and cause irritation.

You should also invest in a vacuum cleaner that will help you remove the hairs from your dog’s carpets and surfaces. You should check your dog’s ears every week for any ear infections or inflammation. A vet can also help you clip the nails every month.

Dental hygiene is important for any dog. Brush your White Shepherd’s teeth twice a week with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste.

Health and Lifespan

American White Shepherds have a long and healthy life, but they can be prone to certain disorders.

Minor Conditions

• Allergies
• Mega Esophagus
• Eye Problems

Serious Conditions

• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia
• Osteochondritis
• Malabsorption Syndrome
• Bloat
• Autoimmune Diseases
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

As with any large dog breed, American White Shepherds can suffer from joint dislocations in the elbows and hips. The condition can cause lameness and pain in the early stages before the pup becomes completely or partially immobile.

• Allergies

These pups are more likely to react to fleas, air, certain foods, and care products.

• Malabsorption Syndrome

The digestive system of your dog may be malfunctioning and unable to digest and absorb certain foods. This can lead to symptoms such as alopecia and diarrhea.

• Mega Esophagus

The esophagus (the tube connecting the throat to the stomach) can grow abnormally. You may experience symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, and stinky breath.

• Osteochondritis

A degenerative joint disease characterized by abnormal hip development, dislocation of the knee, and damage to joints and ligaments.

• Autoimmune Diseases

White Shepherds are predisposed to autoimmune and congenital spine diseases due to their genetic lineage. Their immune system can attack their tissues and organs, causing structural damage and dysfunction.

They also have defects in the number and structure of vertebrae, causing issues such as scoliosis.

Male vs. Male vs.

The male American White Shepherds are larger, more proud, and less sociable than the females. However, they share their curiosity, enthusiasm, and love of learning and activity.

This is why males tend to be more dominant, while females are kinder and friendlier with other pets, family members, and strangers.

You should never keep two male White Shepherds together because of the dominance they show. This can lead to aggression, which could be fatal. Both male and female White Shepherds get along just fine.

Three little-known facts about the American White Shepherd

1. American White Shepherds, however, are not albino. Albino dogs do exist. However, American Shepherds are descended from “white-coat” dog breeds that originated in Europe before spreading to America and Canada.

2. This is a German Shepherd, but it is white. The white color of her coat is caused by a recessive gene called “masking”, which hides the actual pattern and coloration.

3. German Shepherds of different colors can be born to American White Shepherds.

Final Thoughts

If you’re inactive or if any family member suffers from allergies, it is best to avoid these dogs. American White Shepherds shed a lot, and the pet dander will cause allergy symptoms every day.

You can also expect to do a lot of exercise with them, so if you are looking for a dog who will motivate you to stay fit, this is the one.

American White Shepherds make a great addition to any family. They are loyal, hardworking, and devoted. Be careful when dealing with whites. Sometimes they can be timid and skittish because of their softness.