What are the breed characteristics of the Old German Shepherd Dog?
As already described, the Old German Shepherd Dog is not recognized as a breed by the FCI. Nevertheless, there are lovers of this breed who breed Old German Shepherds under this name. Apart from the hair length, these dogs are visually very similar to the well-known German Shepherd.
Appearance and coat
Like the German Shepherd, the Old German Shepherd has erect standing ears, a narrow muzzle, and a bushy tail that it carries hanging. He has the same alert, watchful look. It comes in the same colors:
- black-brown
- black-grey
- black-yellow
- black
- yellow
- grey
The Old German Shepherd Dog wears longcoat with undercoat. The length of his top coat is 5 to 10 centimeters. In the German Shepherd Dog, however, it is only 3 to 5 centimeters. Characteristic is the long top coat on the neck, which resembles a mane. Due to its long top coat, the Old German Shepherd appears stronger than the short-haired German Shepherd.
What is the size of the Old German Shepherd?
The Old German Shepherd belongs to the large dog breeds. The height at the withers of the males is 60 to 65 centimetres, the height of the females is 55 to 60 centimetres.
How much does he weigh?
Males weigh about 35 to 45 kilos. Bitches weigh 25 to 35 kilos.
How old does an Old German Shepherd become?
Compared to other dog breeds, Old German Shepherds have a medium to longer life expectancy. Although they are one of the larger and heavier dog breeds, they can live up to 13 years, sometimes older.
Life expectancy: 13 years