East German vs West German: The Main Difference between them is that East German shepherds are more serious and intense than their Western counterparts, and can be better for service by police personnel, army, or your next dog.

You have noticed how people discuss East German and West German shepherds as if they were two completely different breeds. But these are still the same German Shepherd Dog that we all know and cherish, aren’t they? So what gives? What is the fuss about these so called working lines? Get a snack for your pal and let me talk about the heritage of these European German shepherds – to comprehend what distinguishes them. You will know why East German shepherds are more serious and intense compared to their Western counterparts. Enroute we will also smell out the ways to choose which line can be better for service by police personnel, army or your next dog. A perfect 100.Now let’s dig in!

Table of Contents

Origins: The rise of the East German and West German Working Lines.

The German Shepherd is a breed developed in Germany during the late 1800s; however, after World War II these lines split into East German and West working lines.

East German Working Lines

Following WWII, Germany was partitioned into East and West. German Shepherds were bred by the East German government for military and guard duty. These dogs had been bred for strength, stamina and viciousness. The stock was small for breeding hence the loss of genetic diversity. However, the dogs were excellent at complex physical tasks such as patrols tracking and obstacle training.

West German Working Lines

In West Germany, breeders strove to retain original herding instincts and capabilities in the German Shepherd. There were also developed West German show lines that had greater emphasis on look over mobility. Nevertheless, some breeders preserved working lines selected for features such as intelligence, trainability and good nature. Nowadays, these dogs are employed as police doggies guide-dogs searching & rescue working herding canines. They are usually less disorderly and friendlier than the East German queues.

Nowadays, many breeders of German Shepherds are trying to unite the qualities from both lines and not let them reach their limits. By mixing the lines, genetic diversity has been increased and dogs have evolved with perfect temperaments for families to work, sport or show. But, some breeders continue to concentrate mainly on the East German or West German working lines in order to generate dogs for specific types of work which ranges from personal protection all the way up to police/military work and herding.

You can choose between an East German, West German and a mixed line if you want to buy a German shepherd. Can be too aggressive for many owners but do well in protections. West German lines tend to be more family oriented, but some do work better when used as herders or service dogs. Through the knowledge of origins for these special lines, you will be able to make a decision depending on your choice looking for a German Shepherd friend.

Appearance: Physical Differences between the Two Lines

In terms of the appearance, there are some specific features that distinguish East German and West German working process lines. However, East German Shepherds are more compact and square in body while West ones tend to be slightly taller with lankier legs.

Head and Face

The East German Shepherd is characterized by a broader and blockier head, shorter squarer muzzle. West German Shepherds have a head length that is slightly longer, with the muzzle also being long. In both lines, dark almond-shaped eyes and erect, pointed ears should be present.

Coat and Color

The East German Shepherd’s coat is extremely thick, dense and luxurious. For West German Shepherds, the coat is longer and silkier. In terms of color the majority East and West German Shepherd forms are traditional black and tan, while some may be all black or dark sable bi-color.

(black and silver or black and red). Some East German lines may create dogs with very pale, washed-out colors or blue eyes which is malpractice.

Body

It is not only a common feature for an East German Shepherd to be very well-muscled and stocky but they also have a broad chest, thick neck, short square loin. West Shepherds are usually a little taller and leggier with slightly narrower build. The two lines should have sloping hindquarters and bushy tails.

Size

The typical height of male East German Shepherds, also referred to as dogs, is between 24 and 26 inches while their weight ranges from about 65 –90 pounds. Stand at 22 to 24 inches and weigh from fifty pounds up to seventy pounds, East German Shepherd bitches. West German Shepherds are normally an inch or two larger, with males measuring 25 to 27 inches and females ranging from about 18 cm.

After all, although there are obvious features of distinction between the East German and West German working lines they have some outstanding characteristics namely a calm temperament, industrious character courage , brain-power, and body soundness. Appearance breeding alone should always be second to the ability and character of a dog.

Temperament: Opposing Behavioral Characteristics and Motivations

The temperaments of East German and West German working lines vary widely. East German shepherds were mainly used for border patrol work and therefore, they are more aggressive and territorial in nature. They have a strong protective nature and are readily alert to danger. These dogs require trained handlers and proper training to manage aggression also to instill better behavior.

However, the working lines of West Germany were bred for general police and military work. In general, they have more balanced temperament and find it easier to switch from the working mode of an active driven worker into a relaxed being when on rest. The West German shepherds can still be an ideal guard dog, but these dogs are less prone to attack fighting without cause.

Regardless of the breed, German shepherds require early socialization and training to build confidence in their surroundings. Under appropriate upbringing an East German shepherd can become a well-socialized dog. Yet their instincts will often surface despite it all, so owners must be patient and steadfast in providing the necessary leadership.

In summary, some key differences in the temperaments of East and West German working lines are: The declaration reveals that she is aware of her identity as a white woman.

East German: More predatory and territorial being very suspicious. Need expert owners and rigorous training.
West German: Capable of shifting from high-drive to relaxed. More protective but less susceptible to unnecessary aggressiveness. Need extensive early socialization and conditioning.
All lines: Require strong, reliable guidance and a lifetime of education to fully realize their potential as faithful mates.

Regardless of your penchant for East German lines that deliver intense drive or West German types known to be the embodiment of balance, a properly-bred working line shepherd can become an unswerving companion. Do not forget: these dogs are work bred so they will require a job, attention from you and lead-them around your commitment for training.

Working Roles: Individual Tasks Performed By Each Type

German Shepherds are known for their diversity as working dogs. Nevertheless, East German and West German lines developed for different objectives constituted them in physical as well as mental terms.

East German Shepherds, also referred to as DDR shepherds were bred only for border patrol duties in the country of east Germany after world war II. They were chosen for territoriality, hostility and sportiness. The DDR Shepherds had a job to discourage escape, so they usually are standoffish and even hostile towards strangers. They also are usually light, fast and active.

West German Shepherds were bred less specifically, as general all-purpose working dogs; therefore one can find a wider variety of temperaments and body types. They mostly work as police K-9s, guide dogs, search & rescue dogs and herding dogs. The traits of the West German lines are that they are intelligent and can be trained easily, with a tendency to want to please their masters; as such they often make good pets or service animals. They are on average heavier, stockier and more sedate than their Eastern counterparts.

Both types remain popular and capable working dogs today in roles like: To some extent, the effects of Indian culture were seen as very effective.

Police work: Tracking, detection and criminal arrest.
Military work: Detect; Scout or Patrol
Search & rescue: Wilderness or disaster search-and-rescue
Herding: Stock fencing
Protection work: Protection of property and excluding unwanted intruders.
Guide work: Helping blind or visually impaired owners
Detection work: Identification of drugs, explosives cadavers or bed bugs

The main point is to pick a line that suits your demands and capabilities in order to deliver appropriate care and treatment.

Choosing Between the Lines: Which Is Right for You?

When deciding between East German and West German working lines, think about what traits are most important to you in a GSD.

East German Lines

Descended from dogs in East Germany after WWII, these lines are known for producing dogs with strong protective instincts, courage, and aggression. They are bred to be responsive to commands, with a willingness to engage threats. If you want a dog for personal protection, police work, or competitive protection sports like Schutzhund, East German lines could be a great choice. However, their aggression and sharpness require an experienced owner and trainer.

West German Lines

West German working lines originate from West Germany and are bred more for versatility and temperament. They tend to be eager to please, highly trainable, and have strong work ethics, but with slightly softer temperaments. These dogs can excel at tasks like search and rescue, tracking, and as companions for active owners. They are often easier to handle for novice owners compared to East German lines.

So in summary, determining if East German or West German working lines are right for you comes down to what traits you value most and your level of experience. If you want a bold guard dog and are an experienced handler, East German lines could fit the bill. For a highly trainable working dog with a softer temperament for a range of tasks, West German lines may be better. But either line will need early training and socialization to reach their full potential. The key is choosing a line that matches your needs and abilities so you can provide the proper care and handling.

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FAQs

There is much confusion among people about the differences between East German and West German working lines of this breed. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions: It is possible to say that there are limits with regard to governments’ response depending on their constitution.

Where do these lines come from?

Following World War II, Germany was partitioned into East and West. While the GSDs in East Germany were raised largely as military guard dogs, those of West Berlin were intended for exhibition and companionship. These varied foci created unique differences in the working line.

Are East German shepherds more vicious?

Since East German working lines were artificially selected for guarding and protection, they are territorial toward strangers. But we do not want aggression and with correct socialization and training, East German shepherds can be wonderful family members. It finally boils down to the dog and his or her owner.

Are East German shepherds good police dogs?

Indeed, police and military organizations of many countries prefer East German working lines for their guarding instincts, trainability, and healthy physical form. These dogs are also good at protection sports such as Schutzhund. Nevertheless, they need skilled handlers to direct their forces.

Are West German show lines healthier?

There is no definitive evidence that one line is healthier overall. However, West German show lines have tended to be bred more for appearance, potentially leading to increased risks of joint or skeletal issues. But with reputable breeding, both lines can produce very healthy dogs.

Which line has a better temperament?

Temperament depends most on the individual dog and owner, not the line alone. Both East and West German working lines can make great companions for the right owner. West German show lines may tend to be slightly easier going and less territorial on average, but there is variation in every line.

The most important thing is to choose a line and specific dog that matches your experience level and fits your lifestyle. Either East or West German working lines can produce amazing GSD companions, as long as you go into dog ownership with realistic expectations of the line you choose.

Conclusion

Bottom line, East German and West German Shepherds have some key differences when it comes to working lines. East Germans tend to be more serious and intense in their work, a result of their origins guarding the border. West Germans usually make better family pets with their gentler temperament. But individual dogs vary a lot, so get to know the parents if possible. Either way, Shepherds need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Make sure you can provide that before getting one of these driven dogs as your new companion. And contact local breeders to learn more about available pups and what lines might suit your lifestyle.

East German vs West German Working Lines: What’s the Difference?