Blue German Shepherd

The Blue German Shepherd also known as “Blue Shepherds” or “Blue GSDs” is a relatively rare color variation of the classic German Shepherd breed. This distinctive color is the result of a recessive gene and is characterized by a blue-grey coat with black markings.

Originating from Germany, the German Shepherd was initially bred as a herding dog, but its intelligence, strength, and loyalty have made it popular for a variety of roles such as police and military work, search and rescue, and as service and family dogs.

While the classic German Shepherd color is black and tan, and occasionally sable, the blue variation has gained popularity in recent years. However, it is important to note that the blue color is not recognized by the major kennel clubs, including the American Kennel Club (AKC) and the United Kennel Club (UKC).

The blue color in German Shepherds is the result of a dilution gene, which affects the distribution and intensity of pigmentation in the coat. This results in a unique and striking blue-grey color that can range from light silver to deep charcoal.

Like all German Shepherds, the blue variation is highly intelligent and highly trainable. They excel in obedience and agility training and are known for their strong work ethic and desire to please their owners. These dogs are also known for their loyalty and make excellent companions and protectors.

Overview of Blue German Shepherd

The Blue German Shephard is a relatively unique variation of the standard German Shepard breed that is very rare. They are characterized by their attractive blue or gray coat which is a result of a recessive gene that affects melanin production. Although the Blue German Shepherd is not recognized by major Kennel clubs as a separate dog breed, they are still loved and adored by many dog lovers.

Physical Appearance

The Blue German Shepherd has a well-proportioned body with a muscular and athletic build. This unique dog breed comes with a double coat, along with a thick undercoat and a longer coarse coat with a typically dark shade of blue or gray with variations of shades and patterns. They may also have black markings on their face, ears, and back.

This unique breed has a long, wedge-shaped head with a black nose and medium-sized, alert, and almond-shaped eyes that range from blue to amber or brown. They also have pointed ears that stand erect but may also flop over at the tip.

Size

The Blue German Shepard is known to be a large dog breed that stands typically 24 to 26 inches tall for males and females stand between 22 to 24 inches tall. These large dog breeds weigh between 65 to 95 pounds for the males and 50 to 70 pounds for the females. Notwithstanding, because of the variations in genetics and breeding some Blue German Shephards may be larger or smaller than the standard sizes.

Temperament

The Blue German Shepherds make great companions and are highly trainable because of their loyal, intelligent, and hardworking nature which makes them popular choices for police and military work. They are also good watchdogs as they have strong protective instincts and can be wary of strangers.

However, with proper socialization from a tender age issues with aggression towards unfamiliar people or animals can be prevented. This rare dog breed has a high energy level unlike the standard German Shepherd and so requires regular exercise to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Grooming

The Blue German Shepherds require regular brushing to remove loose fur and to prevent their thick coat from matting as they are known to have a double coat that sheds moderately throughout the year and heavily twice every year during the shedding season. Occasionally they may need brushing of teeth and baths to keep their coat clean and healthy.

These unique dog breeds are active and so require a lot of exercise to keep them in good physical and mental shape. To meet their energy needs, daily walks, runs and playtime in a secure yard are important as they thrive on mental stimulation and training. So, consider incorporating activities such as agility, obedience, or scent work into their daily routine.

Health Concerns

Generally, Blue German Shepherds are known to be healthy dogs but like any other dog breed, they may be prone to certain health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, degenerative myelopathy, and skin allergies. It is important to take your dog to the veterinarian for check-ups and follow their recommended preventive care and vaccination schedule to give your dog a long and healthy life.

All in all, the Blue German Shepherd is a rare and striking variation of the standard German Shepherd breed. They are loyal, intelligent, and hardworking and so require proper training to thrive. They also require exercise and grooming to keep them happy and healthy. Be sure to do your research and find a reputable breeder when considering adding this unique dog breed to your family.

Characteristics of Blue German Shepherd

1. Coat Color: The characteristic of the Blue German Shepherd that distinguishes them from the standard German Shepherds is its unique coat color. Blue German Shepherds are known to have a solid blue or silver-gray coat, with a lighter undercoat and black tipping. The blue color is a result of the dilution gene explained at the beginning of this article and it is a rare and highly sought-after color among German Shepherd lovers.
2. Size: Blue German Shepherds are large-sized dog breeds typically ranging from 24 to 26 inches in height and weighing between 65 to 95 pounds. They have a very athletic and muscular build with a strong and proportionate body.
3. Personality: The Blue German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature, and these traits are also seen in the standard German Shepherds. They are highly active and energetic dogs with a high drive for playtime and a strong desire to please their owners. They are excellent family pets and working dogs because of their protective nature.
4. Health: Blue German Shepherds are generally healthy dogs, but they may be prone to a few health issues like hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and degenerative myelopathy just like any other dog breeds. It’s important to ensure proper health testing and screening are done before breeding to prevent passing on any potential health issues to offspring.

Appearance

The Blue German Shepherd is a striking dog breed with a unique blue or gray coat color. This color is due to a dilution of a gene that is inherited from one or both parents and it ranges from a light, gray shade to a deeper steal blue color.

Along with their unique coat color, Blue German Shepherds have the same physical characteristics as the standard German Shepherd dogs. They are large, muscular dogs with a strong, athletic build. Their heads are tapered and their ears are erect and pointed. They have a long, bushy tail and a deep chest. In general, they exude grace, power, and agility.

The Blue German Shepherds can come in different sizes but they stand between 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder level and weigh between 65 to 95 pounds on average. They have a medium length, dense coat that is double layers and it serves as a great protection against cold weather.

Temperament

The temperament of a blue German Shepherd can vary slightly from that of a standard-colored German Shepherd as a result of the genetic factors that give them their unique coloring. Notwithstanding, for the most part, Blue German Shepherds have a similar temperament to their standard counterparts.

They are known for being intelligent, loyal, and confident dogs. They make excellent companions and are often used as working dogs due to their high energy and trainability level. Blue German Shepherds are also known to make great family pets because of their gentle and affectionate nature.

Just like all German Shepherds, Blue German Shepherds have a natural protective instinct, so they may be wary of strangers and have a strong sense of loyalty towards their owners. With proper socialization and training from a young age, any potential issues with aggression can be prevented.

Blue German Shepherds are also highly active and require plenty of physical and mental stimulation, so they are best suited for homes with active owners who can provide plenty of opportunities for exercise and playtime. Without enough stimulation, they may become bored and engage in destructive behaviors.

Cost of Blue German Shepherd

Blue German Shepherds are a rare color variation of the standard German Shepherds. Because of their rarity, they can often be more expensive than the standard German Shepherds. The average cost of a Blue German Shepherd can range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the breeder, location, and pedigree of the dog. Additionally, Blue German Shepherds may require additional time and resources to breed due to their unique color, which can also contribute to their higher price.

Health Conditions of Blue German Shepherd

• Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a common inherited condition in Blue German Shepherds, it is a deformity of the hip joint where the ball and socket do not fit together properly, causing wear and tear on the joint. This can lead to pain, lameness, and arthritis.
• Degenerative Myelopathy: Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease that affects the spinal cord in Blue German Shepherds, it causes weakness and degeneration in the hind legs, eventually leading to paralysis. This condition is more common in older dogs and has no cure.
• Panosteitis: Panosteitis, also known as “growing pains,” is a common condition in large and giant dog breeds, including the Blue German Shepherd. It is a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs, usually in young dogs between 5 to 18 months old. Although the cause is unknown, it usually resolves on its own within a few months.
• Allergies: Blue German Shepherds, like all German Shepherds, are prone to allergies, which can manifest as skin irritation, itching, and discomfort. Allergies can be caused by different environmental and food factors, and treatment may involve finding and eliminating the allergen.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system attacks the body’s cells and tissues. Blue German Shepherds compared to the standard German Shepherds are more prone to these conditions, such as autoimmune thyroiditis, where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland. 
• Eye Conditions: Blue German Shepherds can be prone to several eye conditions, including cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and cherry eye. These conditions can lead to vision loss and may require surgery or medication for treatment.

How to Care for a Blue German Shepherd

Proper nutrition:

A Blue German Shepherd, like any other dog, needs a balanced and healthy diet to maintain good health and energy levels. It is important to feed the appropriate type and amount of food for your dog, as their needs may vary based on age, activity level, and health status.

Regular exercise:

Blue German Shepherds are an active and energetic dog breed that requires daily exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. Make sure to take your dog for walks, hikes, and play sessions regularly to keep them fit and happy.

Grooming:

Blue German Shepherds have a thick double coat that sheds moderately year-round and heavily twice a year during shedding season. Regular brushing at least once a week can help keep their coat healthy and free of mats and tangles. During shedding season, you may need to brush your dog daily. Bathing should only be done occasionally using a dog-specific shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.

Dental care:

Just like any other dog, Blue German Shepherds, are prone to dental problems such as plaque buildup, tartar, and gum disease. It’s essential to establish a dental care routine for your dog, including brushing their teeth regularly and offering dental treats or toys designed to help keep their teeth clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

How rare is a blue German Shepherd?

The Blue German Shepherd is quite a rare dog breed.

Do blue German Shepherds exist?

Yes, Blue German Shepherds exist.

What is the rarest German Shepherd color?

The rarest German Shepherd color is the isabella because of the recessive combination of liver and blue.

How rare is a German Shepherd with blue eyes?

A German Shepherd with blue eyes is very rare as finding a blue-eyed German Shepherd can be difficult.