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If ever a breed rated superlatives, it's the German Shepherd Dog, a breed whose versatility has led it to such varied careers as sentry, police dog, tracker, drug dog, search-and-rescue dog, and guide dog. The breed was originally found on German farms, and its type was standardized in the 1890s by a German cavalry officer, Capt. Max Von Stephanitz, whose aim was to perfect a superior herding dog of elegant appearance. The breed was first imported to North America early in the 1900s and got its biggest boost in popularity after World War I, largely because of the screen exploits of Rin Tin Tin. The breed makes a loyal family dog and fearless guardian of the home. It excels in obedience work and may begin this training at an early age provided the more strenuous exercises are not overdone. The ideal height for males is 25 inches at the shoulder, and weight ranges from 75 to 80 pounds. Females are somewhat smaller. Given their size and high activity level, German Shepherds are best suited to homes with yards. Lots of daily outdoor exercise is a must. The double coat is dense, straight and close in black and tan, all-black or varying shades of sable. It sheds heavily, so the breed needs regular, thorough brushing. German Shepherd Dogs are intelligent and easy to train, especially when training begins at an early age. They perform well in obedience and other canine sports. This breed loves children and is a superb watchdog. (Editor's Note: According to the American Kennel Club breed standard, coats that are soft, silky, too long, woolly, curly or open are considered conformation faults, and a white-coated dog must be disqualified from the AKC show ring.)

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