7 Things You Didn’t Know About The Black German Shepherd

The Black German Shepherd is a pure German Shepherd and doesn't qualify as a separate breed, but it stands out because of its color 100% black. The Black German Shepherds are very rare, and for that reason, their price is much higher, you can expect to find a Black Shepherd puppy around $700 to $2000.

Stay with me and find out 7 things you didn’t know about this black beauty.

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The Black German Shepherd Photo Gallery

1. The Black German Shepherd is the same breed as the German Shepherd

Sometimes people think the Black German Shepherd is a different breed to the German Shepherd. This is not true. It belongs to the same breed but is referred to as the Black German Shepherd because… well, it's entirely black!

2. The Black German Shepherd and the standard variety have some different physical differences

What's the same?

• They have a large, muscular build
• They have a fluffy tail
• Their ears are erect
• They have a double coat
• They are heavy shedders

What's different?

• They are a solid black color
• They can be larger
• They often have a straighter back
• Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane (around the rear of the neck), skirting (on either side of the body between the front and back legs) and feathering (long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail)

3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black

All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood.

So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color.

4. A German Shepherd that is not black can produce Black German Shepherd puppies

Yes, you heard right. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. So if you go to meet your puppy (not before 8 weeks of age, remember) and see that the parents aren’t solid black, don’t be surprised! It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter.

5. The black color has NO negative effect on the dog

Here's where that negative stigma comes in; people can sometimes fear this dog due to its striking black color. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life.

Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs.

Look how obedient this 11-month old Black Shepherd puppy is:

Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you.

As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood.

6. They can be pricey

Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. While for a standard German Shepherd puppy the price ranges from $300 – 900, as mentioned above for a Black German Shepherd puppy you can expect to pay between $700 – 2000.

7. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems

The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include:

• Heart disease
• Spinal disease
• Eye diseases
• Digestive problems
• Allergies
• Cancer

Finding a reputable Black German Shepherd breeder

When buying any dog, finding a reputable breeder is imperative. One way you can do this is by asking for referrals from your veterinarian, friends, contacting local breed clubs or going to professional dog shows. Alternatively, you can search for breeders online.

How to recognize a responsible breeder

A responsible breeder will want to meet you in person and ask you questions to find out if the puppy is a good match for you. When you meet, they should be happy to show where the puppy was raised and you should also be able to meet the parents of your puppy. Make sure you inspect the health of both parents and the litter before buying.

Black German Shepherd breeders

Unfortunately, there are a lot of unscrupulous Black German Shepherd breeders who are in it just for the profit. This invariably means that they are less concerned about the quality of the dog, and the puppies can have health problems.

If they are a reputable breeder, they will be able to show you the history of the puppy's parents and detailed information on their health.

Lucky for you I have done a bit of research myself on trustworthy Black German Shepherd breeders and am going to share the fruits of my labor.

Firstly, you can check out what puppies are available on AKC Marketplace, where you can search by breed, see pictures of the puppies and read about the breeder.

And here are some reputable German Shepherd breeders who breed Black German Shepherds, all of whom are registered with the AKC:

• Diamond Shepherd Kennels
• Smart Sheppy
• Kennel von Weise
• Schutzhundog

Conclusion

The Black Shepherd is a beautiful variety of the German Shepherd who is just as loyal, energetic and trainable. She is born a solid black color, has a straighter back and sometimes has longer hair than the standard variety. Remember, she can be a bit pricier, especially if her coat has the longer, luxurious look.

Like all German Shepherds, Black Shepherds are prone to numerous health problems. You should make sure you buy from a reputable breeder who can ensure your puppy is healthy and will live a long life.