The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany during the 1800's when Europeans were trying to standardize dog  breeds.  Dogs were bred who possessed the traits of intelligence, loyalty, strength and keen sense of smell to perfect them for the job of herding sheep, the original purpose of the "shepherd dog".  A special society, the Phylax Society was established in Germany in 1891 with the goal of standardizing the appearance of these dogs, but soon disbanded due to internal conflicts.  An ex- member of this society Max von Stephnitz started his own breeding program in 1899, when he found and purchased a dog that exemplified the best of all the traits von Stephnitz believed these dogs should have.  German Shepherds became popular in America after returning WW I vets spoke highly of them, and Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart became popular animal actors.  Their popularity here rose and fell for seventy years until they became the third most popular registered breed in 1993, a position they still hold.  Interestingly enough, from the end of WWi until the late 1970's the German Shepherd Dog was known as the Alsatian Wolf Dog in England lest their popularity suffer from the anti-German sentiment at the time.  However, the German Shepherd has stood the test of time.  Their intelligence, loyalty and strength qualify them for work with police, guard and rescue organizations around the world.  The German Shepherd is a highly active dog that requires a good deal of exercise.  They are extremely protective of people and animals that they know, and should be well trained to be a "good citizen".  The Shepherd's coat can range in color from black/tan, red/black, sable, all-black or even all-white.  It is a double coat consisting of a dense outer coat that sheds year round, and a thick undercoat. The coat may be medium or long and requires frequent brushing to look its best. Size: 22-26 inches and 49-88 pounds.