There is a notable difference between an American-bred German Shepherd and one that has lineage from Germany-bred German Shepherd dogs. The distinction lies primarily in their ancestry and the breeding standards that determine their purpose, temperament, and physical traits. While American lines typically prioritize a calm demeanor and elegant appearance for show, German lines focus on preserving the breed's working-dog heritage, emphasizing stable temperament, intelligence, and a strong work ethic.
Every Kreuz Haus German Shepherd puppy comes from World Class lineage with Champion pedigreed GSD parents from Germany. These extraordinary dogs are titled and certified by the SV ensuring their high standard of quality and breed compliance with the respective breeding program. These same standards are the biggest difference between our GSD puppies and most breeders in America today.
Kreuz Haus Parents from German Lines . . .
German-bred German Shepherds are strictly regulated by the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV), the official German Shepherd club in Germany. This oversight ensures dogs meet rigorous standards for health, temperament, and working ability before they can be bred.
Physical characteristics Structure: They tend to have a straighter back, more muscular body, and less angulation in their hindquarters compared to American lines. Colors: Common colors are deep black and red, or sable, and black. A wider variety of colors are accepted in the working lines.
Temperament and purpose Working drive: Bred for their working ability, these dogs have high energy and an intense drive to perform tasks. This makes them excellent for roles in police work, search and rescue, and protection sports like IGP (formerly Schutzhund).
Temperament test: To be a part of the breeding program, dogs must pass a temperament and working-ability test, ensuring their stability, resilience, and courage.
Most American German Shepherd Lines . . .
In the United States, German Shepherds are primarily bred under the American Kennel Club (AKC), which places a heavy emphasis on appearance and movement for the conformation show ring. There are even fewer mandatory regulations for health and working temperament.
Physical characteristics Structure: American lines are known for their distinctively sloped backs and more exaggerated angulation in the hindquarters. This gives them a graceful, "flying trot" in the show ring. Colors: These lines often feature lighter colors, such as black and tan or black and silver.
Temperament and purpose Temperament: Generally bred for a calmer, more laid-back temperament, American show-line German Shepherds are typically better suited as family companions or therapy dogs rather than high-drive working dogs. Focus: With a focus on looks over working ability, some poorly bred American lines have developed issues with nervousness, anxiety, or inappropriate aggression due to a lack of proper temperament testing.
Kreuz Haus . . . The Upper Midwest's Provider of New Best Friends
