[thesearethetimes...]

That my FRiend, is the German Shepherd of my youth. We had a big one in our neighborhood, (REALLY big to 5 year old me at least ; ) Beautiful animal. More than a little intimidating, but beautiful : P

So different from the current breed standard, and you have to wonder what the positives are, if the changes have so negatively impacted their lives : /

May God bless all His critters.
Tatt

[the OlLine Rebel]

Flora Berkemeyer is VERY old, whelped 1911. She was typical conformation for the *original* GS type, but unusually beautiful in coloring/marking *for her time*. She gave rise to several top GS who bore her colors and hence, became a virtual foundation dam, especially for what we *now* think of as typical GS coloring. Hence was she the "Beauty of the Breed".

As for the current dogs, yes, I'd rather have this "skinny" prototypical version than what the elites on both sides of the Atlantic pass off as "true to the intentions". There are exceptions, but I think most are accidents. I'm honestly thinking next time I will look at the much-maligned "backyard-breeder" dogs, because the elites are getting too big for their britches at the same time they put out questionable conformation, temperament and health.

This is my current GS with my little son (she is a German-based dog wracked with problems, but 1 of the very most beautiful dogs I've ever seen in conformation and color, and definitely compliant):

[birddog]

I’m telling ya, those old style dogs still exist. They are not AKC GSDs, but better... ;-)

My female is very close in structure to that of Flora. Moriah is a touch long bodied and a little thicker bone, but very close....

Search ISSR Shiloh Shepherds. You will be hearing more in a couple years as the rare breed gets AKC recognition. Tons of images out there....

If you want any additional info, PM me....