Generally, rare breeds are bred by individuals who are quite knowledgable about the breed and rescues are not common. Popular breeds have a much broader breeder base and often have well developed programs for dealing with rescues. In addition popular breeds are more likely to be turned into animal shelters.
In 1994 the number of individual registrations of German Shepherd Dogs with the AKC (78,999) was equal to 5.9% of the dogs registered with the AKC and German Shepherd Dogs were ranked #4 in popularity.
Since 1969 the popularity of the German Shepherd Dog has experienced a steady decline. In this sort of situation buyers need take great care to familiarize them self with the breed and to be careful that the parental stock has been screened for serious genetic problems. When looking into a slowly declining popular breed such as the German Shepherd Dog the buyer should try and determine why the breed is declining in popularity. German Shepherd Dogs have enjoyed a long history as one of the most popular breeds in the United States. Their absolute decline in popularity while other large protection breeds are on the upswing may be due to increases in genetic problems in the breed. Buying a popular breed puppy of is more like buying a used car than buying a new brand name product and the impulsive or ignorant buyer is frequently disappointed in the long run. Reliable German Shepherd Dog breeders will take the time to thoroughly discuss the breed and its virtues and problems with you.
The buyer should carefully read over any contracts offered with the puppy. The buyer should be sure that the offered contracts offer adequate assurance that the buyer's interests are protected as well as the seller's interests and the puppy's interests.
German Shepherd Dogs are courageous, loyal and obedient dogs. They thrive in a home where training and guidance is offered. They are by nature active dogs with a well developed herding instinct and are NOT 'plug and play' dogs for everyone. Ownership of a German Shepherd Dog requires time and dedication to training on the part of the owner.
Dogs = Number of German Shepherd Dog individuals registered with AKC. Litters Number of German Shepherd Dog litters registered with AKC. ************************************************************************* Year 1994 1987 1983 1969 Dogs 78999 57612 65073 102081 Litters 22415 17669 19540 na‡