Berger Blanc Suisse
The Berger Blanc Suisse (German: Weisser Schweizer Schäferhund, White Swiss Shepherd Dog) is a breed of dog from Switzerland. It is of the same origins as the White Shepherd Dog and the German Shepherd Dog, but has been recognized as a separate breed by the FCI.
History
On 3 April 1899, the first German Shepherd Dog as we know the breed today is officially registered. This dog was a completely white coated male, and was used by cattle and sheep herders at that time, they used this white dog to distinguish them from wolves.
After the creation of the German Shepherd breed, all colours were accepted. It was in the first decades of the 20th century, when the white exemplaries were excluded, therefore persecuted and almost wiped out in Europe.
The first White Shepherd club was founded in the 1970s in America. Meanwhile the breed appeared again in Europe. At first in Switzerland and Denmark, Germany came next. Slowly, the European cynological societies began to open their stud books to the White Shepherd.
The dog Lobo, born in 1966, was the first White Shepherd to be registered in Europe, specifically in Switzerland. The breed was recognized in Switzerland 1991, the Netherlands followed in 1992. The Czech Republic, Austria and Denmark also recognized the breed.
Temperament
He is gentle, very intelligent and learns easily. He is loyal to his family and may be wary around strangers, but should never show shy or fearful behavior. Some people think the Arctic Wolf was mixed with the breed to create his caution, but this is not the case. The Berger Blanc Suisse gets along well with other dogs and is also excellent for training, such as agility, search and rescue, and obedience. They are even seen doing protection work, though they are not used for that very often and are not always up for the job. They are also used as assistance dogs and occasionally for mushing.
The character of the Berger Blanc Suisse is gentler and mellower than that of the German Shepherd Dog, but when it comes down to it he is very much capable of and will protect his family.
History
On 3 April 1899, the first German Shepherd Dog as we know the breed today is officially registered. This dog was a completely white coated male, and was used by cattle and sheep herders at that time, they used this white dog to distinguish them from wolves.
After the creation of the German Shepherd breed, all colours were accepted. It was in the first decades of the 20th century, when the white exemplaries were excluded, therefore persecuted and almost wiped out in Europe.
The first White Shepherd club was founded in the 1970s in America. Meanwhile the breed appeared again in Europe. At first in Switzerland and Denmark, Germany came next. Slowly, the European cynological societies began to open their stud books to the White Shepherd.
The dog Lobo, born in 1966, was the first White Shepherd to be registered in Europe, specifically in Switzerland. The breed was recognized in Switzerland 1991, the Netherlands followed in 1992. The Czech Republic, Austria and Denmark also recognized the breed.
Temperament
He is gentle, very intelligent and learns easily. He is loyal to his family and may be wary around strangers, but should never show shy or fearful behavior. Some people think the Arctic Wolf was mixed with the breed to create his caution, but this is not the case. The Berger Blanc Suisse gets along well with other dogs and is also excellent for training, such as agility, search and rescue, and obedience. They are even seen doing protection work, though they are not used for that very often and are not always up for the job. They are also used as assistance dogs and occasionally for mushing.
The character of the Berger Blanc Suisse is gentler and mellower than that of the German Shepherd Dog, but when it comes down to it he is very much capable of and will protect his family.
Activities
Berger Blanc Suise can compete in dog agility trials, obedience, showmanship, flyball, tracking, and herding events. Herding instincts and trainability can be measured at noncompetitive herding tests. Berger Blanc Suisse exhibiting basic herding instincts can be trained to compete in herding trials. Train-ability Due to its need for human relationships and eagerness to please and impress its owner, the Berger Blanc Suisse generally responds well to basic training and commands. These bright dogs have the ability to learn to perform most any task their trainer is willing to take the time to teach. Establishing immediate dominance, trust, and respect is key to successfully training the Berger Blanc Suisse. This breed responds best to a stern yet gentle approach by a patient, confident, and serious handler. Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed There are many benefits to owning a Berger Blanc Suisse, such as its no hassle, low maintenance coat. This intelligent breed is easy to train and capable of learning to perform many impressive tricks and tasks. When properly socialized from a young age, the Berger Blanc Suisse gets along well with small children and other pets. These dogs are alert and somewhat territorial, making effective watch and guard dogs, announcing the arrival of guests and unwanted visitors, and serving as a deterrent to would-be intruders. The Berger Blanc Suisse is obedient, loyal, loving, and affectionate, making an excellent working dog, companion, and family pet alike. Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Berger Blanc Suisse. These energetic and athletic dogs require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play, especially when under two years of age. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Berger Blanc Suisse not receiving the proper amount of exercise and space will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking. The Berger Blanc Suisse has a strong instinct to herd and will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, this breed is rather quick, and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The Berger Blanc Suisse must be leashed or properly secured at all times when outdoors. As previously mentioned, the Berger Blanc Suisse remains somewhat rare world wide and can prove quite difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists. |
Common Health Concerns
While the Berger Blanc Suisse is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, primary lens luxation - dislocation of the lens, von Willebrands Disease - a blood clotting disorder, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Berger Blanc Suisse? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
While the Berger Blanc Suisse is typically known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, primary lens luxation - dislocation of the lens, von Willebrands Disease - a blood clotting disorder, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Berger Blanc Suisse? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with your entire family.
Weight Male 30–40 kilograms (66–88 lb) Female 25–35 kilograms (55–77 lb) Height Male 60–66 centimetres (24–26 in) Female 55–61 centimetres (22–24 in) Coat Thick medium in length Color White Litter size 8 Life span 12 years