Definition

Noun: 1. A breed of large working dog: A German Shepherd is a specific breed of dog originally developed in Germany for herding sheep. It is characterized by its intelligence, strength, loyalty, and distinctive appearance, often with a tan and black or red and black coat. 2. A dog used in specialized work: Due to its traits, the breed is commonly employed in police and military work, as a service dog for people with disabilities, and in search-and-rescue operations.

Usage Examples

• As a breed name:
  • The family decided to adopt a German Shepherd from the local shelter.
  • German Shepherds are known for their courage and trainability.
• Referring to a specific dog's role:
  • The police German Shepherd successfully tracked the suspect.
  • Her German Shepherd is a certified guide dog.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used generically to refer to dogs of this breed performing specific duties, emphasizing function over just breed identity.
  • The unit deployed with several German Shepherds for patrol and detection.

Variants and Related Words

• Alsatian (noun): A chiefly British term for the same breed. This name was adopted in the UK and some other countries after World War I.
  • In the UK, you are more likely to hear the term Alsatian.
• Shepherd dog (noun): A general term for breeds originally used to herd livestock. The German Shepherd is one type of shepherd dog.
  • Other popular shepherd dogs include the Australian Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois.

Synonyms

• Working dog (noun): A dog bred or trained to perform practical tasks, such as herding, guarding, or assisting humans. (This is a broader category that includes the German Shepherd.)
• Police dog (noun): A dog trained to assist police. (This describes a role; many police dogs are German Shepherds.)

Related Phrases

• German Shepherd Dog (GSD): The full, formal name of the breed, often used in kennel club and official contexts.
  • The German Shepherd Dog is one of the most popular breeds in the United States.

Noun

1. breed of large shepherd dogs used in police work and as a guide for the blind