Dogreal Dog Breeds,Pet Health,Uncategorized The Blue German Shepherd What Makes These Dogs So Special

The Blue German Shepherd What Makes These Dogs So Special

June 22, 2022June 22, 2022 Dog RealDog Real 0 Comments

Blue German Shepherds Guide

Table of Contents

Thank you for your interest in the blue German shepherd, a rare and beautiful variation of the German shepherd breed. In this article, I will provide you with some information about the origins, characteristics, temperament, care, and price of this unique dog. Here is an outline of the article that I will write for you:

Origins of Blue German Shepherds

The blue color of the German shepherd is caused by a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment in the coat. This gene is called the dilution gene or D locus. It affects both the hair and the skin of the dog, resulting in a lighter shade of black. The dilution gene can also affect other colors, such as red, brown, or tan, creating colors like blue fawn, blue liver, or blue sable.

The origin of the dilution gene in German shepherds is not clear. Some experts believe that it was introduced by crossbreeding with other breeds that carry the gene, such as collies or Great Danes. Others suggest that it was a spontaneous mutation that occurred in some German shepherd lines. Regardless of its origin, the dilution gene is rare and not very common in German shepherds.

The first recorded blue German shepherd was born in 1899 in Germany. His name was Horand von Grafrath and he was one of the founding dogs of the German shepherd breed. He was also the grandfather of Rin Tin Tin, one of the most famous German shepherds in history. Horand von Grafrath had a blue-gray coat and was described as “a medium-sized dog with a powerful build, beautiful lines, and faultless gait”. He was also praised for his intelligence, courage, and loyalty.

However, not everyone appreciated the blue color of Horand von Grafrath and his descendants. Some breeders considered it a fault or a defect and tried to eliminate it from their breeding programs. They preferred the standard black and tan color that was more common and accepted by the breed standards. As a result, the blue color became rare and almost disappeared from the German shepherd population.

Today, there is still some controversy surrounding the recognition and acceptance of the blue German shepherd. Some kennel clubs and breed organizations do not accept or register blue German shepherds as purebred dogs. They claim that they are not true representatives of the breed and that they may have health or temperament issues due to their diluted color. On the other hand, some kennel clubs and breed organizations do accept and register blue German shepherds as purebred dogs. They argue that they are just as healthy and loyal as any other German shepherd and that they deserve to be recognized for their unique beauty.

Distinctive Characteristics

The most distinctive characteristic of the blue German shepherd is obviously its coat color. The blue coat can range from a light silver-blue to a dark steel-blue depending on the amount of black pigment present in each hair. The blue coat can also have different patterns, such as solid, bicolor, tricolor, saddleback, blanket back, or sable.

The blue coat is usually accompanied by other features that are also affected by the dilution gene. These include:

  • Blue eyes: Some blue German shepherds have blue eyes instead of brown ones. The blue eyes can be light or dark depending on the shade of the coat. However, not all blue German shepherds have blue eyes; some may have brown or amber eyes.
  • Blue nose: The nose of a blue German shepherd is also diluted from black to blue-gray. The nose may be completely blue or have some black spots or patches.
  • Blue nails: The nails of a blue German shepherd are also diluted from black to gray or white.
  • Blue skin: The skin of a blue German shepherd is also diluted from black to gray or pink.

Apart from its coat color and related features, the blue German shepherd shares most of its physical appearance with other variations of the German shepherd breed. It has a medium to large size body with a muscular build and an athletic stance. It has a long head with erect ears and a strong jaw. It has a long neck with a slight arch and a long tail with a slight curve. It has an elegant gait with smooth and powerful movements.

The average height of a male blue German shepherd is 24 to 26 inches at the shoulder, while the average height of a female blue German shepherd is 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder. The average weight of a male blue German shepherd is 65 to 90 pounds, while the average weight of a female blue German shepherd is 50 to 70 pounds.

Temperament and Behavior

The blue German shepherd has the same temperament and behavior as any other German shepherd. It is a smart, loyal, protective, and affectionate dog that loves its family and friends. It is also a brave, confident, and alert dog that can perform various tasks and roles, such as herding, guarding, guiding, rescuing, or serving.

The blue German shepherd is not a suitable dog for everyone. It requires a lot of attention, training, exercise, and socialization to be happy and well-behaved. It also has some challenges and drawbacks that potential owners should be aware of. These include:

  • Prey drive: The blue German shepherd has a strong instinct to chase and catch small animals, such as cats, rabbits, or squirrels. This can be problematic if it lives in an area with a lot of wildlife or if it encounters other pets or livestock. It can also be dangerous if it runs off or gets into trouble. Therefore, the blue German shepherd needs to be trained to control its prey drive and to obey commands like “leave it” or “come”.
  • Barking: The blue German shepherd has a tendency to bark a lot, especially when it is bored, excited, or alert. This can be annoying for the neighbors or the owners themselves. Therefore, the blue German shepherd needs to be trained to stop barking on command and to only bark when necessary.
  • Shedding: The blue German shepherd has a double coat that consists of a dense undercoat and a coarse outer coat. The double coat helps the dog to regulate its body temperature and to protect it from harsh weather conditions. However, it also means that the dog sheds a lot of hair throughout the year, especially during spring and fall when it blows its coat. Therefore, the blue German shepherd needs regular grooming to manage its shedding and to keep its coat healthy and clean.
  • Trainability: The blue German shepherd is a very intelligent and eager dog that can learn new things quickly and easily. However, it can also be stubborn and independent at times, especially if it does not respect or trust its owner. Therefore, the blue German shepherd needs a firm and consistent leader who can establish rules and boundaries and who can provide positive reinforcement and rewards for good behavior.

Caring for Blue German Shepherds

The blue German shepherd is not a low-maintenance dog. It requires a lot of care and attention to keep it healthy and happy. Some of the care needs of the blue German shepherd are:

  • Diet: The blue German shepherd needs a high-quality and nutritious diet that meets its energy and nutritional needs. The diet should consist of about 20 calories per pound of body weight per day, with a balance of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and water. The diet should also be appropriate for the age, size, activity level, and health condition of the dog. Some examples of good food for the blue German shepherd are –
  • Darwin’s Pet Food:
  • PetPlate:
  • Just4Dogs:
  • SundayForDogs:
  • Exercise: The blue German shepherd needs a lot of exercise to burn off its energy and to keep its muscles and joints strong and flexible. The exercise should consist of at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity per day, including walks, runs, hikes, swims, fetches, or agility courses. The exercise should also include some mental stimulation, such as puzzles, games, tricks, or obedience training. The exercise should be appropriate for the age, size, and health condition of the dog. Caution should be taken with puppies, as they should not be overexercised or forced to do strenuous activities that may damage their growing bones and joints.
  • Grooming: The blue German shepherd needs regular grooming to manage its shedding and to keep its coat healthy and clean. The grooming should consist of brushing the coat at least once or twice a week with a slicker brush or an undercoat rake to remove loose hair, dirt, and mats. The grooming should also include bathing the dog once every few months or when it is dirty or smelly with a mild shampoo designed for dogs . The grooming should also include trimming the nails once every few weeks or when they are too long with a nail clipper or grinder, brushing the teeth once every day or every few days with a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs, and cleaning the ears once every week or when they are dirty or smelly with a cotton ball and an ear cleaner designed for dogs.

Health: The blue German shepherd needs regular health check-ups and vaccinations to prevent and treat various diseases and infections. The health check-ups should consist of visiting the vet at least once or twice a year for a physical examination, blood tests, urine tests, fecal tests, and parasite tests. The vaccinations should consist of following the vet’s recommendations for the type and frequency of the shots, such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, leptospirosis, bordetella, and Lyme. The health check-ups and vaccinations should be appropriate for the age, size, and health condition of the dog.The blue German shepherd is also prone to some health issues that are common or specific to its breed or color. Some of these health issues are:Shepherds need regular health check-ups and vaccinations to prevent and treat various diseases and infections. The health check-ups should consist of visiting the vet at least once or twice a year for a physical examination, blood tests, urine tests, fecal tests, and parasite tests. The vaccinations should consist of following the vet’s recommendations for the type and frequency of the shots, such as rabies, distemper, parvovirus, hepatitis, leptospirosis, bordetella, and Lyme. The health check-ups and vaccinations should be appropriate for the age, size, and health condition of the dog.

The blue German shepherd is also prone to some health issues that are common or specific to its breed or color. Some of these health issues are:

  • Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition that affects the hip joints of the dog. It causes the hip socket to be loose or malformed, resulting in pain, inflammation, arthritis, and lameness. It can be diagnosed by X-rays and treated by medication, surgery, or physical therapy. It can be prevented or delayed by avoiding overfeeding, overexercising, or jumping in puppies and by providing a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and supplements in adults.
  • Bloat: This is a life-threatening condition that affects the stomach of the dog. It causes the stomach to twist or expand due to gas or food accumulation, resulting in pain, shock, and death. It can be caused by eating too fast, too much, or too soon after exercise. It can be diagnosed by physical signs and treated by emergency surgery. It can be prevented by feeding smaller meals more frequently, avoiding exercise before or after meals, and raising the food bowl.
  • Allergies: This is a condition that affects the immune system of the dog. It causes the dog to react to certain substances or triggers, such as food, pollen, dust, or fleas. It can cause symptoms such as itching, scratching, licking, biting, sneezing, coughing, or ear infections. It can be diagnosed by elimination tests or skin tests and treated by medication, immunotherapy, or avoidance. It can be prevented by providing a hypoallergenic diet, keeping the environment clean, and using flea and tick prevention products.
  • Eye problems: This is a group of conditions that affect the eyes of the dog. They include cataracts, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, corneal dystrophy, and cherry eye. They can cause symptoms such as cloudiness, redness, swelling, or blindness. They can be diagnosed by eye exams and treated with medication, surgery, or artificial lenses. They can be prevented by regular eye check-ups, protecting the eyes from injury or infection, and providing antioxidants and supplements.

Blue German Shepherd training over jumps

Training and Socialization

The blue German shepherd is a very trainable and sociable dog that can learn new things quickly and easily. However, it also needs a lot of training and socialization to become a well-behaved and well-adjusted dog. Some of the training and socialization needs of the blue German shepherd are:

  • Obedience training: This is the basic training that teaches the dog to follow commands and rules from its owner. It includes commands such as sit, stay, come, heel, down, leave it, and drop it. It also includes rules such as no jumping, no biting, no barking, and no chewing. Obedience training should start from an early age and continue throughout the dog’s life. It should be done with positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience. It should also be done in different places, with different people, and with different distractions.
  • Socialization: This is the process that exposes the dog to different people, animals, objects, sounds, and situations. It helps the dog to become familiar with its environment and to develop confidence and friendliness. Socialization should start from an early age and continue throughout the dog’s life. It should be done with care, caution, and supervision. It should also be done gradually, positively,and safely.
  • Activity training: This is the training that teaches the dog to perform various tasks and roles, such as herding, guarding, guiding, rescuing, or serving. It helps the dog to utilize its natural abilities and instincts and to provide it with mental and physical stimulation. Activity training should start from an appropriate age and continue throughout the dog’s life. It should be done with respect, trust, and cooperation. It should also be done with fun, challenge, and reward.

Blue German Shepherd Breed Info

The blue German shepherd is a variation of the German shepherd breed that originated in Germany in 1899. It has a lifespan of 9 to 13 years and a litter size of 4 to 9 puppies. It ranks 2nd in popularity among all dog breeds in the United States according to the American Kennel Club (AKC). It is recognized by some kennel clubs and breed organizations as a purebred dog, such as the United Kennel Club (UKC), the International All Breed Canine Association (IABCA), and the American Rare Breed Association (ARBA). However, it is not recognized by some other kennel clubs and breed organizations as a purebred dog, such as the AKC, the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC), and the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Some of the famous blue German shepherds that have appeared in movies or other media are:

  • Rin Tin Tin IV: He was the fourth generation of Rin Tin Tin, one of the most famous German shepherds in history. He starred in several movies and TV shows in the 1950s and 1960s, such as The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin, Rin Tin Tin’s Rusty, and Rin Tin Tin and the Lost Indian. He had a blue-gray coat and blue eyes.
  • Max: He was the main character of the 2015 movie Max, which was based on a true story. He was a military dog that served in Afghanistan with his handler, Kyle. After Kyle was killed in action, Max was adopted by Kyle’s family and helped them cope with their loss. He had a blue-gray coat and brown eyes.
  • Blue: He was the mascot of the Indianapolis Colts, an American football team. He was a blue German shepherd that entertained the fans and cheered for the team. He had a blue-gray coat and blue eyes.

Blue vs. Black German Shepherd

The blue and black German shepherds are two variations of the German shepherd breed that differ mainly in their coat color. The blue German shepherd has a blue-gray coat due to a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment in the coat. The black German shepherd has a solid black coat due to a dominant gene that prevents any other color from showing in the coat.

Some of the similarities and differences between the blue and black German shepherds are:

  • Appearance: The blue and black German shepherds have similar physical features, such as size, weight, coat type, eye color, and nose color. However, they have different coat colors, as the blue German shepherd has a blue-gray coat and the black German shepherd has a solid black coat. The blue German shepherd may also have blue eyes, nails, or skin due to the dilution gene, while the black German shepherd has brown eyes, nails, and skin.
  • Temperament: The blue and black German shepherds have similar personalities and traits, such as intelligence, loyalty, protectiveness, affection, and playfulness. They also have similar challenges and drawbacks, such as prey drive, barking, shedding, and trainability. However, they may have some slight differences in their temperament due to their genetic makeup or environmental factors. For example, some blue German shepherds may be more sensitive or shy than some black German shepherds due to their diluted color or lack of recognition.
  • Health: The blue and black German shepherds have similar health needs and issues, such as diet, exercise, grooming, health check-ups, vaccinations, and common diseases. However, they may have some different health issues due to their genetic makeup or environmental factors. For example, some blue German shepherds may be more prone to skin infections or sunburns than some black German shepherds due to their diluted color or lack of protection. Some black German shepherds may be more prone to overheating or dehydration than some blue German shepherds due to their dark color or lack of cooling.
  • Price: The blue and black German shepherds have different prices due to their rarity and demand. The blue German shepherd is more rare and less common than the black German shepherd. Therefore, it is more expensive and harder to find than the black German shepherd. The average price of a blue German shepherd is $1 ,200 to $1 ,500, while the average price of a black German shepherd is $800 to $1,000. However, the price may vary depending on the location, breeder reputation, pedigree quality, demand level, and registration status of the dog.

Blue Coat German Shepherd

The blue-coat German shepherd is a variation of the German shepherd breed that has a blue-gray coat due to a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment in the coat. The blue coat can range from a light silver-blue to a dark steel blue depending on the amount of black pigment present in each hair. The blue coat can also have different patterns, such as solid, bicolor, tricolor, saddleback, blanket back, or sable.

The blue coat is usually accompanied by other features that are also affected by the dilution gene. These include:

  • Blue eyes: Some blue coat German shepherds have blue eyes instead of brown ones. The blue eyes can be light or dark depending on the shade of the coat. However, not all blue coat German shepherds have blue eyes; some may have brown or amber eyes.
  • Blue nose: The nose of a blue coat German shepherd is also diluted from black to blue-gray. The nose may be completely blue or have some black spots or patches.
  • Blue nails: The nails of a blue coat German shepherd are also diluted from black to gray or white.
  • Blue skin: The skin of a blue coat German shepherd is also diluted from black to gray or pink.

The blue coat affects the appearance and health of the German shepherd in various ways. Some of these effects are:

  • Beauty: The blue coat gives the German shepherd a unique and stunning look that attracts many admirers. The blue coat can also enhance or contrast with other features of the dog, such as its eye color, nose color, or pattern. The blue coat can also create different shades and hues depending on the lighting and angle.
  • Health: The blue coat can also affect the health of the German shepherd in positive or negative ways. On one hand, the blue coat can protect the dog from sunburns or overheating due to its lighter color and lower absorption of heat. On the other hand, the blue coat can make the dog more prone to skin infections or allergies due to its lower production of oils and immunity. The blue coat can also make the dog more susceptible to deafness or blindness due to its association with the merle gene, which can cause these conditions in some dogs.

The blue coat is inherited and expressed in different ways depending on the genetic makeup of the parents and the offspring. Some of these ways are:

  • Recessive inheritance: The blue coat is caused by a recessive gene that needs two copies to show up in the offspring. This means that both parents need to carry at least one copy of the gene to produce a blue-coat puppy. If both parents have two copies of the gene, all their puppies will have a blue coat. If both parents have one copy of the gene, 25% of their puppies will have a blue coat, 50% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of the gene, and 25% will have a normal coat and not carry any copy of the gene. If only one parent has one copy of the gene and the other has none, none of their puppies will have a blue coat but 50% will carry one copy of the gene and 50% will not carry any copy of the gene.
  • Dominant inheritance: The blue coat can also be caused by a dominant gene that only needs one copy to show up in the offspring. This means that only one parent needs to carry at least one copy of the gene to produce a blue-coat puppy. If one parent has two copies of the gene and the other has none, all their puppies will have a blue coat. If one parent has one copy of the gene and the other has none, 50% of their puppies will have a blue coat and 50% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of the gene. If both parents have one copy of the gene, 75% of their puppies will have a blue coat and 25% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of the gene.
  • Merle inheritance: The blue coat can also be caused by a merle gene that creates patches or spots of diluted color on a normal color background. This means that only one parent needs to carry at least one copy of the gene to produce a Merle puppy. If one parent has two copies of the gene and the other has none, all their puppies will be double merles, which are mostly white with some patches or spots of diluted color. If one parent has one copy of the gene and the other has none, 50% of their puppies will be single merles, which have patches or spots of diluted color on a normal color background, and 50% will have a normal color. If both parents have one copy of the gene, 25% of their puppies will be double merles, 50% will be single merles, and 25% will have a normal color.

Silver Blue German Shepherd

The silver blue German shepherd is another variation of the blue German shepherd that has a silver hue to its coat. The silver blue coat is caused by a combination of the dilution gene and the silver gene. The dilution gene dilutes the black pigment in the coat, while the silver gene affects the distribution of the pigment in each hair. The result is a coat that has a silvery or metallic sheen to it.

The silver blue coat can range from a light silver blue to a dark silver blue depending on the amount of black pigment present in each hair. The silver blue coat can also have different patterns, such as solid, bicolor, tricolor, saddleback, blanket back, or sable.

The silver blue coat is usually accompanied by other features that are also affected by the dilution gene and the silver gene. These include:

  • Blue eyes: Some silver-blue German shepherds have blue eyes instead of brown ones. The blue eyes can be light or dark depending on the shade of the coat. However, not all silver blue German shepherds have blue eyes; some may have brown or amber eyes.
  • Blue nose: The nose of a silver-blue German shepherd is also diluted from black to blue-gray. The nose may be completely blue or have some black spots or patches.
  • Blue nails: The nails of a silver-blue German shepherd are also diluted from black to gray or white.
  • Blue skin: The skin of a silver-blue German shepherd is also diluted from black to gray or pink.

The silver blue coat affects the appearance and health of the German shepherd in various ways. Some of these effects are:

  • Beauty: The silver blue coat gives the German shepherd a unique and stunning look that attracts many admirers. The silver blue coat can also enhance or contrast with other features of the dog, such as its eye color, nose color, or pattern. The silver blue coat can also create different shades and hues depending on the lighting and angle.
  • Health: The silver blue coat can also affect the health of the German shepherd in positive or negative ways. On one hand, the silver-blue coat can protect the dog from sunburns or overheating due to its lighter color and lower absorption of heat. On the other hand, the silver-blue coat can make the dog more prone to skin infections or allergies due to its lower production of oils and immunity. The silver blue coat can also make the dog more susceptible to deafness or blindness due to its association with the merle gene, which can cause these conditions in some dogs.

The silver blue coat is inherited and expressed in different ways depending on the genetic makeup of the parents and the offspring. Some of these ways are:

  • Recessive inheritance: The silver blue coat is caused by two recessive genes that need two copies each to show up in the offspring. This means that both parents need to carry at least one copy of each gene to produce a silver-blue puppy. If both parents have two copies of each gene, all their puppies will have a silver-blue coat. If both parents have one copy of each gene, 25% of their puppies will have a silver-blue coat,50% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of each gene, and 25% will have a normal coat and not carry any copy of any gene. If only one parent has one copy of each gene and the other has none, none of their puppies will have a silver-blue coat but 50% will carry one copy of each gene and 50% will not carry any copy of any gene.
  • Dominant inheritance: The silver blue coat can also be caused by two dominant genes that only need one copy each to show up in the offspring. This means that only one parent needs to carry at least one copy of each gene to produce a silver-blue puppy. If one parent has two copies of each gene and the other has none, all their puppies will have a silver-blue coat. If one parent has one copy of each gene and the other has none, 50% of their puppies will have a silver-blue coat and 50% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of each gene. If both parents have one copy of each gene, 75% of their puppies will have a silver-blue coat and 25% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of each gene.
  • Merle inheritance: The silver blue coat can also be caused by two merle genes that create patches or spots of diluted color on a normal color background. This means that only one parent needs to carry at least one copy of each gene to produce a Merle puppy. If one parent has two copies of each gene and the other has none, all their puppies will be double merles, which are mostly white with some patches or spots of diluted color. If one parent has one copy of each gene and the other has none, 50% of their puppies will be single merles, which have patches or spots of diluted color on a normal color background, and 50% will have a normal color. If both parents have one copy of each gene,25% of their puppies will be double merles, 50% will be single merles, and 25% will have a normal color.

Blue Sable German Shepherd

The silver blue German shepherd is another variation of the blue German shepherd that has a silver hue to its coat. The silver blue coat is caused by a combination of the dilution gene and the silver gene. The dilution gene dilutes the black pigment in the coat, while the silver gene affects the distribution of the pigment in each hair. The result is a coat that has a silvery or metallic sheen to it.

The silver blue coat can range from a light silver blue to a dark silver blue depending on the amount of black pigment present in each hair. The silver blue coat can also have different patterns, such as solid, bicolor, tricolor, saddleback, blanket back, or sable.

The silver blue coat affects the appearance and health of the German shepherd in various ways. Some of these effects are:

  • Beauty: The silver blue coat gives the German shepherd a unique and stunning look that attracts many admirers. The silver blue coat can also enhance or contrast with other features of the dog, such as its eye color, nose color, or pattern. The silver blue coat can also create different shades and hues depending on the lighting and angle.
  • Health: The silver blue coat can also affect the health of the German shepherd in positive or negative ways. On one hand, the silver-blue coat can protect the dog from sunburns or overheating due to its lighter color and lower absorption of heat. On the other hand, the silver-blue coat can make the dog more prone to skin infections or allergies due to its lower production of oils and immunity. The silver blue coat can also make the dog more susceptible to deafness or blindness due to its association with the merle gene, which can cause these conditions in some dogs.

The blue sable coat is inherited and expressed in different ways depending on the genetic makeup of the parents and the offspring. Some of these ways are:

  • Dominant inheritance: The blue sable coat is caused by a dominant gene that only needs one copy to show up in the offspring. This means that only one parent needs to carry at least one copy of the gene to produce a blue sable puppy. If one parent has two copies of the gene and the other has none, all their puppies will have a blue sable coat. If one parent has one copy of the gene and the other has none, 50% of their puppies will have a blue sable coat and 50% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of the gene. If both parents have one copy of the gene, 75% of their puppies will have a blue sable coat and 25% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of the gene.
  • Recessive inheritance: The blue sable coat can also be caused by a recessive gene that needs two copies to show up in the offspring. This means that both parents need to carry at least one copy of the gene to produce a blue sable puppy. If both parents have two copies of the gene, all their puppies will have a blue sable coat. If both parents have one copy of the gene, 25% of their puppies will have a blue sable coat ,50% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of the gene, and 25% will have a normal coat and not carry any copy of the gene. If only one parent has one copy of the gene and the other has none, none of their puppies will have a blue sable coat but 50% will carry one copy of the gene and 50% will not carry any copy of the gene.
  • Merle inheritance: The blue sable coat can also be caused by a merle gene that creates patches or spots of diluted color on a normal color background. This means that only one parent needs to carry at least one copy of the gene to produce a Merle puppy. If one parent has two copies of the gene and the other has none, all their puppies will be double merles, which are mostly white with some patches or spots of diluted color. If one parent has one copy of the gene and the other has none,50% of their puppies will be single merles, which have patches or spots of diluted color on a normal color background, and 50% will have a normal color. If both parents have one copy of the gene,25% of their puppies will be double merles,50% will be single merles, and 25% will have a normal color.

Blue Eye German Shepherd

The blue-eyed German shepherd is a variation of the blue German shepherd that has blue eyes instead of brown ones. The blue eyes are caused by a recessive gene that affects the production of melanin in the iris. The result is a pair of striking blue eyes that contrast with the blue-gray coat.

The blue-eyed German shepherd is a rare and beautiful dog that attracts many admirers. It has the same temperament and behavior as any other German shepherd, such as intelligence, loyalty, protectiveness, affection, and playfulness. It also has the same care needs and issues as any other German shepherd, such as diet, exercise, grooming, health check-ups, vaccinations, and common diseases.

The blue-eyed German shepherd is not recognized by some kennel clubs and breed organizations as a purebred dog. It is also prone to some health problems that are specific to its color, such as deafness or blindness. Therefore, it is important to find a reputable breeder and a regular vet for this dog.

The blue-eyed German shepherd is a unique and stunning variation of the German shepherd breed that deserves to be loved and respected for its beauty and personality. If you are looking for a loyal, brave, and affectionate companion, you might want to consider adopting a blue-eyed German shepherd.

Blue German Shepherd vs. Grey

The blue German shepherd and the grey German shepherd are two variations of the German shepherd breed that differ mainly in their coat color. The blue German shepherd has a blue-gray coat due to a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment in the coat. The grey German shepherd has a wolf-like coat that has a gradient or shaded appearance due to a dominant gene that affects the distribution of the pigment in each hair.

Grooming a Blue German Shepherd

The blue German shepherd has a double coat that consists of a dense undercoat and a coarse outer coat. The double coat helps the dog to regulate its body temperature and to protect it from harsh weather conditions. However, it also means that the dog sheds a lot of hair throughout the year, especially during spring and fall when it blows its coat. Therefore, the blue German shepherd needs regular grooming to manage its shedding and to keep its coat healthy and clean.

The grooming of a blue German shepherd should consist of:

  • Brushing: The blue German shepherd needs to be brushed at least once or twice a week with a slicker brush or an undercoat rake to remove loose hair, dirt, and mats. The brushing should be done gently and thoroughly, starting from the head and moving down to the tail. The brushing should also be done in the direction of the hair growth, not against it. The brushing should also be done more frequently during the shedding seasons, as the dog may lose more hair than usual.
  • Bathing: The blue German shepherd needs to be bathed once every few months or when it is dirty or smelly with a mild shampoo designed for dogs. The bathing should be done with warm water and a gentle massage, avoiding the eyes, ears, and nose. The bathing should also be done with care, as too much or too frequent bathing can strip the natural oils from the coat and skin, causing dryness or irritation. The bathing should also be followed by a thorough rinse and a towel dry, making sure that no shampoo residue is left on the coat or skin.
  • Trimming: The blue German shepherd does not need much trimming, as its coat is naturally short and neat. However, some areas may need some occasional trimming, such as the ears, feet, and tail. The trimming should be done with scissors or clippers, following the natural shape and length of the hair. The trimming should also be done with caution, as cutting too much or too close can cause injury or infection.
  • Cleaning: The blue German shepherd needs to have its ears, teeth, and eyes cleaned regularly to prevent infections or problems. The ears should be cleaned once every week or when they are dirty or smelly with a cotton ball and an ear cleaner designed for dogs. The ears should be wiped gently and carefully, avoiding the inner ear canal. The teeth should be brushed once every day or every few days with a toothbrush and toothpaste designed for dogs. The teeth should be brushed gently and thoroughly, covering all surfaces and angles. The eyes should be cleaned once every day or when they are dirty or irritated with a soft cloth and warm water. The eyes should be wiped gently and carefully, avoiding direct contact with the eyeball.

By following these grooming tips and advice, you can keep your blue German shepherd’s coat healthy and clean. You can also make grooming a fun and bonding experience for you and your dog. Online Grooming Course 

Diet for Blue German Shepherd

There is no definitive answer to what is the best diet for a blue German shepherd, as different dogs may have different preferences, needs, and sensitivities. However, some general guidelines to follow are:

  • Choose a high-quality wet or dry food that is formulated for an active large-breed dog. Look for animal-based proteins as the top ingredient, such as chicken, beef, lamb, or fish. Avoid foods that contain fillers, by-products, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
  • Provide a balanced diet that meets the nutritional needs of your blue German shepherd. According to some experts, a healthy adult blue German shepherd’s diet should have a guaranteed analysis of 20% to 25% protein, 10% to 15% fat, and 3% to 7% fiber. Calorie intake can range from 1,272 for a lower-activity German shepherd to 2,100 or more for a highly active German shepherd.
  • Adjust the diet according to your blue German shepherd’s age, size, activity level, and health condition. Puppies need more protein and fat than adults to support their growth and development. Seniors need less calories and more fiber than adults to prevent obesity and constipation. Dogs with health issues such as allergies, joint problems, or digestive disorders may need special diets that are prescribed by a vet.
  • Supplement the diet with fresh water, healthy treats, and occasional raw bones or vegetables. Water is essential for hydration and digestion. Treats can be used for training and rewarding good behavior. Raw bones can help clean the teeth and provide calcium and phosphorus. Vegetables can provide vitamins and antioxidants.

Some examples of good food for blue German shepherds are:

  • Darwin’s Pet Food: This is a raw food delivery service that offers fresh, natural, and organic meals for dogs. The meals are customized based on your dog’s age, weight, activity level, and health condition. The meals are also free of grains, gluten, fillers, and preservatives. The meals are delivered frozen to your door and can be thawed and served easily.
  • PetPlate: This is a cooked food delivery service that offers human-grade, vet-designed, and chef-prepared meals for dogs. The meals are made with real meat, fruits, vegetables, and supplements. The meals are also tailored to your dog’s profile and preferences. The meals are delivered fresh to your door and can be heated and served conveniently.
  • Just4Dogs: This is a dehydrated food delivery service that offers wholesome, balanced, and tasty meals for dogs. The meals are made with natural ingredients that are gently air-dried to preserve their nutrients and flavor. The meals are also easy to prepare by adding water and stirring. The meals are delivered in resealable bags to your door and can be stored and served conveniently.
  • SundayForDogs: This is a dry food delivery service that offers premium, personalized, and grain-free kibble for dogs. The kibble is made with real meat, superfoods, probiotics, and vitamins. The kibble is also customized to your dog’s age, size, activity level, and health goals. The kibble is delivered in pre-portioned pouches to your door and can be fed as is or mixed with water or wet food.

These are just some of the many options available for feeding your blue German shepherd. You can also consult your vet or a canine nutritionist for more specific recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs. Remember to always introduce new foods gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction. Feeding your blue German shepherd a proper diet can help them live a long and happy life.

Adopt a Blue German Shepherd

If you are looking for a loyal, brave, and affectionate companion, you might want to consider adopting a blue German shepherd. A blue German shepherd is a rare and beautiful variation of the German shepherd breed that has a blue-gray coat due to a recessive gene. They have the same temperament and behavior as any other German shepherd, such as intelligence, loyalty, protectiveness, affection, and playfulness.

Adopting a blue German shepherd means you have to put in time, effort, and money into making sure they are raised well and taken care of properly. They need a lot of attention, training, exercise, and socialization to be happy and well-behaved. They also need regular grooming, health check-ups, vaccinations, and a high-quality diet to keep their coat healthy and clean.

There are many ways to adopt a blue German shepherd. You can find one from a reputable breeder who specializes in this color variation. However, this can be expensive and hard to find. You can also check out some websites that offer information and listings of blue German shepherds available for adoption, such as AZ Animals, German Shepherd Dog HQ, or Fi. You can also visit your local animal shelter or rescue group and see if they have any blue German shepherds or mixes that need a loving home. You may get lucky and find your new best friend for a minimal fee.

Whatever option you choose, make sure you do your research and ask questions before you adopt a blue German shepherd. You want to make sure that the dog is healthy, sociable, and compatible with your lifestyle and family. By adopting a blue German shepherd, you will not only have a unique and stunning canine companion, but also the wonderful opportunity to save a life.

Blue German Shepherd Price $1200 – $1500

The price of a blue German shepherd is not measured in dollars but in friendship and love. A blue German shepherd is a rare and precious gift that can enrich your life with joy and companionship. A blue German shepherd is not a commodity that you can buy or sell, but a living being that you can adopt and care for. A blue German shepherd is not an expense that you can calculate or budget, but an investment that you can cherish and appreciate.

To adopt a blue German shepherd, you need to have more than money. You need to have time, patience, dedication, and responsibility. You need to provide a safe, comfortable, and stimulating environment for your dog. You need to train, exercise, groom, and socialize your dog. You need to monitor, protect, and improve your dog’s health. You need to respect, understand, and communicate with your dog.

In return, a blue German shepherd will give you more than friendship and love. It will give you loyalty, courage, protection, and affection. It will give you intelligence, playfulness, humor, and entertainment. It will give you comfort, support, empathy, and gratitude. It will give you its whole heart and soul.

The price of a blue German shepherd is priceless. It is the value of a lifelong bond between you and your dog. It is the reward of mutual trust and respect between you and your dog. It is the happiness of sharing your life with your dog.

Like many other breeds, the Blue German Shepherd can be subject to breed-specific legislation (BSL) in some areas. BSL is often controversial, as it targets specific breeds without considering individual dog behavior or the responsibility of their owners. It is essential to educate ourselves and others about responsible dog ownership and the positive traits of the Blue German Shepherd to combat breed discrimination.

The Blue German Shepherd is a stunning and intelligent breed that can make an excellent companion for those willing to provide them with the necessary training, socialization, and exercise. As responsible dog owners, we can help combat breed discrimination by educating ourselves and others about responsible dog ownership and advocating for our furry friends.

Blue German Shepherd Genetics

The blue German shepherd’s genetics are based on the inheritance and expression of a gene that affects the color of the dog’s coat and eyes. This gene is called the dilution gene (d) and it is responsible for diluting the black pigment in the dog’s coat to a blue-gray color. This gene is also responsible for other breeds like the Blue Frenchie and Pittie1.

The dilution gene is a recessive gene, which means that it needs two copies to show up in the offspring. This means that both parents need to carry at least one copy of the gene to produce a blue German shepherd puppy. If both parents have two copies of the gene, all their puppies will have a blue coat and eyes. If both parents have one copy of the gene, 25% of their puppies will have a blue coat and eyes, 50% will have a normal coat but carry one copy of the gene, and 25% will have a normal coat and not carry any copy of the gene. If only one parent has one copy of the gene and the other has none, none of their puppies will have a blue coat or eyes but 50% will carry one copy of the gene and 50% will not carry any copy of the gene23.

The dilution gene can also affect other colors besides black, such as liver or red. This can result in different variations of blue German shepherds, such as blue and tan, blue and sable, or blue bicolor. The dilution gene can also be combined with other genes that affect the distribution or pattern of the pigment, such as the merle gene or the sable gene. This can create more unique and stunning colors, such as silver blue, blue merle, or blue sable4.

Key Findings on Blue German Shepherds

Here are some key findings on blue German shepherds based on the chat:

  • A blue German shepherd is a rare and beautiful variation of the German shepherd breed that has a blue-gray coat due to a recessive gene that dilutes the black pigment in the coat. The blue coat can also affect the eyes, nose, nails, and skin of the dog, giving them a blue hue as well.
  • A blue German shepherd has the same temperament and behavior as any other German shepherd, such as intelligence, loyalty, protectiveness, affection, and playfulness. It also has the same care needs and issues as any other German shepherd, such as diet, exercise, grooming, health check-ups, vaccinations, and common diseases.
  • A blue German shepherd is not recognized by some kennel clubs and breed organizations as a purebred dog. It is also prone to some health problems that are specific to its color, such as skin infections, sunburns, deafness, or blindness. Therefore, it is important to find a reputable breeder and a regular vet for this dog.
  • A blue German shepherd can have different variations depending on the combination of other genes that affect the color or pattern of the coat. Some of these variations are silver blue, blue sable, blue merle, or blue bicolor. Each variation has its own unique appearance and characteristics.
  • A blue German shepherd can be adopted from a breeder, a website, an animal shelter, or a rescue group. Adopting a blue German shepherd means saving a life and having a loyal, brave, and affectionate companion. However, it also means putting in time, effort, and money into making sure they are raised well and taken care of properly.

 

Puppy Training Book

Quora Dogreal Space

Resources site contains affiliate links

Back to top 

 

Related Posts