The popularity of DDR German Shepherds, also known as Deutsches Demokratische Republik German Shepherds, has been growing for many years now. During both World Wars German Shepherds were sought after to work side by side with the military due to their loyalty, intelligence and working ability. Before the Cold War began Germany worked as one nation, but during the Cold War the borders were closed by the Soviet Union and Germany’s two nations East Germany and West Germany was formed. East Germany is also known at Deutches Demokratische Republik.

The East German Communist Party took control of the breeding and registration of the German Shepherd pedigree and made the German Shepherd part of its military. They were specifically bred to have strong, large heads and to have incredible athleticism and power. If any of the German Shepherds showed signs of a weak temperament, hip dysplasia or any other disease they were not used for breeding.

The DDR dogs were trained to out-perform the West German Shepherd dogs by scaling straight six-foot walls, endure long patrols in harsh weather conditions and much more. The DDR’s worked as Border Police and guarded the East German border that is 850 miles long, in addition to the Berlin Wall. Their main duty was to track deserters and attack.

In 1989 the German borders opened and the use of the DDR dogs were not necessary any longer. Just months after the border opened about 50,000 guards were dismissed from duty and the DDR dogs were either abandoned, put down or sold to others that would use them for similar purposes.

The DDR Dogs Today

There are many breeders located worldwide that are dedicated to keeping this breed preserved. They are well known today for their devotion to their owners and family, balanced temperament, impressive tracking abilities, natural drive, physical structure and intelligence. Today the DDR lineage lives on and they are now great family dogs as well as guard dogs and tracking dogs.

Are DDR German Shepherds Good with Children?

Yes. If they are socialized from a young age to be around children they are great. Since the DDR dogs have a balanced temperament and are extremely loyal to their family they will protect your child as well as be a fun playmate. After a while you will almost feel like your DDR German Shepherd is a baby sitter for your children.

Are DDR German Shepherds Still Working Dogs?

They continue to work with police and military forces throughout the world. Their intelligence allows them to continue to be first choice as working dogs and they continue to impress with their tracking skills. They are incredible search and rescue dogs and extremely helpful with missing persons cases.

Wll a DDR German Shepherd Protect a Family?

DDR dogs are very loyal to their dog owner and family. They consider themselves being part of your pack and they will use their natural protective instincts to guard your family, your home and yard from harm. Although you should always take precautions of your own to keep your home and family safe, your DDR German Shepherd will happily stand up and guard.

Do DDR German Shepherds have Hip Dysplasia?

The presence of hip dysplasia is rare in DDR German Shepherds since it was carefully weeded out during breeding practices in East Germany. The standard GSD still has hip dysplasia that gets passed down from generation to generation. In a rare occasion it is possible that a DDR German Shepherd may develop hip dysplasia. However, when under veterinarian care there are a variety of helpful solutions to make your dog more comfortable when living with hip dysplasia.

The interesting history of the DDR German Shepherd and the unique working abilities make them a popular choice for many dog owners worldwide. Whether you live on a farm and you are looking for a guard dog or live in a home with children, the DDR German Shepherd will happily become a beneficial and loving part of your family.

When choosing to welcome a DDR German Shepherd into your home, make sure you choose to deal with a reputable breeder that truly cares for the breed and has good breeding practices.