What was the primary valuation criteria for Early German Shepherd Dogs established by Captain Max von Stephanitz?
Answer
Working capability, intelligence, and structure.
When Captain Max von Stephanitz initially established the breed standard near the end of the 19th century in Germany, the emphasis was placed almost entirely on functionality rather than appearance. Early German Shepherd Dogs were highly valued for their working capability, intelligence, and sound structure. The standard at that time did not strictly enforce a singular, narrow color palette, recognizing the white coat simply as a recessive variation already present within the developing breed pool, provided the dog met the functional criteria.
Related Questions
What common misconception about the White German Shepherd coat color is explicitly denied regarding pigment?What was the primary valuation criteria for Early German Shepherd Dogs established by Captain Max von Stephanitz?How is the white coat color in the White German Shepherd genetically defined?Approximately when did the German Shepherd Dog Club (SV) begin actively discouraging the breeding of white dogs in Germany?Which organization cemented the divergence by formally recognizing the White Shepherd as a separate variety?What typically remains intact regarding the temperament of dogs in the white lines of the German Shepherd?What is the registration status today for white offspring produced by two standard-colored parents registered with the AKC?What did the lifting of selective pressure on physical traits lead to in independent white lines barred from AKC/SV shows?What philosophical difference in breeding goals reinforces the evolution into two distinct tracks for the white gene carriers?How is the historical context best described regarding the White German Shepherd's current status?