East European Shepherd Dog: description, character and owner reviews. What is the difference between German and East European Shepherd Dogs?

For many dog ​​lovers, a shepherd dog evokes involuntary respect and a desire to acquire a similar, extremely loyal and amazingly beautiful friend. The most popular breeds of this type are two - the East European Shepherd and the German Shepherd, the differences among which are almost invisible to an unaware person. Nevertheless, there are many of them, and they begin with the history of the emergence, development and influence of countries, century.

The emergence of rocks

The initiator of the creation german shepherd is the captain von Stefanitz, who at the end of the 19th century decided to realize his idea. He saw a dog suitable for his idea at one of the exhibitions, which he had to attend specifically for this purpose. The captain's requests included not only the external data of the future pet (strength), but also the character - friendliness, restraint, intelligence, energy. It took Stefanitz a lifetime to develop the perfect example of the Service German Shepherd Dog. While engaged in selection, "polishing" the breed, he additionally described its standard parameters and advertised his dogs in every possible way. It is quite possible that without this, the "Germans" would have remained known only in a narrow circle of dog handlers and would not have brought great benefit for such short period existence of the breed.

History of origin east european shepherd much more complicated and there was even a period during which it almost disappeared. They began to breed this breed in 1924 at the initiative of the leadership of the USSR, using German shepherds as a base. Breeding work was carried out in a Moscow nursery, where scientists and dog handlers were given the task: to improve the German shepherd, namely to create a more massive, hardy and able to adapt to difficult climatic conditions in the open Soviet Union breed. However, due to financial problems that now and then arise in a young country, the work in the nursery has not been completed. It continued in an unspoken private order, and then only thanks to the clandestine donations of officials. At the end of the 30s in the early 40s, in order to preserve at least the first specimens, several individuals of the East European Shepherd Dogs were transported to the Sverdlovsk Region.

In the post-war period, work on breeding the breed resumed. For this, new, selected individuals of the German Shepherd from German nurseries were ordered and brought. It should be noted that crossing with other breeds of dogs was not carried out. The breeding process was strictly classified and foreign specialists were not involved in the work.

In 1964, the East European Shepherd Dogs were officially recognized as worthy of respect for their undoubted contribution during the Second World War. Using his authority, General G.L. Medvedev achieved recognition of the breeding work of dog handlers until 1977, when the second breed standard was recognized, although then the East European Shepherd Dogs were considered just a subspecies of German.

New problems for canine handlers arose in 1991 with the receipt by German shepherds of the FCI standard of an international scale with the withdrawal of the Eastern European subspecies into an illegal position, up to complete extermination.

Numerous attempts by specialists to save the breed, highlighting the difference between the East European Shepherd and the German led to success. Thanks to the RFK (canine organization), VEO was recognized as a separate breed in 2002.

Differences in appearance

The Outer German Shepherd Dog resembles a strong animal, always ready to move. The most typical physical feature that distinguishes it from its Eastern European counterpart is back... If in the first specimen it is curved in an arc, dropping to the pelvic area, then in the East European Shepherd Dog it is straight.

Due to its peculiarity, the "German" literally creeps at a trot during fast movement. In addition, his height almost never exceeds 63–65 cm, and his weight is 40 kg.

German Shepherds have a muscular, very sturdy build, erect ears and a wedge-shaped head. Their coat is straight, of medium length, rather stiff, the eyes are almond-shaped and always dark. Typically, females of this breed are often larger than males.

The larger and taller East European Shepherd Dog often weighs 50 kilograms and is 75 cm tall. Their backs are straight, but the rump is lowered slightly below the withers, which is completely normal. The run of the East European Shepherd Dog is sweeping, accompanied by powerful thrusts, although it also resembles a lynx. Dogs look especially impressive in a calm state - a wide chest, intelligent eyes, erect ears and powerful paws inevitably inspire respect for them. Females of Eastern European dogs are always smaller than males, although they are no less hardy.

Dog color

Although many people associate the color of the shepherd's coat with light gray tan, it is erroneous to perceive their breed only on this basis. Moreover, too light color indicates degenerating pigmentation and no dog handler will specifically achieve such an effect.

Color is not the same factor that distinguishes the German Shepherd from the East European, as individuals of both breeds can be black, black-backed or zoned. Nevertheless, the "Germans" are characterized by a predominantly black-and-back color with a pronounced red tan. And the East European Shepherd Dogs can have any of 3 colors, so when trying to determine the breed it is best to focus on height, skeletal structure and weight.

Temperaments of dogs

The temperaments of these breeds also differ, so when choosing a German or East European Shepherd, you need to pay attention to that. That is, they are active, they like to move a lot, are restless, but do not throw unreasonable tantrums. Therefore, it is worth buying a German shepherd for those who are looking not only for a faithful friend, but also for a companion in frequent walks, long hikes, and bicycle excursions. These are excellent watchmen, shepherds, athletes with an excellent sense of smell, which is actively used by customs, border and law enforcement services.

East European Shepherds are calmer, more balanced. Perhaps it is the selection requirements or the large weight that affects. They are not as playful as the "Germans". Nevertheless, a restrained temperament does not prevent shepherds of this breed to faithfully serve the owner, almost deifying him, showing at the same time a wary and aggressive attitude towards strangers. Thanks to their intelligence, as well as the ability to concentrate and quick wit, "Eastern Europeans" are very easy to train and are able to learn many commands, provided that initially the dog will receive a treat for each trick. Classes should be carried out daily, but not more than 15 minutes, or twice a day for 5-7 minutes. East European Shepherds are excellent guard dogs, realizing that their main purpose is to guard the owner.

Temperament and compliance with training allows you to keep German and East European Shepherds not only in the enclosure, but also in the house. If you walk them every day, let them move in order to throw out energy, exercise, give toys, they do not harm the home environment. Keeping in an open-air cage requires a similar approach to parenting, but the puppy must not be domesticated and later evicted into the yard. He will perceive such "injustice" very badly and will take a long time to get used to it, and ask to go home.

The East European Shepherd Dog is a domestic breed of dog bred for service and escorting people. It is a close relative of German Shepherds, but differs in many ways. It is recognized in the RKF system and has its own standard.

History and reasons for breeding the breed

By the 20s of the last century, there was an urgent need for service dogs. The plans were to breed purebred German shepherds for the guard at military facilities, camps for convicts and the protection of national property. Those few specimens of dogs from Germany were not enough, and the purchase was possible only for foreign currency. For these reasons, existing German shepherds and mongrels, which were suitable in size and character, participated in the breeding of the breed.

Since 1924, work has begun to boil in departmental cynological nurseries. There was a strict selection, only the best dogs were used for further breeding. The second World War led to a decrease in the population of the new breed, but already in the 50s the situation improved.

By the 70s, the VEO became the same type and won the love of the people. These dogs lived near ordinary people and served at the facilities. They successfully passed the training standards, showed themselves with better side when meeting with persons involved.

The IFF has not yet recognized the breed due to the similarity with the German Shepherd, but there are breeders and owners of these service dogs loyal to the VEO in the country and in the neighboring countries.

Breed standard and features

The BEO standard is assigned to the 1st group according to the RKF classification, where there are shepherd and cattle dogs. All representatives must meet the following parameters:

1. Height at withers: males 66-76 cm, females 62-72 cm.
2. Eye color: dark brown.
3. Nose color: black.
4. Lips: dark.
5. Teeth: complete set (42 teeth), scissor bite.
6. Color: solid black or with light markings, black-gray, black-fawn, zone-gray and zone-red. Red markings are acceptable.
7. Ears: Triangular with a high and wide set, the ends are slightly rounded.
8. Tail: saber.
9. COAT: Double, with a thick and lighter undercoat than the awn.

On completely black dogs, a small amount of White spot in the chest area, but this refers to undesirable signs, like red marks of varying intensity. The backbone of the BEO should be strong, with strong muscles. Unmotivated aggression, nervousness or cowardice are unacceptable in behavior.

The height in the description of this breed is indicated as desirable, but a deviation of 2 cm is a defect, as well as a lack of some teeth. Bitches are more graceful than males, but do not give the impression of gentle and fragile dogs. Approximate weight for males is 36-60 kg, for bitches - 30-50 kg.

Differences from the German Shepherd

There are several myths about these breeds. For example, that the real ones are only dark without spots and marks. For VEO this color is also in the standard. There is a difference in behavior, structure, movement.

The modern East European Shepherd Dog differs from the German one:

1. Growth - an average difference of 5-7 cm in favor of the BEO (data from the standards).
2. The Germans have a sloping croup and a different topline.
3. The angles of the limbs of the BEO are not so pronounced.
4. German Shepherds have no gray in color, more red and black.
5. Calm character.

These are the main differences. Most German Shepherds are choleric, their movements are sharper, they are more energetic. VEOs are not designed for long runs, but due to their mass and quick reaction they are great for guard duty, and for shepherd work they are too heavy. This breed has been developed for use in a variety of climates. High humidity or low temperature with heavy rainfall are not terrible for such dogs.

In general, VEOs look more massive, more sanguine in temperament. It is easier to recognize by another sign - gray in color. This color prevails in the domestic breed.

Character, intelligence and human interaction

Easterners are balanced dogs with a high level of intelligence. Due to their good learning ability, they are very obedient. In spite of big sizes Do not possess the willfulness of Molossians (Central Asian, Caucasian Shepherd Dogs, Mastiffs, etc.). They are not prone to escapes. They are loyal to the owner and gladly carry out his orders. The East European Shepherd Dog starts guarding people and property early. She becomes attached to the owner, it is her responsibility to protect his peace.

Often these dogs are bred in pairs or in larger numbers. Then there are clashes between same-sex or dominant individuals. Usually this passes by 2-3 years and the roles in the pack are distributed for a long time. Sometimes it seems that BEOs are phlegmatic. Under the mask of complete calmness, there is a lightning-fast reaction when a danger arises. They watch and are ready to defend themselves at any moment.

Suitable for families with children of different ages. They build normal relationships with other pets, a bird or cat can be considered an object of protection, which is shown on occasion. With the proper approach, a lop-eared puppy grows into a reliable friend, protector and loyal companion for the whole family.

Purpose and work of dogs

The history of breeding shows that the East European Shepherd Dog must be hardy and possess the characteristics of a real service dog. They retained their qualities in modern world... They are eagerly taken to security companies, private houses, apartments.

For a beginner, BEO can create some learning difficulties. These dogs require moderate toughness in communication, but in a good way they are simple and love the attention of the owner. Because of this, they can be found in service in departmental units, military units, on the protection of state borders. In addition, they are unpretentious in maintenance and care.

The standard provides for the passage of operational tests. A dog with a certain set of qualities is admitted to exhibitions in a separate class. She will not be afraid of shots, other loud sounds; in case of serious danger, she will repulse the offender and be able to detain him. Only a few are born like that, the rest are taught in special courses and for more than one month.

Protective qualities are manifested already in the first months, but they must be directed in the right direction and provide the pet of the East European Shepherd breed with the opportunity to train and distinguish between a real threat from an imaginary one.

Service dog training

The first thing that is obligatory for a true guard is impeccable obedience. A large orientalist will easily snatch the leash from his hands even from an adult man, if a cat runs in front of him. This happens in the absence of training and supervision. BEOs are very trainable. From the very first lessons on the site or at home, they show good results.

For life on a personal plot, you can independently accustom your pet to elementary commands. A treat and praise will help. Puppies are attentive, not fussy and quickly memorize commands.

Serious training with this breed should be after 6 months. It is necessary to achieve complete obedience without the use of physical punishment. Owners of VEO note that their pets are rarely afraid of heights, walking on a boom or being attacked by a figurant.

It is necessary to maintain the skill of the correct execution of commands in the pet. All previously developed reflexes are periodically reinforced. Such an approach in education will bear fruit when going to a veterinary clinic, in a driveway or other public transport, when walking in crowded places.

Features of maintenance and care

BEO is kept in apartments and on personal plots without any problems. They like life on the street more, many of the open-air cage dogs cannot stand in the house for 30 minutes because of the heat and cramped conditions. In apartments, the East European Shepherd Dog chooses a secluded corner where he rests from walks or after eating. The only caveat is molting. Indoors, they shed their wool constantly, but the change of season is almost imperceptible.

Feeding for dogs of this breed is standard.

Most of the diet is meat (beef and other lean varieties). Porridge can be added, especially during the cold season and when kept outdoors. To improve the condition of the skin, the diet includes sea fish, eggs, vegetables, vegetable oil... Fermented milk products are required for feeding at any age; puppies are given cottage cheese and kefir more often.

The ready-to-eat foods are suitable from categories for large and medium breeds, depending on the age, build and needs of the individual dog.

The dog needs walks, regardless of whether it is kept on the street or in an apartment. Clothes are an unnecessary item, their thick wool with undercoat does not allow to freeze or get wet in the rain. For street VEOs, they construct a booth with double walls, insulation and a small wooden flooring in front of it, straw is put inside if frosts come. At home or in an apartment, a cool place is allocated, but without drafts.

Care for hair, ears and teeth

The coat of the East European Shepherd is very unpretentious and self-cleaning quickly. When kept outdoors, washing is necessary several times a year. Practice shows that it is better to apply shampoo for dogs in the spring and autumn before the onset of cold weather. This will help to cope with heavy shedding, and the dog will more easily tolerate the heat.

The pet is combed with a natural bristle brush and a comb. The procedure is resorted to 1-2 times a week so that mats do not appear, and under them eczema and peeling. This procedure should be taught with the beginning of upbringing at the age of 2-3 months from birth.

Teeth are one of the main advantages and weapons of a service dog, they must be white and strong. The condition of the teeth depends on genetics and content, because proper feeding contributes to the saturation of the body with the necessary trace elements and minerals. For cleaning, you can use special products in the form of pastes or let the dog gnaw on natural veins, apples, carrots.

All East European Shepherd puppies are born with drooping ears. From 2-3 months they get up together or alternately, sometimes later. During the period of changing teeth, the ears usually fall, but by the year almost all orientalists with the correct set of ears. If this does not happen, then they are looking for a reason to eliminate the consequences. For example, the ears may not rise due to a lack of phosphorus or calcium, insufficient hard cartilage (genetic predisposition), etc. In such cases, it is practiced to glue the tips of the ears with a plaster to each other over the head (the plaster is periodically changed).

Health, disease and life expectancy

The following diseases are common in the breed:

1. Volvulus of the stomach.
2. Dysplasia of the hip joints.
3. Arthritis.
4. Obesity.
5. Conjunctivitis.
6. Heart failure.
7. Otitis.
8. Eczema.

Before you get a puppy, you need to know how old large breed dogs live. For BEO, the average is 12-14 years with proper care and good nutrition.

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From the point of view of development and characteristics, breeding in Germany and Russia are two intra-breed, different from each other, types. Eastern European the shepherd dog is distinguished by its excellent balanced character and excellent working qualities. Her gaze radiates deep and intelligence. In her movements, grace, strength and self-esteem are emphasized, forcing even the indifferent to dwell on herself.

The East evropean shepherd dog is unusually outgoing, obedient and understanding. She doesn't have to repeat the same thing over and over. Being at home, she takes part in your affairs with pleasure, and is ready for anything that her owner, whom she adores, does not want. On the street, she will not let you stand just like that, because one of her favorite pastimes is playing with sticks.

Sheepdog is loyal and loves children very much. He takes them under his protection with great care. Bad character is not characteristic of dogs of this breed, more often it is the result of poor upbringing. An idle shepherd can cause a lot of trouble for you and those around you. Therefore, she needs classes, games, long walks. The East European Shepherd Dog is a large, strong boned dog of correct proportions, with good limbs. The topline is smooth, sloping, with a well-defined withers. The height at the withers is 65-70 cm. The color is black-backed with shades from gray to red, black and tan, black, zoned. These conformational data distinguish BEO from her own sister, the German Shepherd, which is of medium height, black and red, with a somewhat arched topline.

The first German shepherds brought from Germany to Russia had a common ancestor - Horand von Grafrath. Subsequently, as you know, a type of German shepherd was formed in Russia, which outwardly is very different from the western one. Its name was influenced by historical events: war, struggle with foreign names and today the well-known "East European Shepherd" is firmly entrenched.

The founders of the modern line of the German Shepherd in Russia were Devet von Furtensteg and Eddie von Blumenduft, Ingul (owner Golovanov), Degai (owner Sasonov). Taishet (owner Sveshnikova), Dik (owner Nutsubidze), Main (owner Kazakov) and others became those producers whose distant 414 FF descendants are now shining at exhibitions.

In the eighties, the export of German Shepherds from abroad increased. Many lovers of shepherd dogs developed an interest in the more fashionable western type, which gradually began to supplant the national type. As you know, the breed standard is influenced by the country - the trendsetter of the breed. This led to the fact that it became impractical to judge dogs belonging to two different types among themselves in the same ring. Very often, the East European Shepherd Dogs lost to the more correctly folded, although not the best, representatives of the German Shepherd.

The first All-Union Dog Show in 1989 almost became the last for the East European Shepherd Dog. The reports rightly pointed to the shortcomings of conformation and behavior, but the recommendations for further breeding of this breed were very categorical. Still a few years ago, and we probably could have known about this type only from the remaining photographs.

Many clubs, especially Ukraine, Belarus, the Baltic states, and a little later Moscow and Leningrad and some other regions, completely reoriented breeding, using imported producers on their breeding stock, so to speak, of a national type. From the first mating "Easterners" with the Germans obtained dogs with an improved structure of the body and limbs, a stronger top. But by the type of such shepherd dogs could not be attributed to the German.

In the military and border units, the East European Shepherd Dogs are still preferred. But fewer and fewer "Easterners" can be seen at large exhibitions, so many have the impression that the shepherd dogs of the Eastern European type are no longer there. However, a group of these dogs in the early 90s remained in the Moscow City Club of Service Dog Breeding. Being under the attention of the Central Club of Service Kennel, the breeding of the breed could not but affect the preparation of plans. Pairs very often were selected from a German male and an East European shepherd female. Due to the fact that such selection was carried out without taking into account the individuality of the producers, many breeders with their puppies went to amateur clubs. But among the half-breeds received (for convenience, half-breeds are called those shepherd dogs whose parents belong to different types) beautiful dogs were bred in MGKSS. From the best breeder of MGKSS Dei-Dan (owner Zuev) were received in combination with a dog VEO by origin, the winner of exhibitions named Ars-Chin, beautiful dogs: Dik-Day, and Darkley-Day. Later this bitch was mated with various German males. From her were received such famous show and breeding dogs as Yanysh-Dey, Zarting-Dey and many others. The highest titles of her puppies brought her well-deserved fame as a breeding bitch. From such a breeder as Ivaita-Vil (owner Trifonova) in combination with Irk-Harmonia ("German" by origin) we got a cool male Ingara-Irsey and a bitch Ivette-Irssey. Their children firmly inherited the maternal type and improved anatomical structure from their father. And the grandchildren are a worthy competitor to the best Moscow dogs, being striking representatives of the type of the East European Shepherd.