White Shepherd

Overview

The White Shepherd descends from white German Shepherds, which were excluded from the German standard and bred separately in the United States and Canada. The result is a large, upright herding dog with a plush white coat and a temperament that owners describe as gentle and watchful.

It is closely related to the White Swiss Shepherd but registered separately. For a walker, it behaves like a thoughtful German Shepherd: attentive, quick to learn, and not keen on roughness.

Exercise and walking needs

Two hours a day, with a mix of walking, running and training. Shepherds need something to do with their minds as much as their legs.

Avoid long hard runs on tarmac for youngsters, and check with the owner about hips before adding anything strenuous.

On the walk

• Recall: Normally good because the dog wants to be with its handler. Build it with rewards and it stays sharp.
• Herding: Running children, cyclists and other dogs can trigger a circling, nipping response. Keep the dog close at busy times.
• Other dogs: Friendly when well socialised, wary when not. Introduce new dogs calmly rather than letting a free-for-all happen.
• Sensitivity: Loud noise, shouting or a rough handler can shut the dog down. Keep your voice even and your handling light.

Tips for professional walkers

1. Brush the coat regularly through spring and autumn; the shedding is heavy and the white shows every mark.
2. Bring a reward the dog values and use it for every check-in, not just recalls.
3. Keep off-lead time for places where you can see what is coming.

What to ask the owner

• Any hip, elbow or back issues, and does the vet want the dog's exercise limited?
• Is the dog nervous of anything, and what do you do when it startles?
• Has it had any herding or protection training that changes how it responds to movement?

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