Medium Coat German Shepherd : (Plush Coat)

Choosing a German Shepherd with a medium coat german shepherd is an excellent choice for those who appreciate soft, cuddly fur. These dogs have a moderately long haired dogs outer layer of fur, typically under 2 inches in length, supported by an undercoat that enhances the appearance of thickness and fullness.

What is a Plush Coat Medium Coat German Shepherd?

A medium coat characterizes a plush coat German Shepherd, making dog hair on it more luxuriant than the short-haired versions and denser than the long-haired breeds.

• This balance gives them an aesthetic advantage, with their under plush coats contributing to an enhanced plushness not found in longer coats.
• While “plush coat” isn’t officially recognized, it’s commonly applied to describe double-coat German Shepherds with longer hair, but it’s never used to refer to the short haired dogs type.
• Despite the informal application of the term, it primarily refers to German Shepherds that adhere to specific criteria, including possessing both a top coat and an undercoat, naturally fluffy fur without the need for grooming, and a topcoat length ranging from one to two inches.

Medium Haired German Shepherd	Breed Characteristics
AKC Group	Herding
Origin	Germany
Type	Companion / Showing / Working
Breed Size	Medium-large
Height	24-26 inches (Males) 22-24 inches (Females)
Weight	66-88 pounds (Males) 49-71 pounds (Females)
Temperament	Intelligent, Independent, Faithful, High-energy, Courageous, Protective, Strong, Confident, Aloof, Devoted, Versatile, Territorial, Watchful, Curious
Appearance	Agile, Cuddly, Bushy Tail, Pointy Ears, Well-balanced
Lifespan	10-13 years
Health Issues	Bloat (GDV), Hip Dysplasia, Degenerative Myelopathy, Osteoarthritis
Coat Colors	Black & Tan, Black & Red, Black, Bi-color, White (rare), Sable
Coat Type	Medium (Plush), Double-coated
Shedding	Heavy
Grooming	Moderate
Easy to Train	Yes
Exercise Needs	Medium-high
Hypoallergenic	No
Child Friendly	Yes
Pet Friendly	Yes
Good for new owners	Yes
Cost	$2000+

Plush Coat German Shepherd Puppies

When searching for a charming plush coat German Shepherd, prioritize finding a trustworthy breeder who values the health and well-being of service dogs and the puppies. Opt for haired german shepherd breeders with a focus on German Shepherds to ensure quality and specialization. Alternatively, consider adopting from a dog shelter, which not only provides a loving home to a dog in need but also positively transforms their life.

Upon welcoming a plush coat German Shepherd into your home, prepare for an energetic companion who will be by your side constantly. Known for their loyalty and affection, these dogs forge deep connections with their owners. With a potential German Shepherd average lifespan of up to two dogs or 15 years, it’s important to thoroughly understand the breed and ensure it aligns with your lifestyle, acknowledging the long-term commitment involved.

Little-Known Facts About the Plush Coat German Shepherd

1. Medium-Haired GSDs Can Cost More Than Other Types

This situation applies specifically when comparing the prices of two German that share the same color but differ in coat length. A medium-coated dog could still be ineligible for show competitions if its color is deemed undesirable. Thus, the color of a German can significantly influence its price, with short-coated varieties sometimes fetching higher prices if their color is considered rare and more sought after.

However, when color is held constant, the plushier coat typically commands a higher price tag. On average, purchasing a medium-haired German from a reputable breeder will cost upwards of $2000.

2. Plush Coats Shed More

This comparison with other German Shepherds highlights that short-haired variants of dog breed tend to shed less fur, while many long-haired coat types lack an undercoat, leading to reduced shedding plush coats. Medium-coated German, offering a balance between fur length and the presence of an undercoat, typically experience the highest shedding among the varieties. Despite this, the shedding rate does not significantly impact their grooming needs.

3. Medium-Haired German are Friendlier

This phenomenon can be attributed to the interplay between nature and nurture. By nature, medium-coat German Shepherds possess a similar social temperament to their short and long-coated counterparts. However, they often receive more positive attention due to their appealing appearance, which is widely regarded as cuter by the general public. This positive reinforcement can enhance their friendliness and reduce their propensity to perceive humans as threats.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to acknowledge that social experience plays a foundational role in the development of this trait. Medium-coat German Shepherds that lack proper socialization or training may not exhibit this enhanced friendliness, underscoring the importance of early and consistent social experiences.

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4. Medium Coats Are Admired by the Show Crowd

The dog show community distinguishes itself by valuing dogs not for their widespread appeal but for particular characteristics that adhere to strict breed standards. Frequently, dogs that capture the public’s affection due to their striking colors are overlooked in the show arena due to these precise criteria.

However, the plush coat German shepherd of the medium-haired Shepherd stands out as an exception, being one of the few attributes that is celebrated both by the general public and enthusiasts within the dog show circuit. This trait’s unique position highlights its rare appeal across different audiences, bridging the gap between general attractiveness and the specific demands of dog show standards.

5. Plush Coat is Not the Actual Name of This Breed

The influence of the dog show community is significant, especially in shaping the physical traits of show line German, such as the characteristic sloped back. Traits that are highly esteemed in these circles can quickly become sought after in the breeding of working lines, often within just a few years.

The plushness of medium-haired German is so highly regarded that it has not only been given a specific name but this designation has become widely accepted. Shepherds with fur lengths ranging from 1-2 inches and possessing an undercoat are commonly referred to as having “plush long coats,” despite this not being an an official term or classification within the breed standard.

The cut-off for loose hair at 2 inches for the plush coat designation stems from the consideration of hair length in relation to the coat’s overall fluffiness. Beyond a certain length, the hair can detract from the desired plush appearance, which is why many long-coated Shepherds are not considered to have plush coats.

The term “plush” is predominantly used within the context of the show ring, distinguishing it as a term of art within that community. It’s interesting to note that while long-haired Shepherds are often excluded from conformation events—due to the preferences of the same dog shows the community that popularized the term “plush”—they are, as a result, generally not classified under the “plush” category. This exclusion highlights the selective nature of breed standards as determined by the dog show community.

Appearance and Size

Showline enthusiasts have significantly contributed to the popularity of the term “plush” concerning German, particularly those with length coats. These dogs are celebrated for their stunning aesthetics, leading enthusiasts to virtually categorize them based on their “plushness,” almost creating a distinct breed within the breed.

Medium-coated German perfectly balances a wild, wolf-like demeanor and a soft, inviting appearance that almost demands affection. Their physical presence is such that one feels compelled to pet them upon sight.

As for size, an average adult male medium-haired Shepherd typically stands between 24 to 26 inches tall and weighs between 66 to 88 pounds. Female plush-coated counterparts are slightly smaller, with a height ranging from 22 to 24 inches and a weight from 49 to 71 pounds.

These dog’s weight dimensions align closely with the general size range for other types of German, indicating that the plush coa distinctiveness lies more in its texture and appearance than in size. Does a German Shepherd have a curly tail?

Temperament of the Medium-Haired German

Medium-haired German Shepherds share the same temperament as their counterparts, regardless of their coat length, color, or pattern. Known for their affectionate and caring nature, these dogs develop deep, unbreakable bonds with their owners, showcasing a level of loyalty and devotion that is characteristic of the breed.

Their appealing fluffiness often attracts positive attention from people, contributing to favorable social experiences from a young age. This exposure helps them become more open and friendly towards human interaction, enriching their social demeanor.

Despite their approachable nature, medium-coated German Shepherds do not compromise on their protective instincts. They view their human companions as parents and friends, extending their protective and loyal tendencies to the entire family.

While they may initially exhibit caution around strangers, a proper introduction by their owner can quickly ease their apprehension, demonstrating their trust in their human’s judgment. This blend of sociability, curiosity, protective instincts, and loyalty not only makes them excellent companions but also invaluable members of the family.

Shedding Patterns

Plush coat German Shepherd are known for their substantial shedding throughout the year, with an increase in shedding intensity occurring twice annually during the spring and fall. This seasonal shedding, often referred to as “blowing” their undercoat, is a preparatory process for the upcoming season, during which they shed their old undercoat for a new one.

Compared to plush coat German shepherd police dogs, long coats tend to shed less. This is attributed to the nature of their long coat, which is more open and less dense, resulting in a lower volume of fur and, consequently, less shedding.

On the other hand, short-haired German Shepherds also possess a double long coat system. However, due to the shorter length of their guard coat, there’s less opportunity for loose fur to become trapped within the outer coat itself, leading to a reduced amount of shedding in comparison to their plush stock coat counterparts. This characteristic makes the short-haired variety somewhat easier to manage in terms of shedding.

Health and Lifespan

Maintaining the health of your medium-coated German involves a commitment to regular exercise, a balanced diet, and annual veterinary check-ups. While these measures can significantly contribute to your dog’s overall well-being, it’s also important to be aware of potential health issues common to the breed. These concerns are not related to the plush coat German shepherds type but are instead inherent to German Shepherds as a breed:

1. Hip and Elbow hip dysplasia: This genetic condition, where the hip or elbow joint doesn’t fit together perfectly, can lead to arthritis or lameness. Regular check-ups can help detect it early.
2. Degenerative Myelopathy: A progressive disease of the spinal cord, leading to hind limb weakness and paralysis. Genetic testing is available for this condition.
3. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV) or Bloat: A life-threatening condition where the stomach twists on itself. It’s crucial to recognize the early signs and seek immediate veterinary care.
4. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): A condition where the pancreas fails to produce enough digestive enzymes, leading to malnutrition and weight loss despite a normal appetite. It’s manageable with enzyme supplements.
5. Allergies: Haired German shepherds can suffer from various allergies, ranging from food allergies to environmental allergies, which can affect their skin and overall health.
6. Epilepsy: Some German may experience seizures due to epilepsy, which can be genetic or of unknown origin. Medication can often control this condition.

Understanding these potential health issues is key to providing the best care for your German Shepherd. Early detection and intervention can make a significant difference in managing these conditions and ensuring a high quality of life for your furry friend.

Final

The Plush Coat German Shepherd is essentially a fluffier variant of the classic haired German shepherd, sharing the same inherent personality and behavioral traits. Known for their strong work ethic, these dogs excel in various tasks and serve as exceptional companions. Despite their frequent shedding, regular grooming and brushing can manage to remove loose hair and fur, although shedding will be a consistent aspect of their care.

As family pets, Plush Coat German Shepherd are excellent with children, displaying a blend of loyalty, affection, and protective instincts that make them cherished members of the household. Their ability to form deep bonds with their families, combined with their gentle nature towards children, ensures they are not only devoted protectors but also loving companions.

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