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Bentley is a German Shepherd Mix!
The German Shepherd is a member of the herding group. This is a fairly recent breed - originating in the late 1800's as a deliberate attempt to produce a herding dog that was capable of protecting the flock. It was quickly discovered that it excelled at police work, and subsequent breedings were made to improve its intelligence, courage and companionability. After WWI, German Shepherds were known for a time as Shepherd Dogs or Alsatian Wolfdogs, with the name slowly changing back to German Shepherd.
Much of this breed's popularity originated with the movie stars Rin Tin Tin and Stronghart. Other German Shepherds have starred in recent movies with Jim Belushi and others.
This is one of the most intelligent of dogs, and is so intent on its job that few other dogs can equal it. It becomes completely devoted and protective of its family, and aloof and suspicious toward strangers.
The German Shepherd is a large dog; weighing between 70 and 95 pounds and standing 22" to 26" tall. Daily mental and physical exercise is necessary to keep this dog fulfilled, and it needs weekly brushing to maintain the thick coat. It can live outside in temperate climates, but much prefers to be with its family.
The typical mixed-breed dog weighs around 40-60 pounds at full growth. A lot depends on the size and structure of the ancestors of your particular dog. Mixes of small dogs should result in smaller dogs, and mixes of larger dogs should result in larger offspring. The "Canine Companion" has now been recognized by the American Kennel Club and is happily accepted into their Obedience and Agility sporting events. Their scores are judged beside other dogs of their same height and age class. This is a most welcome happening for millions of "lost" pets in our nation's shelters!
We are pleased to welcome Bentley to our practice!
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