What Did German Shepherds Used To Look Like?

The German Shepherd breed has existed since 1899 when it was bred by Karl Friedrich Louis von Paula Schäfer. Photos from the era show dogs that look identical to modern-day German Shepard breeds, but have longer fur. However, during World War II food shortages caused people to cross out other livestock in favor of the dog meat trade causing an incalculable degradation to their looks. By 1962, all bloodlines were lost and through laboratory breeding, American Kennel Club reinstated them using working dogs from Western Europe with no military ties to Germany. The changes are seen clear across Europe were german shepherds found in Belgium tend to resemble Old English Sheep Dogs while those in France often take on more characteristics of terriers or French…