Who started calling German Shepherds ‘Alsatian Wolf Dogs’?

Have you ever wondered what’s the difference between German Shepherds and Alsatians? People have been inclined to think there’re some differences, but the truth is, there is NO difference – they’re just called by different names in different countries.

The German Shepherd (Deutscher Schäferhund in German) is a breed of medium to large-sized working dog that originated in Germany. According to the International Canine Federation, the breed's English name is ‘German Shepherd Dog’. But after First World War, people in the United Kingdom started calling the breed ‘Alsatian Wolf Dog’. The name remained until the year 1977, when it was changed back to German Shepherd.

Despite its wolf-like appearance, the German Shepherd is a relatively modern breed of dog, with its origin dating to 1899. German Shepherds were developed originally for herding sheep, but because of their strength, intelligence, trainability, and obedience, German Shepherds around the world are often the preferred breed for many types of work, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, police, and military roles and acting. They’re active dogs and are described as self-confident. Marked by a willingness to learn and an eagerness to have a purpose, they are curious, which makes them excellent guard dogs and suitable for search missions. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and obedient, as well as protective to their owners.