American Alsatian

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The American Alsatian, also known as Alsatian Shepalute, is a mixture of pure breed German Shepherd, English Mastiff, Anatolian Shepherd, Alaskan Malamute and Great Pyrenees. This breed is large, standing between 24 to 28 inches (61 to 71 cm) at the withers and weighing between 75 to 120 pounds (34 to 54 kg); females, however, are smaller compared to males.

These breed is originally developed as a large companion dog. Although, they can be trained to work and some have been successful as wilderness search and rescue dogs, this breed does not possess a strong desire for the physical demands of most working dog endeavors. They are most suited for the gentle work of therapy dogs.

Color

The Ameican Alsatian comes in variations of different colors or combinations of black, brown, silver and yellow. They can also be gold, silver sable, black sable or cream. American Alsatian puppies are born dark brindle and lighten to a cream as the soft puppy coat appears. They begin to acquire a rougher adult coat at the age of 2 to 5 months.

Coat

The coat of this breed is dense, thick and long or can be medium in length.

Personality

The American Alsatian breed is a loyal, quite with mellow and calm temperament and are good with children, provided they get enough exercise they needed. They are best suited for work as a therapy dog or as guide for the blind. They do not initiate plays unless encouraged. They are not "barkers" and have a low prey drive. These breeds are known to be a unique breed of large companion dog. It is bred to infrequently bark and whine. It does not have a tendency to jump up or wander away from its owners. The American Alsatian is friendly and non-hyper, with a tendency to be laid back and somewhat aloof with strangers. It is alert to sounds and movement and is quick to learn. They have been used as epilepsy detection dogs, search and rescue dogs, therapy dogs, and family companion dogs.

Care

The American Alastian is a seasonal shedder. They will require brushing once or twice a year to remove dead hair once the undercoat begins to shed. They are also prone to seizures, elbow dysplasia and arthritis.

Training

The American Alastian is highly intelligent and can be trained easily. They respond to light correction and the softest of sounds. Like the German shepherd, they are not advised for inexperienced owners. They require early extensive socialization and obedience training. Training must be done with fairness, firmness, consistency and a lot of patience.

Activity

The American Alsatian was bred as a companion breed but should always be properly exercise. Most owners choose to walk this breed at least an hour a day. Without exercise, they will become hyper active and possibly descriptive. They can also live in apartment with the proper exercise.