As an enthusiast of the iconic German Shepherd breed, I have always been captivated by the breed’s diversity, especially in coat variations. German Shepherds come in various colors, and their coats can significantly vary, from the traditional medium length and straight to the rarer long and even curly types. You do not see the unique charm of a Curly Hair In German Shepherds daily, indicating a distinctive genetic twist.
However, it’s not just genetics that contribute to the lushness of their fur; nutrition and care also play pivotal roles. The quality of a German Shepherd’s coat, length, and texture often reflect their overall health. A diet lacking in essential nutrients can lead to a coarse, lackluster coat, while proper care ensures the beauty and vitality of their appearance. In our forthcoming discussions within this article, we will delve into the different types of German Shepherd coats and how the differences in care and nutrition can influence the stunning yet rare, curly-haired German Shepherd.
Can German Shepherds Have A Curly Coat?
While the classic image of a German Shepherd dog typically includes a straight and dense double coat, variations that can even extend to wavy or curly hair are particularly noticeable in puppies. It’s uncommon, but some German Shepherds can exhibit a curly coat, which may be more accurately described as waves.
As they mature, their puppy curls often relax into gentle waves, and while a true, tight curl is extremely rare, some long-haired coat individuals can retain bouncier curls as they age. More frequently, what is perceived as curls in a puppy may gradually straighten out to only waves.
It’s essential to note that a curly coat is not a sign of a purebred long-coated German Shepherd but rather an exception. True curls are a deviation from the breed’s standard and, when present, are due to very specific genetic factors.
Wavy or Curly Coats: What Causes Them?
Long-haired German Shepherds are rare, stemming from a recessive gene that must be present in both the mother and the father for the trait to surface. When a long-haired puppy is born, their hair will grow, thicken, and sometimes become a waiver over time. In comparison to other puppies whose coats may be noticeably denser and shorter, the structure of the hairs in long-haired German Shepherds is different – they tend to be thinner and smoother, which may give rise to the possibility of creating a wave-like flow down their back.
These wavier coats often bunch up to create soft curls, with common areas to notice these waves or curls behind the legs and around the neck. In particular, the area behind the ears is where the hair is especially long and fine, increasing the chances for curls to form in these spots.
What Is The Normal Curl Or Wave In A Coat?
In the breed standards, the American Kennel Club (AKC) sets, the typical German Shepherd has a straight coat. However, encountering a long-haired German Shepherd puppy with a coat that contains waves or a slight wave in certain areas is perfectly normal. It’s not unusual for these puppies to display some waviness, especially behind their ears and legs, where the hair is longer and finer.
Although a heavily curly or wavy “wooly” coat is considered a coat fault from a conformation standpoint, many owners find this feature unique and endearing quality. As long as the coat is healthy and cared for, a curly or wavy texture does not affect the dog’s capability for work or play. It is important to understand that while such a coat is normal for the individual dog, it deviates from the breed standard as described by the AKC and other similar breed-specific institutions.
German Shepherd Coat Types
Understanding your dog’s coat type is good because it influences coat maintenance and proper nutrition. Most German Shepherds possess a double-coat, consisting of two distinct layers: a dense, softer undercoat for insulation and a longer, coarse guard coat to protect against dirt and weather. In our upcoming article, “What Makes A German Shepherd Double-Coated?”, we will explore how to identify these double-coats and the specific care they require.
Within the breed, three different coat types can present themselves, and while the double-coat is most common, the variations might be less noticeable to new owners, sometimes called single-coated or plush-coated. Owners must learn how to identify the type of coat their German Shepherd has to provide the best possible care. In the following sections, we will discuss each of the three coat-types in detail, providing insights into their characteristics and maintenance needs.
Short-Haired
The short-haired German Shepherd is commonly seen in various work-oriented roles such as military purposes and as service dogs. These dogs typically have coats less than one inch long, which is preferred for work because of their low maintenance. These shorter coats stay out of the way during duty and are, for the most part, less likely to snag on the brush or collect debris. While a short-haired German Shepherd’s coat is low maintenance, it is technically still a double-coat, requiring regular brushing, particularly during seasonal changes when the undercoat sheds heavily.
Medium Length
German Shepherds with medium-length coats are often referred to as having a plush coat, which typically means their fur is longer than one inch but not so long that it would be considered the “long-coat” variety. This prominent plush coat retains the characteristic double-coat composition, coupling a dense undercoat with a slightly fluffier and longer topcoat.
The American Kennel Club views this coat length as approving within the breed standards for pedigree German Shepherds, deviating slightly from the classic image of the working-class dog. Compared to their short-haired counterparts, medium-length coated German Shepherds require a lot more brushing to remove the shedding hair and maintain the coat’s natural sheen and health.
Long-Haired Coat
The long-haired German Shepherd boasts a distinctly luxurious coat, with hair that often exceeds two inches long. The face, legs, stomach, and tail are especially prone to longer, flowing hair, affectionately referred to by enthusiasts as “smoothies” due to the sleek appearance.
Though seen by some as a coat fault according to the strict standards of the American Kennel Club, the long-haired variety is also a testament to the breed’s lineage and good breeding practices. The long-haired gene is recessive and less common, hearkening back to the breed’s ancestors originally bred for sheep herding. For a puppy to exhibit this trait, both parents must carry the gene, indicating a purer lineage.
Long coats require the most grooming out of the three coat types to maintain their health and sheen. Failing to groom properly can lead to a poor coat appearance and other problems due to matting or trapped debris. Therefore, long-haired German Shepherd owners should be diligent with grooming routines.
Plush Coat
The plush coat on a German Shepherd is like the fur version of a luxury throw blanket: soft, thick, and super cozy. It’s a bit longer than what you’d usually see on these dogs, giving them an extra posh look that makes them stand out, especially at dog shows. People love it not just for how it looks but because it feels amazing to pet.
This coat type does mean a bit more work in the grooming department to keep it looking its best. But for many, that extra fluff is totally worth it. It’s the perfect match for anyone who loves the intelligence and loyalty of a German Shepherd but also wants a bit of glam in their furry friend.
Double Coat
The double coat on a German Shepherd is a two-layered fur ensemble that’s all about function. The outer layer is made up of dense, straight hairs that repel water and dirt, acting like a raincoat. The inner layer is softer and fluffier, working as an insulating blanket that keeps the dog warm in winter and cool in summer.
This type of coat is a big deal because it helps these active dogs handle almost any weather condition they face, from snowy mountains to sunny fields. It does mean more shedding, especially during spring and fall when they “blow” their coats, so regular brushing becomes a must to keep your home fur-free. But for many German Shepherd owners, dealing with the fluff explosion is a small price to pay for having such a versatile and hardy companion.
Curly Coat
A curly coat on a German Shepherd is a rare, charming quirk. It sets your dog apart with a unique, playful look that turns heads and sparks curiosity. Beyond its whimsical appearance, this coat type suggests an amazing genetic story, adding an intriguing twist to your pet’s heritage. While it may require a bit more grooming to keep those curls neat and tangle-free, owning a curly-coated German Shepherd is a delightful experience, celebrating the unexpected beauty in diversity.
Coat Problems
Various problems can be associated with the different coat lengths in German Shepherds, often stemming from poor nutrition or an inadequate grooming routine. These issues can severely impact not only the dog’s coat appearance, making it look dull and unhealthy but also their overall wellness.
Poor coat management may result in hair loss and a lack of coat luster, which serve as indicators of the dog’s health status. Such symptoms can signal underlying health conditions that require attention. For an in-depth understanding of these symptoms and their potential causes, see our dedicated article, “Why Is My German Shepherd Losing Hair?” which delves into the specifics behind hair loss and its correlation to a dog’s health.
Poor Nutrition
Poor nutrition is often a primary culprit among the health-related problems that can affect a German Shepherd’s coat. Without proper nutrition, the coat of a German Shepherd may appear dull and feel rough rather than smooth. The dog may shed more than usual, or, in severe cases, the hair can begin to fall out.
Furthermore, a deficient diet can lead to the dog showing signs of serious skin disorders, which are particularly troublesome for owners of long-haired or wavy-coated German Shepherds. A German Shepherd puppy must be fed a nutrient-rich diet from the start. The long-coat variety, in particular, requires an ample supply of vitamins and high-quality proteins to ensure that the coat appears healthy and maintains its luxurious sheen.
Poor Grooming Routine
In comparison to their single-coated counterparts, a German Shepherd with a double coat requires more grooming to manage its undercoat, which naturally makes maintenance more extensive. As the coat length gets longer, the need for a higher level of upkeep increases. With a good grooming routine, a dog’s double coat can quickly become manageable. Shedding is a standard process where the undercoat comes out, and it’s a common problem owners encounter, especially during seasonal changes. An ungroomed German Shepherd may suffer from matting of the fur; excessive shedding hair can end up falling out all over your floor, making a significant mess. To sidestep these issues, it’s crucial to implement a grooming routine that is well-suited to your dog’s coat type. Regular brushing, bathing, and professional grooming will help maintain ultimate coat health and appearance.
Other Causes
German Shepherds, with their dense double coats, are sometimes prone to skin irritations and conditions that can negatively impact their overall health. Causes of such problems can range from over-washing, which strips away the natural, healthy oils from their skin and coat to food sensitivities that lead to skin infections, particularly when the seasons change. Over-grooming too can adversely affect their coat and skin health; when natural oils are stripped, the skin becomes dry, potentially leading to dandruff, inflammation, and itching.
If your dog is experiencing persistent itching and skin inflammation, it’s crucial to check for the presence of fleas or other parasites. Always contact your vet for a thorough check-up, as these symptoms may be indicative of something more serious. Regular, but not excessive, washing and grooming, aligned with a diet formulated to support skin health, can help prevent these issues before they become severe.
Grooming Routine For A Long-Haired Or “Curly” German Shepherd
Grooming a wavy or curly-coated German Shepherd, most likely a long-haired variety necessitates a specific approach. Properly caring for a long-haired German Shepherd’s coat is essential to ensure that the coat feels soft and looks its best year-round. This type of coat often requires daily brushing to prevent tangles and remove debris that can get trapped in the curls.
Using the right tools, such as a slicker brush or a long-toothed comb, can prevent damage to the delicate hair strands. Additionally, occasional baths with a gentle, dog-specific shampoo can help maintain the coat’s natural oils and enhance its lustrous appearance. Investing time in a thorough grooming routine ensures that the unique beauty of a long-haired German Shepherd’s coat is always on full display.
Washing
While it’s a common misconception that frequent washing is beneficial for dogs, German Shepherds do not actually require regular baths. The general rule of thumb is only to wash your dog about every eight weeks unless they have either become noticeably dirty or has an unpleasant odor.
During the shedding season, however, it may be advantageous to slightly increase the frequency of washes to assist with the coat’s shedding process. There are special shampoos available that can help loosen up the shedding hair; if your German Shepherd is shedding a lot, a bath once a week with warm water can help remove some of the excess hair. Remember, it is crucial to use a mild, dog-specific shampoo to maintain the health of your dog’s coat and skin.
Brushing
For owners of long-haired German Shepherds, daily brushing is not just recommended; it’s virtually a necessity. These majestic canines, with their thick and bushy tail and mane, are prone to matting and tangling, which can become severe if not regularly managed.
The best option for keeping a long-haired coat in tip-top condition—and free of frustrating mats—is to incorporate brushing into your dog’s daily routine. To effectively brush a long-haired German Shepherd’s coat, the right tools are paramount. A rake type of brush is ideal for getting through the undercoat, while a slicker wire brush can be one of the best bets for smoothing out the overcoat and ensuring mat-free hair.
During the shedding season, it’s even more crucial to brush your German Shepherd frequently. Using a wire brush can help significantly during this time, particularly if the dog’s coat is wet; moisture allows the loose hairs to stick to the brush more easily. For those with a curly coat, regular brushing lessens the amount of frizz and accentuates the natural waves of the coat.
Source: Experienced breeders and professional groomers recommend these practices to ensure the health and beauty of your German Shepherd’s luxurious coat.
Grooming Schedule
In order to help you stay on track with maintaining the splendid coat of your long-haired German Shepherd, putting together a weekly grooming schedule can be extremely beneficial. Below is a sample schedule based on recommendations from experienced breeders and professional groomers:
Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday (Daily Brushing): Use a rake brush to reach the undercoat and a wire brush for the outer coat to prevent mats and tangles.
Tuesday (Extra Care During Shedding): When your dog is shedding, increase brushing daily if not already, and consider a more thorough grooming session to manage loose fur.
Thursday (Bathing): If your German Shepherd is in its shedding season, give them a wash once a week with warm water and a mild dog-specific shampoo to help remove the loose hair. Outside of shedding season, only wash as needed when the coat becomes dirty or has an odor.
Saturday (Nail Clipping and Check-ups): Check the length of your dog’s nails and clip them if necessary to avoid discomfort and maintain healthy paw conditions.
Using a set grooming schedule helps make grooming a consistent habit, ultimately keeping your dog comfortable and your floors clean. Regular grooming also adds to the bond between you and your German Shepherd, enhancing trust and comfort with each session.
Final Thoughts on Curly Hair in German Shepherds
Hopefully, this insight into the exceptional breed that is the curly-haired German Shepherd has helped you gain clarity on how to care for your best friend’s coat, from a playful puppy to a beautiful long-haired adult dog.
Whether your dog is already an adult with wavy hair or a pup whose curly locks are just beginning to grow, there should be no concern with the proper techniques and dedication. A long, flowing coat not only adds to the visual splendor of your dog but also reflects the health and happiness of your faithful companion.
FAQs:
Why is my German Shepherd’s coat wavy?
Wavy coats in German Shepherds can be attributed to genetics, as the trait could be inherited from their ancestors. It’s also possible that mixed breeding introduced the trait at some point, even if your dog appears to be a purebred. Diet and grooming habits can influence coat texture, but genetics generally play the largest role.
What does it mean when a German Shepherd’s tail curls up?
When a German Shepherd’s tail curls up, it can be a sign of alertness and curiosity, indicating that the dog is paying close attention to its surroundings. It can also signal excitement or dominance, especially if paired with erect ears and a rigid stance. However, context is important, as the tail position can mean different things depending on the situation.