The Black And Cream German Shepard. Why Is It Special?
The Black And Cream German Shepard. Why Is It Special?
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By: Sarah Hodgson
December 25, 2023
- Posted in Dogs
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When it comes to dog breeds most dog breeds have more than one coat color. Whether because of breeding or genetics. When it comes to German Shepherds they are known to have over 9 different coat color variations.
In this article, we will explore one of those variations, the black and cream/silver German Shepherd, a unique coat color that stands out. So grab your cup of coffee and Let's dive in!
A Look at German Shepherd Coats
Before diving into detail about the black and cream German Shepherd, let's better understand the variety of coat colors German Shepherds have.
German Shepherds can come in a range of colors, such as:
- Sable: The most common color, with various shades of black and tan.
- Black and Tan: Black with tan markings on the legs, face, chest, and tail.
- Bicolor: Mainly black with tan markings, but with a more limited distribution than in the black and tan coat.
- Black: Solid black color without tan markings.
- Black and Red: Black with rich red or tan markings.
- Black and Cream/Silver: Black with cream-colored markings.
- Gray: Varying shades of gray, often with a mix of black and tan.
- Blue: A solid blue-gray color.
- Sable and White: Sable color with white markings.
The black and cream coat is a striking combination, with a base color of black on top and lighter cream markings on certain areas of the body.
Where Did The Black and Cream German Shepard Come From?
The black and cream German Shepherd is not a result of recent breeding practices or genetic modifications. In fact, this coat color has been present in the breed since its early beginnings.
The German Shepherd originated in Germany in the late 19th century, where they were primarily used as herding dogs. The breed's founder, Captain Max von Stephanitz, emphasized the importance of breeding for working ability and temperament rather than solely focusing on aesthetics. As a result, various coat colors, including black and cream, naturally occurred within the breed's genetics.
Why Do Black and Cream German Shepherds Stand Out?
One of the reasons black and cream German Shepherds stand out is their striking contrast. The deep black base color enhances the cream markings, creating a super unique dog coat color.
This color combination helps the breed's strong and confident stance, making them even more captivating. Not only is it rare but we'll dive into that right after this. But it is also a captivating color.
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Is It a Rare Coat Color?
While black and cream German Shepherds may not be as common as their black and tan counterparts, they are not considered a rare coat color.
The German Shepherd breed has a wide range of acceptable colors, including black and cream. However, it's important to note that the availability of black and cream German Shepherds may vary depending on your location in the world and the breeders in your area.
Black and Cream vs. Black and Tan
You might be wondering if there is a difference between black and cream German Shepherds and the more common black and tan variety.
When it comes to personality they are the same. However, keep in mind every dog has a different personality different. The main distinction between the two lies in the color of the markings. Black and cream German Shepherds have lighter cream markings instead of the tan markings found on black and tan German Shepherds. The cream color can appear on the chest, legs, face, and even the eyebrows.
This contrast creates a unique and eye-catching appearance that sets black and cream German Shepherds apart from their black and tan siblings.
Does The AKC Recognize This Color?
While the black and cream German Shepherd is undeniably stunning, it is important to note that the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not officially recognize this color variation.
The AKC's breed standard for German Shepherds specifies that the coat color should be "strong, rich, and vibrant" black with tan markings. However, this lack of recognition from the AKC does not diminish the beauty or value of black and cream German Shepherds. They may not be eligible for certain dog shows or competitions, but they are still exceptional family dogs and working dogs like any other German Shepherd.
Why Should I Get A Black And Cream German Shepherd?
If you are considering adding a black and cream German Shepherd to your family, there are several reasons why it could be a great choice for you.
Firstly, their unique coat color makes them stand out from the crowd. If you enjoy being the center of attention during walks or at the dog park, a black and cream German Shepherd will undoubtedly attract a lot of admirers. Additionally, they possess all the desirable traits of a German Shepherd, including intelligence, loyalty, and a strong work ethic. Whether you are looking for a family pet, a guardian, or a working dog, a black and cream German Shepherd can excel in any role.
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The Bottom Line
So there you have it, the black and cream German Shepherd is a remarkable and visually striking variation of the breed. With their deep black base color and contrasting cream markings, they capture the attention and admiration of dog lovers around the world.
If you are considering adding a black and cream German Shepherd to your family, be prepared to have an amazing dog.
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