The Berger Blanc Suisse and the White German Shepherd are two handsome and mutually intelligent looking dogs that enjoy grabbing the eye of those interested in dogs. They are two very related breeds but at the same time possess very few differences that set them as different breeds. The Berger Blanc Suisse also called White Swiss Shepherd has beautiful white coat, which gives the dog elegant and stately look, and they are very friendly.
This breed has its roots in Switzerland and is adored for its superior qualities like intelligence and loyalty and its ability to occupy different positions ranging from a breed to be taken home as a family member to a working breed. In contrast, the White German Shepherd which is closely related to the standard German Shepherd, is known for strength, speed and protective instinct. This breed that is originally from Germany, is usually used due to its good working character used in herding, searching and rescue, and service.
This comparison is meant to assist any person who is planning to acquire a dog in determining which breed would be most suited to them. Depending on whether you are planning to have a family dog and companion or a working dog or both, one is in a better position to choose by distinguishing between the Berger Blanc Suisse and the White German Shepherd.
History and Origin
Berger Blanc Suisse
The Berger Blanc Suisse or the White Swiss Shepherd is originated from Switzerland. This breed originated in the middle of the twentieth century, and originally it were white-coated German Shepherds that were imported from the United Kingdom , the United States and Canada. For a long time, the breed received acclaim in Switzerland primarily due to the white fur coat and unique features that separated it from the German Shepherd type.
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The breeders in Switzerland concentrated their efforts on enhancing the breed characteristics that they perceived as desirable, including the mild temper of the dog and its refined appearance, while at the same time preserving the breed’s rationality and versatility. The Berger Blanc Suisse has been registered in the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 2002 and became more famous after that.
White German Shepherd
Thus, the origins of the White German Shepherd are rooted in the traditional German Shepherd, dog breed that originated in Germany in the end of the XIX and beginning of the XX centuries. The original breed of the German Shepherd is known for its working skills mainly in herding activities and guarding of cattle. Both white-coated and black-and-tan German Shepherds in the early beginning of the breed, however due to misconception and awareness of health and temperamental problems associated with the white coated dogs, this color progressively faded out of the breed.
However, pure white German Shepherds remained to be bred as well as admired by people who considered their coats and talents in performance impressive. During the middle of the twentieth century, white German shepherds found their place within North America where those who engaged in breeding the dogs ensure that they retained and marketed white as a breed separate from the in German shepherds.
Differences and Similarities in Origins
It is important to note, however, that although the Berger Blanc Suisse and the White German Shepherd are related, with the White German Shepherd descending from the Berger Blanc Suisse, they did eventually go their separate ways. The Berger Blanc Suisse came from the white coated German Shepherds but was principally bred and was acknowledged in the country of Switzerland as its own special breed and not just a variation of the German Shepherd with special attributes such as being gentle and elegant being given special attention.
On the other hand the white German shepherd became again a part of the German shepherd breed, yet the breeders continuing in main part in North America struggled to maintain the characteristics of this color and its working capability. Nonetheless, both the breeding types have retained the smartness, obedience and the adaptability that earns German Shepherds a pride of place globally.
Physical Characteristics
Size and Weight
Berger Blanc Suisse
- Height: Males: 24-26 inches (60-66 cm), Females: 22-24 inches (55-61 cm)
- Weight: Males: 66-88 pounds (30-40 kg), Females: 55-77 pounds (25-35 kg)
White German Shepherd
- Height: Males: 24-26 inches (60-66 cm), Females: 22-24 inches (55-61 cm)
- Weight: Males: 65-90 pounds (29-41 kg), Females: 50-70 pounds (23-32 kg)
Physical Appearance
Berger Blanc Suisse
- Build: The Berger Blanc Suisse has a well-balanced and slightly elongated body. It has a straight back and a bushy tail.
- Head: The head is proportionate to the body with a slight stop, and the ears are erect and triangular.
- Eyes: Almond-shaped, dark brown, and expressive.
- Coat: Medium to long, dense double coat that is straight and harsh to the touch.
- Color: Always pure white.
White German Shepherd
- Build: Similar to the traditional German Shepherd, the White German Shepherd has a strong and muscular build with a slightly sloping back.
- Head: The head is also proportionate to the body with a pronounced stop, and the ears are large and erect.
- Eyes: Medium-sized, almond-shaped, and dark in color.
- Coat: Medium to long, dense double coat that can be straight or slightly wavy.
- Color: Pure white.
Distinguishing Features
Berger Blanc Suisse
- Known for its elegant and refined appearance.
- The pure white coat is a hallmark of the breed.
- Generally has a softer and more gentle expression.
White German Shepherd
- Retains the robust and strong appearance typical of German Shepherds.
- The white coat is unique but shares the overall physical traits with the traditional German Shepherd.
- Often has a more alert and intense expression.
Temperament and Personality
Berger Blanc Suisse
- General Temperament: The Berger Blanc Suisse is characterized by friendly hormones, it is calm, gentle, friendly, and good-natured. Many people refer to this breed as more calm and lees assertive than other members of the German Shepherd family.
- Behavior: These dogs are quite smart and thrive to obey commands given to them, and that makes the dogs to be trained easily. They are sociable and friendly to other dogs and even other domestic animals in general. The Berger Blanc Suisse also has a very close attached feeling towards fellow families it has an affectionate contact as well as a protective feeling about them.
- Interaction with Children and Other Pets: He or she is normally very friendly towards children, understanding and rather calm with them. They are also social animals hence they can freely live with other animals if indeed they are trained on how to get along with them.
- Activity Level: With them being active dogs and being capable of benefiting from a regular exercise routine, they are however not as hyper as some of the working breeds. They are satisfied with moderate intensity workouts and like walking, playing, and performing dog sports activities.
White German Shepherd
- General Temperament: White German Shepherd has most of the general attributes of the standard German Shepherd; they include being loyal, intelligent as well as protective. They are somewhat shy with people they do not know and can be very observant and guard like.
- Behavior: These dogs can easily be trained to work and are service dogs that are known to do herding, search and rescue, and acting as guard dogs among other duties. He has a good work ethic and finds solutions in complex circumstances when there is a task assigned to him. The breed is intelligent and is characterized as being courageous and determined especially the white German shepherds.
- Interaction with Children and Other Pets: They are generally good around children particularly when the animal was bred in a home with children. But because of the guard aspect of their personality, be more reserved with other children or other pets. If removed early, it is good to ensure they enjoy social relations and are tolerant.
- Activity Level: White german shepherds are also very active and needs a lot of exercises that must be too intensive and repetitive. These physical activities include jogging, trailing and running to get the ball and other vigorous activities as well as the organized training.
Notable Differences in Personalities
- Calmness and Gentleness: The Berger Blanc Suisse is typically calmer and more gentle, making it a great choice for families looking for a relaxed and friendly companion.
- Intensity and Vigilance: The White German Shepherd, on the other hand, tends to be more intense and vigilant, with a strong protective instinct. This makes them excellent guard dogs and working dogs.
- Social Nature: The Berger Blanc Suisse is generally more social and friendly with other dogs and pets, while the White German Shepherd can be more reserved and may require more careful socialization.
- Energy Levels: While both breeds are active and enjoy exercise, the White German Shepherd generally has higher energy levels and requires more vigorous physical activity compared to the Berger Blanc Suisse.
Health and Lifespan
Berger Blanc Suisse
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia: Like many large breeds, the Berger Blanc Suisse is prone to hip dysplasia, a genetic condition that can lead to arthritis and pain.
- Elbow Dysplasia: This breed can also suffer from elbow dysplasia, which affects the elbow joint and can cause lameness and discomfort.
- Degenerative Myelopathy: A progressive disease of the spinal cord that can lead to hind limb weakness and paralysis.
- Allergies: Some Berger Blanc Suisses may experience allergies, which can cause skin irritation and itching.
Average Lifespan: The Berger Blanc Suisse typically has a lifespan of 12 to 14 years. With proper care, regular veterinary check-ups, and a healthy diet, many individuals can live long and healthy lives.
White German Shepherd
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia: Similar to the Berger Blanc Suisse, hip dysplasia is common in White German Shepherds, potentially leading to pain and mobility issues.
- Elbow Dysplasia: This condition is also seen in White German Shepherds and can result in lameness and joint problems.
- Degenerative Myelopathy: White German Shepherds are also at risk for this progressive spinal cord disease, which can affect mobility.
- Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI): This is a condition where the pancreas does not produce enough enzymes to digest food properly, leading to weight loss and digestive issues.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A serious and potentially life-threatening condition where the stomach twists, causing severe pain and requiring immediate veterinary intervention.
Average Lifespan: The White German Shepherd generally has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years. While they can live longer with proper care, their lifespan tends to be slightly shorter than that of the Berger Blanc Suisse.
Breed-Specific Health Concerns
- Berger Blanc Suisse: This breed is generally considered to have fewer health issues compared to the White German Shepherd. While they share some common genetic conditions like hip and elbow dysplasia, they are less prone to some of the more severe issues seen in German Shepherds, such as EPI and bloat.
- White German Shepherd: This breed shares many of the same health risks as traditional German Shepherds. The White German Shepherd's predisposition to EPI and bloat can pose significant health challenges that require careful management.
Comparison of Lifespans
- Berger Blanc Suisse: 12 to 14 years
- White German Shepherd: 10 to 12 years
Conclusion
When comparing the Berger Blanc Suisse and the White German Shepherd, the following points can be noting which stresses on the differences between the two breeds: There is the Berger Blanc Suisse originating from Switzerland and recognized as a different breed, this breed has elegant appearance, calm character, friendly disposition, and is social. In general, this breed has slightly longer life expectancy of 12 to 14 years as well as it encounters less catastrophic health problems as the Chinese counterparts.
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For instance the White German Shepherd, a sub-breed of the standard German Shepherd is muscular and powerful but with additional vigour, alertness and high energy level. A White German Shepherd’s has a life expectancy of between 10 to 12 years, but live shorter due to other health complications including Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) and bloated.
For those considered getting a dog, the Berger Blanc Suisse is a perfect family and companion dog for those who want a calm, friendly, and sociable dog. Due to this it is friendly hence making it suitable to those looking for a pet without many health challenges. On the other hand the White German Shepherd is suitable for those who want to have a great, watchful, and obedient dog which is very active and suitable for the people with an active way of living and those who can provide him with lots of exercises and intellectual challenges.
Lastly, it should be emphasized that choosing between these breeds should be preceded first of all by the analysis of one’s lifestyle, preferences and expectations concerning the relationship with the chosen canine, for the purpose of achieving the best compatibility and, thereby, the highest quality of life together.