Red German Shepherd: 7 Interesting Facts, Info, and Pictures

When you think about German Shepherds, you probably envision the proud and beautiful black and tan dog that we’ve all come to know and love. You might not be as familiar with the Red German Shepherd. These dogs are essentially your average German Shepherd, but instead of the tan coloring, they’re a gorgeous deep mahogany red combined with the familiar black markings.

Red German Shepherds are more officially called Black and Red German Shepherds, and while they might differ in appearance, they have the same temperament and traits as any other German Shepherd. They are intelligent, brave, confident, devoted, and loving dogs. If you would like to learn more about these beautiful dogs, read on as we look at Black and Red German Shepherd puppies and interesting facts about this breed.

Red German Shepherd Puppies

Red German Shepherds are robust and healthy dogs that are energetic and active. They are highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train, and they form strong bonds with their families. While they are devoted and affectionate with their owners, they can be wary of other dogs and strangers.

Red German Shepherds are on the expensive side, so if you decide to get a puppy from a breeder, be sure they are responsible by meeting them and asking questions. You can also ask to speak to previous puppy owners for their thoughts on the breeder and their Red German Shepherds.

Adoption can be another option that you could consider. But keep in mind that trying to find a Red German Shepherd might be more of a challenge, particularly if you have your heart set on a puppy.

However, German Shepherds are common dogs, and if you find one through your local shelter or animal rescue group, you’ll be paying a fraction of the price of a breeder, and you’ll be giving a dog a second chance at a happier and better life.

7 Interesting Facts About the Red German Shepherd

1. Black and Red German Shepherds are commonly used as show dogs

Black and Tan German Shepherds are traditionally used in working lines, particularly the military and police. Black and Red German Shepherd dogs are much more commonly used in show lines. They also make amazing family pets.

2. Black and Red German Shepherds are recognized by the AKC

The American Kennel Club (AKC) recognizes 11 different color variations, which include the Black and Red German Shepherd. This color has a registration code of 14.

3. The red color in Red German Shepherds varies

The red color ranges from a deep and rich mahogany and obviously red color to a more strawberry blonde variation. It is thought that the red color is actually a deeper version of the tan color.

4. Red isn’t the only other color that German Shepherds come in

German Shepherds come in as many as 13 colors, including silver, red sable, and panda (half black and half white).

5. The red color occurs through a recessive gene

The red and black color is the result of a recessive gene. However, it is one of the least recessive of all of the recessive genes, which accounts for the coloring being relatively common.

6. Liver-colored genes in dog breeds can fade

Some red dogs have a liver gene, which will result in the fading of the red color over time. Many breeders sometimes choose to keep fawn-colored dogs away from red-colored dogs to help preserve the red.

7. Red German Shepherds come in different coat lengths

Just like the traditional German Shepherd, you can expect the Black and Red German Shepherd to have a short,- medium-, or long-haired coat that is straight or wavy.

Final Thoughts: Red German Shepherd

The Black and Red German Shepherd is the exact same dog as the Black and Tan German Shepherd in every respect, except for the difference in color. They are a little harder to find than the more traditional colored German Shepherds, but they aren’t necessarily rare. You can try locating one through social media or speak to any German Shepherd breeders in your area. You can also talk to local and national dog clubs and have fun attending dog shows.

If you would like to adopt a Red German Shepherd, check your local animal rescue organization or animal shelter. There are also breed-specific rescue groups out there, such as the Bay Area German Shepherd Rescue, which is based out of California. They rescue and adopt out German Shepherds of all different colors and ages.

While Black and Red German Shepherds are commonly used in show lines, they still have the energy and work drive of any German Shepherd. They can be the perfect show dog, working dog, and family dog. Bringing one of these dogs home will give you the ideal companion and certainly an eye-catching new member of your family.

Related Read: 

• Old German Shepherd Dog: Pictures, Temperament & Traits
• Liver German Shepherd: 5 Interesting Facts, Info & Pictures

Featured Image Credit: Callipso, Shutterstock