Have you ever heard of the charming and unique Panda German Shepherd?
If not, don’t worry.
You’re not alone!
These adorable dogs aren’t well-known, which makes them even more unique.
Panda German Shepherds are purebred German Shepherds with a twist.
They have striking black and white markings, resembling the beloved Pandas.
Just imagine how cute and cuddly they look!
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll dive into the fascinating world of Panda German Shepherds, exploring their origins, characteristics, care, and everything in between.
Let’s embark on this exciting journey and discover what makes these adorable creatures so special.
Panda German Shepherd Overview
| Height | 22–26 inches |
| Weight | 49–88 pounds |
| Lifespan | 9–13 years |
| Colors | Black/tan/white, generally with dark eye patches that resemble a Panda |
| Eyes | Their dark eyes are almond-shaped, but some Panda German Shepherds have gorgeous blue eyes and even 1 blue and 1 brown eye |
| Build | They have a sturdy, athletic, slightly elongated body with a light, solid bone structure |
| Energy Level | A high-energy companion that needs intense daily physical exercise |
| Intelligence | Highly intelligent and ready to learn; needs mental activity to avoid boredom |
| Health Concerns | Similar to normal German Shepherd Dogs, Panda coloring doesn’t cause other underlying conditions |
| Behavior Problems | Prone to socialization issues, territorial barking, guarding behaviors, and separation anxiety |
| Temperament | Intelligent, loyal, and watchful |
| Best for | Active families with time for frequent training, socialization, mental enrichment, and especially daily physical activity |
| Price | $1500-$3000 or more |
What’s a Panda German Shepherd?
If you’re a dog lover with a soft spot for unique and captivating breeds, then the Panda German Shepherd is sure to steal your heart.
Panda German Shepherds are purebred German Shepherds with a genetic mutation. What makes them even more special is that the Panda patterning is a spontaneous mutation that occurred within a single German Shepherd bloodline. A Panda is 35% white and the remainder of the color is black and tan. Pandas don’t have any white German Shepherds in their ancestry and are purebred dogs.
Panda German Shepherds are scarce.
The gene mutation that produces the Panda coloring didn’t exist in the population until the year 2000.
Because this gene is so uncommon, this breed isn’t typically available from breeders.
To clarify any misconceptions, it’s important to note that the Panda Shepherd Dog doesn’t have any White German Shepherds in its ancestry.
This delightful canine combines the noble lineage and intelligence of the German Shepherd with the eye-catching black and white symmetrical markings reminiscent of a Panda.
Origin of the Panda Shepherd
Every great tale has its beginning, and the story of the Panda German Shepherd is no exception.
In 2000, the parents of the first recorded black/tan/white female puppy were both purebred German Shepherds. The dam, a beautiful black German Shepherd, and the sire, a handsome black and tan German Shepherd, produced a litter that mostly consisted of standard-looking black and tan German Shepherd puppies. However, among them was a singular puppy with an enchanting black/tan/white coat and two mesmerizing blue eyes.
Her name was Lewcinka’s Franka von Phenom, or Frankie for short.
The First Panda German Shepherd
| Name | Date of Birth | Known for |
|---|---|---|
| Lewcinka’s Franka von Phenom “Frankie” | 2000 | Being the first documented Panda German Shepherd and her enticing ice-blue eyes |
Quite shocked as an experienced breeder, the dog’s owner enlisted help from the scientific community.
Recognizing the significance of this extraordinary occurrence, the founding breeder took the piebald puppy, affectionately named Frankie, to the renowned Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital.
There, genetic DNA testing was conducted to unravel the exact cause of this captivating anomaly.
The results confirmed that both the dam and sire were indeed purebred German Shepherds with no lineage of White German Shepherds or any other breeds.
With this scientific confirmation, it became evident that Frankie was:
- a purebred German Shepherd
- born with the rare piebald coloring (black/white)
This exciting discovery gave rise to three additional breedings between the same sire and dam. Surprisingly, all the resulting puppies displayed the traditional black and tan coloring, indicating that the piebald pattern was not a hereditary trait in the breeding pair.
The Ongoing Lineage of Panda Shepherd DNA
To further delve into the genetic makeup and coat color inheritance of the Panda Shepherds, extensive canine genetic coat color testing was carried out. Frankie, the first Panda Shepherd, was bred to a traditional black and tan German Shepherd as she matured.
In the subsequent litter, four adorable puppies were born.
Three of them inherited the striking black/tan/white coats, similar to their mother Frankie, but did not possess the captivating blue eyes.
The fourth puppy, in keeping with the traditional coloration, had the classic black and tan coat.
Frankie’s Puppies
| Frankie, a Panda German Shepherd, had 4 puppies |
|---|
| 3 puppies inherited the black and white colors of the Panda gene |
| 1 puppy inherited the traditional black and tan colors |
In light of these extraordinary occurrences and to differentiate them from their standard-colored counterparts, these unique black/tan/white German Shepherd Dogs were fittingly named Panda Shepherds.
The name perfectly captures the charm and allure of their Panda-like appearance, enchanting dog lovers worldwide.
The discovery and ongoing breeding of Panda Shepherds showcase the wonder and diversity found within the German Shepherd breed.
The Modern Phenomenon
The enchanting Panda patterning in German Shepherds is attributed to a spontaneous mutation of the KIT gene. It’s believed that a variation in the KIT gene is a common cause of white spotting among domesticated animals, including the Panda Shepherd.
Since only one copy of the gene is required for the coloration, any dog carrying it will exhibit it.
But, inheriting two Panda genes will prevent a puppy from growing normally and from living long enough to be born.
This gene mutation gives rise to the striking black and white symmetrical markings that adorn their fur, reminiscent of the beloved Panda bear.
While the Panda pattern shares a resemblance to the piebald color expression seen in other breeds, it’s a relatively recent development within the German Shepherd breed.
Despite this modern phenomenon, Panda Shepherds have become the talk of the town!
With their striking piebald coloring, consisting of white fur and the remaining black and tan, it’s no wonder these canines capture everyone’s attention.
The Rarity and Cost of Panda German Shepherd Puppies
| Panda GSD | Traditional GSD |
|---|---|
| Rare | Common |
| Cost ranges from $1500 and $3000 | Cost ranges from $1000 to $2000 |
| Usually sold before they’re even born | Can typically be bought more easily, depending on the lineage |
As with any distinctive and in-demand breed, the Panda German Shepherd is more expensive than its conventional black and tan counterparts.
Panda German Shepherds are extremely uncommon, which raises their price because supply is frequently insufficient to meet demand. It’s not uncommon for these adorable canines to have waiting lists even before they open their eyes for the first time.
On average, Panda German Shepherds cost between $1500 and $3000. Astonishingly, Panda German Shepherds have been listed for as much as $5000!
So, you’re looking at paying these prices for a Panda GSD:
- Low end: $1500
- Average: $3000
- High end: $5000
These price ranges depend entirely on the breeders near you, the lineage of the dog, and demand in the area.
Due to its low level of breeder acceptance, very few people are breeding this particular coloration. Some kennels, however, produce this breed exclusively, or at least on occasion.
Male vs. Female: Gender Differences in Panda German Shepherds
When it comes to male and female Panda German Shepherds, there are a few subtle distinctions to note.
Generally, males tend to be slightly larger in size, while females are comparatively smaller. Although size variations can vary greatly sometimes even within the Panda coloration.
In terms of weight:
- male Panda German Shepherds typically range between 65 to 90 pounds
- females generally weigh between 50 to 70 pounds
In regard to temperament, both males and female GSDs require similar training and socialization to thrive. There is some evidence suggesting that males tend to become more territorial, especially if left intact (unneutered).
Some owners find female Panda German Shepherds to act:
- more relaxed around children
- less territorial at home
- more affectionate to family members
Even though you want either a male or female for a particular reason, when searching for a Panda German Shepherd, don’t just fixate on a specific gender.
These dogs are quite rare, and it’s often the case that both male and female options may not be readily available. When you have your mind made up for a particular gender of a Panda German Shepherd you are limited in choosing a puppy by the sheer scarcity of these unique dogs.
Are Panda Shepherds purebred?
Yes, Panda Shepherds are purebred German Shepherds. The Panda Shepherd Dog is an absolutely adorable and unique variation of the German Shepherd breed. Both the dam and sire of Frankie, the first Panda Shepherd, were purebred traditional German Shepherds with no lineage of White German Shepherds or any other breeds.
Are Panda Shepherds recognized by the AKC?
While the black and tan coat is the hallmark of a traditional German Shepherd, Panda German Shepherds bring a touch of whimsy with their distinctive black and white markings.
These delightful canines exhibit a unique coat pattern that sets them apart from their counterparts. However, it’s important to note that the American Kennel Club (AKC) does not officially recognize Pandas due to their deviation from the standard colorations.
According to the AKC, any trace of white on a German Shepherd’s coat is considered a fault, leading to disqualification.
But this official recognition doesn’t mean that Panda Shepherds aren’t purebred (source).
What’s it like owning and living with a Panda Shepherd?
German Shepherds are working dogs first and foremost, regardless of their coat color.
This applies to the Panda German Shepherd as well. The Panda gene only affects the dog’s coloration.
They’ll still act like normal German Shepherds.
The majority of the time, a stable, well-behaved, and trained dog is great with kids in the family and other pets.
However, Panda Shepherds whose instincts and needs aren’t satisfied may show the following behavior problems:
- grow timid and uneasy
- be more likely to bite out of fear
- become possessive of their toys, territory, or even certain people
Owning a Panda GSD Overview
| Energy | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Health | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| Sociability | ⭐⭐ |
| Trainability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Lifespan | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Panda German Shepherd Temperament and Personality 😄
The Panda German Shepherd has a wonderful temperament that is characterized by loyalty, intelligence, and protectiveness.
They make excellent companions because:
- they are devoted to their families
- they are known for their trainability and work ethic
- they excel in various tasks and activities
Panda German Shepherds are alert and attentive, making them great watchdogs. They have an instinct to protect their loved ones and their territory.
Proper socialization and training from a young age are important to ensure they become well-rounded and well-behaved dogs.
The Activity Level of Panda Shepherds 🏃🏼♂️
The Panda Shepherd is very active.
They were developed to be active for extended periods and to work for the majority of the day. This means that they have fairly high exercise needs.
They work best with:
- families that have time to include their Panda Shepherds in their daily activities
- a large yard where you can train them, play games, and enjoy tug-of-war
- a family that gives them routine training and focuses on preventing behavior problems common to the breed
- a variety of breed-appropriate exercise
- other like-tempered dog breeds as companions
To satisfy your dog’s innate needs, you must be prepared to offer some kind of daily, healthy exercise. If under-exercised, this breed can become restless and destructive.
Plan for at least two hours of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day.
If walking is your only form of exercise, this is equivalent to walking for about 10 miles!
Most owners don’t have that much time to walk, unfortunately. That’s why you’ll need to find an exercise routine that taps into their full athletic powers.
There are also many fun puzzle toys on the market for GSDs to fight off boredom and give them a brain workout.
For those looking for a pet to watch TV with, the Panda German Shepherd isn’t a good choice.
Panda Shepherd Intelligence 💡
Panda Shepherds are also very intelligent.
In fact, they’re one of the most intelligent breeds out there!
For this reason, you must provide Panda German Shepherds:
- plenty of mental stimulation
- opportunities for mental engagement
- the right environment so they can also train their brains
This is best accomplished through the use of positive training, having them work for their food (instead of always using treats), and puzzle toys.
Some games, like these games to play with your GSD, can also challenge their minds.
Without the proper mental stimulation, your Panda Shepherd will attempt to find their own fun. Usually, this seeking results in destructive behaviors. When your dog is bored, your wall may suddenly look like a rather lovely chew toy.
The Trainability of a Panda Shepherd 🎓
Panda German Shepherds are one of the smartest and most trainable breeds.
With this highly skilled working dog comes the drive to have a dog job and a task in life to look forward to completing.
They easily adapt to new training cues and commands.
What’s even better?
You can also use training time to bond with your Shepherd.
Panda Shepherds also excel at other dog sports like:
- Schutzhund
- tracking
- obedience
- agility
- Flyball
- ring sports
- herding
This breed will not be content lying around in your living room or being confined to the backyard! Owning a Panda Shepherd isn’t for those who love relaxing around the house.
Panda Shepherd Sociability Issues 👋🏼
Despite not being the friendliest around strangers, they develop strong bonds with their owners and are very devoted to them.
Panda Shepherds love to be close to their families but can:
- be wary of strangers
- show destructive tendencies
- develop separation anxiety
- show signs of possessiveness
- act aggressively toward other dogs
They can become protective of their people if they are not socialized properly. They make excellent guard dogs for this reason, but they still require training to perform this task correctly.
When left alone for too long or not taught the proper skills to be alone gradually they tend to develop separation anxiety under stress.
Training is vital for them to be accepting of strangers.
Panda Shepherd Health Problems 👩🏻⚕️
Just like any other purebred German Shepherd, the health and well-being of Panda German Shepherds depend on responsible breeding practices and proper care.
Although a variation in the KIT gene is the cause of white spotting in Panda Shepherds, researchers haven’t linked it to additional health problems or diseases.
Unfortunately, this gene is also recessive lethal, which means that one of the alleles (different parts of the gene) can be dangerous if there are two copies.
It’s called “lethal” because it’s deadly to an organism.
But here’s the interesting part:
If there’s just one copy of this allele and another different allele, the organism is totally fine!
When searching for a Panda German Shepherd, find a reputable breeder who prioritizes health testing for their breeding stock to avoid other problems such as:
- hip dysplasia
- stomach problems
- degenerative myelopathy
- other diseases commonly found in the traditional GSD
This testing helps ensures that potential genetic health issues are minimized and that you bring home a healthy and happy Panda GSD puppy.
How to Care for the Coat of a Panda German Shepherd 🐾
Grooming a Panda German Shepherd means keeping up with their notorious shedding.
Not only do they shed fur constantly, but:
- they are a seasonally heavy shedder
- require routine brushing, preferably daily
You only need to bathe their coats when necessary, such as after a muddy walk or if they’ve rolled in anything stinky. Otherwise, over-bathing can cause skin irritation from oil depletion, which can make them itch and scratch constantly.
Always bathe them with a gentle shampoo made for Shepherds.
Check their ears and trim their nails regularly to avoid any skin or paw problems.
Don’t forget their dental health, as GSDs are prone to tartar, which can cause gum issues and tooth problems.
Finding a Panda German Shepherd Puppy Breeder Near You
When looking at how to get a Panda German Shepherd, start your search for a reliable breeder with caution.
Begin by asking for recommendations from:
- trusted friends
- family
- local dog clubs
- your veterinarian
While you can do an online search for Panda German Shepherd breeders, be extremely wary of this method.
Many people, knowing the rarity of the Panda Shepherd, make fake ads to scam buyers.
And to make matters worse, some dishonest sellers even list dogs that may resemble Panda Shepherd puppies but are actually crosses of other breeds!
You can always buy an easy, at-home DNA test kit for your dog to find out the breed profile of your dog.
Evaluating the Breeder
Once you have a list of potential breeders, it’s time to evaluate them to ensure they meet your expectations.
Visit their websites, if available, and look for important information such as their breeding philosophy, health testing practices, and testimonials from previous customers.
This can give you a glimpse into their reputation and dedication to their dogs.
A Personal Visit
A necessary first step is to visit the breeder in person to inspect their facilities and the environment in which the dogs are raised.
Pay attention to the cleanliness and overall environment.
Observe how the dogs interact with the breeder and visitors, as this can be an indicator of their socialization and temperament.
Health Testing and Genetic Screening
A reliable breeder prioritizes the health of their dogs.
Ask them about the genetic and health screenings they perform on the breeding dogs. This ensures that potential hereditary issues are minimized, and you can bring home a healthy Panda German Shepherd puppy.
Meeting the Parents
Meeting the puppy’s parents can provide insights into their temperament, appearance, and overall behavior.
Watch how they interact with the breeder and their surroundings. You can get a sense of the personality and physical characteristics you can anticipate from this.
Staying Involved
A reputable breeder will not stop caring about the puppies once they leave their care.
They’re available to provide guidance and support throughout the dog’s life.
They may offer resources, training tips, and even help with any challenges that arise. Keep in contact with your breeder and ask them questions when you need to know more about your Panda puppy.
Wrap-Up: Is the Panda German Shepherd right for you?
The Panda German Shepherd is a remarkable and enchanting breed that effortlessly combines the grace and intelligence of the German Shepherd with captivating Panda-like markings.
While they may not be officially recognized by the AKC, their distinct appearance and delightful personalities make them a favorite among dog enthusiasts.
Remember, when welcoming a Panda German Shepherd into your life, choose a reputable breeder, prioritize their health, and meet their breed-specific instincts.
It’s hard not to fall in love with these charming dogs!
So, if you’re looking for a unique and lovable companion, a Panda German Shepherd might be the perfect choice for you.
Get ready to experience the joy and cuteness of having one of these delightful puppies in your life!
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FAQ
What’s the difference between a Panda German Shepherd and a standard German Shepherd?
You might be curious how they stack up against typical German Shepherds. The truth is that, in terms of temperament and health, Panda German Shepherds are quite similar to their counterparts. Their distinctive coats and coloring are the only noticeable differences. The Panda German Shepherds have unique black and white markings, resembling Pandas, while other German Shepherds have a more traditional black and tan coat.
Are Panda German Shepherds recognized as an official breed?
No, they are not recognized as an official breed by organizations like the American Kennel Club (AKC) due to their distinct coloring. The white markings are considered a fault. However, this doesn’t mean a Panda German Shepherd isn’t full-bred.
Can Panda German Shepherds have different eye colors?
Yes, it’s possible for Panda German Shepherds to have different eye colors. Brown eyes are the most common color, but a Panda Shepherd could also have blue eyes or even one blue eye and one brown eye, which adds to their unique appearance.
Are Panda Shepherds healthy?
Their health depends on the breeder who raised them, just like any other purebred dog. It’s essential to find a responsible breeder who cares about the well-being of their dogs and conducts health testing to avoid potential health issues.
How much is a Panda German Shepherd worth?
The price of a Panda German Shepherd can vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, lineage, and demand near you. On average, they tend to be more expensive than traditional-colored German Shepherds due to their rarity. Ranging from $1500 to $3000 on average, some Pandas have been known to go for as much as $5000!
How rare is a Panda German Shepherd?
Panda German Shepherds are considered rare due to their unique coat coloring. While traditional black and tan German Shepherds are the most common colors, Pandas have distinct black and white markings. Their rarity adds to their appeal, making them sought after by dog enthusiasts.
How do you get a Panda German Shepherd?
To get a Panda German Shepherd, it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder who specializes in this specific color variation. Conduct thorough research and look for breeders with a proven track record of producing healthy and well-socialized Panda German Shepherds. Ask your veterinarian and dog clubs in your area for breeders near you. Reach out to them, inquire about their available litters or upcoming breeding plans, and follow their application process to secure a puppy.
What is the Panda mutation in German Shepherds?
The Panda mutation in German Shepherds refers to a spontaneous genetic variation that leads to the unique coat coloration seen in Panda German Shepherds. Unlike traditional black and tan coloring, Pandas have black and white markings. A mutation in the KIT gene has been found to be the source of the dominant white spotting pattern known as Panda that occurs in a line of German Shepherd dogs. This mutation is a result of a specific combination of genes, resulting in the Panda pattern.
Are Panda German Shepherds from White GSDs?
| Panda German Shepherd | White German Shepherd |
|---|---|
| Spontaneous mutation of the KIT gene found in common colors of GSDs | Selective breeding of predominately white GSDs |
No, Panda German Shepherds are not from White GSDs as verified by the University of California – Davis, in a 2016 study. Panda German Shepherds are purebred GSDs with a mutation in the KIT gene that has been found to be the source of the dominant white spotting pattern known as Panda. This mutation is very recent. It appeared spontaneously in the year 2000 from a breeding pair of traditional GSDs.
Are white markings considered a fault in the Panda German Shepherd?
Yes, according to the standards set by the German Shepherd Dog Club of America (GSDCA), any white markings on a German Shepherd, including the Panda German Shepherd, are considered faults for showing purposes. This doesn’t mean that a Panda German Shepherd’s coat color indicates inferior stock or breeding quality.
Do traditional breeders oppose the Panda German Shepherd?
Yes, it’s true that some traditional breeders express concerns about the Panda German Shepherd’s coloration. While there may be varying opinions among breeders most breeders recognize that the Panda German Shepherd is still a purebred German Shepherd. Its unique coat color does not automatically imply inferior breeding or go against ethical breeding practices. On the other hand, the color doesn’t conform to the breed standard.
Additional Resources
Featured image: lisatorajaqueline
