Why are most solid black GSDs listed as coming from working lines?

by Ann Harney
(Kentucky)

I soon will have our second solid black GSD. I watch televised dog shows and have never seen a solid black GSD in the shows.

When looking for a solid black GSD, I frequently see that such dogs are from working lines. I don't think I've ever seen a solid black GSD listed as being from show lines.





Of course, I think the solid black is the most beautiful of all dogs, not just GSDs. I know the AKC accepts solid black GSDs, but why are they not suitable for shows?


Total German Shepherd:


Black German Shepherds can be shown in the confirmation ring too. And don't let the title "working dogs" fool you because show dogs are working dogs too in their own way.

Per the AKC, concerning German Shepherd coat colors:

"The German Shepherd Dog varies in color, and most colors are permissible. Strong rich colors are preferred. Pale, washed-out colors and blues or livers are serious faults. A white dog must be disqualified."

I think you just don't see many solid black GSDs as winners in the confirmation ring (All breed shows like on TV) because there are just so many saddlebacks out there competing and they're (the black GSDs) just outnumbered.

If you were to go to a German Shepherd specialty show (all GSDs competing against other GSDs - no other breeds allowed) I'm pretty sure you'd see a lot of solid black German Shepherds there.