I'm not sure if this is a touchy subject or not, but I'm certainly not trying to offend anybody. It seems that there are quite a few GSD people here, and I'm really curious.
Have GSDs always been bred with such sloping backs? Is there a reason for it? I know the breed has a lot of hip problems - is that related to their build, or are they just the same as many other large breeds?
I ask because a friend has a GSD that she got from what I assume is a BYB - and it's the healthiest looking one I've seen. She's eight, and has no joint issues. Her hips are as "square" as most other dogs. I don't know if that's related to her soundness or not, but it got me thinking.
Thanks to anyone who replies, and doesn't take any offense.
Have GSDs always been bred with such sloping backs? Is there a reason for it? I know the breed has a lot of hip problems - is that related to their build, or are they just the same as many other large breeds?
I ask because a friend has a GSD that she got from what I assume is a BYB - and it's the healthiest looking one I've seen. She's eight, and has no joint issues. Her hips are as "square" as most other dogs. I don't know if that's related to her soundness or not, but it got me thinking.
Thanks to anyone who replies, and doesn't take any offense.