American Alsatian

The American Alsatian is a breed with a large body stature, developed in the recent times, bearing close resemblance to the presently extinct dire-wolf.  Characterized by a large, broad head, thick muzzle, almond-shaped eyes, triangular ears, powerful neck, broad chest and a small tail, this breed makes for a great companion dog.

American Alsatian Pictures

History

Lois Denny, a resident of California as well as a dog trainer and groomer by profession, was instrumental in the development of this breed. She had desired for an intelligent dog with a loving disposition and minimum work drive. She even wanted her canines to look like the now extinct dire wolf, though Denny did not use any hybrids in her breeding program since she was not in favor of creating an aggressive breed.

After much contemplation, she finally selected a few AKC registered as well as working lie German Shepherds along with two Alaskan Malamutes which were purebred. The first litter of this new breed was born in the year 1988 of to parents Buddy (Alaskan Malamute) and Swanny (German Shepherd). Denny kept on making improvisation to the new breed, also crossing some of them with pleasant temperaments to the English Mastiff since the latter had a hardy bone structure and a strong head.

Over the years to improve the standards of this breed that were initially called the North American Shepalute, more varieties were introduced like the Golden Pyrenees Anatolian Shepherd Dog and the Irish Wolfhound.

The North American Shepalute Club (now known as the National American Alsatian Club) was the first to register this breed in the year 1988. It formally underwent a name change in 2010 to the American Alsatian. Breeders are presently working towards increasing their numbers though it has not been recognized by any major kennel clubs off late besides the NAAC and NAABA.

Temperament and Personality

It may be fierce and mighty in appearance but possesses an exceedingly warm disposition, bonding closely to their family, particularly his master, following him everywhere. Though they are quite laidback about their surroundings, the American Alsatian might be prone to separation anxiety.

Though aloof and detached from strangers, they are never hostile towards them, hence not emerging as the perfect guard dog. They even share a good rapport with the kids of the family, though they may not proactively initiate play unless encouraged to do so.

These calm and quiet dogs have  a low pitched bark and do not emit it too often, neither do they display any destructive behavior like whining or fence digging. In spite of their docile nature, they are intelligent as well as quick learners. Their calm and composed temperament makes them excellent therapy dogs.

Training

Since they are sensitive to a change in voice or way of giving a command, it is necessary to train them in a firm but gentle way with a lot of pats and praises as well as other reinforcements.

• Since they might suffer from separation anxiety, giving American Alsatian puppies crate training would help to solve the issue to a certain extent. Its calm nature would be an added advantage, helping it to accept the crate quickly. Try putting his favorite playthings inside the crate where he may initially stay for short intervals with the span increasing gradually.
• Though being calm and quiet is a part of their natural instinct, if you wish your American Alsatian to be a little lively and playful, take it to dog parks where it can acquaint with other canines. Also, ask your friends with dogs to come over to your place for playdate.

Feeding

Give them four to five cups dry dog food regularly along with a healthy diet rich in protein and fibers.