In the World of German Shepherds, Blue is the New Black

Blue is a dark, blue-toned gray, and is technically a diluted version of black. Silver on the other hand is a cool-toned white shade. While you can find German Shepherds that are solid blue, silver German Shepherds are typically silver and black, which is an AKC-recognized coloring for this breed. Here’s a side-by-side of a blue German Shepherd (left) and a silver and black German Shepherd (right). 

^{Sources: @GemstonSkies and @SilverSun.AS}

If you look closely at these two dogs’ undertones, you’ll notice the dog on the left is almost a steel-blue German Shepherd while the dog on the right has black fur with silvery-white patches. 
The colors you’re looking at are the ones that can be shown in dog shows. Blue German Shepherds can be AKC registered but cannot be shown in the ring.

^{The American Kennel Club}

No. German Shepherds do not naturally carry a merle gene, and only GSD mixes can be merle. Although there is no such thing as blue merle, blue German Shepherds can be bi-colored or sable. 

German Shepherds come in more than 10 color variations including the classic black and tan, solid black, liver, black and silver, black and red, and white. Blue German Shepherds are also a standard coloration but are considered relatively uncommon. 

Blue German Shepherds typically sell for around $1,200–$2,000. Blue German Shepherds are not exactly rare, but they are relatively uncommon, and not many breeders focus on this color variant of the breed. 

Yes, but blue eyes are considered a breed fault. German Shepherd breeders do not purposefully try to produce blue-eyed GSDs, and in fact, may work to eliminate this genetic trait from their bloodlines. 

A blue German Shepherd is a purebred German Shepherd dog that has a unique dilute coat color. Rather than the typical black and tan pattern, blue German Shepherds have varying shades of gray, blue, or silver fur. Their eyes also have a striking light blue or amber hue. The blue color is caused by a recessive gene that reduces the black pigmentation of the fur. 

No, blue German Shepherds are not recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as a standard color variation of the breed. The AKC only accepts black and tan, black and red, black and silver, black and cream, sable, black, and white as acceptable colors for German Shepherds. Blue German Shepherds are considered a serious fault. White dogs are disqualified from AKC competition. Blue German shepherds can still be registered with the AKC, but they are only eligible for performance events, such as agility, obedience, and herding. They can also participate in other activities, such as therapy, service, and companionship.

The AKC’s reasoning for not accepting blue German Shepherds is that the blue color is caused by a recessive gene mutation that can also lead to health problems, such as hip dysplasia and eye defects. 

-Some people believe that the AKC’s breed standard is necessary to maintain the health and quality of the German Shepherd breed. They argue that the blue color is a sign of poor breeding and that blue German Shepherds are more likely to have health problems.

-Others believe that the AKC’s breed standard is outdated and discriminatory. They argue that blue German Shepherds are just as healthy and capable as other German Shepherds, and that they should be allowed to compete in AKC events.

Blue German Shepherds are very rare, as they only occur when both parents carry the recessive dilute gene and pass it on to their offspring. The chances of this happening are about 25% for each puppy in a litter. Because of their rarity and unique appearance, some breeders may charge higher prices for blue German Shepherds, ranging from $1,500 to $2,500. 

Blue German Shepherds are prone to the same health issues as standard German Shepherds, such as hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, bloat, and some heart conditions. They may also have a higher risk of skin problems and allergies due to their diluted coat color. It is important to find a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for genetic diseases and provides health certificates. 

Blue German Shepherds require the same care as standard German Shepherds. They need regular grooming to keep their double coat clean and healthy. They shed moderately throughout the year and heavily twice a year during seasonal changes. They should be brushed at least once a week and bathed when necessary. They also need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and fit. They should get at least 60 to 90 minutes of physical activity daily, as well as training and enrichment activities. 

Blue German Shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable dogs that excel in many fields such as obedience, agility, tracking, herding, protection, and service work. They respond well to positive reinforcement methods that reward them for good behavior and discourage bad habits. They need early socialization to expose them to different people, animals, and situations and prevent them from becoming shy or aggressive. They also need consistent leadership and clear rules to follow. 

Blue German Shepherds can make excellent family dogs if they are raised with love and respect. They are loyal, protective, and affectionate with their owners and can get along well with children and other pets if properly socialized. However, they are not suitable for everyone, as they require a lot of time, attention, and commitment to train and exercise them. They are also not recommended for first-time owners or those who live in small apartments or have busy lifestyles. 

-German Shepherd Club of America: https://www.gsdca.org/
-International German Shepherd Society: https://www.wusv.org/en/world-union
-German Shepherd Association of North America: https://www.gsdca.org/
-German Shepherd Club of Canada: https://www.gsdcc.ca/
-German Shepherd Club of Australia: https://www.wgsdca.org.au