0_Apprentice
Have you ever met a German Shepherd? My uncle always had one growing up. They're so big and smart.
1_Wizard
I haven't but they look like great dogs. I know they are often used as working dogs and originated in Germany
0_Apprentice
Yep they sure are. I can't spell it but they compete in a competition that has 3 parts. Scentwork, obedience and protection. The protection is where the guys dress up in the funny suits. 
1_Wizard
oh that always looks scary!  I read that the breed was once known as the  Alsatian in Britain and Ireland
0_Apprentice
I heard that too. I think that was because of World War 2? Im not sure, but i think they changed the name to avoid the negative association. 
1_Wizard
Also apparently the German Shepherd is a relatively new breed of dog with their orgin dating back to 1899
0_Apprentice
Yeah I heard that too, but I can't remember all of the founder breeds that were used.
1_Wizard
I'm not sure either.  They were originally developed to herd sheep so that is why they are a part of the Herding Group
0_Apprentice
Yeah, and since they were a herding dog, I think that is why white is considered a fault. Since theyre the same color as the sheep.