Possibilities for Rescued Shepherds
Rescued German shepherds make terrific companions, but these dogs can fill a number of other roles as well. For the most part, adopted adult dogs do not have any registration papers. However, you can apply to the AKC for an indefinite listing privilege (ILP) number, which allows an unregistered dog to compete in all of the AKC's performance events. When your dog is assigned an ILP number, he can be entered in any of the AKC's performance events (except conformation classes) and is eligible for all the titles, awards, and accolades of the AKC-registered dog. He can also take part in all of the United Kennel Club's (UKC) agility and obedience trials, as well as those given by multiple other organizations.
To receive an ILP number, you must request an application from the AKC or download one from the AKC's Web site (at www.akc.org). In addition to filling out the application, you'll need to include several good photographs of your shepherd, showing him from both the side and front. Proof of altering is also required. AKC representatives will review the application and photos. If your dog appears to be a German shepherd and not a shepherd mix, you should receive the ILP number within a month.
Depending on your rescued adult's temperament, you may consider training and certifying him for animal-assisted therapy work. A good German shepherd that has the capacity to enter almost any situation without trepidation and really enjoys being around people would be a perfect choice for this work.
Is it true that service dogs and police K-9s often come from shelters?
At one time, most service dogs and police K-9s were rescued from shelters and pounds. Today, some trainers still find great working-dog candidates in abandoned pets, but many turn to breeders instead.
Rescued dogs have also done well as search-and-rescue (SAR) dogs. German shepherds have the natural ability to track and trail scents. Those dogs that are particularly toy motivated — they can't get enough of playing with a ball or tugging on a rolled-up towel — tend to respond to this training exceptionally well. An SAR dog must be passive around unfamiliar dogs and people, since much of SAR work is performed off lead.
