GSD colours

[kc70]

Can anyone tell me what the colour sable is on the GSD as I seem to be getting mixed information on the subject. Does a sable colour GSD look grey like a wolf or are they just a lighter version of the black and tan colour. Thanks

[kita1]

http://www.4gsd.net/colours.html

Scroll down and there are some sable dogs shown.

[lankeela]

Great site kita, I have saved it.

As a short answer, the black and tan has solid colouration of black bits and tan bits (or black and gold) whereas the sable colouration is single hairs carrying different colours i.e. lighter and darker colours on one strand of hair.

Most sables are either wolf grey colour, or gold sable or silver sable, and although as kita's link shows there are other sables, these are the most common.

Have to say that gold sable is my favourite colour for GSD's.

When judging colour should not come into it unless the dog is an undesirable colour according to the breed standard, although the UK breed standard does not have any actual disqualifying faults.

[lankeela]

Just thought of something else - there are some black and tan GSD's who are referred to as 'colour paling' which are actually black and tan but the black saddle markings are breaking up and the lighter colours are showing through. Some people think these are sables, but they are not.

[wolf63]

I am amazed by the range of GSDs.

I thought they came in long haired, short haired and white. Silly me!

If you are getting a new puppy Kc then good luck - they are lovely and lively dogs.