Deidre "Deedee" Tomkins
Designer, Illustrator and GSDLiving Creator
Welcome to GSDLiving. We are excited to share with you our passion for—and artistry of—the German Shepherd Dog. This site is a work in progress so bear with us as we continue to refine and build content. Dozens of informative and illustrated blog articles are in the works, so visit often to keep up with what’s new in German Shepherd health, nutrition, training and more.
GSDLiving presents a unique learning experience for owners and breeders of German Shepherd Dogs. The Illustrated German Shepherd™—along with extensive content and informative blog—is available to help guide you through your journey with this amazing breed. Decades of studying breed standards and German Shepherd anatomy and physiology have given us an appreciation for canines in motion—especially as it pertains to German Shepherd show lines. We take pride in our ability to illustrate concepts that give greater clarity and understanding to the details outlined in the standards—whether SV, GSDCA or AKC.
Pictured below are a few clips from our “journey of a lifetime” with this amazing breed and we thank you for spending time with us. We hope you enjoy your experiences here and we look forward to hearing from you often.
Deidre Tomkins, MA, and the gang—Rinny, Yevi, Reebok and Helo
Editor-in-Chief
Hi, my name is Reebok and I am a long-coat West German show line German Shepherd. I am also top dog here at GSDLiving.
This site was created to provide an entertaining and educational space for all things German Shepherd. Whether you’re bringing home your first puppy—or training for an upcoming show or trial—this space is for you.
Visit my blog to discover the latest tips and recommendations for
general care, nutrition and training. And check out our comprehensive, illustrated sections on anatomy, conformation, health and temperament—exclusive to GSDLiving.
I’m thrilled to have you with us and don’t forget to visit my Friends & Family page where you, too, can be showcased on this site.
Int’l CH 4XSG1 Reebok Kriegsman Rallhaus, BH, AD, RE, PCD, CGC
NOTE: The information presented on the site is derived from decades of experience raising, training and showing German Shepherd Dogs. The content and opinions are those of the Editor-in-Chief and his support staff—intertwined with learnings from those we have loved and lost. Our mission at GSDLiving is to provide German Shepherd enthusiasts with a beautiful, informative place to learn and explore. If you have a dog with serious behavorial and/or health concerns, always seek the advice of certified trainers and licensed veterinarians as your primary source of information.
All stock photography on this site is licensed and copyrighted by shutterstock.com unless otherwise indicated.
Illustrations are by Deidre Tomkins, MA. All rights reserved.
Helo vom Ashtonhaus "Hēlo"
Contributing Editor and Social Media Icon
Howdy, my name is Helo and I’m the newest member of the staff at GSDLiving. I am also a long-coat West German show line German Shepherd.
My primary responsibilities are harassing Reebok, stealing his toys, digging up the backyard and making you laugh—and I must say—I’m pretty darn good at my job! I’m in the process of learning rally obedience so one day I might be as cool and smart as Reebok.
Verina vom Mittelwest "Rin"
Sr. VP and Resident Matriarch
Princess Rinny here. At nine years old, I am the matriarch at GSDLiving. My job is keeping everyone in line and ensuring we uphold our commitments to keep this site fun, entertaining and informative. I am a serious girl and take great pride in my responsibilities. I also have a silly, playful side that I share with friends and family. I’d love to be your friend, too.
And oh…did I mention I also have my Rally Novice title and CGC? Reebok’s not the only smarty pants here.
Kokopelli's Lit'l Doc Yevich "Yevi"
Couch Potato and Lead Squirrel Chaser