Bay State German Shepherd Dog Club Inc., one of the oldest German Shepherd Dog specialty clubs in the United States.

In the dawn of the twentieth century, an organization was formed to celebrate and promote the German Shepherd Dog in this area. The Shepherd Dog Club of New England boasted such notable members as breeder/judge/author Lloyd Brackett & Marie Leary of Cosalta Kennels. When they merged with the German Shepherd Dog Club of America in 1949, New England was without a local organization consequently, The Bay State German Shepherd Dog Club Inc. was formed in the late 50's to fill that void.

In the years since, no fewer than seven other German Shepherd specialty clubs have come into existence within the 6 states. But for many years, BSGSDC had a membership of well over 200. With officers and board members totaling 17, they were larger than, some said, the board of AT&T!

Prior to the 1980's, the club only produced One breed & obedience Specialty show per year, however sanctioned matches were held 3-4 times yearly along with numerous functions and informational programs, wrapping up with their annual election & awards banquet.

The Bay State German Shepherd Dog Club, Inc. has always been known for and respected as a well-run and active organization. Proof of that came yearly where, in spite of a very heavy show calendar in the area, their specialties always produced a major.

Written by Rita Benson

Today the club is just as active in shows, matches-conformation and obedience, educational seminars, demonstrations, sponsoring lectures and futurity events, despite having fewer members than in earlier days. The members of the club continue to work to promote the German Shepherd Dog in the community and around New England. Although the club mainly focuses on conformation at this time, we welcome new members who are active in promoting the German Shepherd Dog in any event and look forward to expanding the club in new fields including agility, herding and more obedience events.