Much of the early history of Royal Canin is related to the German Shepherd Dog (GSD). It is for this exceptional breed that Dr. Jean Cathary initially developed a dry diet to treat eczema. The shepherd is also the breed used in the development of the first large-breed puppy formula in 1980. There are few breeds that have the versatility of the GSD. With these special abilities come special nutritional needs. The special physiology of the German Shepherd, such as its sensitive skin and digestive system, makes it a very unusual breed that needs special attention, especially in terms of nutrition.