German Shepherd Dog Breed information & Pictures

German Shepherd Dog Breed Description

Life Expectancy
11-13 years

Learning Rate
High

Litter Size
5 to 10

Size
Extra Large

Weight
Dogs: 77-95 pounds
Bitches: 75-85 pounds

Height
Dogs: 24-26 inches
Bitches: 22-24 inches

Country of Origin
Germany

Groups
AKC Herding Dogs
FCI Group I.: Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Cattle Dogs)
TKC Pastoral

Other Names
Alsatian, Deutscher Schaferhund,

The German Shepherd is a “natural dog”. It was first named the Alsatian Wolf-Dog but it was not truly bred with a wolf or even in Alaska. The German Shepherd was developed in Germany in the 1880’s as a herder.

The German Shepherd Dog is a strong, agile dog – and possesses one of the keenest noses in the dog world. Unsurpassed as a working dog, German Shepherd Dogs are the original “drug dogs,” and can easily adapt to both protection and police work. The German Shepherd is exceptionally trainable and works well as a police, guide, search, rescue dog.

Smart and protective, the German Sheperd Dog truly bonds with its family and can suffer separation anxiety when boarded. Early obedience training and socialization recommended. There is a distinction between the show and working lines. Show line dogs look great but have little ability for obedience. The working line dogs are more active and stable temperamentally. Larger dogs in general are slow to mature typically taking three to three and a half years.

Temperament

The German Shepherd Dog is a highly intelligent, responsive, solid temperament, consistent behavior, territorial dog breed. Initially suspicious of strangers, the German Shepherd Dog is an excellent watchdog. Often used as working dogs, German Shepherds are direct and fearless, eager and alert. Bold, cheerful, obedient and eager to learn.

Known for their tremendous loyalty and courage. Calmly confident, but not hostile. Serious and almost human in his intelligence. They have a high learning ability. German Shepherds love to be close to their families, but they are very wary of strangers. This breed needs his people and should not be left isolated for long periods of time. They only bark when it is necessary. They are generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family.

Colors

Black, black & tan and gray (wolf sable).

Coat

Length is medium, straight and hard and close lying with a dense undercoat, which protects against temperature and bugs, as well as a straight outer coat. Their coat requires regular brushing.

Health Issues

Usually hardy. Has potential to have hip dysplasia. To help prevent the chance of hip or elbow dysplasia developing make sure your dog is on a healthy, well proportioned diet, and avoid excessive running and jumping while still a puppy as this can be hard on the developing joints. Heart issues can also occur and must be monitored by your local vet To minimize the risk of your GMD developing any hereditary health issues, you should buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder.

Living Environment

Country or city living is fine, but only as long as adequate attention and exercise is given. A fenced yard is essential to stop the dog from wandering. The owner of a German Shepherd should be strong and confident to control this powerful and forceful breed.

German Shepherd Dog Puppies for Sale

Articles

Dog Care

German Shepherd Puppy ears. How to help those ears stand up!

September 22, 2023 by Shane Sykes

Everything you need to know about why, and how to help, your German Shepherd puppy ears stay upright.. The German Shepherd Dog was first bred just over 100 years ago, and in that time it has become one of the most...

German Shepherd Dog 8 Comments

Dog socialization

German Shepherd Dogs and Schutzhund:

July 12, 2010 by Sandor Fagyal

Any serious dog lover is at home with the term “Schutzhund”. But those dog lovers who are proud owners or fans of the German Shepherd Dog can vouch for the fact that Schutzhund is an imperative part of dog training...

German Shepherd Dog , Schutzhund 8 Comments