About the breed
The German Shepherd is one of the most recognizable breeds in the world. His appearance should be that of a muscular and attentive dog, with a noble and aloof demeanor. He is an agile, well-balanced dog who moves with pride.
When one observes a German Shepherd Dog, few people stop to think that it was bred to lead and protect flocks. Most people see the German Shepherd as a police dog, the dear friend of children, the faithful companion who can lay down his life for his family, the guide he sees for his blind friend, the deadly rescuer he does not know. not and the quintessential canine hero.
German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a highly intelligent and versatile breed known for its loyalty, courage, and trainability. Originating in Germany in the late 19th century, they were originally bred to herd sheep, but quickly became popular as police, military, and assistance dogs due to their keen sense of smell and protective instincts.
With a striking appearance marked by a strong, muscular body and distinctive double coat, German Shepherds excel in a variety of roles, including search and rescue, agility, and as loving family pets.
Breed at a Glance
- Origin: Germany
- Size: Large
- Weight: 66-88 lbs (30-40 kg)
- Head shape: Long
- Lifespan: 13-15 years
- Coat Type: Double coat; dense with a thick undercoat, medium length
- Colors: Black and tan, black and red, black, sable, and white (rare)
- Temperament: Intelligent, loyal, courageous, and confident; naturally protective and alert
- Grooming Needs: Moderate to high; sheds year-round with seasonal heavy shedding, requires regular brushing
- Exercise Needs: Very high; requires daily vigorous activity and mental challenges
- Best For: Active families, experienced dog owners, and those seeking a loyal, protective companion; ideal for roles in security, service, or work
The German Shepherd is a versatile and highly intelligent breed known for its strength, loyalty, and adaptability. Originally bred for herding, German Shepherds excel in various roles, from police and military work to loyal family companion. They need consistent training, regular grooming, and ample exercise to stay healthy and balanced.
The standard of the breed
Representatives of this breed are an example of impeccable canine beauty. Previously, shepherd’s dogs were divided into large and small dogs, but they were then reduced to one.
The general aspect of the physique has a stretched format. The body is harmoniously skinny, no rudeness, with solid bones and well -developed muscles.
The height at the withers of a male is 60-65 cm, the females of 55-60 cm. The weight of a male is 30-40 kg, which far exceeds the body weight of females which weigh only 22-32 kg.
Exercise requirements
Compassion for the owner
Friendship with strangers
Energy level
Playfulness
With other pets
Characteristics of the breed
Family
German Shepherds love children and enjoy playing with them. However, it is not recommended to leave a baby alone with a dog, if only because of the difference in size and weight.
This dog is tolerant of other animals in the house; friendly relationships are possible if they grow up together.
Physical qualities
It has a hard-lined face, a domed forehead, and a long nose. The color of the German Shepherd’s nose is black. It has a keen sense of smell. The structure of the upper and lower jaw is strong. It has sharp teeth and bite. Their lips are dark in color and overlap, covering each other. Its shoulders, body, and head structure are all proportionate and strong.
Its ears are medium-sized and large. They are positioned parallel to each other at a 90-degree angle to the head area. The ears of German Shepherds should be the same size and erect. Its neck is long and it adjusts its speed when moving by raising and lowering its neck. It is observed that their ears fall back while running.
It has medium-sized, almond-shaped brown eyes. German Shepherds are active and excited, and they look around with a cheerful, intelligent, and confident air.
Jaws strong and powerful. Teeth are strong, white, quite large, in full set. Scissor bite.
German Shepherd Dogs are divided into two groups: working dogs and show dogs. The working German Shepherd Dog has higher hips and longer legs. Show dogs, on the other hand, have a bright coat, lower hips and a muscular body. The structure of their ribs is so distinct that you can feel them under their hair.
It is seen that the heights of the waist and neck also differ between them. They can take large strides thanks to their long body and gentle curves. Although their appearance resembles that of a wolf, the breed has no genetic link to wolves.
It has double hair, structured hard, straight or slightly wavy. German Shepherds are divided into short and long hair. However, we usually see shepherd dogs with medium-long and dense hair. There is a thick feather pad on the lower layer of its feathers. Due to this feature, they are resistant to winter and cold. Instead of protecting this breed from the cold or rain in winter, it is necessary to protect it from high temperatures in summer. They should not stay in the sun in sunny weather. Such weather conditions can put them into shock. They shed heavily twice a year and require additional care.
German Shepherds have a strong and muscular body. Their bodies are in harmony from the neck to the tail, and their hips are inclined horizontally. Their legs are in the same alignment and parallel to each other. In general, it has a proportionate and solid structure with its long body, soft curves and elegant curves rather than angles. They can take large steps and run fast thanks to their legs
The exterior is based on a black shade with red, ash and dark gray lines. Pure black or gray colors are allowed. The fur on the belly is lighter. The colors of the German Shepherd cannot be called varied, but they are a good identification mark of the breed.
Lifespan
Standards & Classifications
FCI
Group 1 : Sheepdogs and Cattle Dogs (except Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs).
Section 1 : Sheepdogs.
With working trial.
What to expect when taking care of a German Shepherd
Taking care of a dog involves daily exercise, regular diet, grooming and veterinary care. Expect camaraderie, loyalty and joy, as well as responsibilities such as training, cleaning after them and the supply of a safe environment.
The German Shepherd is distinguished by good health, therefore, no special diseases characteristic of this particular breed have been recorded, mainly typical ailments are diagnosed:
- Dysplasia of the hip joint and elbow joint. It develops against the background of excessive stress on the joints.
- Allergic reaction. Provocateurs can be food, hygiene products, etc.
- Constipation and indigestion. They are the result of an incorrectly compiled menu or the dog ate foods from the list of prohibited foods.
- Epilepsy. It appears for various reasons. The animal should be examined to establish the root cause of the illness.
Grooming a German Shepherd involves regular brushing to manage shedding, especially during seasonal changes. Their double coat requires weekly brushing to remove loose hair and prevent matting. Bathing should be infrequent to preserve their natural oils. Regular nail trimming and ear cleaning are essential. Pay attention to dental care, brushing several times a week to maintain oral hygiene. Finally, check for any signs of skin problems or parasites during grooming sessions to ensure your German Shepherd remains healthy and comfortable.
They are sensitive to high heat. This is a breed more suited to cold and winter seasons. Therefore, you must adjust the schedule of your activities during the day according to the thermal situation. Otherwise, the heat could cause shock in your dog.
You can spend time with your German Shepherd by taking short walks during the day and playing games in a safe place. To meet his exercise needs, it will be enough to dedicate 60 minutes to play sessions or walk 2 to 2.5 kilometers.
German Shepherds can adapt to apartment living, but they thrive in homes that provide plenty of room to roam and exercise. They are active dogs that require daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation. If you live in an apartment, regular outdoor activities in parks or open spaces are essential to meet their exercise needs. Access to a fenced yard is ideal for them to run and play safely. Regardless of the living situation, providing enough mental and physical stimulation is essential to keeping a German Shepherd happy and healthy.
Character and behavior
The character of the German Shepherd is balanced, sure and reliable. The courage of these dogs is legendary, as is their defensive instinct. This is why the German Shepherd is one of the most demanded guard and protection dogs, since it has a natural predisposition to these tasks.
The German Shepherd is a sociable and easy to train dog by nature, which can be the perfect pet or the perfect working animal if properly trained. It is very important to start the education and socialization of your dog around 3 months, because it will be much easier to obtain a balanced animal capable of behaving correctly in all circumstances.
Sociality
Relationship with the human family
Attitude towards loneliness
Tendency to bark
Friendship with dogs
Adaptability
City life
Suitable as the first dog
Tolerance for hot temperatures
Tolerance for cold temperatures
Did you know?
- The Monument of Devotion is installed in Tolyatti, it is dedicated to the memory of the German Shepherd, who has been waiting for its owner for 7 years.
- A deaf German Shepherd rescued a drowning girl in a pond. The baby was only 5 years old. The dog sensed the child needed help, rushed into the water and was able to drag him to shore.
- A man named Rin Tin Tin has his own star in a well-known Hollywood alley. This dog has appeared in more than twenty-five films, most often he had to play the role of a wolf.
- During the war, a German shepherd named Dzhulbars was able to detect more than four hundred mines and about one hundred and fifty shells. The dog actively participated in the battles. For this he received the award “For Military Merit”.
Price and budget
Here’s an estimate for German Shepherd prices and annual maintenance costs across different countries:
| Country | Purchase Price (Mini) | Purchase Price (Maxi) | Annual Maintenance (Mini) | Annual Maintenance (Maxi) |
| France | €800 | €2,000 | €800 | €1,500 |
| Canada | CAD 1,500 | CAD 3,500 | CAD 1,000 | CAD 2,000 |
| Belgium | €900 | €2,200 | €800 | €1,500 |
| Switzerland | CHF 1,200 | CHF 3,000 | CHF 1,000 | CHF 2,000 |
| USA | $1,000 | $3,000 | $1,000 | $2,000 |
| Germany | €800 | €2,500 | €800 | €1,800 |
These figures are approximate and can vary with factors such as breeder reputation, dog lineage, and location.
Competitions
| Competition Type | Description | Key Competitions |
| Herding Trials | Tests herding skills, reflecting the breed’s working roots. | AKC Herding Trials, FCI Herding Competitions |
| Schutzhund/IPO | Examines tracking, obedience, and protection abilities. | International IPO/Schutzhund Trials, German Shepherd National Championships |
| Agility Competitions | Obstacle courses testing speed, agility, and coordination. | AKC Agility Trials, UKC Agility Trials, FCI Agility Competitions |
| Obedience Trials | Tests accuracy and reliability in following commands. | AKC Obedience Trials, FCI Obedience World Championship, UKC Obedience |
| Conformation Shows | Judged on adherence to breed standards for physical traits. | Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, FCI International Shows |
| Rally Obedience | Series of timed obedience tasks performed in sequence. | AKC Rally, FCI Rally Obedience |
| Tracking Competitions | Tests scent tracking skills, used in search-and-rescue. | AKC Tracking Events, Schutzhund Tracking, National Tracking Trials |
| Protection Work | Simulated protection scenarios testing courage and control. | Protection Dog Competitions, Schutzhund, French Ring |
| Search and Rescue Trials | Assesses tracking and scent work in rescue scenarios. | NASAR (National Association for Search and Rescue) Events |
This table highlights key competitions where German Shepherds showcase their skills, such as herding, obedience, and protection.
History of the breed
The homeland of the German Shepherd is Germany. Initially, dogs of this type were used as shepherds. It is assumed that the distant ancestors of the breed are the Norse and Indian wolves that lived in Scandinavia.
You cannot call a pure natural breed a German Shepherd, because breeders worked on its creation. Initially, these dogs were in demand and appreciated as excellent shepherds. Over time, the number of grazing flocks declined dramatically, and “unemployment” threatened the shepherd. It was decided to change the breed, for this purpose representatives of herding dogs from the southern and central regions of Germany were crossed with German Shepherds.
Thanks to the meticulous work of German breeders, at the end of the 19th century, the German Shepherd acquired that exterior, character and skills that we see there today. This dog, in addition to the work of a shepherd, is able to guard, it is used in the army and in the police service. At the same time, he has a balanced character, adequate in difficult situations. This feature allows the use of “Germans” as a guide for the blind. The universal dog has gained great popularity among different segments of the population.
In the last changes to the standard (December 2010), German Shepherds with long hair were recognized with short hair. Their current main focus is a service dog.
During World War II, German Shepherds were widely used in the German army, as well as in the Entente troops and in the Allied armies. During the hostilities, many representatives of the breed died, breeding was practically stopped. Only a few purebred “Germans” remained, using them breeders began to restore the number of sheepdogs.
For the moment, the disappearance of the German Shepherd is not threatened. There are kennels all over the world. These animals are considered one of the most popular.