Origin
Germany
Lifespan
9–13 years
Weight
22–40 kg
Height
55–65 cm
Personality
Colors & Patterns
Black and Tan · Sable · All Black · Black and Red
German Shepherd
About This Breed
The German Shepherd is a breed of working dog originally from Germany. German Shepherds are working dogs developed originally for herding sheep. Since that time, however, because of their strength, intelligence, trainability, and obedience, German Shepherds around the world are often the preferred breed for many types of work, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, police and military roles, and acting. They are loyal, confident, and highly trainable dogs.
Characteristics
Scores describe general breed tendencies, not an individual animal. A higher score means more of the named trait or need; it does not always mean better.
Life with a German Shepherd
Origin
| Origin | Germany |
| Group | Herding |
For the breed’s history, see the reference sources and Wikipedia link below.
Size and coat
| Weight | 22–40 kg |
| Lifespan | 9–13 years |
| Height | 55–65 cm |
| Colors & Patterns | Black and Tan · Sable · All Black · Black and Red |
These are approximate adult ranges. Individual animals may be smaller or larger.
Temperament
| Personality | Loyal · Courageous · Confident · Intelligent · Obedient |
Usually active. Make time for play, exercise, and activities that keep it interested.
Often seeks company and attention. Allow time together and help it get used to short periods alone.
Coat care
Regular brushing helps remove loose hair and prevent tangles.
Can shed a lot. Regular brushing can help manage loose hair.
Living together
Often adjusts to changes fairly well, though a gradual introduction still helps.
Often gets along with children, but an adult should still supervise their time together.
Introduce other pets gradually and watch how each animal responds.
Training and activities
May learn quickly. Keep sessions varied and practice calmly around distractions.
Choose walks, sniffing games, and play to suit the dog’s age and health. Allow rest as well.
A lifespan range is not a prediction for an individual animal. Breed scores cannot diagnose illness or replace a veterinary assessment.
More from breed and care sources
Excerpts from the linked sources. Read the original for full details.
Breed Overview
German Shepherds are large, agile, muscular, highly intelligent, and loyal dogs. These attributes make them one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S. As part of the herding group, German Shepherds are high-energy and love having a job or an outlet for regular exercise. They are known for their confidence and bravery, as well as their ability to thrive with expert levels of dog training and obedience. In fact, German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs in the military and police for patrolling, bomb sniffing, and search and rescue.
Care Guide
German Shepherd dogs are incredibly active and require training and regular exercise to keep them out of trouble. They are best for active families and experienced pet parents who can handle their energy level. It also helps if pet parents understand how to socialize a puppy. Socialization, along with consistent training, is essential for German Shepherd puppies so they grow into confident and well-mannered dogs.