Dog breed · Herding / Pastoral
German Shepherd Dog
A versatile working breed that thrives on structure, training and a job to do. German Shepherds bond intensely with their household and need thoughtful socialisation to be comfortable with strangers.
Large9–13 yearsGermanyNeeds more space
Breed characteristics
- Group
- Herding / Pastoral
- Origin
- Germany
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 22–40 kg (50–88 lb)
- Height
- 55–65 cm
- Lifespan
- 9–13 years
- Coat
- Medium double coat; long-coated variety also occurs
- Temperament
- ConfidentWatchfulLoyalWork-driven
History
Standardised by Max von Stephanitz from 1899 as an all-purpose herding and service dog, and adopted worldwide for police, military and assistance work.
Appearance
Athletic and slightly longer than tall, with erect ears, a bushy tail and commonly black-and-tan, sable or solid black colouring.
Exercise and activity
Two hours a day of physical and mental work is typical: tracking, obedience, agility, herding or structured play.
Care and grooming
Shedding is heavy and year-round. Brush two to three times weekly and keep the coat and ears dry after wet work.
Health considerations
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat)
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
- Allergic skin disease