German Shepherd Dog Overview

German Shepherds are renown the world over due to their earned reputation as virtuous dogs. Viewed frequently as heroes, the breed is used worldwide in police departments, the military, and search and rescue teams. 

Although it is in high demand as a work dog, it is also useful in the home as an alert and loyal guard dog. Along with its proud and courageous reputation, the dog is never a boaster. 

Level-headed and good tempered, its energy should never be wasted lounging around the house. Only families with plenty of energy and room to roam should own a German Shepherd, as it requires high exercise and training to really thrive. 

The breed comes in a long coat and short coat variation. This characteristic is essential when considering this companion, because the length of its coat determines the amount of maintenance that must be done. Long-haired Shepherds require brushing and grooming on a daily basis, while a short-haired Shepherd only averages one brushing per week. 

Although the German Shepherd can be trained to live a city life, it is not recommended. These dogs need high doses of daily exercise; so unless you have no problem with ten-mile dog walks, it is better they live in a home with large backyards. 

The German Shepherd is gifted with high intelligence and Spartan bravery, ideal as both a working and family dog.

German Shepherd Dog History

The German Shepherd Dog is the result from centuries of extensive and valued breeding. While the dog has no specific time of origin, it is safely assumed that the breed originated centuries ago from farming and hunting dogs.

Its specific title began in 1899, when the German Shepherd Dog Club of Germany was organized. Quickly thereafter, the dog’s popularity spread the globe, resulting in many countries creating their own specialty clubs for the breed. 

By the time the AKC was created, the German Shepherd Dog was granted a rank without any doubt. The Shepherd possesses too long a history to be completely detailed. 

German Shepherd Dogs are the ideal example of a perfect dog resulting from years of specialty breeding.

German Shepherd Dog Character

This breed is so highly responsive to training that they can excel in obedience and agility competitions. Its great intelligence comes at a price, however; as under-stimulation can result in rowdy and destructive behavior. 

The personality of the German Shepherd depends greatly on how it is bred. Some that come from puppy-mills become restless indoors and may bite out of fear or nervousness.  Yet other Shepherds from similar backgrounds show none of said problems. Other members of this breed are bred for sharpness – typically for use as police or military dogs – who are more likely to bite and challenge their masters. When searching for a German Shepherd, it is recommended to ask what the breeder was intending for the puppies. 

It can be stated simply that there is a reason for the German Shepherd’s worldwide fame. Poised, alert, intelligent, brave, and self-controlled are only a few of the virtuous characteristics of this breed. If one has the time and energy to train and exercise this demanding dog, they will be rewarded with an excellent companion.

German Shepherd Dog Care

This breed requires daily brushing to minimize loose hair. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo to preserve the integrity of the coat. German Shepherds are prone to such health issues as blood disorders, elbow and hip dysplasia, epilepsy, flea allergies, digestive problems, and chronic eczema.

German Shepherd Dog Training

The German Shepherd requires early intensive and extensive socialization and obedience training. They will not respond to harsh or heavy-handed methods. This breed is obedient and quick to learn. Training must be done with respect, firmness, fairness, reward, and consistency. They are exceptionally talented in tracking, schutzhund, agility, obedience, fly-ball, and ring sport. The German Shepherd is often used in police work, search and rescue, as a guide for the blind, and military work.

German Shepherd Dog Health

Common Health Issues for the German Shepherd Dog:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the German Shepherd Dog:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

German Shepherd Dog Resources