German Shepherd Dog
Breed Group: herding
"You can count on me to be your guard, guide, or friend!"
Breed Profile
With a star-studded history and loving yet protective personality, it’s easy to understand why German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds around. These pups possess the perfect blend of gentle love and fierce watchfulness. As long as you’re safe and content, they will be too.
Behavior
The German Shepherd is a very smart dog, in addition to being unconditionally loyal, obedient, brave, and protective. They’re known for their fearlessness and make great watchdogs, but they rarely show hostility or aggression unless provoked. Once German Shepherds bond with their families, they’ll be devoted to protecting them and keeping them happy.
Coat
There are three varieties of German Shepherds: coarse and short-haired, coarse and long-haired, and wavy and long-haired. The most common dogs are tan with a black back and mask, but German Shepherds come in a variety of colors, including solid black, grey, brown, and yellow, tricolor, or sable. They also have several kinds of markings, such as “pencilling” (black lines on the toes) and “tar heels” (black on the back of the leg). No matter what kind of coat the German Shepherd has, they will shed regularly and need weekly brushing.
Lifestyle
German Shepherd Dogs are ultra territorial, making them among the least likely of breeds to run away from a fight. They’re not friendly towards strangers and won’t hesitate to let unwanted visitors know they’re not welcome. German Shepherds get along fine with children and other animals, as long as they’ve been socialized, and they prefer to live in a home with family around. However, they don’t enjoy being with other dogs and would prefer to have the house to themselves.
Activity
German Shepherd Dogs are happiest when they’re doing some type of work, such as agility, obedience, or any activity that taps into their herding instincts. This breed enjoys helping and having a job to do, so they're often used as guide dogs and police dogs. No matter what the activity is, be sure to keep your German Shepherd busy with mental and physical activities to prevent boredom.
Characteristics
Space Needs
Activity Needs
Intelligence
Playfulness
Grooming Needs
Trainability
Watch Ability
Dog-friendliness
Child-friendliness
German Shepherd Dog Buyer's Guide
German Shepherd Dogs got their moment in the spotlight during World War I with movie star, Rin Tin Tin, and ever since, they’ve been one of the most popular canine companions. This loyal, tireless breed loves having work to do, which is why they've been chosen for many high-profile jobs, such as a police dog, guide dog, and search-and-rescue dog. German Shepherds are known for their perfect mix of protectiveness and love. They’re family friendly but won’t hesitate to leap into action if they sense danger. At the end of the day, the German Shepherd just wants to be your best friend and loving protector.
Breed information reviewed by the Puppies.com editorial team. Helping families find their perfect puppy since 2003.
German Shepherd Dog Quick Facts
1096
Available Now
From $100
Starting Price
50–90 lbs
Adult Weight
22–26"
Adult Height
Frequently Asked Questions About German Shepherd Dogs
What is a German Shepherd Dog like?
With a star-studded history and loving yet protective personality, it’s easy to understand why German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds around. These pups possess the perfect blend of gentle love and fierce watchfulness. As long as you’re safe and content, they will be too. Full-grown, they typically weigh 50-90 pounds and stand 22-26 inches tall.
How are German Shepherd Dogs with other pets?
German Shepherd Dogs are generally excellent with children of all ages. German Shepherd Dogs are ultra territorial, making them among the least likely of breeds to run away from a fight. German Shepherds get along fine with children and other animals, as long as they’ve been socialized, and they prefer to live in a home with family around. They're moderate barkers — they'll alert you when something's up but aren't excessive.
Do German Shepherd Dogs need a lot of physical activity?
German Shepherd Dogs are happiest when they’re doing some type of work, such as agility, obedience, or any activity that taps into their herding instincts. This breed enjoys helping and having a job to do, so they're often used as guide dogs and police dogs. No matter what the activity is, be sure to keep your German Shepherd busy with mental and physical activities to prevent boredom. Overall, their exercise needs are very high.
Are German Shepherd Dogs high-maintenance when it comes to grooming?
There are three varieties of German Shepherds: coarse and short-haired, coarse and long-haired, and wavy and long-haired. The most common dogs are tan with a black back and mask, but German Shepherds come in a variety of colors, including solid black, grey, brown, and yellow, tricolor, or sable. They also have several kinds of markings, such as “pencilling” (black lines on the toes) and “tar heels” (black on the back of the leg). Grooming-wise, this breed is low-maintenance.
What should first-time owners know about German Shepherd Dogs?
German Shepherd Dogs are best suited for a home with a yard, though they can adapt to apartment life with enough exercise. German Shepherds get along fine with children and other animals, as long as they’ve been socialized, and they prefer to live in a home with family around. However, they don’t enjoy being with other dogs and would prefer to have the house to themselves. They are highly trainable and eager to learn.
