German Shepherd Dog Breed - Origin, Pictures, Caring Needs, Friendliness and more
German Shepherd At A Glance
German Shepherd Overview
The German Shepherd is a versatile and intelligent breed known for its unwavering loyalty, protective nature, and exceptional working abilities. Originating in Germany during the late 19th century, these dogs were originally bred to be police and military working dogs. Today, they are popular as family pets due to their friendly disposition and eagerness to please. German Shepherds come in a variety of colors, including black and tan, sable, and blue merle. Known for their high energy levels, they require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Ideal companions for active individuals, they can also serve as excellent guard dogs and search-and-rescue partners.
German Shepherd Quick Facts
- Average Purchase Price
- $800
- Average Food Costs
- $500/year
- Average Lifetime Costs
- $17400
- Origin
- Germany
- Type
- Herding
- Average Life Span
- 11 years
- Size
- Large
- Average Weight
- 32 kg
- Average Height
- 25 inches
- Fur Colours
- Black, Tan
- Eye Colours
- Brown
- Exercise Requirements
- 2.5 hours per day
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate(More than once a week)
- Ideal Living Size
- Large house
- Health Issues Risk
- Moderate(Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, pancreatitis)
- Character
- Loyal, intelligent, protective, confident, trainable
German Shepherd Characteristics
Friendly Rating8/10
Trainability10/10
Intelligence Rating9/10
Good with Other Dogs6/10
Good with Strangers6/10
Shedding Tendency8/10
Drooling Tendency4/10
Coat Length2/10
Playfulness8/10
Protectiveness10/10
Energy10/10
Barking Tendency6/10
German Shepherd FAQs
1. What are German Shepherds known for?
German Shepherds are highly intelligent and versatile dogs that have been bred for a variety of roles including police work, search and rescue, and guide dogs for the visually impaired.
2. How big do German Shepherds typically grow?
On average, German Shepherds stand between 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 65 to 90 pounds.
3. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds generally have a lifespan of about 10 to 14 years when provided with proper care.
4. Are German Shepherds hypoallergenic?
No, German Shepherds are not hypoallergenic. They shed their coats regularly and produce dander and saliva, which can cause allergic reactions in some people.
5. What are some common health issues associated with German Shepherds?
German Shepherds are prone to certain health problems such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, glaucoma, and allergies.
6. How do I care for a German Shepherd?
Proper care for a German Shepherd includes regular exercise, grooming, and veterinary check-ups. They require a lot of mental stimulation and training to prevent boredom and potential behavioral issues.
7. Can German Shepherds be trained?
Yes, German Shepherds are highly trainable and can learn various commands and tasks with consistent training and positive reinforcement.
8. Are German Shepherds good family dogs?
German Shepherds make great family dogs due to their loyalty, intelligence, and protective nature. However, they require a lot of space, exercise, and socialization to thrive in a household setting.
