German Shepherd Dog Dog Breed Information
- AKA:Alsatian, Deutscher Schaferhund
- Size:Large
- Ease of Training:High
- Grooming:Low
- Shedding:High
- Exercise Needed:Daily walk with some running about
- Energy Level:Medium
- Protection:High, will bark and attack
- Good with Children:Yes
- Health Clearances:OFA, CERF
- Weight:75-95 lbs
- Height:Male: 24-26, Female: 22-24 inches
- Coat Colour:Most colours, other than white, are permissible
German Shepherd Dog Coat
The German Shepherd is a double coat breed. The outer coat is harsh, straight, and thick. The under coat is dense and soft. The coat comes in a variety of colors such as black and tan, black and cream, black and silver, solid black, and sable. The German Shepherd comes in three varieties: rough coat, long hair, and long rough coat. This breed is a continuous shedder with seasonal heavy shedding.
German Shepherd Dog Character
The German Shepherd is a breed of classic beauty and possesses superior intelligence. They are highly adaptable, energetic, curious, strong, and dependable. This breed displays a magnificent appearance and is extremely agile with great stamina and endurance.
German Shepherd Dog Temperament
A member of the herding group, the German Shepherd is fearless, bold, hard working, and alert. They are esteemed for their loyalty, deep devotion, and courage. This breed thrives on human interaction from their family and does not like to be left alone for extended periods of time. German Shepherds are exceptionally wary of strangers. They will most generally get along with other household pets they have been raised with. This breed will attempt to perform the task of herding on anything and everything that moves. The German Shepherd is not recommended for the novice, apathetic, or sedentary owner.
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 Activity
This breed is happiest when given a job to do. They require strenuous exercise and enjoy securely leashed walks, family play sessions, and a large safely fenced area to romp and run freely in. The German Shepherd will do okay in an apartment or condominium dwelling provided they are given sufficient exercise, stimulation, and attention.
German Shepherd Dog Health and Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of the German Shepherd Dog is around 12 years, and there are a number of health problems that are associated with this breed. This includes spinal problems, bloat and torsion, HD and elbow dysplasia, OCD, epilepsy, pancreas problems, and eye problems. The parents of the German Shepherd Dog puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.
Latest German Shepherd Dog Dogs for adoption

Bear - Male German Shepherd Dog
- Cheltenham
£250 adoption fee
We are excited to introduce you to Bear who is ready to bring joy and companionship into your life. Bear needs an adult-only home where he can feel safe and secure. He hasnt had the best experiences w

Teddy - Male German Shepherd Dog
- Cheltenham
£250 adoption fee
Meet Teddy, a sweet boy who is taking life one step at a time. He is a sensitive and anxious boy who is looking for an understanding owner that has the time to show him that the world isnt a scary pla

Cruz - Male German Shepherd Dog
- Leicester
£220 adoption fee
Where do we start?! One very happy, sociable and giddy young man with lots of love to give! Cruz can forget his size when meeting new people but he just loves life and wants to share his joy with ever

Bruno - male German Shepherd Dog Cross
- Telford
Adoption fee: Please check with the rescue
Bruno's adventurous spirit extends to his love for water, particularly paddling pools. His joy in splashing around is a delight to behold. However, due to his preferences and temperament, Bruno is bes

Lilith - female German Shepherd Dog
- Evesham
Adoption fee: Please check with the rescue
Lilith is a 2yr old German Shepherd who is sweet and snuggly in nature. She has lived in a home and is fully housetrained. Time left alone will need to be built up from scratch as she’s never experi