German Shepherd Dog Breed Overview
One of the most searched dog breeds on the internet, German Shepherd belongs to the large size dog. This breed was discovered first in Germany. The average lifespan of this dog breed is 10-14 years and is associated with the Herding Dogs Group.
| Dog Breed Name: | German Shepherd Dog |
|---|---|
| Other Names: | NA |
| Size: | large size dog |
| Average Height: | Male: 60–65 cm, Female: 55–60 cm |
| Average Weight: | Male: 30–40 kg, Female: 22–32 kg |
| Energy: | NA |
| Origin: | Germany |
| Group: | Herding Dogs |
| Life Span: | 10 to 14 years |
| Dog Breed Overview: | The German Shepherd is a relatively new breed, dating back to 1899, and they owe their existence to one man: Captain Max von Stephanitz, a career captain in the German cavalry with a goal of creating a German breed that would be unmatched as a herding dog.Centuries before von Stephanitz came along, farmers in Germany, as in the rest of Europe, relied on dogs to drive and protect their herds. Some dogs were legendary for their skill, and sheepherders would travel days to breed their female dogs to a notable sire. However, as von Stephanitz noted, no one had developed the herding dogs of the region into a distinct breed.In 1898, von Stephanitz retired from military life and began his second career, and what would prove to be his passion: experimenting with dog breeding to create a superior German herding dog. Stephanitz studied the breeding techniques of the British, noted for their exceptional herding dogs, and traveled throughout Germany, attending dog shows and observing German-type herding dogs.Von Stephanitz saw many fine herding dogs, dogs who were athletic, or intelligent, or capable. What he didn't see was a dog who embodied all those traits. |
| Colours: | Black, Black & Tan, Sable, Black & Silver, Grey, Red & Black |
| Temperament: | Stubborn, Intelligent, Loyal, Alert, Confident, Obedient, Protective, Curious, Watchful, Courageous, Brave |
| Pros: | NA |
| Cons: | NA |
German Shepherd Dog Breed Price
German Shepherd from regular breeders cost you from $1500 to $3000 per puppy.
German Shepherd Dog Breed Size
The German Shepherd varies in size: males are normally about 60–65 cm in height and around 30–40 kg in weight, while females are normally around 55–60 cm in height and 22–32 kg in weight.
German Shepherd Dog Breed Temperament
German Shepherds are confident, courageous, intelligent and gentle, although it can take them some time to make friends. Due to the history of herding, they are incredibly noble and loyal — both to the work they do and to their owners. “German Shepherds are energetic, confident and highly intelligent dogs.
German Shepherd Dog Breed Lifespan
The average lifespan for a German Shepherd is 10 to 14 years. That’s because these are medium-sized dogs with a good mix of genes in their blood.
Interesting Facts about German Shepherd Dog
- The German Shepherd isn’t the breed for you if you’re away from home frequently or for long periods of time. When left alone, they can become anxious or bored and are likely to express their worry in ways you don’t like, such as barking, chewing, and digging.
- German Shepherds are active and intelligent dogs. They must be kept busy learning, playing, and working. Daily exercise, both physical (such as jogging and Frisbee) and mental (such as training sessions), is a must.
- German Shepherds can be aloof and suspicious of strangers. To raise a social and well-behaved dog, expose your German Shepherd puppy to many experiences, places, and people. Obedience training, beginning with puppy classes, is important for getting them used to other people and dogs, as well as teaching them basic canine manners.
- These dogs shed, shed, shed. In fact, their nickname is the “German shedder.” Brush them several times a week and buy a good vacuum. You’ll need it.
- Crate training is not only a wonderful way to housetrain a puppy, it helps teach them to be calm and happy when separated from their owner. This is especially important for the German Shepherd, who sometimes suffers separation anxiety, or extreme anxiety when left alone.
- They’ve got a reputation for being a great watchdog—and they are—but the German Shepherd should never be chained or tethered just to stand guard. No dog should; it leads to frustration and aggression. The German Shepherd is happiest living indoors with the family, but with access to a large, fenced yard, where they can burn off some of their natural energy.
- You can find dogs of almost any breed, including German Shepherds, from your local shelter or breed specific rescue. Consider adopting before you shop for a breeder.
FAQ’s on German Shepherd Dog
Are German Shepherd Dangerous Dogs? Are German Shepherds naturally aggressive?
German shepherds are rarely aggressive towards their owners or family since that is the thing they’re protecting. They may at times become overprotective of family members, but this trait should be manageable with proper training.
Are German Shepherds smart?
Yes, German Shepherds are a highly intelligent dog breed.
Are German Shepherds trainable?
They are highly trainable, have the ability to learn complicated tasks, and perform excellently as search and rescue dogs.
Can a German Shepherd be kept with other dogs?
German Shepherds are generally good with other dogs. However, because they are an intelligent working breed, it’s not unusual for them to be somewhat aloof when encountering dogs for the first time. But once another dog has gained their trust, it’s easy for them to become fast friends.
Can a German Shepherd attack its owner?
Yes, German Shepherds can attack their owners, family members, or any other person or animal, but this doesn’t mean that they are aggressive dogs. On the contrary, the German Shepherd is a very friendly dog, an unbelievably good family guardian dog, and they really, really, love kids.
Do German Shepherds kill people?
No, Even when raised improperly, a German Shepherd will not kill a person. When they attack, it is due to them being raised and socialized improperly by the owner. The reason that they can hurt people more than most other dog breeds is the fact that they have strong jaws and have a bad reputation due to which victims are in shock.
Do German Shepherds have locking jaws?
No, they do not have locking jaws.
What should I feed my German Shepherd?
German Shepherd a high-quality, protein-rich diet such as Instinct Duck Dog Food, Turducken Dog Food or Merrick Lil Plates Chicken and Sweet Potato that includes essential vitamins, fats, carbohydrates, minerals, and fatty acids.
When do German Shepherds lose their teeth?
At around four months of age — and it can vary from breed to breed and even from dog to dog — the 28 puppy teeth are replaced with 42 adult canine teeth, which include the molars.
How long does a German Shepherd live?
German Shepherds can live anywhere from 10 to 14 years.
