All breeds › German Shepherd
German Shepherd
A versatile, intelligent herding breed widely used in police, service and search work.
♥ Swipe on the German ShepherdQuick facts
- Origin
- Germany
- Size
- Large
- Energy
- High
- Bred for
- Herding sheep
- Lifespan
- 9–13 years
- Temperament
- Loyal, confident, intelligent
- Exercise
- 100 min/day
- Grooming
- Medium
- Shedding
- High
- Training
- Easy
- With children
- Good
- Apartment
- No
Where the German Shepherd comes from
Captain Max von Stephanitz created the German Shepherd in the late 1800s, aiming for the ideal herding and working dog. They became police, army and service dogs around the world.
Personality and daily life
Loyal, focused and clever. Shepherds bond closely with their family and are wary of strangers. They need clear leadership and early socialisation, or they can become nervy or overprotective.
A German Shepherd needs a job, firm and kind training and lots of exercise. Bored shepherds can become noisy or destructive.
Exercise, grooming and health
Expect 90 minutes or more of exercise plus mental work such as obedience or scent games. They shed a lot, twice a year in particular. Hip and elbow dysplasia and digestive problems are common.
Is a German Shepherd right for you?
Active owners who enjoy training, and homes with space. Less suited to people who are out all day.
- Needs space, so not ideal for small apartments
- Easy to train, good for beginners
- Sheds a lot
Similar breeds
Profiles are general guides. Individual dogs vary, so always meet the dog and talk to a breeder, shelter or vet.