The German Shepherd Breed in Brief:

In 1890, in an attempt to create a superior herding dog with an elegant appearance, Capt. Max von Stephanitz stabilized the German Shepherd dog breed, a breed that would become one of the most valued dogs in history. From it’s German farm dog roots, the German Shepherd Dog has become extremely well-known and popular world-wide for it’s talents as sentry, police dog, tracker, drug dog, search and rescue dog, and guide dog for the blind, to name just a few.

German Shepherds are loyal family dogs and fearless guardians of the home that excel in obedience work. German Shepherds are highly intelligent, affectionate dogs that make excellent family companions. Their dense, double coat requires regular, thorough brushing, and these large dogs need plenty of outdoor exercise. Training the German Shepherd puppy from an early age is recommended. On the “cuteness scale” of 1 to 10, the German Shepherd puppy ranks at least an 11!

German Shepherd Breed History:

One of the most versatile and talented breeds in the world today, the German Shepherd Dog has been valued in police work, tracking, guiding the blind, drug and bomb detection, search and rescue, herding, avalanche rescue and so much more. In the 1890s, Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, envisioned a superb and versatile herding dog and began a breeding program made up of the best German farm dogs available. He succeeded beyond all expectations. The German Shepherd Dog first came to North America in the early 1900s and got a huge boost in popularity here after World War I when Rin Tin Tin’s movie exploits captured the attention of the public.

German Shepherd Breed Description:

• Height/Weight: The ideal height for adult male German Shepherds is 25 in (64 cm) at the shoulder and weight ranges from 75-80 lb (34-36 kg). Female German Shepherds will be somewhat smaller.
• Coat: The German Shepherd breed’s outer coat is dense, straight, short and close. There is a soft undercoat.
• Color: German Shepherd Dogs may be black-and-tan, varying shades of sable or all black.

German Shepherd Breed Temperament:

The well-bred German Shepherd Dog is stable, sensible, intelligent, quick to learn, loyal and protective of his home and property. Unfortunately, because of the breed’s popularity, the German Shepherd Dog has been exploited by some unscrupulous and irresponsible breeders. It’s a good idea to be extremely selective when choosing a German Shepherd puppy to ensure that you are getting a well socialized puppy that will have a sound temperament.

German Shepherd Breed Exercise Requirements:

A breed of exceptional stamina, the German Shepherd Dog was initially bred to trot all day long. Though relatively calm and quiet indoors, the German Shepherd needs lots of outdoor exercise to maintain condition.

German Shepherd Breed Grooming Requirements:

Regular, thorough brushing is necessary to keep shedding of the German Shepherd’s dense undercoat under control.

German Shepherd Facts

• German Shepherd Life Expectancy: 11 to 13 Years
• Good with Children: Yes
• Dog Breed Group: Herding Dogs Group
• Size Group: Large dogs