German Shepherd Dog
Also known as Deutscher Schäferhund · Berger Allemand · Deutscher Schaeferhund · Pastor Alemán
Germany, Sheepdogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 55–65 cm
- Weight
- 22–40 kg
- Life expectancy
- 9–13 yrs
- Loyal
- Intelligent
- Confident
- Trainable
- Protective
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the German Shepherd Dog
The German Shepherd Dog was developed in Germany in the late nineteenth century as a herding dog and was soon adopted for police, military, guiding and search work. It is a medium-to-large, athletic dog with a strong, slightly sloping back, erect ears and a dense double coat that may be short or longer. Colours are commonly black and tan or sable, though others occur. It remains one of the most versatile working dogs.
Temperament
Loyal, confident and highly trainable, with a strong desire to work alongside its person. Can be reserved with strangers. Needs early socialisation, consistent training and a lot of mental stimulation to stay balanced.
Exercise
Needs at least an hour or more of daily exercise including training, games and walks. Mental tasks are as important as physical ones.
Grooming
Double coat sheds heavily, especially twice a year. Brush several times a week, and daily at shedding times.
Care & wellbeing
Large dogs need careful joint care: avoid over-exercising puppies and keep adults lean.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 31 kg adult- Water
- 1.2 L–1.9 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,470 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a German Shepherd Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
Developed in Germany in the late nineteenth century as a herding and flock-guarding dog, with an emphasis on intelligence, trainability and working ability. Its versatility led to wide use in police, search and rescue, service and military work, and it became one of the most popular family dogs worldwide.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip and elbow dysplasia
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
- Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- DNA test for degenerative myelopathy
- DNA test for exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Not every German Shepherd Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 9–13 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a German Shepherd Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a German Shepherd Dog get?
Adult German Shepherd Dogs typically stand about 55–65 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 22–40 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do German Shepherd Dogs live?
Typically 9–13 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a German Shepherd Dog need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a German Shepherd Dog need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are German Shepherd Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do German Shepherd Dogs shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are German Shepherd Dogs good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a German Shepherd Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do German Shepherd Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Not every German Shepherd Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Germany
- Type
- Sheepdogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1955