German Shepherd
Confident, loyal, and highly intelligent, this breed thrives as both a devoted family companion and a reliable working partner. Always alert and eager to learn, it adapts to many roles with ease.
Breed Characteristics
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.
HEIGHT
60–65 cm (male)
55–60 cm (female)
WEIGHT
30–40 kg (male)
22–32 kg (female)
LIFE EXPECTANCY
9–13 years
German Shepherd: Breed snapshot
Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance
Key Breed Characteristics
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
Species
Canis lupus familiaris
Diet
Omnivore
"A German Shepherd isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."
Temperament & personality
Understanding German Shepherd's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.
Personality Overview
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty, confidence, and protective nature. They are often reserved with strangers but form strong bonds with their families.
Key Personality Traits
Warm with family, reserved with strangers
Quick learner, highly trainable and alert
Needs regular activity and vigorous exercise
Enjoys games, interactive and engaging
Adjusts well to new situations and environments
Strengths
- Highly intelligent and quick to learn tasks
- Strong loyalty to family members
- Excellent working and service dog abilities
- Protective instincts make them good guardians
- Adaptable to various training activities
Challenges
- Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
- High exercise needs require daily activity
- Can develop separation anxiety if left alone
- May be wary of strangers without socialization
- Heavy seasonal shedding requires frequent grooming
Protect your German Shepherd
German Shepherd are active and energetic, but they can develop hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Get peace of mind with PetSecur's comprehensive coverage.
Intelligence & exercise needs
German Shepherds are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.
🧠 Intelligence & training
Trainability
Highly trainable
Overall rating
Highly intelligent and eager to please, German Shepherds excel in obedience and working roles. They respond well to consistent, positive training and learn new commands quickly.
Trainable Tasks:
🏃 Exercise & energy levels
Daily Exercise
90–120 minutes daily
recommended per day
This breed has high energy levels and requires daily physical exercise and mental stimulation. Activities like running, playing, and advanced training help prevent boredom and support overall well-being.
Recommended Activities:
Is this breed right for you?
German Shepherds are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a German Shepherd would fit well in your home.
First-time Owner
Needs experienced, consistent training and socialization
Apartment Living
Needs space and frequent exercise to prevent boredom
Active Lifestyle
Thrives with active owners who can provide daily physical and mental challenges
Kids
Loyal and protective, can be gentle and patient with proper socialization
Multiple Pets
Can get along with other pets if raised together and well socialized
Being Left Alone
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop behavioral issues
Breed comparisons
Wondering how German Shepherds compare to other popular breeds? Check out our detailed comparison pages.
Frequently Asked Questions about German Shepherd
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about this breed
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