Explore the German Shepherd Dog: Genuine Tips from Owners

Discover the German Shepherd Dog, a breed celebrated for its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. Known for its impressive size and smooth, graceful movements, German Shepherds excel in various roles, including as guide, therapy, bomb detection, and police dogs, while being a devoted family companion.

In this post, we share insights from 595 real Sniffspot users, offering practical advice for new and prospective owners. Whether you're considering this popular AKC breed or already have one, you'll find valuable tips on how to care for and enjoy life with a German Shepherd Dog.

Despite their sometimes aloof nature with strangers, their loyalty and courage make them exceptional pets and protectors. As one of the most recognizable breeds in the world, German Shepherds continue to captivate dog lovers everywhere, serving as both working dogs and beloved companion animals.

GSD Breed Characteristics

German Shepherds are known for their striking coat colors, which can range from classic black and tan to less common variations like solid black or white. Their heritage in German herding has contributed to their intelligence and work ethic, making them one of the most versatile and active breeds available today.

• Breed Type: Herding Group
• Size: Large
• Life Expectancy: 12 - 14 years
• Healthy Weight Range: 65 - 90 lbs (male), 50 - 70 lbs (female)
• Height Range: 22 - 26 in
• Temperament: Loyal, protective, intelligent
• Coat Type: Double coat
• Color: Black and tan, black and cream, black and red

It's worth noting that while German Shepherds are not considered barkless breeds, they are generally not excessive barkers when properly trained and exercised.

About German Shepherd Dogs

According to 594 Sniffspot community users who shared real-world data about their German Shepherd Dog, we learned these dogs are alert, loyal, and protective. The German Shepherd Dog, a popular AKC breed, is very friendly and social with strangers and very friendly and social with children. With proper socialization and additional training, they can become affectionate family dogs, adapting well to various household dynamics.

When living with a German Shepherd Dog, 83.50% of our owners said a large house with a fenced yard is the best environment for their excess energy. Additionally, 36.70% of owners said a rural or suburban area with open spaces is also acceptable. This dog is highly trainable, learns commands quickly, and responds well to training. Owners say the German Shepherd Dog learns best with positive reinforcement (treats, praise, rewards), consistent daily training routines, and the use of training aids (e.g., harnesses, leashes, training collars). Most GSDs can master basic commands within a few weeks of consistent training.

When it comes to regular exercise, 51.01% of Sniffspot owners say their German Shepherd Dog benefits from moderate amounts of physical exercise, like regular walks and play sessions. This level of activity not only keeps them physically fit but also helps prevent weight loss issues that can arise from insufficient exercise.

The Sniffspot German Shepherd Dog community would not recommend this dog breed to first-time dog owners, as they require experienced handling and consistent training. However, with dedication and additional training, even novice owners can successfully raise these intelligent and loyal companion animals.

German Shepherd Dog Traits and Characteristics

We compiled over 594 Sniffspot community submissions on their own German Shepherds to determine these dog traits and characteristics.

• Temperament: Alert, loyal, protective
• Energy Level: High to medium (1-2 hours of regular exercise recommended per day)
• Trainability: Highly trainable
• Shedding Level: Very high
• Good with Kids: Very friendly and social with children
• Good with Other Pets: Very friendly with other pets

Michael G on Unsplash

History of German Shepherd Dogs

The German Shepherd Dog's modern history began in late 19th-century Germany with Max von Stephanitz. Initially focused on agriculture, Max von Stephanitz's admiration for local sheepdogs led him to create a formal breed.

In 1899, he purchased a dog named Hektor Linksrhein, whom he renamed Horand von Grafrath. This purchase was pivotal, leading to the establishment of the Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde, the first German Shepherd Dog club, with Horand as the inaugural registered dog.

Von Stephanitz combined traits from various local sheepdogs to develop a versatile breed known for its intelligence and working ability. Despite challenges during World War I and subsequent renaming in other countries, the German Shepherd Dog’s reputation as a superior service and military dog endured. Today, German Shepherds are one of the most recognizable breeds globally, known for their distinctive appearance and versatile working abilities.

What to Expect as a German Shepherd Dog Owner

As a German Shepherd Dog owner, it's important to know the best dog breed tips as well as expectations from current owners. Understanding their needs as cold-weather breeds can help you provide the best care for your GSD.

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Research 2024

Grooming Needs | Moderate Maintenance

German Shepherds need regular grooming, like brushing and periodic baths. They have a medium-length double coat, including an outer coat that needs regular brushing and washing. They can be prone to shedding and loose hair. As cold-weather breeds, their thick coats help protect them from harsh conditions.

To keep their coat healthy and up to breed standards, include brushing in their daily routine as well as seasonal grooming with the help of a professional. Of the coat types for common breeds, the coat grooming for GSDs is relatively straightforward.

Exercise Needs | Moderate Exercise

German Shepherds require moderate to high activity each day. Though one of the most popular dog breeds, GSDs are an athletic breed and one of the most well-known high-energy breeds.

They need between 1 to 2 hours of physical exercise each day, like daily walks and active play sessions. Owners report their dogs especially love playing with a ball or frisbee, playing with squeaky toys, and tug-of-war. Remember mental exercise should be a part of GSDs' regular exercise routine. Enrichment activities are crucial for this intelligent breed, helping to prevent common behavior issues that can arise from boredom.

When large, active breeds like this don't get sufficient exercise, they're more likely to act out on undesirable behaviors. They need consistent training, mental activity, and regular physical exercise to avoid the destruction that comes from excess energy.

Diet and Nutrition

Though it's not uncommon for German Shepherds to struggle with sensitive stomachs and digestive issues, 61% of our community feed their dogs commercial dry kibble without issues.

With regular exercise, German Shepherds should eat upwards of 2 cups of kibble per day to maintain a healthy weight. Again, a healthy weight for a GSD is between 50 - 90 lbs, depending on your dog's sex, activity level, and age.

Breed Health Concerns

The German Shepherd Dog breed is prone to joint problems and digestive issues. A reported 43% of our German Shepherd Dog owners reported joint problems like hip dysplasia of the hip joint, degenerative myelopathy, elbow dysplasia, or arthritis. Regular exercise and appropriate joint supplements can help with this, but it's very likely GSDs will develop some mobility difficulties as they age.

Similarly, 40% reported digestive issues like bloating and sensitive stomach. Additionally, 37% of GSD owners claim their dog struggles with skin conditions like allergies and dermatitis — a common breed health concern. However, the most reported issues are related to joint troubles (arthritis, elbow dysplasia, etc).

How Friendly Are GSDs?

Another important thing to consider when adopting a GSD is whether or not she fits with your current family. How friendly are German Shepherds compared to other high-energy breeds?

It's worth noting that GSDs are often described as a 'one-man' breed, forming a particularly strong bond with one family member. However, they can also be affectionate family dogs when properly socialized and trained.

Source: Sniffspot Community Breed Survey 2024

With consistent training, you can hone your GSD's protective instinct into a loving family dog. By introducing them to social interactions and a strong daily routine early, your pet avoids undesirable behaviors like reactivity and anxiety. Our owners comment on their pet's friendliness:

"This is the most family-friendly, protective breed I've owned. They truly embody the 'one-man' breed characteristics, but with proper socialization, they become affectionate family dogs that love everyone in the household." (Roxy)

"They are loyal to the whole household (including kids, cats, etc) and easy-going (not much makes them anxious). As a 'one-man' breed, they form an incredibly strong bond with their primary caregiver, but they're also great additions to family households when raised properly." (Lauren)

How to Train a German Shepherd

Whether you're adopting a shepherd puppy or a grown adult, training is a large part of owning a high-energy breed like this. When you fail to train your dog properly, they're more likely to display undesirable common behavior like resource guarding, excess barking/anxiety, and so on. Providing stimulating enrichment activities is a great first step, but this needs to be paired with the right training.

GSDs benefit from lots of praise and positive reinforcement. Here's what our community recommended based on their experience with their own dog:

• Positive reinforcement (90%): This includes treats, praise, rewards, and so on for positive behavior.
• Consistent routines (60%): GSDs love routines! The more consistent their daily activities, the easier it is for them to learn how to behave.
• Training aids (55%): Training aids like harnesses, training collars, and leashes are also beneficial for this high-energy breed. Active breeds can use a lot of training aids when used safely!

German Shepherds want to please their owners. As a working line of dogs, they're not prone to undesirable behaviors UNLESS they're bored. Boredom-driven behaviors can be combatted by physical exercise and brain exercise. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down. Most GSDs can master these basic commands quickly, setting a strong foundation for more advanced training.

What Do Owners Love About German Shepherds?

We asked Sniffspot dog owners what they love the most about their German Shepherd Dogs, and here's what they had to say about their pups:

"The full rounded aspect from loyalty protection intelligence and personality and looks! The breed has it all! They're wonderful additions to family households." (Bryna)

"They are the sweetest most loyal family dogs. My GSD is so gentle and loves to snuggle but a fearless family protector. With some additional training, they become the perfect family companions." (Audrey)

Pason Jayaweera on Unsplash

What Are the Biggest Challenges for German Shepherd Owners?

Similarly, owners shared some of the biggest challenges of living with German Shepherds:

"Need a knowledgeable owner. This AKC breed needs obedience training and brain exercise from puppy through adulthood. As cold-weather breeds, they can be quite active even in chilly conditions, requiring year-round exercise." (Lisa)

"She is always in "go" mode. No work is enough in her eyes. Finding the right balance of physical exercise and enrichment activities can be challenging. Unlike barkless breeds, GSDs can be vocal when understimulated." (Jennifer)

"I would say you have to be as energetic, lovable, patient, and knowledgeable of the breed. As the saying goes, dogs are like kids. They take up a lot of your time, space, and MONEY. You have to Love them as your children, teach them, guide them as they grow up to avoid boredom-driven behaviors." (SR)

Is a German Shepherd Dog right for a first-time dog owner?

Source: Sniffspot 2024 Community Dog Breed Survey

According to just over three-quarters of our Sniffspot community, German Shepherd Dogs are NOT a good recommendation for first-time dog owners. This comes from their high training needs and activity levels. Their owners say it best:

"GSDs can be stubborn - He is intelligent and easily learns but does not always cooperate if he does not think it's worth it. They require a lot of regular exercise and mental stimulation and can be reserved and fear-reactive toward strangers and other dogs." (Beth)

"Without proper socialization, they can easily become reactive or resource guard. They’re very smart, so if bored and left to their own devices they can get into a lot of trouble" (Diana)

"They are amazing dogs but they are not sleepy apartment dogs. They require training and lots of time and attention. As one of the most recognizable breeds, people often underestimate the commitment required. They are not an easy sweet first dog." (Londyn)

While GSDs may not be ideal for first-time dog owners, with dedication, research, and a commitment to additional training, they can become wonderful additions to family households even for novice owners willing to put in the effort.

Advice for German Shepherd Dog Owners

Luckily, our Sniffspot community is full of experienced, trustworthy dog owners. These German Shepherd Dog breed owners share the most essential dog breed tips and advice for prospective or new dog owners:

Be consistent with training early on in your pet's life.

"Be prepared to constantly have to entertain, train, and play with your dog. They thrive on schedules. Start with basic commands and build from there. Remember, while they're not barkless breeds, proper training can manage excessive vocalization." (Emma)

"Work with a trainer! Lots of proper socialization and positive reinforcement training as a puppy will be very beneficial for your dog's whole life! They are wonderful dogs but you have to put in the effort to make sure they have an outlet for their high energy and drive. Consistent training is key!" (Bethany)

Meet GSDs in advance to make sure they're right for you.

"I would meet MANY of them beforehand; shepherds come in many flavors. Don't get a working line GSD if you're not familiar with the training and quirks of the bloodlines. Go to a great breeder who knows exactly what you're looking for and picks a puppy for you. Don't pick one based on appearance." (JV)

"If you don’t have time to put in A LOT of effort to socialize, train, and meet the biological needs of this breed, then you should look at another breed suited to your lifestyle." (Lindsey)

Stay consistent with your active lifestyle to keep up with your dog's high energy.

"Be ready to be active! And be ready to be frustrated. The first year is going to be a challenge as you get to know each other and establish boundaries. Remember, they're cold-weather breeds, so be prepared for outdoor activities year-round. But once you get past the hard part, the German Shepherd will love you more than anyone else ever will. They truly become affectionate family dogs with the right care and training." (Samantha)

"You need to have an active lifestyle and be willing to find activities that are mentally stimulating for your dog to provide sufficient exercise. Be willing to commit to training early on and reinforce training routinely to avoid undesirable behaviors. Incorporate enrichment activities to keep their minds sharp." (Kaitlyn)

Use positive reinforcement to create strong habits.

"Research positive reinforcement and use it daily to prevent bad habits and create good ones. Spend lots of time working their mind AND body, not just their body. As one of the most recognizable breeds, it's important to train them well to be good ambassadors for the breed." (Leah)

"Train young and work to create neutral socialization rather than constant exposure/expectation to be friendly with people and other dogs. Best for active owners and owners who can commit time to play both physically and mentally engaging, stimulating enrichment activities." (Megan)

Frequently Asked Questions about the German Shepherd Dog

What is the average lifespan of a German Shepherd Dog?

The average lifespan of a German Shepherd Dog, a popular AKC breed, is typically between 9 - 13 years.

What is the size of a German Shepherd Dog?

An adult German Shepherd Dog weighs between 50 - 90 lbs pounds and stands between 22 - 26 in tall.

How much grooming does a German Shepherd Dog need?

German Shepherd Dog dogs require moderate maintenance grooming. Regular grooming helps to keep their coat healthy and manageable. German Shepherd Dog dogs have a double coat, which is well-suited for protection from the elements. They are considered high shedders.

To maintain your German Shepherd Dog's coat, it's important to brush them regularly and get regular grooming. Among herding breeds, German Shepherd Dog grooming is categorized as expected.

How much exercise does a German Shepherd Dog need?

German Shepherd Dogs require moderate activity each day. Though one of the most recognizable breeds, GSDs are classified as a moderately athletic, somewhat high-energy breed.

GSDs are excellent companions and flourish with between 1-2 hours of physical exercise each day, including walks and active play sessions. Owners of GSDs note that their dogs particularly enjoy chasing/playing with a ball or frisbee, playing with squeaky toys, and tug-of-war. These enrichment activities help maintain their physical and mental well-being. Additionally, incorporating training sessions into their exercise routine can provide mental stimulation and reinforce their role as affectionate family dogs.

If large breeds like GSDs don't receive enough exercise, they may develop unwanted behaviors. These dogs need ongoing training, mental stimulation, and consistent exercise to channel their energy effectively.

How friendly are German Shepherd Dogs with children?

According to our data, German Shepherd Dogs are very friendly and social with children.

How well do German Shepherd Dogs get along with other pets?

Our research indicates that German Shepherd Dogs are very friendly with other pets. However, as with any breed, early socialization and training are key to ensuring they become well-adjusted companion animals.

What should you feed your German Shepherd Dog to keep him healthy?

As a moderate energy breed, the diet of your GSD is crucial. A significant 66% of our community feeds their GSD commercial dry kibble.

For optimal health, GSDs should consume 2 to 3 cups of vet-recommended food to maintain a healthy weight of around 50 - 90 lbs pounds. The exact amount and type of food will depend on your German Shepherd Dog's sex, activity level, and age.

What health concerns are common for German Shepherd Dogs?

The German Shepherd Dog breed is particularly prone to digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite and skin conditions like allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis. Our data shows that 28% of German Shepherd Dog owners reported digestive issues like constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and lack of appetite. GSD's risk for these health issues increases as they age.

Additionally, 22% reported skin conditions like allergies, yeast infections, impetigo, ringworm, alopecia, and folliculitis. Finally, 20% of German Shepherd Dog owners indicated their dog struggles with joint problems like arthritis, elbow dysplasia, degenerative issues, and osteosarcoma, which are common breed health concerns. Regular physical exercise and appropriate nutrition can help manage some of these issues. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian familiar with this AKC breed can help manage and prevent many of these health issues.

Resources for German Shepherd Owners

German Shepherd Dogs are known for their intelligence and trainability. Most GSDs can learn basic commands like sit, stay, come, and down within a few weeks of consistent training. Their eagerness to please their owners makes them highly responsive to positive reinforcement techniques.

However, they do require ongoing mental stimulation and exercise to prevent boredom and associated behavioral issues. While not barkless breeds, GSDs can be trained to control excessive barking.

• German Shepherd Dog Club of America
• Are German Shepherds an Aggressive Dog Breed?
• German Shepherd Dog Rescues and Shelters
• Most Popular German Shepherd Dog Names

Sources:

• "German Shepherd Dog," American Kennel Club