Eleven Common German Shepherd Questions With Answers

1. How Big Do German Shepherds Get?

German Shepherds are medium to large dogs, but there’s more to their size than just height and weight. Males typically stand 60-65 cm (24-26 inches) tall at the shoulder and weigh 30-40 kg (66-88 lbs), while females are slightly smaller, standing 55-60 cm (22-24 inches) tall and weighing 22-32 kg (48.5-70.5 lbs). In the US, the breed standard allows for males to weigh up to 90 lbs and females up to 75 lbs, but exceeding these weights often indicates poor breeding practices. Dogs that are too large may suffer from more severe health issues, including joint problems and a shorter lifespan.

Avoid breeders who advertise “Old Fashioned” German Shepherds, as these are often oversized and mixed with other breeds like Great Pyrenees. The term is misleading; historical German Shepherds from 1899 to the 1950s were actually smaller than many of today’s dogs. Stick to well-bred, standard-sized Shepherds from health-tested parents for the best experience. A properly sized German Shepherd is agile, strong, and capable of performing the demanding tasks for which the breed was originally developed.

2. How Much Exercise Do German Shepherds Require?

German Shepherds are high-energy dogs that need plenty of exercise to keep them physically and mentally fit. Ideally, they should get anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours of exercise each day. This can include a mix of walking, jogging, running, and playtime. If you prefer to measure by distance, aim for 1 to 3 miles (1.5 to 5 kilometers) of walking, jogging, or running daily.

Remember, German Shepherds are working dogs at heart, bred to herd sheep by patrolling large areas. They thrive on having a job to do. In addition to physical exercise, mental stimulation is crucial. Activities like obedience training, agility exercises, and interactive toys can help keep their minds sharp. When starting an exercise routine, gradually build up their endurance, especially if they are not used to strenuous activity. Jumping into a high-intensity regimen too quickly can lead to injuries. Ensuring your dog is well-exercised will help reduce behavioral problems and contribute to their overall well-being.

3. Do German Shepherds Shed a Lot?

Yes, German Shepherds shed a lot, and it’s something potential owners need to be prepared for. They have a double coat, consisting of a dense undercoat and a harsh outer coat, which helps protect them from the elements. This double coat sheds year-round, with heavier shedding occurring twice a year during seasonal changes—this is known as “blowing their coat.”

To manage the shedding, regular grooming is essential. Brush your German Shepherd several times a week to remove loose hairs and prevent matting. During peak shedding times, daily brushing might be necessary. Investing in high-quality grooming tools, such as an undercoat rake and a slicker brush, can make the task easier. A good diet also plays a role in the health of their coat; feeding them high-quality dog food with the right balance of nutrients can help minimize shedding.

Additionally, a powerful vacuum cleaner is a must for keeping your home clean. Pet-specific vacuums often come with attachments designed to handle pet hair, but a high-quality regular vacuum can work just as well. Remember, regular grooming and cleaning will keep the shedding under control and ensure your dog’s coat stays healthy and shiny.

4. How Long Do German Shepherds Live?

German Shepherds typically live between 9 to 14 years, although some may live longer with excellent care. To help extend their lifespan, it’s important to focus on regular exercise, proper nutrition, and routine veterinary care. Exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity, which can lead to various health problems, including joint issues and heart disease.

Feeding your German Shepherd a balanced diet is equally important. High-quality dog food tailored to their age, size, and activity level will provide the necessary nutrients to keep them healthy. Avoid overfeeding, as maintaining a healthy weight is key to longevity. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to catch any potential health issues early. Vaccinations, dental care, and parasite prevention also play a significant role in their overall health.

If you choose to rescue a German Shepherd, understand that you might be taking a chance with their health history. However, with proper care, exercise, and nutrition, you can help ensure they live a long and healthy life. Keeping their mind active with training and interactive toys will also contribute to their overall well-being.

5. Are German Shepherds Easy to Train?

German Shepherds are among the easiest dogs to train due to their intelligence, eagerness to please, and strong work ethic. They are highly motivated by rewards and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This includes treats, praise, and play as rewards for good behavior. Consistency and patience are key when training a German Shepherd.

Start training early, ideally when they are puppies, to establish good habits from the beginning. Basic obedience commands like sit, stay, come, and heel are essential for their safety and your control. German Shepherds excel in advanced training as well, including agility, tracking, and protection work. Their versatility makes them suitable for various roles, including service dogs, police dogs, and search and rescue dogs.

Socialization is also crucial for German Shepherds. Expose them to different people, places, and situations to build their confidence and prevent fear-based aggression. Properly socialized German Shepherds are well-adjusted and less likely to develop behavioral problems. With the right training and socialization, German Shepherds can be wonderful, obedient companions.

6. Do German Shepherds Make Good Guard Dogs?

German Shepherds are natural guard dogs due to their protective instincts, loyalty, and intelligence. They are wary of strangers and have a strong territorial instinct, which makes them excellent at guarding their home and family. Their size, strength, and deep bark can be very intimidating to potential intruders.

Training is important to harness and control their guarding instincts effectively. A well-trained German Shepherd will know when to alert you to a threat and when to remain calm. It’s essential to teach them the difference between a real threat and everyday occurrences to prevent unnecessary aggression. Socializing them with a variety of people and environments will help them distinguish between friend and foe.

Their guarding abilities, combined with their intelligence and trainability, make German Shepherds one of the top choices for personal protection and police work. However, it’s important to balance their protective instincts with proper socialization and training to ensure they are not overly aggressive or fearful.

7. Are German Shepherds Prone to Any Health Issues?

Yes, German Shepherds are prone to several health issues, with hip dysplasia being one of the most common. This genetic condition affects the hip joints and can lead to arthritis and mobility problems. To minimize the risk, ensure both parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and have good hip scores.

Another health issue to be aware of is Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), a progressive disease that affects the spinal cord and leads to hind limb weakness and paralysis. DM is also genetic and can be tested for. Additionally, German Shepherds can suffer from elbow dysplasia, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), and various autoimmune diseases.

Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health and catch any potential issues early. Keeping your German Shepherd at a healthy weight, providing a balanced diet, and ensuring regular exercise can help prevent some of these health problems. Responsible breeding practices and health screenings are crucial for reducing the prevalence of these conditions in the breed.

8. Are German Shepherds Good Family Pets?

German Shepherds can make excellent family pets if the family is prepared and educated about the breed. They are loyal, protective, and form strong bonds with their family members. However, they require a lot of attention, training, and socialization to ensure they fit well into the family dynamic.

It’s important to choose a German Shepherd that matches your family’s lifestyle. Some lines of German Shepherds are more high-energy and intense, while others may be more laid-back. Researching breeders and understanding the temperament of both parents can help you select a puppy that will be a good fit.

Training and socialization should start early to establish good behavior and ensure the dog is well-adjusted. German Shepherds thrive in environments where they have a job to do, so involving them in family activities, obedience training, and even agility can keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

While they are great with children, always supervise interactions between your dog and young kids to ensure safety on both sides. Teaching children how to interact with the dog respectfully will help foster a positive relationship. With the right approach, German Shepherds can be loving, loyal, and protective family pets.

9. Do German Shepherds Get Along Well with Other Animals?

German Shepherds can get along well with other animals if they are properly socialized from a young age. Introducing them to a variety of animals, including other dogs, cats, and small pets, will help them learn to coexist peacefully. However, their natural herding and prey drives can make interactions with other animals challenging without proper training and supervision.

If a German Shepherd is raised with farm animals, they usually get along fine, often seeing them as part of their flock to protect. However, without proper training, they might attempt to herd these animals, which can be problematic. With other dogs, they can be a bit reactive and are generally aloof with strangers, including strange dogs. Proper socialization and training can help mitigate these tendencies.

When it comes to small animals, such as cats or rabbits, their prey drive can

be a concern. Introduce them slowly and under controlled circumstances, always prioritizing the safety of the smaller animal. Over time, with patience and consistent training, many German Shepherds can learn to live peacefully with other pets.

10. Are German Shepherds More Active or More Laid Back?

German Shepherds are known for their high energy levels and need for activity. They come from a background of herding, where they were required to patrol and manage flocks of sheep, often covering large distances every day. This herding instinct makes them natural distance runners and highly energetic dogs that require a lot of exercise to stay happy and healthy.

Without sufficient exercise and mental stimulation, German Shepherds can become bored and develop behavioral issues such as chewing, digging, and excessive barking. Regular physical activity, interactive play, and training sessions are essential to keep them engaged and well-behaved. Activities like fetch, agility training, and obedience exercises can help channel their energy productively.

Despite their high activity levels, German Shepherds can also have a laid-back side, especially when they have had sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy spending time with their family and can be quite affectionate and calm at home. Finding the right balance of activity and relaxation is key to a happy and well-adjusted German Shepherd.

11. What Are the Differences Between Working Line and Show Line German Shepherds?

Working line and show line German Shepherds have distinct differences in terms of their breeding, appearance, and temperament. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right type of German Shepherd for your needs.

Working Line German Shepherds:
– Purpose: Bred for their ability to perform tasks such as police or military work, search and rescue, and protection.
– Appearance: More rugged and utilitarian, focusing on functionality over looks. They often have a straighter back and a more athletic build.
– Temperament: Higher energy levels, stronger drives, and a more intense work ethic. They require a lot of physical and mental stimulation and are best suited for active owners who can provide them with a job or regular intense exercise.
– Training: Highly trainable and excel in various types of work and sports. They are often used in professional settings due to their high drive and focus.

Show Line German Shepherds:
– Purpose: Bred primarily for their appearance in conformation shows, following breed standards set by organizations like the AKC.
– Appearance: More angulated back (an accentuated roach back) and a different gait.
– Temperament: While still active, they possess less drive than their working line counterparts.
– Training: Still trainable and intelligent, but their focus is less on high-drive work and more on companionship. If you are looking for a dog inclined towards protection, the working lines will often be a better option. This is not to say the show lines will never thrive in this environment. Rather, this has not been the focus in show lines for many years.

By understanding these differences, you can better choose a German Shepherd that fits your lifestyle and needs. If you’re looking for a high-energy, task-oriented dog, a working line German Shepherd might be the best fit. If you prefer a dog with a balanced temperament and striking appearance, a show line German Shepherd could be ideal.

So, if you’re considering bringing a German Shepherd into your life, make sure you’re ready for an active, loyal, and intelligent companion! At Czech Working Lines, we only raise working line GSDS. We believe the health testing and rigorous testing that prove these dogs will excel in obedience, tracking and protection helps maintain the essence of the breed. We have many articles posted as to why we won’t ever include show lines in our breeding program. If you want to read more on that subject, look through our articles for more info.