German Shepherd Dog Breed Guide
Intelligent German Shepherds are the ultimate working dog
German Shepherd Dog Quick Stats:
Other Common Names:
Deutscher Schäferhund
, Alsatian
Description:
The German Shepherd Dog is a strong, agile dog, and possesses one of the keenest noses in the dog world. Unsurpassed as a working dog, German Shepherds are the original "drug dogs," and can easily adapt to both protection and police work. Smart and protective, the German Shepherd Dog truly bonds with its family and can suffer separation anxiety when boarded.
Country of Origin:
The German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany.
Height:
Male German Shepherd Dogs range from 24 inches to 26 inches. Female German Shepherd Dogs range from 22 inches to 24 inches.
Weight:
Male German Shepherd Dogs range from 75 to 90 pounds. Female German Shepherd Dogs range from 60 to 70 pounds.
Colors:
German Shepherd Dogs are most commonly black, gray and tan.
Coat:
German Shepherd Dogs have an undercoat, which protects against temperature and bugs, as well as a straight outer coat. Their coat requires regular brushing.
Temperament:
The German Shepherd Dog is a highly intelligent, territorial dog breed. Initially suspicious of strangers, the German Shepherd Dog is an excellent watchdog.
Health Concerns:
The German Shepherd Dog is susceptible to bloat, skin disease, congenital heart problems and hip dysplasia. It should be noted that the enormous popularity of German Shepherd Dogs has resulted in careless breeding. This has caused a number of crippling genetic diseases within the German Shepherd Dog population.
Life Expectancy:
The expected life span of the German Shepherd Dog is 10-12 years.
Living Environment:
German Shepherd Dogs need frequent exercise and daily mental challenges. They make good housedogs, although a fenced yard and plenty of stimulation is crucial for this devoted and faithful dog breed.
AKC Group:
The German Shepherd Dog is in the Herding group.
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