The German Shepherd is a well-known breed throughout the world with a large fan base of staunch admirers. We once knew the German Shepherd dog as the Alsatian and Deutscher Schäferhund. They developed this breed in Germany and came from a long lineage of herding and farm dogs and provides a long list of human services. This breed is no stranger to war; in fact, we used them as war dogs during the world wars. Today, this breed is more synonymous with police and security work. Also, they’re used as guide dogs and for guard, sniffer, and rescue work. This breed is also excellent in obedience work. There is no denying the versatility of this breed.
The German Shepherd is slightly longer compared to its height; this breed is ideally 24-26 inches high, these proportions together with the position of the fore and hind legs producing a far-reaching and enduring gait. The weight of the German Shepherd ranges from 65 to 90 pounds. This breed is alert, attentive, and resilient. It has nerves of steel and is truly a courageous, self-assured, and tractable companion. This dog should never be overly aggressive or shy. The coat should be straight, hard, and as close-lying as possible during the exhibition, with a thick undercoat.
German Shepherd Breed Facts
| Energy level |  | Watchdog ability |  |
| Exercise requirements |  | Protection ability | |
| Playfulness |  | Grooming requirements | |
| Affection level | | Cold tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward dogs |  | Heat tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward other pets | | Friendliness toward strangers | |
| Ease of training |
Temperament: They developed this breed to be an all-purpose dog. They’re trainable and willing to work. The German Shepherd is one of the smartest breeds with an uncanny ability to avoid distractions and focus on the job at hand. They’re poised, confident, and self-assured, with a caring nature. German Shepherds are excellent watchdogs and are usually wary of people it does not know. They’re very willing to please; also, this dog is loyal, sensitive, and reliable. This is a breed that has the ability to do a variety of jobs. In fact, this was the first breed used as guide dogs for the blind.
Activity level: Active. This is a very active dog that possesses an unlimited supply of energy. They will require plenty of mental and physical challenges. They’ll become bored and depressed if cooped up or neglected. These dogs are also great house pets and good-natured companions.
Coat: The German Shepherd has a medium-length double coat with a harsh, upright, dense, outer coat. The hair on the head and legs is shorter, and the hair on the neck is longer and thicker.
Size: Males—24–26 inches, 65–90 pounds; females—22–24 inches, 50–70 pounds
Group: They recognize The German Shepherd as a member of the AKC Herding Group and UK Working Group
Life expectancy: 7–10 years
Color: German Shepherds come in a variety of colors; however, tan, with a black mask and black saddle markings are more prevalent. However, the color white is not preferable and cannot enter the show ring.
When buying a puppy, the buyer needs to know that there are marked differences between the sexes. Stay away from a shy puppy. Also, make sure that the breeder’s health guarantee includes coverage for the hips and elbows.
