German Shepherds

dog
Type
Herding
Temperament
Bold, intelligent & loyal
Average Weight
dog weight
50 - 90 lbs
Grooming
Moderate
Average Lifespan
10 - 13 years
Creative Commons

German Shepherds are loyal, energetic, and highly intelligent. Check out all you need to know about one of the best working dog breeds on the block.

The German Shepherd has been a favorite breed for a quite awhile—as far back as the World Wars! Soldiers coming back from the wars raved about these loyal, hard-working pups. Then, two famous movie dogs named Rin-Tin-Tin and Strongheart skyrocketed the German Shepherd breed to fame. Just like that, people fell in love with these brave, intelligent dogs.

As you might guess from the name, the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany. These pups were bred from old breeds of herding and farm dogs, and originally worked alongside farmers. Once Germany turned toward industrialism, German Shepherd dogs were integrated into the police force to maintain demand for the breed. This combo created the German Shepherds we know and love today—high-energy, intelligent, and amazingly loyal!

Why We Love the German Shepherd Breed

  • The German Shepherd is incredibly intelligent—they love to learn and are easily trained.
  • Although a working dog, German Shepherd dogs are also fun loving. With their high energy, you can bet these pups love a good game of fetch! 
  • Grooming is a cinch! They only require regular brushing and the occasional bath. 
  • German Shepherds are a people-oriented breed. They’re loyal to their owners and they love to be around their families.
  • The German Shepherd is incredibly intelligent—they love to learn and are easily trained.
  • Although a working dog, German Shepherd dogs are also fun loving. With their high energy, you can bet these pups love a good game of fetch! 
  • Grooming is a cinch! They only require regular brushing and the occasional bath. 
  • German Shepherds are a people-oriented breed. They’re loyal to their owners and they love to be around their families.

Things to Consider

  • German Shepherd dogs require socialization to balance out their protective instincts. Regular interaction with other dogs and people will keep your pup happy and friendly. 
  • Your German Shepherd puppy might be itty-bitty now, but it’s going to get big! Make sure you have enough space to handle a 60+ pound dog.
  • It’s not just German Shepherd puppies that have lots of energy-–full grown German Shepherds do too! The breed requires exercise and mental stimulation to keep them content and engaged. 
  • The German Shepherd breed is protective, but they are not simply guard dogs. These pups need your love and affection, and should be inside with the family.
  • German Shepherd dogs require socialization to balance out their protective instincts. Regular interaction with other dogs and people will keep your pup happy and friendly. 
  • Your German Shepherd puppy might be itty-bitty now, but it’s going to get big! Make sure you have enough space to handle a 60+ pound dog.
  • It’s not just German Shepherd puppies that have lots of energy-–full grown German Shepherds do too! The breed requires exercise and mental stimulation to keep them content and engaged. 
  • The German Shepherd breed is protective, but they are not simply guard dogs. These pups need your love and affection, and should be inside with the family.

Why Rescue?

The German Shepherd breed is one of the most popular breeds in the United States, which means these pups are victims of overbreeding. Like many overbred dogs, German Shepherds are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems, and temperament changes. Once a fearless and confident dog, some German Shepherds have developed nervous aggression due to poor breeding practices. Put an end to overbreeding—check out a German Shepherd rescue!

German Shepherd Rescues

Whether you’re looking for a German Shepherd puppy or a full grown pooch, there are tons of rescues from this wonderful breed that are waiting to come home with you. Here are just a few:

German Shepherds Near

Use My Current Location