German Shepherd

Temperament & Personality

German Shepherds are loyal, confident, and highly intelligent. They form strong bonds with their families and are naturally protective, making them excellent watchdogs.

Best Traits:

• Highly trainable and intelligent
• Protective yet affectionate with their family
• Excellent working and service dogs
• Energetic and eager to please

Things to Consider:

• Require regular mental and physical stimulation
• Need consistent training and socialization
• Can develop separation anxiety if left alone too often

How Long Do German Shepherds Live?

German Shepherds have an average lifespan of 9 to 13 years (American Kennel Club). Proper diet, exercise, and veterinary care contribute to their longevity.

Size & Appearance

German Shepherds are a large breed with a muscular and athletic build.

• Males: 24-26 inches tall, 65-90 lbs
• Females: 22-24 inches tall, 50-70 lbs

They have a double coat that can be short or long-haired, and common coat colors include black and tan, sable, and all-black.

How Fast Can a German Shepherd Run?

German Shepherds are fast runners, reaching speeds of up to 30 mph (American Kennel Club). Their speed and endurance make them excellent working dogs.

How Much Exercise Does a German Shepherd Need?

As a high-energy breed, German Shepherds need at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily (American Kennel Club). They thrive in active households and enjoy activities like running, hiking, and obedience training.

Training Tips:

• Start training early to establish obedience
• Use positive reinforcement
• Provide mental stimulation through puzzle toys and agility training

How to Train a German Shepherd Puppy?

German Shepherds are highly intelligent and eager to learn, making them one of the easiest breeds to train. To successfully train a German Shepherd puppy:

• Begin socialization early to prevent shyness or aggression
• Use reward-based training for obedience and commands
• Stay consistent to reinforce good behavior

Grooming & Care

German Shepherds have a thick double coat that sheds year-round, with heavier shedding in spring and fall. Regular brushing (2-3 times per week) helps manage shedding.

Can You Shave a German Shepherd?

No, shaving a German Shepherd is not recommended. Their double coat regulates their body temperature and protects their skin from the elements (American Kennel Club).

Is a German Shepherd Right for You?

German Shepherds are ideal for active individuals or families who can provide training, socialization, and daily exercise. They are not suited for sedentary owners or those unable to commit to their high-energy needs.

Ideal Owners:

✔️ Active families or individuals
✔️ Owners seeking a loyal and protective companion
✔️ Those willing to invest time in training and exercise

Not Ideal For:

❌ First-time dog owners without training experience
❌ Apartment dwellers with limited space
❌ Owners with minimal time for socialization and exercise

Why Choose a German Shepherd from Pet Shoppe Puppies?

At Pet Shoppe Puppies, we provide healthy, well-socialized German Shepherd puppies from responsible breeders. Our puppies come with:

✅ Health screenings & vaccinations
✅ Breed authenticity guarantee
✅ Training and care guidance
✅ Lifetime customer support

Sources

American Kennel Club. “German Shepherd Dog Breed Information.” AKC, www.akc.org/dog-breeds/german-shepherd. Accessed 14 Feb. 2025.

Canine Journal. “Dog Bite Force: The Strongest Canine Bites Ranked.” Canine Journal, www.caninejournal.com/dog-bite-force. Accessed 14 Feb. 2025