German Shepherds 101

Herding group

Courage, intelligence and athleticism are the standout qualities of the German Shepherd Dog, a versatile breed popular as a reliable partner in military and law enforcement, as well as a devoted, protective family dog. The German Shepherd is also common in search-and-rescue work and dog sports.

Despite their reputation for seriousness, they can be playful, even silly, with their people. A sense of humor is required for their families, too, along with a powerful vacuum cleaner for a breed lovingly called the “German Shedder.”

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about German Shepherds

Versatile breed with dry sense of humor

GSDs have split into two types, with the arch-backed show-line dogs often criticized for structural issues uncommon in the working line dogs. Both types do best with consistent, clear training and handling.

Energy level

100% energy level

Energy level: 100% (Very high)

Bark level

  • Very vocal
  • Talkative

Bark level: As needed. This breed only barks when necessary

Size

22 to 26 inches tall
Large breed size

Size: 22 to 26 inches tall. This is a Large sized Dog.

Lifespan

7 to 10 years

Lifespan: 7 to 10 years average

Weight

50 to 90 lbs

Weight: 50 to 90 lbs typical range

Breed Group
Herding group
Energy level
Very high (100%)
Bark level
As needed
Height
22 to 26 inches
Lifespan
7 to 10 years
Weight
50 to 90 lbs

The German Shepherd stands 22 to 26 inches tall and weighs 50 to 90 lbs. German Shepherds have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years. They are known for a very high (100%) energy level and a as needed bark.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do German Shepherds get?
German Shepherds stand 22 to 26 inches tall and typically weigh between 50 and 90 pounds.
How long do German Shepherds live?
The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 7 to 10 years.
Are German Shepherds good for first-time dog owners?
German Shepherds are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Do German Shepherds bark a lot?
German Shepherds typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.

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Mature adult German Shepherd

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions

Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Senior German Shepherd

9+ years

Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Splenic cancer

German Shepherd puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions

Hip dysplasia

Trauma

Umbilical hernia

Young adult German Shepherd

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions

Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency

Hip dysplasia

Skin allergies

Mature adult German Shepherd

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions

Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Senior German Shepherd

9+ years

Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

Hip dysplasia

Splenic cancer

German Shepherd puppy

0 to 1 year

Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions

Hip dysplasia

Trauma

Umbilical hernia

Young adult German Shepherd

1 year to 4 years

Risk level for common German Shepherd conditions

Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency

Hip dysplasia

Skin allergies

2-German shpeherd laying down GettyImages-824150366

Nationwide can help you save on your German Shepherd's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

1-Hero German shepherd GettyImages-1401402896

Rin Tin Tin, a German Shepherd Dog rescued from a bombed-out kennel in World War I, was the first canine celebrity of the modern media age. He was so popular that a late rule change was put in place to prevent him from winning the first Academy Award for Best Actor.

German Shepherd coat care and colors

Ask anyone with a German Shepherd Dog how much they shed and chances are you’ll be told that the breed’s nickname is “German Shedder.” These dogs do shed an astonishing amount, as brushing sometimes ends with a pile of fur larger than many smaller dogs. The only way to fight it is by brushing and combing to get loose fur before it ends up on furniture, rugs, clothes … well, everything, really. Combing down to the skin is essential to prevent matting. German Shepherds are stoic dogs, so they may be more tolerant of nail trims than many other dogs. Acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped or ground down is key to making future nail trims easier on everyone.

German Shepherd exercise & training

Exercise level

Exercise level

The German Shepherd needs regular heart-thumping activity. Because of their intelligence and their watchful nature, ideal exercise involves their brains as well their bodies.

Trainability

Trainability

Consistency is key to the German Shepherd: If you’re not their leader, they’ll be yours. Training that rewards good manners is a must.

Group 7501

German Shepherd fun facts

Top girl names for German Shepherds

100%

of German Shepherds are female

0%

of German Shepherds are male

Top boy names for German Shepherds

Nationwide loves German Shepherds of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like German Shepherds

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