German Shepherd

Vital Statistics:

Place of Origin: Germany

Group: Herding dog

Height: males 24-26 in., females 22-24 in.

Weight: males 75-90 lbs., females 50-75 lbs.

Life span: 8-12 yrs.

Trainability: high

Good with children: yes

Good with other pets: yes

What are the German Shepherd’s vital statistics?

Height and weight can vary according to bloodlines and genders. Males usually weigh 75-90 lbs, while females are usually less than males. Colors can be black with shadings of tan, brown or grey. There are also all white and all black shepherds.

What kind of temperament does a German Shepherd have?

German Shepherds have marvelous temperaments. They are very loyal and protective of their families. They are good with children and other pets. There are unreliable breeders who are interested only in a fast turnover and money so be sure you investigate the breeder before you purchase a dog. Rescue organizations and the shelters and the ASPCA in your area are good places to look for any pets.

What are the uses of the German Shepherd?

You may say of the German Shepherd Dog, it is used for anything dogs can do. Originally it was bred to herd livestock. The intelligence and temperament of this dog have made it an all-round worker. The German Shepherd is used to carry messages in war, as a rescue dog in the water, in the mountains and through the fire, for police work, as a therapy dog, as a guide dog for the blind and as a guard dog. The Shepherd is outstanding in agility and obedience trials and Schutzhund (obedience, tracking and protection work). The American Kennel Club’s description of the German Shepherd is “a working animal with an incorruptible character combined with body and gait suitable for the arduous work that constitutes its primary purpose.” The noble German Shepherd shines as an all around working dog and loyal, trustworthy, loving companion.

Possible Health Issues

Hip/elbow dysplasia, bloat/gastric torsion, heart problems, Panosteitis, eye problems, von Willebrand’s disease, epilepsy, degenerative myelopaythy, digestive problems, cancer.

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