Large breed
German Shepherd Puppies
Loyal protector and playful companion for life
We do not have German Shepherd puppies on the floor today. Tell us what you are looking for and we will let you know the moment one arrives, or help you find a breed that suits your home just as well.
- Adult weight 50–90 lbs
- Height 24–26 in
- Lifespan 9–13 years
- Exercise 120 min a day
About the German Shepherd
The German Shepherd is a remarkable breed that beautifully balances strength and grace, making them one of the most beloved working dogs around the world. Originally developed in Germany for herding and protecting sheep, these large canines have evolved into versatile companions and protectors. With their keen intelligence and innate loyalty, German Shepherds thrive in environments where they are part of the family, serving as faithful friends and dedicated guardians.
Read more about the German Shepherd Show less
Known for their high energy levels, German Shepherds are best suited for families that can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. These spirited dogs require regular walks, playtime, and the opportunity to explore the outdoors. While they are not recommended for apartment living, they flourish in homes with ample space to run and play. Their affectionate nature means they enjoy spending time with family members, and they are particularly good with young children and other dogs. With their natural protective instincts and strong bark, they also make excellent watchdogs for your home.
Grooming these striking dogs is relatively straightforward but requires a weekly commitment due to their moderate shedding. Regular brushing keeps their coat healthy and helps to manage the fur that may come off. The German Shepherd’s high intelligence and eagerness to please make them exceptionally trainable. They excel in obedience training, and their quick-witted minds can pick up commands faster than many breeds. This combination of personality traits not only adds to their charm but ensures that with proper socialization and training, they become well-mannered companions suited for any loving family.
If you are looking for a loyal and intelligent dog who will not only protect your home but also fill it with love and joy, consider welcoming a German Shepherd into your life. They are sure to bring energy, companionship, and a sense of security to your family in Furrylicious®.
German Shepherd breed profile
Every score below is set by our team for this breed. Higher is simply more of that trait, not better or worse.
Temperament
-
Affection Very affectionate
-
Playfulness Very playful
-
With strangers Friendly
-
Territorial Territorial
-
Prey drive High
Family & other pets
-
Young children Good
-
Older children Excellent
-
Other dogs Sociable
-
Cats With introductions
Energy & exercise
-
Energy Very high
-
Mental stimulation Needs a job to do
Training
-
Trainability Eager to please
-
Intelligence Exceptional
-
Stubbornness A stubborn streak
Care & upkeep
-
Shedding Heavy
-
Drooling Minimal
-
Barking Vocal
Home life
-
Apartment living Prefers a house
-
Time alone A few hours
-
Cold weather Comfortable
-
Warm weather Average
A good match for
-
First-time owners Manageable
-
Senior owners Suitable
-
Running partner Excellent
-
Hiking Excellent
-
Therapy work Good
-
Guarding Strong guardian
Living with a German Shepherd
Temperament & Family Fit
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them wonderful companions for families. They thrive on human interaction and are especially good with young kids and other dogs, establishing strong bonds with their family members. While they can be somewhat reserved around strangers, their affectionate nature tends to shine once they get to know someone.
Energy & Exercise
With a healthy energy level, German Shepherds require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, play sessions, and mental stimulation are essential for this breed to channel their energy positively. They enjoy activities such as obedience training and agility courses, making them excellent companions for active families.
Care & Grooming
German Shepherds do shed quite a bit, requiring regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and manage loose fur. Grooming is typically needed on a weekly basis to maintain their appearance and minimize shedding around the house. Despite their grooming needs, their loyalty and loving nature make it all worthwhile for dog owners.
Training Notes
Training a German Shepherd is often a rewarding experience due to their high trainability and intelligence. They thrive on structure and respond well to positive reinforcement methods. Consistent training sessions help them become well-behaved family members while also providing the mental challenge they crave.
Caring for a German Shepherd
- Grooming
- Weekly brushing
- Grooming cost
- Average
- Monthly food
- Average
- Outdoor space
- A yard is recommended
- Allergy friendly
- Not considered hypoallergenic
German Shepherd Video
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the temperament of a German Shepherd?
German Shepherds are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and strong protective instincts. They are affectionate towards their families and can be good with young kids, making them great companions. With proper training and socialization, they adapt well to different environments and situations.
Are German Shepherds good with other pets?
German Shepherds generally get along well with other dogs, especially if they are introduced properly from a young age. While they can be friendly with cats, their herding instincts may sometimes kick in, so supervision is important. Overall, they thrive in a social environment where they can interact with both dogs and other pets.
How much exercise do German Shepherds need?
German Shepherds have a moderate to high energy level, requiring regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy. Daily walks, playtime, and mentally stimulating activities will help channel their energy and prevent boredom. If you're looking to adopt one in Furrylicious®, be prepared for some active adventures together.
How often do German Shepherds shed?
German Shepherds do shed quite a bit, which means regular grooming is important to help manage their fur. You can expect to groom them weekly to keep their coat in good condition and reduce shedding in your home. Brushing them regularly also strengthens your bond and gives you a chance to check for any skin issues.
How trainable are German Shepherds?
German Shepherds are highly trainable and eager to please, which is one of the reasons they excel in roles like service dogs and police work. They respond well to positive reinforcement techniques and enjoy learning new commands. With their intelligence and strong desire to work, training sessions can be both enjoyable and rewarding for you and your furry friend.
