german shepherd dogs

Courageous, intelligent and loyal to a fault, the German Shepherd is considered by many to be the pinnacle of canine evolution. Whether sniffing for drugs or a heart attack, there is no better working companion than the German Shepherd.

German Shepherds were initially bred to herd sheep in pre-World War I Europe. Since then, the intelligent and remarkably capable breed has acquired an extensive resume. German Shedherds are renowned for their loyal demeanor and trainability and have seen service everywhere from the beaches of Normandy to the daycare playground. From watchdogs to lap dogs, German Shepherds are the perfect canine companion.

The loyal and courageous German Shepherd Dog is a large and muscular canine that has the potential to reach over 100 pounds. While most larger breeds have a shorter-than-average life expectancy, the GSD is slightly higher at 12-14 years. It is important to monitor them for any behavioral and physical changes brought on by common health conditions the breed is prone to. Routine vet examinations are the best step to make sure your GSD lives a long and happy life. Your veterinarian might recommend running basic health screenings to diagnose or even rule out potential health risks associated with the breed.

Health Concerns
• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Heart Conditions
• Degenerative Myelopathy
• Cancer
• Bloat

Minor Health Concerns
• Allergies
• Pannus
• Perianal Fistulas
• Autoimmune Thyroiditis
• Separation Anxiety

Suggested Screenings
• Cardiac Exam
• Eye Exam
• Hip & Elbow X-ray
• Temperament Test

Routine Care
• Neuter or Spay
• Regular Dental Exams
• Weight Management
• Controlled Exercise

German Shepherds are remarkably trainable, which is why they are so popular for jobs of all kinds, from the military to service animals.

Caring for a German Shepherd requires a lot of love and determination. German Shepherds need regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental stimulation through social activity. German Shepherds are strong, active dogs who need space to run and play.

German Shepherds are born with a double coat, which serves to insulate the dog from harsh weather. However, the German Shepherds beautiful double coat is also infamous for shredding. Regular grooming is essential, especially for dog owners with allergies.

German Shepherds are social animals who need regular interaction with humans and other dogs to instill positive behavior. German Shepherds that are frequently kept at home are less likely to gain the experience needed to feel safe in a given environment; therefore, prone to act out when presented with new situations, people, or pets.

Large, intelligent dog breeds such as the German Shepherd are prone to separation anxiety when left alone for an extended period of time. While separated from your German Shepherd, it's always a good idea to ensure they have plenty of toys and distractions in the dog's environment.