German Shepherd

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment9–13 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Elbow dysplasia · Bloat (GDV)

The German Shepherd is the archetypal working dog — brilliant, loyal, brave and deeply bonded to its family — but that intelligence and drive make it a demanding companion, not a casual pet. It needs a genuine job: daily physical exercise plus real mental work through obedience, tracking, protection or dog sports, and it thrives on early, thorough socialisation and consistent, positive training to grow into the stable, confident guardian the breed is known for. An under-stimulated Shepherd becomes anxious, destructive or reactive. The dense double coat sheds heavily year-round and 'blows' seasonally, so expect regular brushing and a lot of hair. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hips and elbows for dysplasia and breeds for a sound structure rather than an extreme sloping back. Be aware of bloat (feed measured meals, avoid exercise right after eating), degenerative myelopathy, and digestive issues such as EPI that the breed can carry, plus heart disease. Give a Shepherd a job, exercise, training and companionship, and it will be one of the most capable and devoted dogs you could own for nine to thirteen years.

• How much exercise does a German Shepherd need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a German Shepherd need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a German Shepherd suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a German Shepherd a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do German Shepherd live?

  9–13 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the German Shepherd?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Bloat (GDV). These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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