13 Things To Know About German Shepherds

Whether you call them German Shepherds, Alsatians or even Deutscher Schäferhund, this working-line breed can be traced back all the way to the 1800s. This article will break down some common things everyone should know about German Shepherds.

Originally bred as herding dogs, to protect cattle and other livestock, this smart breed was eager to learn other skills. The German army saw the potential of the breed; they were employed and trained for the army during World War I.

The thirst to learn, unbridled obedience and loyalty have made this breed a perfect match for military and police forces. However, don’t let these tough jobs deter you from the breed; they are also extremely playful and if exercised and socialized properly, can make great family pets.   

The Top 13 Things to Know About German Shepherds:

1.     German Shepherd Size

Standing between 22 and 26 inches, this dog is longer than it is tall. The average weight of the breed can be anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds, depending on the sex.

2.     German Shepherd Life Span

Though it can vary, the average lifespan of a German Shepherd is between 10 and 14 years. Average litters of this breed yields anywhere from 4 to 9 pups.

3.     German Shepherds are Affectionate

A warning for anyone a GSD bonds with; be ready for lots of licks and cuddles – these dogs are very affectionate and are not afraid to show it!

4.     German Shepherds Shed!

These furry friends shed…a lot! All-year-round. Be prepared to have a good vacuum to clean up after their thick, luscious coat shedding all over the house! 

5.     German Shepherds are Curious

They say curiosity killed the cat, but cats have nothing on the German Shepherd. These dogs want to investigate everything!

Make sure you keep potentially harmful items out of reach of your GSD. If they can reach it, they will get into it!

6.     German Shepherds are Smart

These inquisitive dogs are keen to learn, please, and be showered with praises. They are great at learning new commands, which is what makes them popular police dogs and working dogs.

The German Shepherd is one of the smartest dog breeds, ranked third overall for their intelligence.

7.     German Shepherd are Extremely Loyal

Unabashedly loyal, know that this breed will normally pick one person in a family to make their person. This shouldn’t discourage other members of the household; this dog will still be willing to put their life on the line for anyone they consider family.

8.     German Shepherd are Clingy

German Shepherds are known to be clingy. They will follow you everywhere (yes, even in the bathroom). Expect to hear paws right behind you from room to room in the house. They love to be close to their humans!

9.     German Shepherds Could Possibly Develop Anxiety

As stated above, German Shepherds like to be close to their people (or their pack). Therefore, they are a breed prone to separation anxiety when their humans are away.

Don’t let this discourage you, proper training and socialization can significantly help reduce the chances of anxiety becoming an issue.

10.     German Shepherds Respond to Emotions

German Shepherds are very intuitive; they can feel your emotions and react accordingly. They will be there for you when you’re down and celebrate with you in happy times.

11.   German Shepherds are High Energy Dogs

German Shepherds are no couch potatoes. They have tons of energy and therefore need a lot of exercise!

Before getting a German Shepherd to make sure you have enough time to invest in their socialization and exercise. They need both mental and physical stimulation or they can get bored and destructive.

12.     German Shepherds are Vocal

The GSD is not a quiet breed! They bark, whine and howl.

German Shepherds will whine for a number of reasons; they will whine when they want attention, when they want food or want to play, but they won’t stop there – they will also whine out of joy and excitement.

13.     German Shepherds are Extremely Loveable and Funny

German Shepherds are oblivious to how funny they can be. This breed’s lovable personality will have the whole family in fits of laughter.

Just look on youtube for funny German Shepherd videos and you will see what I mean.

Final Thoughts

That wraps up the 13 things to know about German Shepherds!

German Shepherds are a wonderful, loyal, entertaining, lovable and fun dog to own. If you have enough time to devote to training and exercise you will not regret making this breed a member of your family.

Shower a German Shepherd with love and it will double the love in return!