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 As its name reveals, the German Shepherd Dog originated in Germany. Rittmeister Max von Stephanitz is credited as being the creator of this breed. This breed as it is known today is relatively new, dating back to 1899. The German Shepherd Dog has risen quickly in popularity to become one of the world’s most well-known breeds. It has become so popular because of its loyalty, bravery, and most importantly its hard working attitude. During the First World War, 48,000 German Shepherd Dogs were enlisted in the German military to assist. After the First World War, the British renamed this breed the “Alsatian Shepherd” fearing that the name German Shepherd Dog would make people with anti-German views at the time look poorly onto owners of this noble breed.
Although commonly referred to simply as “German Shepherd”, this breed’s true name is German Shepherd Dog, a direct translation from the German name for them, “German Deutsche Schäferhund”. Although their original purpose was to herd, the strength, intelligence, and obedience of this breed is put to work in many different roles in modern society. Their strong sense of smell is used for drug and bomb detection. They are used often as guard dogs, police dogs, guide dogs for the blind, for search and rescue missions, and as sheepdogs. They are a very courageous and eager to please worker, happiest when given a duty to complete.
German Shepherd Dogs are instinctively a very protective breed. They form strong bonds with their families and are often wary of strangers. They must be socialized thoroughly at a young age to prevent them from becoming overly protective when they reach adulthood. German Shepherd Dogs are extremely agile and intelligent and as a result excel in obedience training. This is a very hearty and adaptable breed that can withstand very cold and warm temperatures.
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German Shepherd Breed Information |
Breed Group |
Herding Group |
Coat |
Very dense medium outer coat with a thick soft undercoat |
Color(s) |
Various colors, commonly tan and black or tan |
Size |
22-26 inches |
Weight |
77-85 lbs |
Exercise: |
Require a great deal of exercise and enjoy challenging themselves physically |
Temperament |
Fearless, hardworking, loyal, courageous, highly intelligent |
Trainability |
Easy to train and eager to learn |
Average Lifespan |
10-14 years |
Common Health Problems |
Altopic dermatitis, Cataract, Cleft lip and palate, Cystinuria, Epilepsy, Enostosis, Digestive problems, Hip dysplasia, Esophageal achalasia, Diaphragmatic, Cartilaginous exostosis |
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