Dogs are widely considered to be man’s best friend. They provide us with companionship, protection, and unconditional love. The German Shepherd is particularly intelligent, loyal, and protective among the many different breeds of dogs.
The German Shepherd breed is often referred to as the Alsatian or the GSD. They are one of the most versatile and beloved breeds of dogs around. They are known for being intelligent, loyal, and protective. Besides, GSD are good family dogs.
In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about this dog breed, from their history to their temperament. We’ll also provide tips on how to care for your German Shepherd breed and training advice. So read on to learn all about these wonderful creatures!
Table of Contents
German Shepherd Origin
The Alsatian breed originated in Germany and was used to herd sheep. The American Kennel Club officially recognized the dog breed in 1908.
GSD’s origin dates back to the early 1900s when Max von Stephanitz founded Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (Society for German Shepherd Dogs) in 1899.
The first recorded use of the name “German Shepherd” was in 1902.
During World War I, the Germans used Shepherds as military dogs, messengers, and Red Cross dogs.
German Shepherd Price
When it comes to the price of a German Shepherd breed, there are a few things you need to take into account. The first is whether you are getting a puppy or an adult dog. The average price of a German Shepherd puppy is around $1500, while the average cost of an adult dog is around $1200.
This means that if you plan on having a family with children, then it’s best to stick with the puppy. If you don’t have kids, then it’s fine to go with either option.
German Shepherd Breeder
If you’re looking for a German Shepherd breeder, you need to be aware of certain things.
First of all, not all breeders are created equal. Some breeders have the best intentions but don’t know how to properly raise a German Shepherd puppy, while others are just in it for the money and care very little about their dogs’ lives.
A good GSD breeder will have many years of experience and knowledge on how to raise healthy puppies. You can’t just read a book or go online and learn this stuff; it takes time to develop these skills.
Another thing to remember is that not all Alsatian breeds are created equal either! Some Shepherd dogs have better genetics than others. A good breeder will know how to select dogs with great genetics. They’ll also be able to spot problems before they get too bad, which saves you a lot of time and money in the future.
German Shepherd Colors
Alsatian breeds come in various colors, including black, white, and tan. Some GSDs may also have markings on their faces. The most common color is black and tan, but white Shepherd dogs are also famous. They come in all shades, from light brown to dark black.
Some have very light-colored eyes, while others have dark brown eyes. Alsatian breeds are beautiful breeds of dogs whose colors are just as beautiful.
German Shepherd Food
Alsatian breeds are a large breed of dog, and as such, they require plenty of food to maintain their health and vitality. The recommended amount of food for a Shepherd breed is roughly two to three cups per day, depending on the dog’s age and activity level.
German Shepherd breeds require high-quality food that is well balanced. Some of the best dog foods for Shepherd dogs include:
Halo Holistic Chicken and Chicken Liver Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – made with real chicken, this recipe is easily digestible and provides all the nutrients your Berger Allemand needs.
Wellness Core Grain-Free Dry Dog Food – a grain-free diet that is rich in protein and other essential nutrients.
Orijen Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food – a fresh meat recipe that is high in protein, low in carbohydrates, and rich in essential fatty acids.
When feeding a German Shepherd puppy, it is crucial to increase the amount of food as the puppy grows gradually. It will help ensure your puppy grows at a healthy rate and does not become overweight.
German Shepherd Size
The average Alsatian breed is between 20 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder. Male German Shepherd breeds are between 24 and 26 inches tall, while female Shepherds are 22 and 24 inches tall. However, the breed has a fair amount of variability, so some Alsatian breeds are smaller or larger than these averages.
German Shepherd Adoption
When looking to adopt an Alsatian breed, there are many things you need to consider. These dogs require plenty of exercises and can be quite a handful if not given the proper training and attention. However, Shepherd breeds can make excellent pets and even loyal family members when well-cared for.
If you’re thinking about adding a German Shepherd breed to your family, be sure to do your research and find an adoption agency that specializes in the breed. Of course, you’ll need to do a background check on any agency before you agree to adopt from them, as well as get references from other families who have adopted from them in the past.
Be prepared to provide a good home for your new GSD. It means plenty of exercise, loads of training, and a lot of love. Shepherd dogs are known for being loyal and protective family members, so if you’re looking for something less challenging than a dog, this may not be the best fit for you.
If you’re interested in adopting from a German Shepherd rescue group, then you’ll need to know what kind of dog they have available. Most rescues will only take in dogs at least one-year-old. They’ll also have strict rules about where the dogs will live and for how long, so make sure you follow all of their directions.
German Shepherd Lifespan
The average lifespan of an Alsatian breed is between 12-15 years. However, a healthy GSD can live up to 20 years or longer depending on genetics and care.
German Shepherd Male
Possessing more power and strength, the German Shepherd male is the preferred choice for most pet owners. Alsatian breeds are known to be territorial and protective of their family and property, making them an ideal guard dog.
Alert and courageous, they bark and sound the alarm when they sense danger. GSDs are also brilliant and have a strong working instinct, making them perfect for police or military service and search and rescue missions.
Male German Shepherds are larger than females, with a height of 61 to 66 cm (24 to 26 in) and a weight of 30 to 40 kg (66 to 88 lb). They have a broad, muscular body with a deep chest and a long, narrow head with erect ears. They come in various colors, including black, tan, and white.
German Shepherd Female
The Alsatian breed is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. They are known for their intelligence, obedience, and strength. Shepherd dogs are also a popular choice for police and military work.
German Shepherd breeds come in both male and female varieties, and the females tend to be just as popular as the males. There are some key differences between male and female German Shepherds, however.
Female German Shepherds are typically smaller than the males, and they have a more feminine appearance. They also tend to be less aggressive than the males and are better with children. However, they are still solid and intelligent dogs and can make great pets for families or individuals.
If you are considering adding a GSD to your family, it is essential to consider the sex of the dog. Of course, male German Shepherd dogs can be great pets too, but if you are looking for a dog that is more likely to be friendly and less aggressive, a female German Shepherd may be the right choice for you.
German Shepherd Eyes
The color of German Shepherd eyes can vary quite a bit. They can be brown, black, gray, blue, or a combination of two colors. Some Alsatian breeds also have heterochromia, which means they have two different eye colors. It is a genetic trait found in about 25% of German Shepherd breeds.
Shepherd dogs’ eyes are prone to many problems. One of the most common problems is called entropion. It is a condition in which the eyelashes turn inward and rub against the eye’s surface. It can cause a lot of irritation and damage to the eyes.
Another common problem that affects GSDs eyes is called ectropion. It is a condition in which the eyelids turn outward and do not close properly. It can lead to exposure of the eyes to dust and debris, which can also cause problems.
GSD eyes are also prone to cataracts. It is a clouding of the lens that can cause several problems. Alsatian breeds can also get glaucoma, which increases pressure inside the eye that causes damage to the optic nerve.
Shepherd breeds’ eyes can also be affected by many other problems such as corneal dystrophy, dry eye, uveitis, and more. If you notice any changes in your GSD’s eyes or if they seem to be bothering him, you should take him to the vet right away.
By taking good care of your German Shepherd’s eyes and getting regular eye exams, you can help to keep them healthy and free from problems for many years to come.
German Shepherd Ears
The German Shepherd’s ears are critical to the breed. Alsatian breeds have long, pointed ears that stand straight upon their head. These ears are used to hear sounds better than other dogs can, like a bat’s wing flap or car engine noise. They also help the dog cool down by releasing heat from its body.
Alsatian breeds use their ears to communicate with other dogs and people. They can hear sounds far away, even if the sound is not loud enough for a human to detect it. Shepherd breed can also use their ears to listen for danger and warn their owners of potential threats.
German Shepherd Grooming
Most Alsatian breeds will require some essential grooming. You will need to brush their fur regularly and trim their nails monthly. You may also need to brush your teeth regularly.
GSDs have a thick coat of fur that can become matted. Therefore, you will need to brush their hair at least two times a week, preferably every day if possible.
German Shepherd’s nails increase and can become sharp. As a result, trimming their nails every month is a must. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can take your dog to a groomer.
Alsatian breeds have large teeth that can become discolored and plaque over time. Consequently, you will need to brush your dog’s teeth daily with pet toothpaste and a soft-bristle toothbrush.
German Shepherd Hip Dysplasia
The Alsatian breed is one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. But unfortunately, they are also one of the breeds most prone to hip dysplasia, a deformity of the hip joint. The condition occurs in roughly 15-20% of GSDs and is most often diagnosed in dogs between six and eighteen months old.
Hip dysplasia is a condition that results when the head of the femur (thighbone) does not fit properly into the hip socket. Instead, the head of the femur should move freely in the socket, which is lined with cartilage. It allows for smooth movement of the joint when you walk, run or jump.
When hip dysplasia is present, the head of the femur does not fit snugly into the hip socket. As a result, it can cause joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion.
The condition can be congenital, which means it is present from birth. Trauma or injury to the joint, during growth, or at any stage of life is another possible reason. The condition can also develop due to other health conditions such as arthritis.
There is no one definitive cause of hip dysplasia in the Alsatian breed. However, several factors may contribute to the development of the condition. These include:
- Genetics: Dogs with a family history of hip dysplasia are more likely to develop the condition.
- Nutrition: Dogs overfed or obese are more inclined to suffer from hip dysplasia.
- Exercise: Dogs that participate in high-impact activities such as running and jumping are more prone to get hip dysplasia.
Although it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes, there is no cure for hip dysplasia among German Shepherd dogs.
German Shepherd Growth Chart
Growth charts can be a valuable tool for dog owners to track the development of their German Shepherd puppies. They can help you keep an eye on your pup’s progress and ensure that they are growing at a healthy rate. The German Shepherd growth chart is no exception and can be used to track your dog’s weight, height, and other essential factors.
Age | Male | Female | ||
Weight (lbs.) | Height (cm) | Weight (lbs.) | Height (cm) | |
1 month | 6-9 | 10-15 | 5-8 | 7-1 |
2 months | 15-20 | 17-22 | 10-17 | 15-22 |
3 months | 22-30 | 22-27 | 18-25 | 20-25 |
4 months | 35-40 | 27-35 | 30-35 | 25-30 |
5 months | 40-49 | 35-40 | 35-44 | 30-35 |
6 months | 48-56 | 40-45 | 44-49 | 38-43 |
7 months | 57-62 | 48-50 | 50-54 | 43-48 |
8 months | 62-66 | 50-55 | 54-57 | 45-50 |
9 months | 65-72 | 55-58 | 55-60 | 48-53 |
10 months | 66-73 | 55-60 | 57-62 | 48-53 |
11 months | 66-74 | 55-60 | 60-65 | 50-55 |
12 months | 70-75 | 55-60 | 60-65 | 50-55 |
1 year | 71-85 | 58-63 | 62-66 | 53-55 |
2 years | 79-88 | 60-66 | 65-70 | 55-60 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a German Shepherd a good pet?
Yes, the Alsatian breed makes great pets. The Shepherd breeds are intelligent and loyal, and they can be used for a variety of purposes including police work, search and rescue, and guide work. GSDs also serve as service dogs for people with disabilities. German Shepherd breeds need a lot of exercise, so be sure to provide them with the right amount of workouts.
Who is a German Shepherd best for?
Alsatians breeds make great pets for families who are willing to put in the time and effort necessary to care for them. These breeds of dogs require a lot of exercise and can be protective when necessary. The Alsatian breed usually gets along well with other pets, but it’s important to socialize them early on so that they learn how to interact properly with others.
Are German Shepherds smart?
Yes, the Alsatian breeds are intelligent breeds of dogs. The Shepherd dog can be trained to do many things and excel in police work, search-and-rescue missions, and guide dog programs for the blind or deaf. These dogs also commonly serve as service animals for people with disabilities.
How much does a German Shepherd cost?
The average cost of a German Shepherd puppy is $1500 to $3000.
How much does it cost to adopt a German Shepherd?
The average adoption fee for an Alsatian is about $1500. This includes all necessary vaccinations, spaying or neutering surgery, and microchipping (which can be done at the shelter). The only other costs will come from things like food and toys.
Are German Shepherds easy to train?
Alsatian breeds are generally very intelligent dogs. They can be trained to respond quickly when their name is called or they hear certain commands. GSDs are also very loyal and protective of their owners, so they make great guard dogs.
Are German Shepherds good with kids?
The Alsatian breed is a large breed dog that’s typically good around children. They’re intelligent and eager to learn, which makes them easy to train for obedience or agility training. Alsatian breeds also tend to be very protective of their families, so they make great guard dogs as well!
Are German Shepherds good with other pets?
Alsatian breeds are generally good with other pets. They’re typically loyal companions who love their families but can also be protective when necessary. GSDs can also be taught how to get along well with other pets early on in life through socialization.
What are the health concerns for German Shepherds?
The average lifespan for a healthy Alsatian breed is about 11 years. However, some health concerns that may affect these dogs include hip dysplasia, bloat, and elbow dysplasia. It’s important to have your German Shepherd dog screened by a veterinarian on a regular basis to help catch any potential health problems early.
What are the personality traits of a German Shepherd?
Alsatian breeds typically have a very loyal nature. They are also intelligent and eager to learn new things. These breeds of dogs can be protective of their families but are usually good with kids if raised around them from puppyhood onward.
How big do German Shepherds get?
Alsatian breeds typically weigh between 70 and 90 pounds as adults, with females being on the smaller end of that spectrum and males being on the larger end. The Shepherd breed stands about 22 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder.
How much do German Shepherds shed?
Shepherd breeds shed a lot! Alsatian breeds typically have double coats that are very dense and heavy, which means they’ll need regular brushing to keep the fur under control. It’s important not only because of shedding but also because these dogs tend to get tangled up in their own hair if it’s not brushed out regularly.
How much should a German Shepherd eat?
Alsatian breeds are large dogs, so they need about two cups of high-quality dog food per day. It’s best to feed them twice daily instead of just once because this helps prevent bloat, which is a serious condition that can be fatal if left untreated.
How often should you bathe a German Shepherd?
GSDs typically only need to be bathed every two months or so, but it’s important not to let them go longer than three weeks without at least a good brushing. These breeds of dogs can get pretty stinky if they’re not bathed and groomed regularly!
What is the cost of owning a German Shepherd?
The total cost of owning an Alsatian breed will vary depending on things like whether you adopt or buy from a breeder, whether you have your dog spayed or neutered, and whether you have any health concerns that may need to be addressed. However, on average you can expect to spend around $500 per year on basics like food, vet care, and vaccinations.
Are German Shepherds aggressive?
Alsatian breeds can be aggressive toward unfamiliar people or other dogs that pose a threat, but they’re typically loyal companions who love their families. GSDs need a lot of exercise and mental stimulation in order to stay happy, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of space to run and play. Shepherd breeds can also be taught how to get along well with other pets early on in life through socialization.
Do German Shepherds bark a lot?
German Shepherd breeds bark when they’re excited or anxious, but these dogs typically don’t have much of a problem with excessive barking. GSDs can be protective of their families and home, so it’s important to socialize them early on and make sure they know that other pets are just members of the family too.
Can German Shepherds be left alone?
Shepherd dogs can be left alone for up to eight hours during the day, but they shouldn’t be kept in a crate or confined space while you’re gone. Alsatian breeds need lots of exercise and mental stimulation in order to stay happy, so it’s important that their owners provide plenty of space for them to run around as well as the time each day for training sessions!
Should I get a boy or girl German Shepherd?
This is a question that only you can answer, but either gender of the German Shepherd breed can make a great pet. It’s important to do your research before making any decisions and be prepared to commit time and energy into training and socializing your dog no matter what sex it is.
Are German Shepherds indoor or outdoor dogs?
Indoor and outdoor life is possible with Shepherd dogs. To remain happy, these dogs require a lot of exercise, so make sure their owners give them plenty of room to run around as well as time for training each day!
Where should German Shepherd sleep?
Shepherd breeds can sleep inside or outside, but they should never be kept in a crate or confined space while their owners are away. GSDs benefit greatly from adequate exercise and mental stimulation in order to remain joyful, therefore it’s critical that their owners make sure they have enough room to run around as well as the opportunity for training sessions each day!
Can German Shepherds swim?
GSDs can swim, but it’s not something that should be encouraged. These breeds of dogs are not natural swimmers, but their physical traits will make them good swimmers. Alsatian breeds will also develop a love for the water with time.
Do German Shepherds like cats?
Alsatian breeds can get along well with cats, but it’s important to introduce them at an early age.
Can German Shepherds drink milk?
Shepherd breeds should not drink milk because they are lactose intolerant. If you’re looking to feed your puppy or dog something other than water, try giving them some raw meat instead! You can also give them yogurt that’s low in fat content as well as fruits like applesauce and bananas which contain little or no sugar at all. Remember that GSDs need a lot of protein, so try to avoid feeding them too many carbohydrates!
Does German Shepherd Howl?
Some Shepherd breeds may howl, but this behavior can be discouraged through proper training. These breeds of dogs are very vocal and typically make a lot of noise in general.