FAQ: German Shepherds

German Shepherds are among the top ranked breeds for protection and companionship. This breed is known for its intelligence, loyal nature, agility, and protective instincts. They’re ideal for active families who can provide mental and physical exercise, or homesteads with lots of land to roam and play. 

Q. Are German Shepherds good for families?

A. German Shepherds with working dog bloodlines, proper training and socialization, are among the best breeds you can adopt into your family. Their natural protective intuitions are always “on”, no matter what situation they are put in. German Shepherds, when chosen specifically for family placement, have the perfect temperament for active family lifestyles.

Q. Are German Shepherds good with kids?

A. If a German shepherd has been exposed to children and trained properly, then they are great around children. It depends on a dog’s upbringing and pedigree, like any other canine.

Q. Do German Shepherds bite?

A. All dogs can bite; however, most dogs bite when they or their family’s safety is threatened, or when they are injured. In the case of German Shepherds bred specifically for protection and K9 purposes, these dogs are selected based on their even, predictable temperament, and their ability to remain stable in a variety of unpredictable situations. German Shepherds bred for protection purposes come from bloodlines that do not bite people randomly.

Q. Can I keep a German shepherd in my apartment?

A. German Shepherds are not excessive barkers, and an apartment home will fit with this breed. German Shepherds do need exercise, and should have easy access to a park or piece of land to roam and play when they are not at home. See the Daily Exercise question below for more information.

Q. What are the differences between the Male & Female?

A. Male German Shepherds are usually larger, and they can be more territorial than their female counterpart. If they’re trained correctly, there is no huge difference in a male or female behavior and compatibility in a home.

Q. How big do German Shepherds get?

A. Males typically run larger at 75-100 pounds and females are at 60-80 lbs. They average about 26 inches from ground to shoulder blade in height.

Q. What is the average lifespan of a German shepherd?

A. German Shepherds life expectancy is an average of about 9 – 13 years. However, it is not unusual for a German shepherd to reach 15 years. A common threat to German Shepherds is hip dysplasia.

Q. Do German Shepherds shed?

A. Yes. German Shepherds need upkeep with their grooming to control their shedding. Shedding is a common characteristic in both long and short haired German Shepherds.

Q. Do German Shepherds need daily exercise?

A. Yes. A German Shepherd needs to be active at some point during the day. They can become restless if they’re not exposed to some form of mental or physical stimuli. By nature German Shepherds have been bred to become working dogs. They like to stay active. It helps if they’re given a job, like a protection dog.