German Shepherd
Alternative names: Alsatian, German Shepherd.
History of the breed
The German Shepherd was developed in Germany in the late 19th century as a versatile working dog. Bred by Max von Stephanitz, this breed was intended to excel in herding, but soon proved suitable for police work, rescue missions, and even military duties. Its intelligence, trainability, and loyalty made it one of the most popular dog breeds in the world, both as a working dog and a family pet.
Character and temperament
The German Shepherd is an intelligent, confident, and loyal dog. Bred to work with people, it is therefore deeply devoted to its owner. This breed is alert and vigilant, making it an excellent guardian. It is friendly and playful with its family but can be reserved with strangers. With proper socialization and training, it is a trustworthy companion.
Physical characteristics
- Height at the withers: 60-65 cm (male), 55-60 cm (female).
- Weight: 22-40 kg.
- Coat: Double coat, with a dense undercoat and a straight or slightly wavy topcoat.
- Colors: Black with brown, red, gold, or gray markings; solid black or solid gray.
- Sizes for collars and harnesses: Neck circumference 45-55 cm, chest circumference 70-85 cm.
Care
The German Shepherd's double coat requires regular grooming. Weekly brushing helps remove loose hair, and daily brushing is recommended during shedding season. Check its ears regularly, trim its nails as needed, and ensure it has good dental care.
Movement and activity
The German Shepherd is an energetic breed that needs plenty of daily exercise. Long walks, runs, and mental challenges, such as obedience training and dog sports, are essential. Without sufficient stimulation, they can become bored, which can lead to unwanted behavior.
Health
The German Shepherd is a relatively healthy breed, but can be prone to:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Gastric torsion
- Degenerative myelopathy
The average life expectancy is 10-14 years.
Power supply
A balanced diet is important for the German Shepherd. An adult dog eats an average of 400-600 grams of food per day, depending on its weight, age, and activity level. Choose a food with high-quality proteins and healthy fats. Divide meals into two portions to prevent digestive problems.
Training and socialization
The German Shepherd is intelligent and eager to learn, making it one of the most trainable breeds. Positive reinforcement and consistency are key to success. Early socialization helps them become comfortable with new situations, people, and other animals. They excel in obedience, tracking, and agility and enjoy working with their owner.
Suitability for owners
The German Shepherd is suitable for active and experienced dog owners who are willing to invest time and energy in training, exercise, and mental stimulation. It's a good fit for families with children and those who want a loyal, versatile companion. Due to its high energy and drive to work, it's less suitable for people with an inactive lifestyle.
Share your experience with us!
Do you own a German Shepherd? Send a photo of your dog to customerservice@fidello.nl and receive a 10% discount on your next purchase. Want to contribute to a video for FidelloTV? Schedule an appointment using the same email address and receive €20 in store credit as a thank you for participating!