Herding group · Large
German Shepherd Dog
Confident, courageous, highly trainable working dog.
Lifespan7–10 yrs
Weight50–90 lb
Height22–26 in
Shedding High
Exercise High
Grooming Moderate
Health conditions to know
Hip & elbow dysplasia
Breed is strongly associated with both; evaluate before breeding.
Degenerative myelopathy (DM)
DNA-testable spinal-cord disease causing progressive hind-limb weakness.
Bloat (GDV)
Deep chest raises risk of life-threatening stomach torsion.
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency
Breed-associated digestive enzyme deficiency.
Recommended health screenings
Questions worth asking a breeder about the parents, or your vet about your dog:
- OFA hip & elbow
- DNA: DM
- Cardiac exam
- Temperament evaluation
Who it suits
Experienced owners wanting a trainable guardian and working partner.