German Shepherd Dog Breed Information

The German Shepherd Dog is an excellent family protection dog, and one of Protection Dogs Worldwide’s most popular breeds. Originally bred to work as a herder and livestock guardian in 19th Century Germany, the German Shepherd Dog’s main characteristics are its intelligence, high work drive, strong bonding tendencies, loyalty, and protective nature. Although the days when livestock herding was common are long gone, its temperament has proved so enduring, that it has gone on to become one of the most popular breeds in the world. Today, the German Shepherd Dog has been utilised as a family protection dog, police dog, military working dog, guide and disability assistance dog, and for search and rescue purposes.

The American Kennel Club describes the German Shepherd Dog as follows: “The first impression of a good German Shepherd Dog is that of a strong, agile, well-muscled animal, alert and full of life. It is well balanced, with harmonious development of the forequarter and hindquarter. The dog is longer than tall, deep-bodied, and presents an outline of smooth curves rather than angles. It looks substantial and not spindly, giving the impression, both at rest and in motion, of muscular fitness and nimbleness without any look of clumsiness or soft living. The ideal dog is stamped with a look of quality and nobility – difficult to define, but unmistakable when present”. The German Shepherd Dog may present in a range of colors, but black, black and tan, and sable are all common. German Shepherd Dogs from working lines are most commonly distinguished by their slightly smaller size, and straight rather than curved back. German Shepherd Dogs also possess a “double coat”, which sheds throughout the year. A German Shepherd Dog does require regular grooming, but this can easily become an activity which facilitates bonding between the dog and their handler.

Because German Shepherd Dogs are so intelligent, they are relatively easy to train, and are often able to associate command and required action faster than other breeds. German Shepherd Dogs also tend to bond very strongly with their owner and family and seek to please them whenever possible. One way of achieving this is through obeying commands, which a well-trained German Shepherd Dog will readily do. Given their ongoing need for mental stimulation, integrating regular obedience-based exercises into your German Shepherd Dog’s daily routine is one way of providing them with the intellectual engagement and challenges they need to thrive. The German Shepherd Dog will also need plenty of exercise, so would thrive in a house with a large garden it will have ready access to. They are also very good with children, and will happily settle into a family environment.

As with all our dogs, purchasing a trained German Shepherd Dog as a family protection dog from Protection Dogs Worldwide comes with an extensive aftercare package. This includes home visits, ongoing access to our trainers, dog obedience training, and free kennelling while you holiday if you purchase an Elite dog.

Available German Shepherd Dogs