| The German Shepherd Dog Breed
Other Names: Alsatian, Deutscher Schäferhund
Country of Origin: The German Shepherd Dog
originated in Germany.
Height: Male German Shepherd Dogs range from 24
inches to 26 inches. Female German Shepherd Dogs range from
22 inches to 24 inches.
Weight: Male German Shepherd Dogs range from 75 to
90 pounds. Female German Shepherd Dogs range from 60 to 70
pounds.
Description: The German Shepherd Dog is a strong,
agile dog, and possesses one of the keenest noses in the dog
world. Unsurpassed as a working dog, German Shepherd Dogs
are the original "drug dogs," and can easily adapt to both
protection and police work. Smart and protective, the German
Shepherd Dog truly bonds |
with its family and can suffer separation
anxiety when boarded. The German Shepherd is in the Herding
group. Colors: German Shepherd Dogs are most
commonly black, gray and tan.
Coat: German Shepherd Dogs have an undercoat,
which protects against temperature and bugs, as well as a
straight outer coat. Their coat requires regular brushing.
Temperament: The German Shepherd Dog is a highly
intelligent, territorial dog breed. Initially suspicious of
strangers, the German Shepherd Dog is an excellent watchdog.
Health Concerns: The German Shepherd Dog is
susceptible to bloat, skin disease, congenital heart
problems and hip dysplasia. It should be noted that the
enormous popularity of German Shepherd Dogs has resulted in
careless breeding. This has caused a number of crippling
genetic diseases |
within the German Shepherd Dog population.
Life Expectancy: The life expectancy of the German
Shepherd Dog is 10-12 years.
Living Environment: German Shepherd Dogs need
frequent exercise and daily mental challenges. They make
good housedogs, although a fenced yard and plenty of
stimulation is important for this devoted and faithful dog
breed. |
