German Shepherds Personality and Traits

Overview: The German Shepherd is strong, courageous and obedient. They are intelligent, loyal and focused which makes them highly trainable. German Shepherds are often sought out as guard dogs and protectors. These dogs make exceptional loving family dogs. German Shepherds tend to be indifferent to strangers and can be unfriendly. However, once they become your friend, their loyalty is for a lifetime. Their acceptance of strangers really depends on the amount of socialization you give your dog. The more you socialize, the more outgoing and accepting of strangers they will be.

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Behavioral Traits:
The German Shepherds nature is to protect, which is why they make great guard and police dogs. Because they are highly intelligent, when trained, they can be both excellent service and family dogs. Once they bond with their family, they become protective by nature. It is important to train your dog to recognize welcome and unwelcome visitors. They will often bark at strangers, but proper training at an early age will help this intelligent dog to recognize a normal social routine. A well-trained German Shepherd can learn to do most anything. They can be an active breed but should be of even disposition, calm, loyal, patient, attentive and confident. While they tend to be bold, they should not be unnecessarily aggressive. 

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Are you looking for a dog who is...

Athletic and Strong

Exceptionally smart and intelligent

Loyal and Versatile

Excellent family and companion dog

Loves to play and learn challenging activities
 

Facts and Needs to Consider: ​

Commit to a socialization and a training protocol. They do not require a ton of daily exercise, but they are not well suited for someone who works long hours and just wants a dog around the house. They connect well with children and love being part of the family activities. They need regular walks to remain healthy and enjoy off leash activities like playing fetch.

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Average Weight:  75-95 lbs.

Height at Withers: 23-25 inches on average 

Exercise Requirements: at least 40 minutes per day

Energy Level: Average

Life Span: 10-12 years

Social or Attention Needs: Moderate

Coat: Double coat, medium length

Grooming Needs: Moderate

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Behavioral Problems:

If a German Shepherd is not well trained, they can develop some of the following bad behaviors (like any dog); Over-protectiveness, uncontrolled barking, digging or destructive behaviors to seek attention, dominance behaviors, and chewing. The best way to avoid bad behaviors is by training. Teaching them good manners as puppies is key and continuing on through the "teenage years."