The Great German Shepherd Dog

>>> Watch German Shepherd on Videos.

The German Shepherd Dog is a breed of dog originally bred for herding sheep. German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular breeds in the UK and also one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They can be found working as guide dogs for the blind, police work, guarding, search and rescue, and in the military. Despite their suitability for such work, German Shepherds can also make loyal and loving pets inside the home. They enjoy being around people and other animals, although socialization is critical for young puppies in order to prevent aggressive and dangerous behavior as an adult.

German Shepherd Has A Noble Look

There are different types of German Shepherd dogs each with different appearances and talents.  The average German Shepherd has an appearance that most people are familiar with. The look is easily recognized even in mixed breeds.  The German Shepherd gets its signature look from the shape of its muzzle, head and ears plus its noble and intelligent expression.

The German Shepherd Dog is a large and strong dog, typically between 75 and 110lbs, but have been known to reach 150+lbs. The height for males is typically 24-26in (60-65cm); for females it is 22-24in (55-60cm). The fur is a double-coat (under coat and outer coat). While some organizations accept long-haired German Shepherds, short-haired dogs are typically (and historically) preferred.

Energetic Personality

German Shepherds are highly intelligent and agile dogs, with a strong work drive. The breed has a personality marked by direct, fearless willingness to protect what it considers its "den" (i.e. house, car, and property in a home situation) and "pack" (i.e. human family in a home situation). German Shepherds can be aggressive and can have a dangerous bite. They can be used as attack dogs and part of many police squads worldwide. 

Proper socialization as a puppy is one of the two key factors which determines what a dog's temperament will be as an adult. Genetics is the other. They go hand-in-hand; a dog with certain genetics cannot be trained to be stable and friendly, and by the same token the genetics most fit for training are meaningless if the dog is not well-socialized as a puppy. The "ideal" German Shepherd should be alert and fearless in defense of its den and pack, but loving and non-aggressive within the home environment.