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German Shepherd

German Shepherd is a large herding breed from Germany also known as Alsatian, Alsatian Wolf Dog, Deutscher Schäferhund, German Shepherd Dog.

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German Shepherd

Breed overview

German Shepherd is a large herding breed from Germany also known as Alsatian, Alsatian Wolf Dog, Deutscher Schäferhund, German Shepherd Dog.

A versatile herding breed developed in 1899 by Captain Max von Stephanitz in Germany.

People looking into German Shepherd usually prepare for Very High exercise needs, High grooming needs, 49–88 lbs • 22–26 in.

AlsatianAlsatian Wolf DogDeutscher SchäferhundGerman Shepherd Dog

History and origin

German Shepherd is tied to originating from Germany, specifically Karlsruhe, with sources often placing its development around 1899 CE.

German Shepherd is described here as placed in the Herding group and marked as an established breed.

A versatile herding breed developed in 1899 by Captain Max von Stephanitz in Germany.

Browse dog breeds from Germany Browse more Herding breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
Herding
Size
Large
Origin country
Germany
Region
Karlsruhe
Origin year
1899 CE
Weight
49–88 lbs
Height
22–26 in
Lifespan
9–13 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
4 / 5
Trainability
5 / 5
Good with children
4 / 5
Shedding level
5 / 5
Barking tendency
3 / 5
Very High exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 4/5Trainability: 5/5

Coat and classification

German Shepherd is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

DoubleMedium

German Shepherd is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Strong, athletic build with sloping topline
  • Double coat, typically black and tan
  • Erect ears and intelligent expression
  • Bushy tail carried low

What this breed is known for

  • A versatile herding breed developed in 1899 by Captain Max von Stephanitz in Germany.
  • Renowned for intelligence, courage, and trainability, they excel as police, military, and service dogs.
  • In Britain they are known as Alsatians, a name adopted after WWI, though elsewhere the breed is called German Shepherd.

Health and care notes

German Shepherd is noted here for Very High exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Degenerative Myelopathy

Coat details: Double, Medium

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the German Shepherd come from?

German Shepherd is closely associated with Germany, especially Karlsruhe in the sources used for this page.

How big does a German Shepherd get?

Typical size details for German Shepherd on this page are 49–88 lbs, 22–26 in, 9–13 years.

What is the German Shepherd known for?

A versatile herding breed developed in 1899 by Captain Max von Stephanitz in Germany.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. German Shepherd reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.