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© Koljambus (Nikolai Tsvetkov) | Dreamstime.com
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German Shepherd Dog
Breed origin: Karlsruhe, Germany
Original purpose: Herding and farm dog.
AKC recognized: 1908
AKC group: Herding
Size:
Weight: males 66 to 88 lbs;
females 49 to 71 lbs
Size: Height: males 24 to 26 inches;
females 22 to 24 inches
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Color: Various, with most colors permissible, but most commonly black and tan.
Life span: 7 to 10 years.
General characteristics/temperament: The German Shepherd Dog is energetic, fun-loving, loyal, confident, alert, dignified, and fearless, They are extremely trainable and retain their training very well, as evidenced by their consistent popularity as police dogs, military dogs, guide dogs for the blind, and in many, many other service or working capacities. They are typically very fond of children once a relationship is established, and make a loyal family pet and a natural guardian. They are somewhat suspicious of strangers and do not offer affection lightly, but once their friendship is given, it is given for life. Their high order of intelligence and discrimination gives them the ability to exercise judgment in certain situations. Early and consistent socialization and training is very important so they do not become over-protective of their family and territory and cause any safety or liability issues.
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Good watchdog? Yes
Protective? Yes
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Intelligent? Highly
Energy/Activity Level: High
Good jogging partner? Yes
Suitable canine sports/activities: conformation, obedience, police, military, search and rescue, herding,
Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, gastric dilatation volvulus, degenerative myeloopathy, von Willebrand's disease.
Additional photos of German Shepherd Dog
Recommended books for further reading:Show more books
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
German Shepherd Dog Club of America
Wikipedia breed information page
American German Shepherd Rescue Association
DogBreedMatch
