German Shepherd
Loyal, confident and protective; needs early socialisation.
Size
Large
Typical lifespan
9-13 years
Energy level
High
Exercise need
High
Grooming need
Medium
Shedding
Very high
Space needed
High
Indoor suitability
Medium
Training
Easy
First-time owners
Medium
Good with children
High
Good with other pets
Medium
Home & lifestyle fit
German Shepherd tends to cope less well with being left alone, and generally does quite a bit of barking or vocalising. Garden access is genuinely valuable for this breed.
Health consideration
Predisposed to hip/elbow dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy.
This page is general ownership information, not veterinary or medical advice. If you have concerns about a specific animal's health, speak to an RCVS-registered vet.
Bringing home a german shepherd? RCVS-registered vets and nurses on Pet Care at Door can come to your home for check-ups and vaccinations.
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