German Shepherd Dog

Summary of Characteristics:

Temperament:

The German Shepherd Dog is intelligent, confident, and responds well to obedience training. He is protective of family members and reserved around strangers. He may be aggressive around other dogs. Family members need to establish leadership over him early on or he may not respond to commands. In addition to being a great companion and home guard, he is a leading police and military guard dog. He is also used in search and rescue and as a guide dog for the blind.

Physical Features and Grooming

Male German Shepherd Dogs stand approx. 24-26 inches tall; females are 22-24 inches. They weigh 65-100 pounds. GSDs have coarse medium length coats and need brushing several times a week. They shed year-round. Their coats are either black and tan, golden tan with black-tipped hair or silver gray with black tipped hair. His ears prick up.

Health Issues

German Shepherds are prone to hip dysplasia, bloat, eye and skin conditions and paralysis.

Read more about German Shepherds:

Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds: Profiles of More than 150 Breeds This is an excellent, highly rated book that discusses each breed's physical and personality traits, suitability as a pet, information on each breed's vulnerability to specific health problems, longevity, exercise needs, compatibility with children, and more.

New Encyclopedia of the Dog Another great book that describes 450 different dog breeds including rare breeds and experimental breeds like the Labradoodle. Lots of photos.