Choosing a dog, whether for a pet or another purpose, is an important decision. You want an animal that has the proper temperament. If you are considering a German Shepherd, you may be concerned about proper breeding. For example, you may be interested in German Shepherd puppies imported from Germany because they have stricter standards. These are some things you should know about this breed.

Personality Characteristics

German Shepherd dogs are highly intelligent. They are often used as working dogs in police stations and in the military and as service animals. They are courageous and confident. These animals are also loyal and protective of their families and handlers.

German Shepherds are also highly adaptable. They won’t typically approach strangers and are very territorial. They aren’t instant friends, but need time to get used to new people in their lives. They are consistently watchful and alert. They are also very affectionate and like to be included in family activities.

Physical Characteristics

German Shepherds weigh 50-90 pounds fully grown, and they will stand 22-26 inches tall at the shoulder. These dogs are very active and need a lot of exercise. Their coats are typically bicolored and can have shades of brown, red, cream, silver, black and white in them. Their ears begin to stand erect as they go through puberty and become adults.

They are known for their head tilts. Their gait is easy, and they are often seen trotting. They require a high level of regular exercise because lack of exercise causes frustration, boredom and behavioral problems, while lots of exercise helps them relieve tension and improves their mental well-being.

Training Opportunities

German Shepherds are easily trained. Agility and herding training meet their physical needs and are mentally challenging, which is important for such a smart animal. Their training should start when they are puppies. Obedience and socialization classes are vital to keep these dogs well-mannered as they grow. Their training should involve positive rewards.

Grooming Requirements

German Shepherds need routine grooming for their medium-length double coat. Their coat has a soft underlayer with dense, rougher outer coat. These animals shed profusely a few times per year, so brushing should be done a few times a week. In addition, their ears should be cleaned regularly. Their nails should be trimmed monthly because they may hurt the dog and cause structural damage to their paws if they are not worn down or cut frequently. Also, these dogs need to be bathed occasionally.

If you are looking for a great family or working dog, consider adopting a German Shepherd.