the breed

German Shepherd

What you should know before getting one and where to find one

When it comes to German Shepherds, you’ll be hard pressed to find many better breeds.  Here’s some basic information and education about the breed one might want to know before owning one.  Also check out more information about the breed at the German Shepherd  Dog Club of America (GSDCA) website.

What are the characteristics of a German Shepherd?

German Shepherd are known for being a large intelligent, hard working, loyal, highly trainable, and willing to lay down their life to protect others makes them the ideal dog for a number of people.  They are highly utilized in many roles, and they make great all around family pet.

German Shepherd

  1. Hips – a evaluation from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or from the SV 
  2. Elbows – a evaluation from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) or from the SV 
  3. Temperament Test – a GSDCA temperament test submitted to OFA
  4. Cardiac Evaluation (Optional)
    • Congenital Cardiac Exam
    • Advanced Cardiac Exam
    • Basic Cardiac Exam
  5. Autoimmune thyroiditis (Optional) – yearly (OFA) approved evaluation recommend  
  6. Eyes (Optional) – eye examination by an American College of Veterinary Ophthalmology (ACVO) Ophthalmologist (recommend annually until age 6, every 2 years thereafter)
  7. Degenerative Myelopathy (Optional) – DNA based DM test results from an approved lab

Bred For  –  Herding

Temperament  –  Good

Trainability  –  Above Average 

Average Life Span  –  12-14 years

Energy Level  –  Average

Attention Needs  – Average

Shedding  –  Heavy (Plus twice annually)

Average weight  –  50-90 lbs

Exercise Needs  –  Above Average

Note  –

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