German Shepherds 101
Herding groupCourage, intelligence and athleticism are the standout qualities of the German Shepherd Dog, a versatile breed popular as a reliable partner in military and law enforcement, as well as a devoted, protective family dog. The German Shepherd is also common in search-and-rescue work and dog sports.
Despite their reputation for seriousness, they can be playful, even silly, with their people. A sense of humor is required for their families, too, along with a powerful vacuum cleaner for a breed lovingly called the “German Shedder.”
What we love about German Shepherds
Versatile breed with dry sense of humor
GSDs have split into two types, with the arch-backed show-line dogs often criticized for structural issues uncommon in the working line dogs. Both types do best with consistent, clear training and handling.
- Energy level
- Very high (100%)
- Bark level
- As needed
- Height
- 22 to 26 inches
- Lifespan
- 7 to 10 years
- Weight
- 50 to 90 lbs
The German Shepherd stands 22 to 26 inches tall and weighs 50 to 90 lbs. German Shepherds have a lifespan of 7 to 10 years. They are known for a very high (100%) energy level and a as needed bark.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How big do German Shepherds get?
- German Shepherds stand 22 to 26 inches tall and typically weigh between 50 and 90 pounds.
- How long do German Shepherds live?
- The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 7 to 10 years.
- Are German Shepherds good for first-time dog owners?
- German Shepherds are intelligent but have high energy. They do best with experienced owners who can provide plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
- Do German Shepherds bark a lot?
- German Shepherds typically only bark when necessary — they are not known to be excessive barkers.
My pet’s health plannerSM
This German Shepherd health planner outlines the most common medical conditions at each life stage — from puppy through senior — along with their relative risk levels. Understanding these risks can help owners plan preventive care and choose the right pet insurance coverage.

Nationwide can help you save on your German Shepherd's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.
- Puppy (0 to 1 year)
- Umbilical hernia: Very High Risk, Hip dysplasia: Very High Risk, Trauma: Moderate Risk
- Young Adult (1 year to 4 years)
- Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency: Very High Risk, Hip dysplasia: Moderate Risk, Skin allergies: Above Average Risk
- Mature Adult (5 years to 8 years)
- Exocrine pancreatitic insufficiency: Very High Risk, Hip dysplasia: Very High Risk, Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV): High Risk
- Senior (9+ years)
- Splenic cancer: Very High Risk, Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV): Very High Risk, Hip dysplasia: Very High Risk

Rin Tin Tin, a German Shepherd Dog rescued from a bombed-out kennel in World War I, was the first canine celebrity of the modern media age. He was so popular that a late rule change was put in place to prevent him from winning the first Academy Award for Best Actor.
German Shepherd coat care and colors
Ask anyone with a German Shepherd Dog how much they shed and chances are you’ll be told that the breed’s nickname is “German Shedder.” These dogs do shed an astonishing amount, as brushing sometimes ends with a pile of fur larger than many smaller dogs. The only way to fight it is by brushing and combing to get loose fur before it ends up on furniture, rugs, clothes … well, everything, really. Combing down to the skin is essential to prevent matting. German Shepherds are stoic dogs, so they may be more tolerant of nail trims than many other dogs. Acclimating puppies to having their feet handled and nails clipped or ground down is key to making future nail trims easier on everyone.
How often should I groom my German Shepherd?
How often should I groom my German Shepherd?
How can I manage shedding in my German Shepherd?
How can I manage shedding in my German Shepherd?
What type of brush or comb is best for German Shepherds?
What type of brush or comb is best for German Shepherds?
German Shepherd exercise & training
German Shepherd fun facts
Top girl names for German Shepherds
of German Shepherds are female
of German Shepherds are male
Top boy names for German Shepherds
Nationwide loves German Shepherds of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer
| Gender | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Male | 0% |
| Female | 100% |
Among German Shepherds insured by Nationwide, 0% are male and 100% are female.
German Shepherd statistics: Gender ratio is 0% male and 100% female.
Other breeds like German Shepherds
Best. German Shepherd insurance. Ever.SM
- Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
- Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
- Cancel at any time, risk-free
