German Shepherd Dog

Typical adult22.7–40.8 kg

Adult male29.5–40.8 kg

Adult female22.7–31.8 kg

Male height61–66 cm

Life expectancy7–10 years

German Shepherd Dogs are active, intelligent companions that generally benefit from proactive joint care and consistent monitoring of their digestive health. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps support their overall well-being throughout their life.

Personality

Playful

Trainable

Energy

Barking

Care

Shedding

Grooming

Drooling

Coat length

Friendliness

With children

With other pets

With strangers

Protectiveness

Things to keep an eye on

Degenerative Myelopathy

high

A progressive disease of the spinal cord that can cause weakness and loss of coordination in the hind limbs. Early signs are often subtle and develop gradually.

Schedule regular wellness exams to monitor your dog's gait and neurological health as they age.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat)

high

This is a serious condition where the stomach fills with gas and may twist, requiring immediate veterinary attention. It is more common in large, deep-chested breeds.

Feed smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day rather than one large meal to help manage digestion.

Hip Dysplasia

high

This is a common condition where the hip joint does not fit together perfectly, potentially leading to discomfort or reduced mobility. It is often influenced by both genetics and growth patterns.

Maintain a lean body weight to reduce unnecessary stress on your dog's joints during their developmental years.

Skin Allergies

moderate

German Shepherds can be prone to skin sensitivities caused by environmental factors or food, leading to itching or redness. Regular grooming helps in monitoring skin condition.

Maintain a consistent grooming routine to check for irritation and keep the coat clean and healthy.

General patterns, not a diagnosis — always check with your vet.