Did you know that ...? GSD is an abbreviation of German Shepherd Dog, the official name of the breed.

The German Shepherd Dog - An Overview

The German Shepherd is a herding dog, originally bred from sheep-tending stock in rural Germany. The founder of the breed was Cavalry Captain Max Von Stephanitz, who almost single handedly developed the breed through judicious inbreeding and line breeding, from 1899 to 1936. He bred dogs specifically for working ability and temperament. Click to read more.

Characteristics of the German Shepherd Dog

The German Shepherd Dog is characterized by its superior intelligence, versatility, stability, energy, and strength to do almost any task. Coupled with its high trainability, curiosity, classical beauty, and undying loyalty, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular and widely accepted breeds of purebred dog in the world. Click to read more.

What a German Shepherd IS NOT:
backyard dog a kennel dog low energy highly sociable with strangers	able to thrive without training able to thrive with long hours alone able to thrive when neglected submissive to other dogs
What a German Shepherd IS:
family dog companion working dog territorial protective loyal	a dog who needs to be involved in your life a dog who thrives with something "to do" sociable with children energetic

Feeding

The adult German Shepherd will eat approximately 40 pounds of dry dog food per month. Naturally, this will vary depending on the metabolism of each individual animal and it's activity level. Click to read more.

Care and Grooming

The care and grooming of a German Shepherd includes exercise, coat and skin care, brushing, bathing, and care of toenails, ears and teeth. Click to read more.

Ailments

The German Shepherd Dog is prone to certain ailments, some of which are particular to the breed. Ailments include Hip and/or Elbow Dysplasia, Panosteitis, Pannus, and Von Willebrand's Disease. Click to read more.

Choosing the Right Dog from the Right Place

Reputable, ethical breeders provide their puppy buyers with a written contract. Always included is an ongoing commitment to the welfare of animals of their breeding, and a stipulation they will take back, find a new home or help you re-home your animal if it becomes necessary at any time during the life of your companion. Please trade with ethical breeders only, or consider adopting a homeless pet from rescue or a shelter and help us reduce shelter populations.