German Shepherds Dogs & Puppies for sale from Ethical Breeders

Meet the German Shepherd

The German Shepherd originated from a family of German herding dogs sometime in the late 19th century. They have large, strong, well-proportioned bodies with long muscular necks, drawn-up abdomens, and level backs with a natural downward curve.

Like many dog breeds, male German Shepherds are slightly bigger than females. Males stand between 24 and 26 inches, while females are 22 to 24 inches tall. They typically weigh anywhere between 75 to 95 pounds, so they are pretty hefty canines.

The German Shepherd’s head is broad, tapering evenly to a sharp muzzle. Their almond-shaped eyes are expressive and usually dark brown in colour. They have moderately large ears set wide at the base of their head, standing erect to give them their distinct appearance.

German Shepherds can have medium or long hair coats. Medium-haired German Shepherds have a close-lying double coat that feels coarse. In contrast, long-haired pups have a thick undercoat and a softer top coat that sits further away from the body. Regardless of the hair length, all German Shepherds are known to have long feathering around their hindlimbs.

Most German Shepherds will have the distinct black and tan coat colouring. However, they can also come in solid black or grey; the latter will have a fawn-coloured undercoat to create lighter markings.

The temperament of a German Shepherd

German Shepherds were initially used as herding dogs on farms. Still, it wasn’t long before their incredible strength and intelligence became apparent, and they began working in different fields.

Today, they are the preferred dog for police and military units as they are intelligent, obedient, and highly active. Their typical nature is easy-going, laidback, friendly, and approachable. Still, they are highly protective of their humans, making them such great guard dogs too.

Although their large size can look intimidating, they are not typically aggressive unless they or their owner is threatened. Luckily though, because of their intelligent minds, they can accurately tell if a threat is real, so they won’t try to attack the postman!

Because they are naturally cautious, this is not a dog that will instantly become best friends with everyone it meets. They take time to accept new people, but they will be loyal buddies for life once they do. Because of their nature, ensuring they are well-socialised with various people from an early age is essential.

As working dogs, German Shepherds are happiest when they have a job. Thus, they need regular physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy. If these needs are unmet or they are left alone for too long, they can become destructive or resort to excessive barking.

Because of their intelligent minds, these canines learn very quickly. So if you’re a first-time dog owner, you’ll need to study dog training or take them to a professional dog trainer. They ace agility courses, dog sports, and obedience training sessions.

Best homes for a German Shepherd

German Shepherds require lots of physical and mental stimulation. Moreover, they don't do well left alone for too long as they get bored quickly. Thus, these pups do best with an owner who has plenty of time, preferably one who will take them out with them as much as possible.

The German Shepherd's high energy levels make them an excellent fit for active people. So if you enjoy running, hiking or outdoor adventures like camping, this canine could be your perfect companion.

German Shepherds can do great in homes with children, provided they are socialised with them from an early age. When these pups grow up with kids, a beautiful relationship blossoms as they will look after and protect them for life.

Likewise, German Shepherds get on very well with other dogs and cats if they are socialised together while a puppy.